Choosing A Getting Ready Location

An often over-looked aspect by brides is the "getting ready" location on the morning of the wedding. This location should be planned well in advance in order to avoid issues the day of. Some important things to keep in mind when deciding on where you and your attendants will be getting dressed the day of your wedding:

• Make sure the space is well-lit (natural light from a large window is ideal). Your photographer will thank you for this, and you will end up with nicer photos.  

• The space should be large enough to accommodate you, your gown, and all of your female attendants. You want room to walk around and breathe - there is nothing worse than being crammed in a tiny bathroom when you're trying to put your makeup on and curl your hair.

• Make sure there is enough room for any makeup artists and/or hairstylists that will be coming to your getting ready location. Not only should there be enough physical space to accommodate them, there should also be proper resources on-site as well. For example, enough electrical outlets for hair curlers, hot rollers, flat irons, etc... and enough workspace for makeup kits and beauty supplies. 

• The space should also have plenty of mirrors, particularly a full-length mirror. 

If you are still having trouble narrowing down a getting ready location, consult your wedding planner and/or hair/makeup artist. 

 Photo courtesy of Pamela Marie Photography.

The Importance of a Hair/Makeup Trial Run

Patty Bell of On Location Hair and Makeup {one of my favorite makeup artists here in Pittsburgh} recently blogged about the importance of hair and makeup trial runs, and today I wanted to share this post with all of you.

On movie sets it is called a screen test, an actor never goes on the big screen without trying different makeup looks for that character...same thing in the wedding world, it is called a "trial run", both are extremely important when it comes to you looking your very best as you star in the biggest production of your life...your wedding day!

On this one day in your life, you get one shot (hopefully) to look the best you ever did, and this is not the day to experiment with new hairstyles, or makeup colors that you have never worn before. This is the day you want to look like you...only a touch more glamorous!

Here are a few tips that every bride should think of when hiring a professional makeup artist:

• Remember that you are interviewing the makeup artist, and hair stylist as well. You two will be working together very closely & it is very important that your personalities get along, especially the day of your wedding.

• Most artists charge for trial runs, so make sure that fee is discussed ahead of time...after all, their time is valuable. Plan on at least 90 minutes.

• Your artist should be prompt, professional & very calming to be around.

• Never hire someone without seeing their work. Ask to see a portfolio or photos of their work, and ask how long they have been in business.

• Experienced artists know the importance of working fast, following a schedule & being cordial to other vendors involved.

• Ask for testimonials of former clients.

• Get a trial run at least 3-4 months before your wedding.

• Make sure you are done tanning when you go in for your makeup trial.

• Mention any & all product allergies at your trial run, and if you are on any medications.

• Bring along your current makeup so we can see what routine you are used to doing. It is okay to use your own products!

• Never feel pressured into trying new colors or buying anything...this is your day!

• Be open to new suggestions to enhance your features for your photos, sometimes your every day makeup, and colors, do not work well for photography.

• Bring along "tear sheets" of some makeup looks that you like.

• Make sure you have a waterproof mascara!

• Do not get a facial close to your wedding date. Some facials are meant to draw out impurities in the skin which can cause breakouts.

• Make sure your artist takes photos of your new look and writes down all the colors they used on you, so they can duplicate that exact look on your wedding day, so there will be no surprises!

• Coordinate your makeup and hair time with your wedding planner- you never want your hairstyle or makeup application to be rushed the day of your wedding. Plan on at least an hour for both.

• Check your finished application in 3 way mirrors, and outdoor lighting. You want to make sure you look good in all angles,and lighting!

• Think about adding individual eyelashes or a strip lash for an elegant look. I've seen eyelashes make women look 10 years younger!

• It is very nice to see the entire bridal party perfectly made up for your bridal photos, and don't forget the mothers of the bride & groom...it is their big day, too!

• If you do like the artist & agree to hire them, ask for a contract, and discuss what it will take to reserve their services for you, many require a deposit, and some are non refundable.

• And finally....makeup can always wash off, so if they don't get it right the first time, they try again, until YOU are happy...that's why it is called a trial! You try different looks until you get that picture perfect look that is just right for you!

Remember...wedding photos last a lifetime, and you want to make sure that the money invested in professional makeup artists & hairstyling is money well spent.

