How far in advance should I book?
For Saturday weddings May through October: 9–14 months out is normal, and popular dates (anything near a holiday weekend) go even earlier. Off-season and weekday weddings can often be booked 3–4 months out. It never hurts to ask — we keep a cancellation list.
Do I really need a trial?
Yes, and it's included, so there's no reason to skip it. The trial is where we solve problems — hooded eyes, stubborn cowlicks, a veil that fights the updo — while there's still time to adjust. Brides who arrive on the wedding morning having already seen their finished look are calmer, and it shows in the photos.
What should I do before my trial?
Come with clean, fully dry hair (for hair trials) and a bare face (for makeup). Wear a white or ivory top, bring photos of your dress and any looks you've saved, and bring your veil or hair accessories if you have them already. Plan on about 90 minutes per service.
How does payment work?
A $100 deposit and signed agreement hold your date; the deposit counts toward your balance. The remainder is due 14 days before the wedding, which is also when your headcount locks. We take cash, check and all major cards.
Can you handle a big bridal party?
Our record is fourteen services in one morning — bride, nine bridesmaids, two moms, two grandmothers — with three artists. Groups of four or more automatically get a second artist at no extra charge. Tell us your headcount and ceremony time, and we'll tell you exactly how early the first chair starts.
Do you travel? What does it cost?
Anywhere in Orange County is included. LA, San Diego and Temecula are a flat $75–$150 depending on the venue. Further afield is quoted individually — we've done Palm Springs, Santa Barbara and Cabo San Lucas.
What brands are in your kit?
The workhorses: Make Up For Ever and Estée Lauder Double Wear foundations, Temptu airbrush, Anastasia brows, Ardell and House of Lashes strips, Kenra and Oribe for hair. Everything is sanitized between clients and mascara is always single-use disposable wands.
I don't wear much makeup. Will I look like myself?
This is the most common worry we hear, and honestly it's our specialty. "Like yourself on your best day" is the brief for most of our brides. Photography needs slightly more product than everyday life, but the goal is that your partner recognizes you at the end of the aisle.
What happens if my artist is sick on my wedding day?
Every wedding has a named backup artist who has read your trial notes and seen your photos before the day. In seven years we have never missed a wedding morning — but the backup system is why we can promise that instead of just hoping.
Do you do lash extensions instead of strip lashes?
Yes — many brides book a classic or hybrid set at our studio 3–4 days before the wedding. If you go this route, skip the strip lashes and book a fill for right before any post-wedding events. Summer slots fill quickly.