Interview with Kim, by Elizabeth

           

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Wedding_hairstyles_updos_half-.zip (220 KB)

We had the chance to talk with Kim Larson, an independent professional hairstylist and makeup artist. She's got great advice on how to choose both a hair style and a hair stylist for your big day.

Editor's disclosure: Shiny Orb, a shopping site for inexpensive bridesmaid dresses, receives no form of compensation from this vendor.

What are popular hairstyles you're seeing for 2010 spring/summer weddings?

Popular styles are loose, free-flowing up-dos, sometimes done to one side of the head, pulled low on the nape, with maybe a small decorative pin or flower/feather.

Some of our brides are trying to decide whether to have an updo or half updo -- can you explain what each is and what to consider in deciding on an updo or half updo?

An up-do is a style where the entire hair is up and off the shoulders. It does not have to be a tight, ballerina bun! It can be soft and romantic. A "half-up" hairstyle is a technique where there is some hair up and some left down. There can be many variations.

From your experience, what are some common mistakes brides make when selecting a hair-do or a hair stylist? Or put another way, how should brides be thinking about their hair?  

The best advice is to collect pictures of styles that you like, bring them to the trial run and discuss them with your stylist. The bottom line is really how well you like the style on yourself, not just how it looks on a model.

Ideally, you should have a trial run, which is the only way you will know what to expect as far as your hairstyle on the big day. The trial run achieves two things- you (hopefully) get the look you love and you find out how well it will hold up over time. The biggest mistake brides can make is to skip the trial run, then there is sometimes disappointment on the wedding day.

Factors to consider when choosing a style are - does the style work for your hair type, does it fit in with the gown, will a veil/hair accessory work with the "do", etc??

Any tips on how to choose a wedding hairstylist? 

Choosing the right wedding hairstylist for the bride is an important decision. You want to choose a stylist that not only does a great job but also one that makes you feel comfortable. Typically, your hairstylist is the first person (vendor) that works with you on your big day. As it is a personal service, you want to hire a stylist that will not only make you look gorgeous but will also help you feel pampered and relaxed. The first step is to find someone that is highly recommended either from your wedding coordinator or online. Don't be afraid to ask for referrals or testimonials from past clients. I suggest contacting stylists several months before the wedding and definitely meet with them before the wedding, to see if you "click".

Kim Larson is a bridal hairstylist and makeup artist based in Carmel, CA. You can find more photos and her stellar client reviews on Project Wedding.