Makeup Artist Spotlight :: MelissaRoshan

Our next makeup artist in our spotlight series is MelissaRoshan, the owner and creative force behind Makeup By MelissaRoshan. MelissaRoshan is based out of Columbus, Ohio, but also travels to Pittsburgh for on-location makeup clients. Not only is she an amazingly talented makeup artist, she is also one of the nicest and most genuine people I have come across! We hope you enjoy her Q + A session with us below:

1. First off, tell us a little about yourself:

Greetings, my name is MelissaRoshan, and I would like to think I’m about as unique as my name (my first name is actually MelissaRoshan). I am originally from Seattle, Washington.. Fate brought my family to the East Coast seven years ago. I have been a professional model, and make-up artist for a decade now, and I feel so very blessed!

2. How did you get started in makeup artistry?

I started out managing a cosmetics counter in Seattle, Washington. I always had a love for make-up artistry, and decided quickly once I graduated from school, that it was something I wanted to pursue. After growing tired of the demands of retails sales, and realizing there was a certain level of service I wanted to give to my clients, I knew I wanted to freelance on my own.

3. What is your #1 piece of makeup advice for brides on their wedding day?

Less is definitely more. Caking foundation, mascara, and lipliner on, can look un-natural, and ultimately unflattering. The look should be a soft, enhanced version of yourself. I also recommend wearing a perfume you have never worn before. That way, everytime you wear it after your wedding date, you will always be reminded of your special day!

4. What do you like best about your job?

I love the connection I make with the bride, and her bridal party. I am often told that I am more like a girlfriend, rather than a wedding vendor. This is such a honor to hear! I try to combine professionalism, with a down to earth approach for each client.

5. If you weren't a makeup artist, what would you be?

I would definitely say an astronomer. The Universe is unbelievably beautiful, and amazing. To be able to study it’s wonders, would be amazing! I do have to say however, if I were aboard any type of space craft, I would require/demand make-up!!!!

6. What is one thing you absolutely cannot live without?

I cannot live without my Blackberry, especially during wedding season!

7. If you could work with anyone, who would it be?

Sumer Schmitt from Simply Perfect Weddings! {Aww, thanks dear! I promise I did not pay her to say that!}

Please share a few of your favorite photos from your portfolio of work:



For more information about MelissaRoshan and her makeup services, check out her website and blog.

Thanks so much for chatting with us this week! I hope to have the opportunity to work with you again very soon!

Makeup Artist Spotlight :: Julie Marckisotto

Several weeks ago we started a 'Vendor Spotlight' blog series that featured some very talented photographers here in the Pittsburgh area. This week we're continuing with that series and are featuring some of our favorite makeup artists here in Pittsburgh. We are going to focus on 'destination' vendors who will travel to your hotel, home, or any location where you and your bridal party plan to get ready the morning of your wedding day.

Our first makeup artist in our spotlight series is Julie Marckisotto, the talented makeup artist behind Pittsburgh Makeup. Check out her Q + A session with us below:

1. First off, tell us a little about yourself:

I have been married for 13 years and have two great boys, Brent and Lukas…ages 12 and 5. I have worked at countless makeup counters/salons and decided last year to start my own business and opened a Makeup/Facial studio near Murrysville. I mostly travel on the weekends doing makeup for weddings and during the week I do practice sessions, makeup lessons and facials at my studio. I love the freedom that I have now with my schedule, especially because I am also a busy mom! My favorite activities are working out, reading, cooking/baking, tennis, traveling and spending time with my family.

2. How did you get started in makeup artistry?

I have always wanted to be a Makeup Artist! I went to Pgh. Beauty Academy straight out of high school and from there I have always been in this industry in some shape or form. Even when I worked at business-type jobs I always did freelance makeup for weddings on the weekends. As a kid I really enjoyed art and drawing, so I think that I like makeup so much because it truly is an ART that allows me to be creative!

3. What is your #1 piece of makeup advice for brides on their wedding day?

Hire a professional! It sounds like a shameless plug, but we do know the right touches to make the makeup pop and look flawless in pictures. After all, you will be looking at the pictures forever, so it’s worth the little investment.

4. What do you like best about your job?

That I don’t view it as a job…I’ve always heard – “when you do something that you love you won’t work a day in your life” – that is how I feel! It makes me feel humbled that someone wants me to take part in the most important day of their life!

5. If you weren't a makeup artist, what would you be?

Probably something in the field of forensics. I am a crime show junkie, and would love to work on cold case files now that we have all of the technology that we do. That whole process fascinates me.

6. What is one thing you absolutely cannot live without?

Without a doubt…COFFEE!

7. If you could work with anyone, who would it be?

Probably the Makeup Artist from TLC’s What Not To Wear, Carmindy! I think we share a lot of the same philosophies when it comes to makeup - she concentrates on making the woman look beautiful by working with what she already has…not covering it up or trying to change it.

