Vendor Spotlight: Steale02 Artistry

The flowers, the dress, the shoes....most brides will obsess over these details but what ties the entire look together is the bridal makeup.  Recently, we sat down with Alexis Rogers of Steale02 Artistry to find out what makes Steale02 a cut above the rest among Shreveport's makeup artists.

Q: How long have you been in business?

A: Since 2011.

Q: How did you get started doing makeup?

A: I was in the mall and I was all made up and a lady from Glamour Shots stopped me.  While I was talking to her, someone walked in and saw my face and said they liked my makeup and she offered me the job on the spot.

Q: What does Steale02 Artistry mean?  Explain the name?

A:  I started doing makeup for glamour shots.  Eventually, I started posting videos on YouTube and I needed a username.  I just started grabbing letters from my name and my husband’s name to create Steale02 and it just stuck. 

Q: What services do you provide?

A: Bridals/weddings, photo shoots, hair shows, film and tv, and special effects for things like haunted houses.

Q: What are your specialties?

A:  I specialize in eyebrows, blending, and lashes.

Q: In your opinion, what defines a great makeup artist?

A: One who can bring up a client’s natural beauty to their expectations. 

Call Alexis today to schedule a private consultation.

832.858.6503

steale02@yahoo.com
Facebook.com/steale02artistry
Twitter/Instagram @steale02

Real Wedding: Lakeisha and John; It's the Little Things That Matter

With their distinctive vintage vision, newlyweds Lakeisha and John's wedding was a feast for the eyes, heart, and soul with touches of burlap and homemade items that were a true reflection of their personalities, love, and style.  

The weather was as perfect as Louisiana weather gets in June and there was just a calm about the city as the two prepared to become one.  The ceremony was held at First United Methodist Church.  One of the city's most recognizable landmarks with its steeple high above the city, it was the perfect backdrop to the sweet ceremony.  Ushered in by a very particular little flower girl who chose to place each petal one by one down the aisle, Lakeisha was stunning in her strapless mermaid gown and chose a simple up-do adorned with a rose for her hair.

Tulle and baby's breath added simple touches of elegance to the ceremony decor.  When it came to following through with her theme, Lakeisha never disappointed, taking each detail into account- from the signs to the personalized guest book pen, purple and burlap reigned supreme and each guest was invited into the couple's charming love story.

The reception held at the beautiful Art Space art gallery provided a perfect backdrop of modern touches with its white walls and hard wood floors to add to the vintage feel.  Guests tables were thoughtfully decorated with antique books and tea cups.  Beautiful arrangements of hydrangea and roses accented the decor as well.  There were so many gorge pictures taken by photographer, Jaci Iles, we wish we could share them all.  Of course we can't, but here are a few of our faves:

 

Lakeisha and John, it was truly a pleasure helping you make your wedding dreams come true.  It meant so much to witness your wedding day.  Congratulations to you both on finding someone to share forever with.

Photography: Jaci Iles Photography

Floral/Decor: Monet's Balloons

Ceremony Venue: First United Methodist Church

Reception Venue: Artspace

Baker: Aly B's

Entertainment: DJ- Mark Kerr

Vendor Spotlight: blo:Blo Dry Bar

A woman's hair is her crowning glory and many of our clients want to feel like queens!  That's why we were super excited when we heard about Shreveport's latest addition to the beauty market, Blo: Blow Dry Bar, located at 955 Pierremont Road, Suite 100.

We sat down with the salon's owner, Joey Robinson, to get the scoop on what makes this place the go-to salon for bombshell blow outs.  When you first walk in, it's clear that Blo is in a class of it's own.  The salon is clean, modern, and the decor is accentuated with the franchise's signature pop of pink that fans of popular worldwide chain have come to know so well.  Known for their "no cuts, no color" concept, the salon offers high quality blowouts at affordable prices.  Customers can choose one of 7 styles from their trendy hair menu (our favorite is the holly would) or come in with your own ideas.  What makes blo so unique is that they specialize in “catwalk quality” blowouts, something that has been noticeably missing from the Shreveport area. 

Joey Robinson and team.

Why do we think Blo is perfect for our brides?

