This is How we do Glam Wedding Inspiration

I had always been curious about this particular venue, so when Nicole of Millennium Moments Studio asked if we would like to participate in a styled shoot at Stan Mansion, my answer was an enthusiastic "YES"! Truth be told, this venue is far more ornate and traditional than most of the locations that our brides tend to book, and I think that's what had me so interested- it was something "new".

In these images our bride model, Kayla, wears an elegant gown to perfectly compliment the regal setting and as you can probably expect- we choose an effortless beauty vibe as a bit of a juxtaposition to keep everything from feeling too serious.

Kayla's sultry makeup look complete with a plum smokey eye, has a dewey finish which keeps her from looking too done up. Her slightly messy low chignon hair style would go just as great in a boho look- but in this shoot brings the perfect touch of softness.

I love how this shoot is an example of the possibilities available to Brides when it comes to mixing styles. Simply put; you just don't need to obsess over matching every little detail perfectly. There is beauty in the unexpected!

You know I geek out over the little details... even the ones that have nothing to do with hair and makeup.

I couldn't think of a better way to finish this story. Can you?

Check out the rest of the talented vendor team who came together to pull off this shoot;

Organizer/Photographer: Millennium Moments Studio Venue: Stan Mansion

Dress: Ellie Day Collection

Suit: Formally Modern

Florist: Wild Rose Flowers Decor & Blush blooms Co.

Decor: Lovely Wild Flower Shop Model: Kayla DeFrenza

Why Every Woman Should Have These 3 Hairstyles Mastered

Do you ever finished getting dressed, only to fuss around with your hair because you're feeling uninspired- or worse yet; your hair is misbehaving and you just don't know what to do with it? I used to have days like this, even after becoming a hairstylist. Now, I like to make sure that I always have 3 go-to hairstyles that I can quickly choose from, and the fun thing is that you can totally change these with the seasons.

For example; my bun of choice used to be a messy topknot, this summer it's a low chignon with loose waves around my face.

I hope that you find my concept and general ideas inspiring. The ideas are just that; general. For example, when I talk about a bun, your favorite version can be anything. My goal is for you to have a plan that will save you time because you know exactly how to achieve your end goal, you know how long it's going to take, and you can choose quickly between the three. Think of this like having your three favorite outfits!

If you need inspiration to find your favorite ponytail, etc. please check out my IGTV where I share tutorials for everyday looks that you can do at home!

Look #1. Beautiful Texture

Insert your favorite wave/curl here. I'm currently loving what I like to call sexy messy hair. You might get a couple of days out of this style (when secured on top of your head while sleeping), and when that's over you still have the perfect foundation for looks 2 & 3.

New things to try:

Use dry shampoo right from the beginning to add volume and a defense against oiliness.

Give yourself a looser wave than we have been in the past few years by increasing your iron size by 1/4" and also tugging your hair straight while still hot to prevent it from waving too tightly.

Look #2. Elevated Pony

This is a great look on day 2. You've already got a great wave/curl, sure it has relaxed a bit, but there's no need to redo it.

Here's some ways to make your pony special:

Tease the fullest part of the pony to make your hair even thicker.

Use a fancy hair tie or cuff, or scarf.

Loosen the hair on top of your head by pinching and pulling pieces upward. This will give instant volume and texture and make your face look more narrow.

Twist a loose piece of hair around your hair band to hide the band. Pull this piece through with a topsy tail.

Look #3. Effortless Bun

This can always be a great choice on day 3 since you don't need to leave any of your hair down. A little dry shampoo and no one knows how long it's been since your last shampoo.

New things to try:

Wear a headband or tie a scarf around your head.

Try a bun with your natural texture if you have waves/curls.

Use decorative pins on the back of your head or nestled into the base of the bun for added sparkle.

Leave some loose pieces around your face.

Happy styling!

Ann

How One Chicago Couple Pulled off an Unforgettable Intimate Wedding!

When Aidan & Sal planned for their Summer Solstice Wedding, they new that they wanted to be surrounded by their closest friends and family, and that they wanted to get married right by the lake. Side note; this does require a little preparation (even if you're keeping it small) so make sure to do your homework so there's no surprises on the wedding day!

The universe was clearly working in our favor on this June day, because the rain held off for the afternoon, and once we finished doing Aidan's hair and makeup in her home, she was able to relax a bit, get dressed, and then walk a couple of blocks to her wedding ceremony!

In addition to the trends of the time (outdoor & smaller weddings) it is great to see a couple like Aidan & Sal make their celebration authentic to who they are as a couple. How special would it be to spend the first half of your special day in the comfort of your own living space, and then exchange your vows in one of your favorite place to spend your time?!

Above: Aidan re-writing her vows just before getting into her dress

Below: Aidan in her courtyard

Hair by Ann

Makeup by Nancy C.

Photos by Fuller Photo Co