Please share a few of your favorite photos from your portfolio of work:



For more information about Julie and her makeup services, check out her website and blog.

Thank you Julie for taking the time out of your busy schedule to chat with us!

Etsy Find :: Floral Hair Pieces

Floral headbands are definitely a must-have accessory this spring and add the perfect touch of style for the vintage inspired wedding. I'm a firm believer in looking to the fashion industry for wedding inspiration if you want to stay ahead of what's next in the wedding industry {more on this topic later}. In the mean time, if you'd like to try out one of these stylish floral headbands, check out Pbb Flowers on Etsy. She offers a variety of floral hair pieces at extremely reasonable prices!

Photo courtesy of Pbb Flowers via Etsy.

First Aid Wedding Favors

Ok, seriously...how cute are these bandages from Creative Bride?! An adhesive bandage is an essential item for your wedding day, so why not carry them in style? Include these with your bridesmaid gifts and carry a pack with you in your clutch. You never know when an unexpected blister will appear from those adorable Jimmy Choo's! For tips on how to keep your feet "happy" on your wedding day, check out our blog post here.

Photo courtesy of Creative Bride :: "Hugs & Kisses from Mr. & Mrs." Bandages :: $2.29

Looks We Adore: Side Bun

I am a big fan of the side bun right now and think that this would be such a chic wedding day hair style. The bun is one of the most classic up-do's a girl can wear, so if you're looking for something that is polished, but has a little flair to it, try this up-do for your wedding day!

Photo courtesy of Instyle Weddings.

Inside Sumer's Make Up Bag

Several months back I did a weekly blog segment called "Inside Sumer's Make Up Bag" and after a recent trip to Sephora (for my own mini makeup make over) I decided to bring it back! I am a huge fan of Sephora and can perhaps be called addicted to it! :) Since Fall is all about change and new beginnings, I decided it was time for a whole new make up look, so last weekend I made a trip down to the Ross Park Mall here in Pittsburgh and had a makeup consultation at Sephora. Not only did I change colors, I also changed brands in just about everything (minus the Dior Show mascara I previously blogged about)! Even though it's only been a week, I must say that I absolutely love all of the new products I bought and wanted to share a few with our readers.

Fav Product # 1: Nars Blush

Winner of 'Best of Sephora' 5 years in a row, this blush pulls out all the stops! 25 + shades to choose from, but if you can't narrow down a choice, try their #1 best selling shade 'Orgasm' for a universally flattering glow! Retails at Sephora for $25.

Fav Product # 2: Sephora Professional Flat Blush Brush

What better product to compliment a great blush than a great blush brush! I've used the typical round blush brush for years until now, and I must say that I'll never go back after trying this brush! I love this flat brush because the blush goes exactly where you want it to and no place else. This brush is great for highlighting your cheek bones and is extremely easy to use! Retails at Sephora for $20.

Check back next week for more of my favorite beauty buys!

Wedding Planning Stress Busters

Feeling stressed and overwhelmed about your upcoming wedding? Check out our top 5 stress busters to get you back feeling like your fabulous self:

Tip # 1: Exercise - Exercising releases endorphins, which naturally help to improve your mood and fight stress. Even if you're just hitting the treadmill, make it a point to find time to work out at least 2-3 times per week. Beating stress and losing those last 5lbs before the wedding is a great motivator!

Tip # 2: Maintain your "me" time - Take an hour every night to focus on YOU. Whether it's taking a relaxing bubble bath, reading a good book, or watching your favorite episode of "Sex and the City", it's important to maintain your alone time. Everyone needs a little time to themselves each day...especially in the months leading up to your big day!

Tip # 3: Schedule a spa day - Gather your bridesmaids and MOH and head to a spa for the day. Indulge on massages, pedicures, and manicures...after all, nothing is more relaxing than being pampered, right?!

Tip #4: Get a hobby - Now I know it's hard to set aside time for a hobby when you feel like you have 1,001 things to do for the wedding, but it's important to do something you love when you're feeling stressed. Take a few hours out of your week to do something that you enjoy...maybe it's taking a yoga class, scrapbooking, or even brushing up on your cooking skills for your husband-to-be!

Tip # 5: Take a vacation - As Fall is settling in on Western Pennsylvania, head south with your fiance for a few days of R&R. If you can't get the time off from work, then take a weekend road trip for just the two of you...even if you only travel a few hours away, it will be refreshing to get away and focus on each other, rather than the wedding.

The Search for the Perfect Bridesmaid Dress...

