Jacki draws a map to reconstruct her designs from on the wedding day

The Key to styling extra thick hair is to remove 1/3 to 1/2 of the hair.  No, I don’t mean remove it from the head!  Simply remove it from the hair you are using to build your style with .    I accomplish this with a simple braiding technique I have developed.  This spring I worked with Kelly at a gorgeous facility on Cape Cod, The Wequassett Inn, and she was gracious enough to let me snap a few pics of the process so that I could share with you this Thick Hair How To.

Step 1,  Section the hair into 4 quadrants:  the triangle that encompasses the ear to the cheek to the rounding of the top of the head (sections #1 and #2), then from the crown of the head to the forehead (section #3), and finally from the top of the occipital bone to the crown (this is the rounding bone on the back of your head) (section #4).

This is steps 1 and 2

Step 2, Gather the hair hanging down into one of your hands and then, without securing it with a ponytail wrap, braid it to the ends and secure with a small elastic. (alternatively,  wrap a small elastic around the hair making a ponytail -  braid the hair, secure at the end and  snip off the top, initial, elastic).

Step 3, Lay the braid flat onto the head in a zigzag pattern and secure with large 3″ bobby pins at even intervals.  5 or 6 pins should be plenty.

Step 3

Pin the braid flat to the head without overlap

Step 4, Let the hair down from section #4 tease the roots, and curl it with a 3/4″ ceramic curling iron.

Step 4 looks like you haven't even begun! There is still plenty of hair....

All curled and ready to pin!

Step 5, Beginning from the bottom layer of section #4, begin pinning the curls to the braid,  layering them  so that they create the look you want – either an all updo (in that case pin a few to the braid to mask it and continue building the style up up up), or off to one side as a side pony or bun, or, as in this case a gorgeous full low back bun.

Step 5, Tease and curl sections #1, #2 and #3 with a 3/4″ ceramic curling iron.

Step 6, Add the sides (#1 and #2) back into the hair design keeping with the look you are designing.

Step 5 completes the look - you design the style!

Step 7, Tease section #3 and smooth it over the top of the crown for down dos or keep it in curl formation and add it to the design for updos.

The finishing touches are the most perfect!

Step 8, Donne the veil, or in this case a gorgeous Gardenia.

And Voila!!!  A normal sized Bridal Hair Do for super sized hair!

This bride runs the risk of ruining her makeup not by crying, but by using her finger instead of a tissue.

To avoid disturbing your makeup when the inevitable appears, wrap a tissue around your middle finger (this finger will apply the least amount of pressure and has the longest reach) and dab at your tear duct (located in the inner corner of the lower lid near the nose) to capture any liquid.  If a tear does spill over, don’t wipe – simply blot the wet area with a dry tissue and let the makeup reset.  Many brides keep handkerchiefs with them to capture the tears, but Kleenex works much better; Kleenex soaks up the wetness faster than the cotton fibers of the hanky reducing the need to wipe.  If you use your finger alone, it has no capacity to soak up liquid and therfor will smear your makeup as you press in to lift the tear away.

Happy Tears make a happy bride. photo credit: Erin Curan

Waterproof mascara.  Need I say more?  In my makeup kit you will find that old standby in the pink and black tube – Great Lash Mascara.  What can I say?  Its inexpensive and works like a charm on any bride.

Gel liner is great for holding up during a wedding with out smudging but is a bit harsh for the lower lid.  For the lower lash line I recommend using a powder liner that will stay in place as you blot a tear.  Most eyeshadows when wet will make a fabulous liner.  I am a fan of Make Up For Ever

Another great tip is to skip mascara and eyeliner all together!  How can that be done and still have amazing eyes in photos you ask?  Falsies, baby!  You can use traditional strip lashes for a full lush effect or individual clusters you place between your own lashes for a barely there makeup look or you can walk on the wild side and try out the new techniques for permanent extensions (well, as permanent as 4-6 weeks that is) that allow you to go bare and still create drama and focus on your eyes.

Don’t worry about a few spilt tears, remember they are Happy Tears (if they aren’t you better rethink what you are doing…).  Happy Tears are on of life’s true blessings.