Blo offers the ability to book private parties, perfect for bridal showers or girl's night out. They also offer their signature “Blo On The Go” bridal services which include a 45 minute consultation prior to your big day.  We KNOW our clients love to be pampered and Blo promises a hair experience like no other from the warm greeting as you enter to the soothing head massage, it’s clear to see you’re in good hands when you’re in one of their chairs.

To book an appointment call Joey or one of her stylists at 318-754-3023.

Hiring the PERFECT vendor team

Hiring the right vendor team for your wedding is crucial.  Making the wrong decision can negatively affect your experience and your budget.  Therefore it can be quite stressful.  Unless you plan weddings every day, it might be confusing to figure out what questions to ask and where to start. Relax.  Below, we give you some key pointers to get you started and help ensure your wedding planning process is a breeze.

1. Research. Research. Research.

By preparing yourself before meeting with any vendor, you'll get much more out of your meeting and be able to make more informed decisions.  Talk to couples you know who have gotten married recently.  Find out how much products and professional services generally cost in your area so you can be prepared for any quotes that are given to you.  The internet can be a great resource.  If you don't know anyone who has gotten married lately or you are planning your wedding in an area where you don't live, wedding boards and chat rooms are great for sharing information.

2. Set Up a Meeting.

In today's fast-paced society, we tend to gravitate towards electronic communication.  However, a face-to-face meeting, is essential to evaluating a vendor's personality, professionalism, and style.  If a face-to-face meeting isn't possible, schedule a phone conversation.

3. Ask for references.

Let's be honest, if you ask a vendor for a reference, he/she will provide you with a list of clients that have been pleased with their services.  You'll likely get some good reviews.  However, you can usually read between the lines if things weren't as perfect as they seem.  In addition to asking for client references, ask for professional references.  Find out which other vendors they've worked with.  This will also give you a better idea of their level of expertise.  Don't just rely on the referrals provided to you.  Check out sites like weddingwire.com and facebook.com to see their ratings and reviews.  

4. Ask Questions.

The saying goes, there's no such thing as a stupid question.  And while that may be true, it's best to ask thoughtful questions that will help you make the best decision.  Here is a list of the top 5 questions you simply MUST ask each vendor:

• How many weddings do you handle per year?
• The answer to this question will help you to determine their level of expertise and with some vendors- such as wedding planners- how much attention they will be able to give to you and your wedding.
• How much do you cost?/How much is the deposit?
• Pricing varies based on services included and experience.  Be careful not to make a decision based on price alone - but consider everything included.  The lowest cost isn't always the best deal.
• What happens if I cancel?  What happens if you can't perform services?
• Find out if your deposit is refundable and under which circumstances if so.  Also, the best wedding professionals will have a backup plan in case of an emergency.
• Will you provide a contract?
• If the answer is no, back away slowly from the table, turn around and RUN!!!  Contracts are designed to protect both you and the wedding vendor.  Do NOT settle for a verbal agreement.
• Are there any additional fees?
• Taxes, gratuities, surcharges, and other fees can add up quickly.

We believe forming the perfect vendor team begins with hiring a wedding planner who can refer you to vendors who match your budget, personality, and style.  We take a great deal of time in getting to know you and begin by referring you to professional, reliable vendors who have already met our high expectations.  Call 318-549-9663 NOW to let one of our licensed coordinators help you begin building the vendor team of your wedding dreams.

Life Is Not Pinterest Perfect: 6 Reasons Why Brides Should Just Say No To Pinterest

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Ahh, Pinterest!  How we love/hate Pinterest.  Thanks, in part, to Pinterest, we've seen society revert back to focusing on the little things.  And while we love that people are getting back to the basics in a creative way- low-calorie lemonade in a mason jar, the DIY bridesmaids' gifts, and packing healthy bento box lunches- we've also seen social media, particularly Pinterest drive our brides absolutely batty.  While I might be committing wedding planner suicide by admitting this, I'll just go ahead and say it- brides should stay away from Pinterest.  Here are 6 reasons why:

1. It's endless.  Pinterest is great for inspiration.  Seeing your wedding theme or colors through someone else's eyes can offer a different perspective and introduce many new possibilities but often brides find themselves in a never ending rabbit hole of ideas that don't represent a cohesive vision.  Clicking on one picture will lead you to another board and another pin and another board.....you get the point.  Eventually you've clicked away from your original vision, only now you're in love with a glitzy glam linen and you're planning a vintage themed wedding.

