Right on the heels of my bout with feelings of being old, I realized that it was time to book a hair and makeup artist. Some very kind friends told me that I did my own makeup well, but I honestly feel that my skills are a little lacking in that area. I have one look. I don’t experiment with anything new or different. I’ve been using the same products for years and only changed my foundation when the TSA started limiting how much liquid we could carry on flights (I travel for business and switched to mineral foundation to avoid checking bags).
When I started my search for a hair and makeup artist, my only requirement was that they work on-site. I plan on relaxing and enjoying the beautiful bridal loft at our venue. I don’t want to be running all over town. Luckily, there are plenty of wonderful artists who are willing to work on site.
Image from CvilleMakeup.com / Photo by Jack Looney Photography
As I looked at portfolios and blogs, I was swept up in how wonderful every image looked.There were glowing brides on their big days and beautiful models at dreamy inspiration shoots. Slowly, I realized that I was craving diversity. I’m not a model (anymore) and I’m not in my 20s. I wanted to find someone whose portfolio included some people who might be like me.
Just when I thought I had looked into every possible option, another Charlottesville blogger profiled Jeanne Cusick. I quickly made a coffee date with Jeanne to talk about working together. I felt so comfortable and at ease talking to her that I knew pretty much on the spot that I would book her. Her portfolio showed diversity, she has a calming presence, and was enthusiastic about working with me. She also complimented my hair, something that wins me over almost instantly.
I didn’t feel the need to have any other consultations, so I guess the blink theory that led to booking my photographer struck again!
Usually, I research everything to the hilt and I was worried about how I would handle wedding plans during my busy season at work, which runs from November to April. I actually think planning during this crazy period has forced me to be more decisive.
Now I have to figure out exactly what I want Jeanne to do with my hair! I haven’t given too, too much thought to that at this point. I don’t really know where to start!
Where did you look for hair and makeup inspiration for your wedding day look?
You posted this at the perfect time! I’m getting married in Richmond and my DOC just asked me if I’ve looked at makeup artists, which I have not. Does this person do hair, too?
Ugh this is the one thing I’m not looking forward to and have been putting off.
My hair is a little too short and thin for the styles I want so I may have to look into extensions. But Miss Eagle has been warning me that it might be too hot and heavy for me to stand…
Which brings up another point. I was blessed (not) with the skin from the redhead side of my family. I can burn in the shade wearing 100spf. So I’ll have to see what can be done to protect myself during the ceremony… but on top of that I do get overheated and my head/face is where all the sweat forms first.
So I’m starting to think that the whole hair and makeup thing will be my doom. I’ll need a miracle worker to keep me looking good on my wedding day.
where did you get your hairpiece?
I just thought about things that I like the looks of and also things that I know look good as far as hairstyles and printed off a bunch, per suggestion of my hair stylist. We are going to go over them together and try some stuff out! I know that wanted something vintagey (is that a word!), something soft, and maybe braids. So I typed in all in separate searches, found what I liked and copied them into a word document and printed them all out. I did the same with make up! I think that between me, my make-up artist and my stylist, we will find the perfect look!That is what I would suggest for you.
Haha, I’m the same way. I have one go-to look and I don’t really change it up 
I felt like I wanted to be pampered on my big day too, so hair and make-up it is!
Hey there, fellow C-ville bride! I’m using Jeanne, too! I can’t tell you how happy this post made me. I haven’t had a chance to meet her in person but I’ve already hired her to do all of our hair on my wedding day. So nice to hear all the good things you have to say! 
Mrs. Mink, Charlottesville, Virginia Age and Occupation: 34, College Administrator Fiance's Age and Occupation: 40, Craft Beer Consultant Engagement Date: November 26, 2010 Wedding Date: June 2012 Venue: Pippin Hill Farm & Vineyards About Me: I left a pre-war brownstone in Boston six years ago to live in a funky, Southern city where Thomas Jefferson, Dave Matthews, and urban chicken keepers enjoy equal social standing. I still love my Patriots and Red Sox, but have fallen in love with Virginia. I work in education and specialize in integrating technology into my work to improve the student experience. I’m a diehard blogger, animal lover, jamband follower, and DIYer. I paint to relax and have transferred by energy from home projects to wedding projects in recent months. When Mr. Mink and I started talking about marriage, we knew our wedding would be outdoors, that my golden retriever would be part of the day, and that the music would be fantastic. We’ve taken a few risks during our planning process and we’ve been enjoying the process immensely!
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