Do you know any tricks you’d like to mention?  Leave a comment – I’d love to hear it!

Jacki Norrie

This 1940's inspired look was created by Jacki Norrie of Wedding Tresses and photographed by Jill Person of Person+Killian

Retro is defined as the century prior, in this case 1900 – 1999, and is broken up into decades that are clearly  delineated by a specific look;  the most famous of which are the 1940’s where extreme glamour ruled the day.  Today’s Retro Bride is taking inspiration from the 20’s and 40’s when she is planning her wedding attire and designing her beauty look.  She is having success designing her look by working with ateliers like Edna Mae’s in Newport, RI. and Ellen Christine Millenary in New York.

The 1920’s inspiration comes from both Louise Brooks, who popularized the very short bob, and the fingerwave.  The early 20’s ushered in the Louise Brooks look, later modernized by Isabella Rossellini  It is characterized by its length, just below the ear,  the sweep of the front pieces being arced in a curve towards the mouth and it’s short straight bangs. Later in the 20’s  fingerwarves with deep-set curves and firm peaks were all the rage.  Women wore hair nets to keep their styles in perfect shape.

Any bride can sport the vintage look of Louise Brooks

The bridal veil that accompanies this era’s style was long, flowing to the floor and is set upon the head with a cap of lace and tulle.  They were made to compliment the bride’s short hair style and to accentuate her face.  With that attention focused upon her face, the 20’s bride ensured her makeup was flawless and her skin was porcelain.  Lightly penciled eyebrows were extended beyond the brow bone and her lips were colored in such a way as to produce a pout.

This book cover from the 20's shows the deep-set curves and peaked ridges of the fingerwave

The 2o’s gal wore a soft smokey eye making the eye stand out- the hair styles were so overhanging on the face that if attention was not brought to the eyes they would disappear.  But keeping true to the rule that one must play up one feature and down play the rest to avoid looking like a harlot or clown, the 20’s woman kept the makeup on her eyes soft focused so she could pout her lips to kissable heights!

The 30’s are characteristic of the Art Deco age and fingerwaves ruled every bride’s hair style.  Gone was the super short bob, and in its place came glamorous, thick and full, shoulder length hair shaped into soft luscious waves.  This bride was influenced by the French and the Hollywood actress and exuded elegance in every way.  Jean Harlow, Bette Davis and Ginger Rogers were the seen to be the icons of style and their look had women clamoring for cosmetics even well into the depression.

The bride with mid length hair could easily replicate this 1930's retro bridal look

Grace Kelly on her wedding day reminds us that retro can be the utmost of elegance

This gal played up her eyes with an elongated, arched, penciled brow atop thickly lined lashes and replaced the smokey eye of the 20’s with a bright light eye.  She topped off her look with a sultry deeply colored lip.  She altered her look  by either wearing her locks loose or put up into a curly style with a high wave just above one brow.  In the beginning of the decade, the cap and veil were still in fashion; as the years progressed the cap was switched out for a fashionable hat with or without a veil.  When this bride donned a veil she wore it full and long, long, long.

The 40’s are by far the most glamorous decade ever.  This bride remained a fan of everything Hollywood.  She wore her hair long and full with a deep side part that was up swept to reveal a beautiful hairline. Think Veronica Lake…  The back of her hair fell in soft ringlets just brushing the back of her shoulders.  Rita Hayworth, Eva Gardner and the ever so elegant Grace Kelly inspired women all around the globe to adopt this style.  It was also the era for matching – lips to fingernails, purse to shoes…

40's inspired birdcage veil adorned with feathers - gorgeous retro bride. photo: Unveiled Bridal Designs

Hat veils, Birdcage veils and short veils found popularity in this time period.  For the bride who chose not to wear a veil, there over sized were hair pieces made out of feathers and baubles that could be donned to bring that spark of glamour to her look.  Her eyebrows are penciled and arched, yet this era has the brow follow the natural length staying upon the brow bone.  Lips are red, of course, and the face still porcelain.  All the focus is on the eye – more specifically the upper lid.  There she has a dark thick line of liner above full luscious lashed coated with a deep black pigment.  She keeps her lower lash line clean of any color forcing the eye to appear open under all that lash.  She was the epitome of elegance, grace and glamour.