2. It can make you feel bad.  Pinterest is full of gorgeous wedding photos.  What most brides don't realize is that many of these photos are staged- for photos....so they'll look good....on Pinterest.  What you'll find is noticeably absent from many of these photos are real people actually enjoying all of the hard work that went into making the photo happen.  Many will find that duplicating every element seen in a Pinterest photo can be expensive.  You'll soon start asking yourself why you can't afford that dress or why you didn't think of that idea.  Comparing yourself or your wedding to what you see on Pinterest can make you feel jealous of what you don't have as opposed to focusing on what you do have.

3. DIY overload. Before Pinterest brides weren't expected to handcraft everything from their invitations to the centerpiece and backdrop.  Now that so many creative people have an outlet to showcase their craftiness, many brides think they have to DIY everything to have the perfect wedding and that's simply not true.  Unless you were born with a hot-glue gun in your hand, trying to make your own guest book using foraged leaves and twine just may not be for you.  Don't believe me, just google "Pinterest fails" to see how Pinterest craft projects turned into real life disasters.

4. It stifles your creativity.  Pinterest is full of pictures of other people's weddings.  Believe it or not, there was a time when we planned weddings using only the ideas in our heads and not inspiration boards created by other people.  By planning your wedding on Pinterest, you run the risk of using the same ideas as everyone else.  You also lose the element of creating a day that represents you as a couple.  Don't be afraid to let your personality shine through.  After all, your friends and family want to see you reflected in your wedding.

5. It tells all your secrets.  Thankfully, Pinterest has introduced the hidden board option, so now you don't have to let everyone in on all of your wedding details via pin but half the fun of pinning is sharing.  By letting everyone see your inspiration board, your guests will get a sneak peak of what your wedding will be like and it totally ruins the effect of seeing it when it all comes together.

And the most important point:

6. It's not real life.  Sure, that tablescape looked great on Pinterest but that is because the photographer knew exactly which angle to shoot it from and edited the image to make that centerpiece look just right.  The same goes for every dress, shoe, and invitation you see online.  You're looking at a version of reality that simply can't be duplicated in real life.  Life isn't Pinterest perfect, and why should it be?  When your guests reflect on your wedding, they might remember the centerpiece or the food, but chances are they won't.  What they will remember is the moments in between, the way they felt when they saw you two steal a glance, or the look on the mother of the bride's face as she watches her daughter walk down the aisle.  Those moments are what your wedding is really about, and that's something that even the most seasoned Pinterest veteran can't pin.

Need help creating a wedding that is totally YOU?  Give us a call now.  Let one of our coordinators help you craft a love story that reflects who you truly are as a couple, 318.549.9663.

Vendor Spotlight: Eyes of Venus

When it comes to weddings, we love the artistry of decorating and designing a space.  However, most of your photos will feature the face of the beautiful bride.  That's why when it comes to bridal makeup, it's best to leave that task to a talented professional.  We sat down with Shera Griffin of Eyes of Venus Makeup to find out why brides and bridesmaids choose Eyes of Venus time and time again.

Shera Griffin

Q: How long have you been in this business?
A: Since February of 2011.

Q: Let's start at the beginning.  How did you get into this business?
A: I've always had a love for fashion and makeup but I grew up in a strict home.  The only time I was allowed to wear makeup was when I was in a talent show or something like that but my mother always wore lipstick.  I joined the military and while serving I always found myself doing my friends’ makeup.  When I left the military my friends encouraged me to go to school and at first I didn't want to do it but my husband got deployed so I decided to learn more about the artistry of makeup and skin care.

Q: What services do you provide?
A: Make-up artistry for all special occasions, proms, wedding parties, bridal consultations, I work on film and television and photo shoots as well.  I can create avant garde looks as well.  It all depends on what the client is looking for.

Q: Our clients who have worked with you have all been extremely pleased with your work.  Why do you think that is?
A: I don’t compare myself to others, I just try to do my best work.  So when a bride comes to me I really try to do my best.  I make sure she is comfortable with the look that she wants.  She has other things to think about, she shouldn't be worried about her makeup.  With me, she doesn’t have to worry about tearing up or touching her face.  I’m there for touch-ups and I make sure she is well taken care of.  I try to make sure she has a stress free day.