One of the first things brides look for in the early stages of planning is the bridesmaid dress, and often times their first stop is the bridal boutique or store where they purchased their gown. Too often I see the same bridesmaid dresses from the national bridal retail chains...David's Bridal, Alfred Angelo, etc... Not that there is anything wrong with these stores by any means, I just feel that there are SO many other great options out there for purchasing bridesmaid dresses. Often times brides just don't know anywhere else to go and end up settling on a dress that they like, but don't love! Stores like Nordstroms, Saks Fifth Ave, Ann Taylor, Nicole Miller, and J Crew are all great alternatives to the traditional bridal gown retailer. Dresses at these stores may cost slightly higher than your average David's Bridal bridesmaid dress; however, I feel that the quality of these dresses are far superior AND they'll be more likely to wear the dress again. (P.S. Your bridesmaids will love you for this!) Here are a few of my fav cocktail dresses that can easily be used as bridesmaid dresses:

Beaded Neck Chiffon Dress from Maggy London

$178

Strapless Silk Dress with Ruched Waist from Adrianna Papell

$168

Silk Chiffon Halter Dress from Maggy London

$138

Kate Crossdye Dupioni Dress from Ann Taylor

$198

Flora Taffeta Knot Detail Dress from Ann Taylor

$198

Happy Feet on Your Wedding Day!

The old saying..."beauty is pain" definitely rings true when it comes to your wedding day...especially in the shoe department. Finding the perfect shoe is hard enough, but finding a shoe that will be comfortable after hours of standing and not to mention dancing, is a task in itself! Your perfect shoe may be miles away from comfortable, but with these tips you'll be well on your way to comfort:

1. Break your shoes in - I cannot stress this enough! While your shoes may feel comfortable at the time you tried them on, chances are they will not feel the same way on your wedding day. Several weeks before the wedding, start to wear your shoes around the house to slowly break them in. Take note of any blisters or sensitive areas that develop and place band-aids or cushions on these areas the day of the wedding.

2. Use insoles - Dr. Scholl's makes wonderful insoles for a variety of shoes and have developed a complete line of insoles and cushions specifically for women. They have insoles designed for every type of shoe you may choose to wear on your wedding day, including ones for open toed shoes. Dr. Scholl's products are available at most drug and retail stores.

3. Be sure the shoe fits - Your wedding day is not the time to "squeeze" into that narrow shoe you just have to have or attempt to wear a size smaller than you actually are. Make sure you shop for your bridal shoes in advance to allow for your correct size to be in stock. I recommend purchasing your shoes no later than 6 weeks before your wedding, if you have not already done so at the time you purchased your gown. Another important thing to remember when purchasing your shoes, is to account for the heel size in relation to where your gown meets the floor. You don't want your gown dragging on the floor in front of you as you walk, and you certainly don't want your gown to stop at your ankles if you choose a heel that is too high.

4. Opt for ballet slippers - If you have your heart set on those beautiful rhinestone stilettos, no need to worry. Go ahead and get 'em! Wear these shoes for your ceremony and into your reception dinner. Just before its time to hit the dance floor, change into a ballet slipper. There are many bridal salons and online bridal stores that carry these and they come in a variety of styles and colors.

Inside Sumer's Make-up Bag

In today's addition of my new weekly blog segment, "Inside Sumer's Make-up Bag", I am featuring two amazing makeup products that I swear by!

Fav Product #1: Make Up Forever Professional Concealer

If you are looking for a full coverage concealer that hides all those pesky imperfections, this is the concealer for you! This concealer was actually designed to cover up scars, skin discoloration, and even tattoos! Personally, I use it for the occasional break out and underneath my eyes. This concealer is oil-free and wont irritate sensitive skin. It retails for $30 at Sephora.

Fav Product #2: bareMinerals A Little Sun All-Over Face Color

I love bareMinerals makeup! Not only is it great for your skin, but it works too! Mineral makeup is one of the biggest trends in the beauty industry today and it's easy to see why with all the great products they are coming up with. I've only used Bare Escentuals mineral makeup, but there are several other brands out there as well in the market to choose from. This particular bronzer is a favorite of mine, especially on all these dreary winter days we've been having lately! This kit comes with the bronzer itself, including the fan brush. Available at Ulta for $28.

** If you have a makeup product that you just can't get enough of, we want to hear about it! Send us your fav makeup products and we'll feature them on the site to share with our fellow brides-to-be!

Inside Sumer's Make-up Bag

I’m a big fan of Oprah’s “Favorite Things” segment, so I used that as inspiration for my new weekly blog segment: Inside Sumer’s Make-up Bag. Over the next several weeks, I’ll be featuring some of my favorite products that I personally use every day and absolutely love!