What ever your fancy, the 20’s, 40’s or today, take time to look at all of your pieces and be sure it fits you like a glove.  While channeling a style is fun, keeping your personality and sense of style intact while adding in elements that excite you is most important.  After all, it is you he wants to marry…

Share your story and photos with me!  I’d love to see them…  Jacki Norrie

When selecting the right shade, apply the color along the jaw line making a stripe. As the stripe dries it should stay a beige color and completely disappear. If any discoloration, such as yellow or orange, appears you need to try another shade in the same manner. Know that the artificial shading of yellow or orange will deepen as it wears. This is not the look you are going for. Once you have found the color that works well with your body chemistry and stays a true beige tone, you have succeeded in finding your foundation shade.

To create a flawless finish, begin by smoothing your foundation onto your prepped skin with either a brush, sponge, or your fingers starting at the bridge of the nose and working out toward your hair line. This will give you more coverage in the middle of your face where you need it and feather out to less coverage as you approach your hairline where you do not want to see a line of demarcation. You want to seal the shade into the skin so that it appears like your skin is flawless not as if you were wearing a makeup mask. This is done by dampening a sponge with water and gently working, and buffing, the foundation into the skin. You may need to repeat this process two or more times to get the coverage even. Once that step is complete, apply a layer of powder to the skin with a fluffy brush or powder puff to lock in the color. Remember to work the powder into the skin in a downward circular motion working with the hairs on the face, not against them. This should ensure a long lasting, natural look to your skin.

Wearing foundation should look like your own skin, just enhanced!  Send me your questions – as you’re Wedding Ace, I am delighted to help!!

Best,

Jacki Norrie

At first we all jumped onto the band wagon and began experimenting and playing with all the different brands and formulas.  As artists we discovered that while it is a great concept for day to day activity, when it comes to bridal makeup, long-lasting formulas just weren’t hitting the mark:  the color selection was limited and the sheen was either super matte or too glossy for their wedding day.  While still a great tool for bridesmaids – most artist choose to use traditional creamy lipsticks on the beautiful bride.

Here is a super neat Secret Tip for Budge Proof Lips ~

To make sure your lips stay kissable soft all night long follow these simple steps:

• Line your lips with a lip liner that matches your favorite lip color.
• Lightly color in your lips between the lines with the liner.
• Using a brush, apply your favorite lipstick to your lips – Less is more, be sure to apply a thin coat.
• Take a tissue, pull it apart so it is one-ply, and lay it on your lips.
• With a big fluffy brush, dab translucent powder onto the tissue – this will allow a very thin layer of powder to filter through onto the lips.
• With a brush add a second layer of lipstick.

This layering effect will make any lipstick stick for hours!  Give it a try and let me know your thoughts!

Jacki Norrie

Lorelei's Veil Choice

That got me thinking.  Gone are the days where it is either or, so Emily’s way of thinking is wrong there, however her thought on head size and veils does have merit.  Like the Three Bears, heads come in all sizes and so do veils.

There is a “best” and a “best not to” rule of thumb when it comes to veils.  I’ll hit on the five most important I think you should be aware of when choosing the right fit for yourself…

* Large Head: A large head can carry off double layers and lots of pouf.  Mantillas with traditional lace borders balance large heads and are a great choice.  Tulle is a great material to work with since it is well adept at providing width and height. What you want to keep in mind here is that a too small head adornment will make the head and face look larger – to counteract that effect you should keep the “scale” in line with the whole picture.  Another consideration is if your fiancee’s head is significantly smaller than yours, you may want to opt out of wearing a veil and instead go with just a tiara and fabulous hair.

See how these veil choices change the scale of her face?

* Small Head:  A small head can carry single layer veils and mantillas with thin lace borders.  Silk is the material of choice here – keep it thin, soft and flowing.  Paying attention to “scale” in this case is of utmost importance – using anything too big/wide/high will dwarf an already small head.

