Find the PERFECT Inspiration Photo

Let’s be real … there are a LOT of inspiration photos out there. It can not only be a bit overwhelming but confusing at times. You could potentially go down a rabbit hole, ending up far away from you original idea & wandering is this really what I want? Is this even possible? Here’s some advice to help you find the ideal look for you.

Hair:

1) Look for hair inspiration photo with the same or similar hair color to your own. The same hair hairstyle looks wildly different on different colored hair. Blonde hair photos tend to show more detail because the hair color reflects light whereas darker hair absorbs light. Same for multidimensional hair (highlights, lowlights, balayage, etc) vs singular color. So what can you do if you fall in love with a hair style that has more dimension? Well you can add dimension via highlights or lowlights. Even for a color virgin just a smidge of baby lights will add dimension (especially to darker hair) & you only have to dab your toe in the coloring pool. The other option is extensions. Getting extensions in a slightly lighter or darker color will add dimension without a chemical change to your natural hair.

2)Look for inspiration with the same or similar density and lengthas your hair. Most hair inspiration photos you find have extensions in them though unfortunately they don’t always note it. If you have finer or shorter hair don’t rule out extensions though if you’re adamantly against them just have realistic expectations as to what your hair can achieve. Extensions just add more raw material.

3) Look for inspiration with the same or similar texture as your hair. If you have naturally curly hair or hair with stronger texture those inspiration photos will provide a more accurate visual expectation of what your hair will look like in that style. Textures change the end result of the same style . I encourage my couples to celebrate their natural curls & finding phots that do that will help.

4) Think of the way you normally wear your hair . Is it normally up or down? You want to look like yourself on your wedding day - just enhanced & elevated! But if you normally wear your hair down and then try a tight high bun for your wedding hair trust me… it will feel weird. You won’t feel like yourself. Even if it’s just tendrils down framing the face it can soften a look & make it more relatable to you.

Makeup:

1) Look for styles that have a similar or same complexion & undertones as your skin. Colors can look very different on different skin tones so choosing inspiration photos that are similar to yours will give you a more accurate expectation.

2) Think of the vibe you’re going for. Is it glam or natural or somewhere in between? Keep the search consistent. Not that you can’t explore the variety that’s out there but some will certainly resonate more with you that others. Keep this in mind when you’re searching.

3) Think of how you normally wear your makeup. Is it very light & natural or dramatic? Just like with hair you will want to select a style that is similar to how you normally wear your makeup. A dramatically different way will leave you feeling like you’re looking at a stranger in the mirror.

4) Be prepared for false lashes. Professional falsies are not like the ones you find at the drugstore. Their lightweight & can look effortlessly natural . Most photos you see out there have false lashes & they really do make all the difference in the professional photos.

Still need help? Don’t be afraid to ask your hairstylist or makeup artist. They’re pros for a reason, right? Bounce ideas & concerns off of them because they are both invested in your joy but also can give you real, deal honest answers & advice.