Fav Product # 1: DiorShow Mascara

This mascara is AMAZING! It creates long, thick eyelashes for a truly dramatic and glamorous look. This mascara is perfect for special nights out and of course for your big day! If you are considering wearing false eyelashes on your wedding day, I would consider skipping the lashes and just using this mascara...it's that good! Available at Sephora for $24.

Fav Product #2: Hanae Mori Butterfly Perfume

I cannot get enough of this perfume! Hanae Mori Butterfly is a blend of strawberries and almonds, with a hint of vanilla. It smells so yummy! I like this perfume because it isn't too harsh and gives you such a fresh feeling when you wear it. Also available at Sephora and most fine department stores. It retails from $65 to $90.

Check back soon for more of my fav products!

Pre-Wedding Bridal Beauty Tips

Wedding season is fast approaching and as you’re checking off items on your wedding “to do” lists, don’t forget to pencil in your pre-wedding beauty routine! The secret to looking fabulous on your wedding day is to prepare in advance. If possible, start your bridal beauty routine 6 months prior to your wedding day. If you are like most brides, then you probably have a beauty goal for your wedding day; whether it is to lose 10 pounds, grow your hair longer, or to improve your complexion, you can start doing things right now to achieve those goals. So, I’ve gathered some of the best beauty tips I could find, including some of my own and have put them all together for you!

• For shiny, healthy hair on your wedding day, begin weekly deep conditioning treatments 5-6 months before.
• Research and invest in a skin cleansing regimen as soon as you have a date set. Or consult a dermatologist for skin problems. Seeing a dermatologist scares many people away, mainly from the fear of high costs; however, many health insurance policies allow for dermatologist visits and treat them as a general office visit.
• Start exercising in 20-minute increments, three times a week. Any cardio workout will do – swimming, running, biking, or even brisk walking. As your stamina increases, increase your workouts to 40 minutes. For toning, resistance training is key. Start by doing 12-15 reps with a relatively low weight. As your endurance increases, add more weight and increase the number of reps. No need to join the gym either – invest in a nice set of dumbbells, medicine ball for a great ab workout, or grab your bridesmaids for run around the neighborhood.
• If you are prone to breakouts, make sure to keep stress at a minimum. Easier said than done, especially with your wedding fast approaching; however, life’s stresses and pressures can often show up as skin blemishes. Be sure to treat yourself to relaxing activities such as bubble baths, yoga classes, or even a day at the spa! If breakouts are still a problem close to the wedding day, see your dermatologist for a cortisone shot.
• Looking for the best way to conceal a pesky blemish? Apply a small amount of concealer (experts recommend two shades lighter than your natural skin tone) with a brush to the middle of your blemish, and then blend out towards the edges. Cover with a fine powder, and repeat until your skin looks flawless.
• Begin a teeth whitening regimen 3 months before the big day. If you can’t see a dentist for bleaching treatments, check out your local drugstore for at home bleaching options. These are relatively inexpensive and still get the job done great! If you’re looking for a ‘middle of the road’ option, consider investing in a great electric toothbrush. Not only do these keep your teeth healthy and cavity-free, but used with a whitening tooth paste, are proven to remove pesky stains and whiten teeth!
• If you are getting married in the winter and chapped or cracked lips have become a problem, use a Vitamin E stick (sold at drug stores) to heal them. You can also exfoliate your lips at home just by using your toothbrush. Wet with warm water and brush lips gently. During the day, don’t forget to apply the all important Chap Stick often!
• Finally, use an exfoliator every day, moisturize your skin twice a day (especially right after you shower), take a multi-vitamin daily, and always drink at least 8-10 glasses of H20 a day!

Stay tuned for more bridal beauty blogs in the weeks ahead and remember to take a deep breath when times get stressful; after all, this is one of the most exciting times in your life, so SMILE and you’ll always look fabulous!

Wedding Day Hair Styles

Ok, so I just couldn't wait any longer to make my first wedding planning related post. I've been thinking a lot about wedding day hair styles lately and with my own wedding just around the corner, I thought I'd share a few of my fav's.

1.

This up-do is perfect for a spring or summer wedding and is very simple, yet very classy!

2.

This up-do is perfect for any time of year and just radiates class and poise! The jewel hair brooch gives this hair style a little something extra!

3.

This classic up-do is also perfect for a spring or summer wedding and would go great if you're having an outdoor or garden wedding!

4.

Image from The Wedding Channel

Nothing says romance quite like these romantic curls! This is a great option if you want something other than the traditional up-do.

5.

This up-do is simple, yet timeless! Perfect if hair accessories aren't your thing.

*All images unless otherwise noted are from The Knot.