* Average Size Head: Theoretically this category can carry off any style or size. But, since an “average” size head is not something I can define for you in measurements, rather it is more of a subjective categorization, it is not as easy to pin a Do or Don’t Do on.  Just like Goldilocks, you will need to try it all on and see what balances your individual size best.

* Thin Face: Wear whatever veil you chose so that the border of the veil falls behind your ears.  Show as much of your face as possible or you will close in your face making it look smaller and thinner.

* Full Face: The veil should be worn on the head in such a way that the border of the veil falls at the cheek bone.  This optical illusion will produce a thinner face and keep focus on your eyes.

Thin Face, Large Head, Perfect Choice!!

As always, please do leave a comment with photos and questions – I am delighted to impart my, ahem, “wisdom” (hee hee hee…) ~ Jacki Norrie, Wedding Tresses

YIKES! Don

I had the opportunity to observe a “makeup artist” doing a mock trail run last month (I was interviewing for a position on our Rhode Island Team) and the experience made me think of you, the unsuspecting bride, and how easily it is to be fooled by a resume.  (Yes, the makeup really was THAT bad!)

I learned back when I added my very first Team member that educational training, resume information and personality do not a bridal makeup artist make.  Working with brides and all the intricacies that are involved takes a very specific person and not all makeup artists are cut out for it.   An artist could be trained by the “best in the (cosmetic) business”, have worked for numerous cosmetic giants, have a lengthy list of television/runway and photo soot experience and possess the kind of personality everyone wants to have in a friend, BUT, her photographs and references will tell if she really can do Bridal Makeup.   I can tell you for absolute truth – I will not now, or ever, be a great runway makeup artist.  It is not within the realm of my skill or capacity to learn – that ’s not saying I couldn’t be good at it, I’ll just never be great.  I like to explain it like this:

Innately one can either draw a beautiful willow tree standing majestically in a field of golden hued wheat or have trouble sketching even a plain stick figure (I’m most definitely the stick figure type- my brother, majestic trees…).  If one can do willowy trees – you can either do it exceptionally well in pencil or charcoal or pastels – not all three mediums.  It is the same with makeup.  Because there are so many varied differences between print, runway, bridal and every day makeup it takes innate skill and specific training in that arena to be exceptional.

Here are what I believe are the key factors you should look for when choosing a makeup artist for your very special day:

• Is this an established company?  How long have they been in business?
• Are there photographs on their website?  Do you like the makeup style they are showing? Remember, this is what they see as their best work – is it?
• Are there actual referrals they can send to you that you can check? Don’t be fooled by “thank you” pages – anyone can make them up.
• Are they affiliated with any wedding groups, organizations or associations?
• Is this company or the artists viewed as experts in their field by their peers?
• What is their reputation?  Check message boards, wedding planners, venues, photographers…
• What are the referrals on WeddingWire.com and MarthaStewart.com saying?
• Who have your friends used?  Did they like the results?

It may seem like this is a small issue for you to put time into, surely the food, music and venue are more important to the day itself – however, keep in mind that when all is said and done all you really have left from your day (besides a life partner!) are your memories.  And as time fades and memories grow shorter, you will have to rely on your photographs and video to spark those fading scenes in your mind – and don’t you want to look amazing in those?

I am happy to help you find an artist if you are stuck- just send a note in the comments below…. Jacki Norrie

Let it Rain, Let it Rain, Let it Rain

I have been away from you, our fabulous Wedding Aces Brides, for the months of May and June and for that I do apologize.  Like I am sure you did, this spring I decided to work on getting into better shape (you for your gown, and me for, well, me) and that involved spending time out of doors walking, hiking, and gardening.  I began this change in lifestyle slowly back in March.  It was at the end of March when I found a tick on my head just along the hairline.  For about a week I did daily checks at the bite site for any sign of a bulls-eye but I wasn’t too concerned since it was a wood tick, not the dreaded deer tick, that I had removed.  After a week nothing showed so I soon forgot all about it.