Q: What would you like brides to know about your services?
A: Don't be afraid to venture out.  You may be able to go out and get your makeup done cheaper by someone else but you have to really consider the quality of the work.

Q: We know all too well that all makeup artists are not the same.   What defines a great makeup artist?
A: Anyone can pick up a makeup brush and call themselves an artist but can they look at you and see your features and make your beauty stand out?  You have to make sure that that person will not only take care of your makeup but will also take care of your skin.


For instance, if you go to the makeup counter at a department store for a makeover, you have to spend at least $50 in products.  The people behind that counter are salespeople.  If someone comes up to buy something while they are doing your makeup, they have to stop working with you and sell to that customer.  They can't give you individualized attention.  Not that there's anything wrong with the people at a makeup counter, but for your wedding day, you need someone who is focused on you.  In my opinion, a bride deserves a more private and quiet setting to get her makeup done.  Those moments should be her time to relax and ease her mind and prepare herself mentally for her wedding ceremony.

When you come to me, I take care of you and your skin.  I give my clients advice on how to properly care for their skin because we all have different skin types, someone with dry skin will need a moisturizing foundation.  I tell them which products will work best for them and when they come back the next time, the difference is amazing.

For more information, visit the website: http://www.eyesofvenusmua.com or call Shera at (972)768-8119 to schedule an appointment.

Wedding Planning 101: 7 Reasons why you MUST hire a professional wedding DJ.

Often we meet with brides who have friends or family members who want to pitch in goods or services for their weddings. Our suggestion is usually to hire professionals for every service and allow your friends and family to be guests at your wedding but sometimes due to budget or time constraints, that simply can't be done. Sometimes, someone you know offers an exceptional creative job that can't be duplicated. We're always delighted when that happens. However, if there's one spot that simply has to be filled by a professional, it's the DJ. 

Photo credit: onewed.com

1. The DJ must understand the flow of a wedding reception.

Even a seasoned club DJ will feel out of his element at a wedding if he's not familiar with the flow of a wedding.  I can remember a wedding where the DJ played line dance music immediately following the couple's first dance, before dinner had been served.  Guests joined in on the dance floor and then had to be asked to return to their tables so we could serve dinner and begin the toasts.

2. The DJ should also serve as an MC for your reception.

Although we don't mind pitching in when needed, you hire us to coordinate your event, not entertain your guests.  However, when professional DJ's aren't involved, we find that we are often asked to double as MC's for the wedding - announcing the bridal party and special dances.  Professional DJ's invest in specialized vocal training and practice their performance.  You should trust these services to a professional speaker, not just anyone.

3. Your guests won't dance without an experienced DJ.
An experienced entertainer can read the crowd and knows exactly which songs to play to keep the party going.  Also if he/she can't "mix" from one song to the next there will be interruptions or "dead air" frustrating your guests and clearing the dance floor and ultimately your party.  If there's one thing that will cause your reception to end early, it's a bad DJ.  You should enjoy every minute of the time you've paid for.

4. They have to work with your other hired vendors.
A professional DJ will have an understanding of the perspective of your other hired professionals. They will know how to communicate to other vendors. Things often change at the last minute. Sometimes you communicate one thing to one vendor and not to another.  If your DJ does not communicate well with other vendors it could lead to special moments being missed at your reception.

5. An amateur DJ will not have backup equipment, which means that if something fails, you won't have music at your reception.
I can also recall a time when I was asked to fill in for the DJ by playing the music through an iPad. When one of the cords malfunctioned, there was nothing we could do.

6. The DJ impacts the mood of your guest for better or for worse.
A great DJ will interact with your guests, encouraging them to have a good time.  I have personally witnessed a well-meaning DJ say overly suggestive things to the crowd, ruining the mood.

7.  As with all non-professional vendors, amateur DJ's aren't professionally invested in your wedding.
If something goes wrong at your wedding, it won't matter to a DJ who's just doing it for fun.  A professional DJ's reputation is on the line.  Also, many amateur DJ's will not present you with a contract, leaving you with little recourse should things go wrong.

You invest so much time and money into your wedding day.  Don't take chances by hiring an amateur DJ.  Need a place to start?  Call us today 318-549-9663, we have a little black book of professional vendors to choose from.