I know now that what happened next was all related but at the time I had an excuse for each “episode”.  Two weeks post bite I came down with a horrible “spring cold” and as I was recovering from that I was hit with “the Flu“…”the flu” turned into a horrific “migraine” that lasted a whole week (a long, painful week…).    When the “migraine” finally broke I was left with a “residual headache” that went on for two weeks. I finally went to the doctors and he gave me a shot to help with the headache but thought I was in fine health otherwise.

Then I really started down hill.  For the next two weeks I could barley keep my eyes open, I was napping two and three times a day and sleeping a full 10-12 hours each night.  Sometime during all of this my lower back began to hurt and kept me from being able to bend over, tie my shoes, sit comfortably and I honestly didn’t care about it, I simply wanted to sleep.  I was forgetful, apathetic, and depressed.  I was so out of it that it didn’t register that I was really sick.  I don’t remember when the fevers began but I was taking so much Advil for my back and head that I am sure the fevers were hidden for quite a while.   Somewhere in the seven week mark I began to notice red blotches showing up on my legs while I soaked in the bath – I chalked it up to the beginning stage of my nemesis “psoriasis“.   The “migraine” was back and worse that ever.

One day I was too sick to remember to take Advil and while I was soaking in the bath (trying to ease the back and head pain) I noticed the big red blotches were flesh colored in the center.  This made me think of a bulls-eye…then I remembered the tick bite…Did I have Lymes Disease??

Thanks to Google and my iPhone I had my answer in less than a minute – I did indeed have Lymes. There are three stages of Lyme disease: early localized, early disseminated, and late persistent.  My symptoms put me in the early disseminated phase:

Cold and Flu like symptoms
Headache
Extreme Fatigue
Loss of Appetite/Taste
Eye Pain
Memory loss
Depression
Inability to Concentrate
Fever
Lower Back Pain

The treatment was clear, 4 weeks of an antibiotic called doxycycline.  With the very first dose of IV doxycycline in the Emergency Room (I hightailed it there as soon as I dried off from the bath!!) the back pain disappeared.  By the next day I was feeling better with less head pain.  Unfortunately I was still too ill on day 3 to work with a bride I had scheduled for her wedding day beauty services (something I still feel terribly about) but none the less I was quickly recovering.   (Side note: That bride was very well taken care of by a member of the Wedding Tresses MA Team, Ann Walsh, in my absence – contingency plans are part of the core of our structure because you never know what will happen in life.  This was the first wedding in 16 years I was unable to be present at.)  By day 4 I was back to work.

Now I won’t say June was been an easy month – but it was better than the month of May!  There were good days and bad days.  I had to stay indoors for the whole month due to the medication I was on.  Thankfully Mother Nature made that much easier for me to do by letting it rain for weeks on end.  Each morning I awoke to grey days I was happy both because I felt better and better with each passing day, and because I didn’t have to fight the cravings to go out and be one with the sun. (it IS summer after all!)

I share this story with you for two reasons.  First to make you aware that this little tiny animal is a large and lethal threat to you.  Wood ticks do carry the Lymes in their stomach just as deer ticks do.  You have to protect yourself when working, playing, and exercising outside and check yourself over for ticks after each outdoor excursion.  Your pets bring ticks into your home on their fur (which is how I believe I was bitten).

If you get bitten watch the spot for a full month (not just a week like I did); if a bulls eye appears go to your doctor immediately.  Early localized (1-4 weeks) is the best stage to catch.  If you don’t notice a bite but develop a cold/flu followed by any other symptoms go to your doctor and ask for the blood test.  You could be in the Early Disseminated Stage (1-4 months).

The second reason I share my journey of the last few months with you is to let you know that I hadn’t forgotten you – that it took something really big (or in this case really small) to keep me away.

Stay healthy as the days count down to your Wedding Day!  If you or someone you know has experienced Lymes, leave a comment.  Each person’s story has the potential to help someone else…  Until next time (and I promise it wont’ be too long ….  Jacki Norrie

I hear that often from brides and the bridal party.  It is more likely than not that this is the person in the wedding party who is the most apprehensive about getting her hair done because if it is not done correctly it cab be an embarrassing and dreadful day for this woman.  Even if you are as thin as Renee Zellweger pre-Bridget Jones, a round face gives off the appearance of being heavy set.

So what’s the answer?  How does one use hair to create a thinner, less round face?

It’s simple actually.  To create a lees round effect, design your style to be all vertical.  This means a full, high top to your hair style and no width at all on the sides.  This tricks the eye into seeing the height (of the hair) and width (of the fae) in proportion. Look how long Star’s face appears in this photo -

Height and close sides give Star a thinner, less round effect

To create a less full face, place a ruler on the cheek bone next to the ear pointing up.  The space you see between the ruler and the head is the area you want to fill in completely with hair.  What this does is create a vertical line beginning at the widest part of your face and since no one area is sticking out beyond the rest, it tricks the eye into seeing a longer leaner face.

If you want to do your hair down, or 1/2 down – keep the fullness at the top of your head and below your chin line.  Vertical lines are your friend!

Here are a few Do’s and Don’ts:

Do Keep your sides close

Don’t use a lot of curls and waves around the face – they accentuate roundness

Do have a textured layers around your face

Don’t wear a bob style  blunt, one lenght end widen a face

Do have lots of volume on top

Do have lots of volume below the chin if wearing a longer style

DO LOVE YOUR FACE!!

Let me know your thoughts!!  Jacki Norrie

Beachy? Romantic? Elegant? You be the judge...

A “beachy” style would look “romantic” if paired with an off the shoulder ball gown at a Castle Hill wedding in Newport.  That same style would take on the tone of “elegant” when worn with a spaghetti-strap silk sheath for a night wedding at Boston’s Museum of Fine Arts.  So while the dress will alter the look of the style and the feel of the design, it is the face that dictates the basic structure.

I have put together a series of posts that will run over the next few weeks that will give you the information your need to understand what hairstyles will bring out the best of your features.  I will try to give you examples that will allow you to see what I am explaining – if at any point I am not clear with my thoughts, please leave me a comment so I can pop on and clarify…  It’s a bit easier to show you this when you are sitting in my chair in front of the mirror

Discussing your Bridal Look in my mirror... photo by Person + Killian

Feeling beautiful on your wedding day begins with an amazing hairstyle.  Let’s work together to make yours perfect!  Jacki Norrie

The revolutionary new self adhesive technology employed by Revlon is simply nothing short of miraculous!  Not only are the lashes super easy to apply, but the glue strip at the base of the lashes give you an amazing bold gel liner look without the liner!  Revlon says these lashes take you from Plain Jane to Naturally Fantastic instantly – and stays put even in water.  Good for you brides – tears of joy won’t budge these beauties!

The traditional adhesive, glue, that comes with the Fantasy Lashes is awesome.  It sets up quickly and has a tight hold.  I found it to be better than what I use in my kit…I wonder if I can buy it in bulk?  Anyway, I digress…

I tried out the intensifying lashes first  – Wow!  This is a set with some length!  I had lashes literally up to my brow bone when my eyes were open; I could feel the tickle

Chic was the really Fun one of the quad.  It has varying lengths and color definition that lend well to creating a playful, cheeky, yet sophisticated drama to the eye.  I could see a fashion forward Carrie Bradshaw sporting these at her wedding!

I played next with the Defining – which is also the self-adhesive one – and coupled with that band I spoke of giving the look of a nice gel liner line, I have to say they so exactly what the name states: Define.  Very pretty.

My most fave of the bunch, and one that is the most customizable is the Lush version.  For each eye there are 4 short strips of really luscious lashes that are applied individually.  Ever see one of those little boys with the big eyes and lashes Grandma says are “wasted on a boy”?  Well, now you can be the envy of your friends…

There are great instructions, clear and concise, in each packet.  A mini version of Lashes for Dummies – so go pick up a set, try them on, and leave a comment on how you like them!  Jacki Norrie

I sit here at my computer typing for the first time in years typing with long beautiful finger nails.  There was a time in my life when I was a slave to silk wrapped tips – the beauty was so intoxicating.  After a few years it became more of  chore so I ditched the habit and along with it my pretty hands   I thought that that phase of my life was over, but now I feel it reborn!  Revlon has just introduced a line of salon quality artificial nails that give any girl pretty hands!

Each package of these little guys has 24 nails in 12 sizes ensuring a great fit for any hand.  All the tools you would need are packaged together: buffer to rough up the natural nail for good adhesion, an orange wood stick to push the cuticle, and Maxi-Bond glue to cement these babies on good and tight!

I have the pleasure of wearing and working with the medium length version of the Runway Collection – in Sequins ( a french manicure with sparklies on the tips).  each hand I fit them to looked amazing – the semi clear bed of the artificial nail allows for each person’s own natural color to show through ensuring a very natural look to the nail.  They are soft, lightweight and feel snug and secure; I am not worried at all that one will “pop” off.

When you get your set home, here are a few simple steps to mastering the application…

Prep:

1. for each hand measure out and select the best fit for each nail.

2. arrange the nails, in order, on the table in front of you like little “hands”

3. buff lightly over your natural nails with the enclosed buffer

4. Push your cuticles back

5. shape your natural nail edges to a rounded slope and close to the end of the finger

Application:

Beginning with the little finger of your dominant hand (I’m a righty so I began applying to my right hand first)…

1. apply glue to the artificial nail, cover the whole surface with a THIN layer – use orange wood stick or a Q-tip to push glue around if needed

2. apply to nail – wiggle into the correct spot and let dry 10 seconds

3. move to the next finger and repeat

In no time you will have gorgeous nails to match that gorgeous ring you have on the third finger of your left hand..  As Revlon says, “Captivating Color at Your Fingertips..”  Salon Quality without the Salon Prices!

Send me a photo of your nails…I’d love to see!  Jacki Norrie

A gorgeous down do for shoulder length hair

This style has the staying power to last all night since its length lends itself well to resisting gravity.  And if in the event of an air conditioner failure – you can gather this style quickly into a sexy side pony.

Here are the 5 simple steps to creating this look:

1.  Begin with a great shampoo for volume and follow with a light conditioner.

2. Apply a setting lotion, such as Nexxus Versastyler, to damp hair and blow dry with a large round brush on a low setting.

3. Set hair in  large hot rollers from the bottom up and let them cool completely.

4. Finger through the curls to arrange your hair – do not use a brush or any tools, this will ruin your curls.

5. Direct and smooth hair towards your face to get fabulous bounce.

Don’t forget to spray with Sebastian Shaper Plus to keep your look amazing all day long.

Fabulous bounce!

For a slight variation, try pinning back just the top section of hair …

Voluminous, Voluptuous Waves Photo credit, Person + Killian

Have your girlfriends over for wine and a movie, and try this style out – let me know how it goes!  Jacki Norrie

The most requested hairstyle by 2009 brides

This style is gorgeous on any bride and when the front pieces are pulled back ever so slightly the look becomes even more romantic.  Often we add clip in extensions to brides to obtain the fullness that Carrie has (she too has in extensions!) and the result is natural and lush.  I work with a great brand, Hair-U-Wear, and routinely sell the synthetic versions to our clients when they want this wavy look because the curl is baked right into the “hair’ so it will not frizz, loose its curl, or relax in inclement weather.

See how natural and lush this looks?

To style your natural hair like Carrie, follow these steps and “maybe next time he’ll think before he…” comes home without roses for his bride…

The Carrie Do How To:

Begin by section your hair into 5 sections:

• From ear to ear over the top of your head – grab the back and clip it out of your way
• Out of that front area, section out the top and bang area and clip #1
• Then clip each side #2 and #3
• Unclip the back and section it in two, horizontally along the occipital bone (bump in head just above nape) creating a section at the crown and the nape
• Clip those two sections crown: #4 and nape: #5

1. Hot roller set sections  #1 and #4
2. Tease the bases of 1′” groupings of hair in sections #2,3 and 5 and spray lightly with Sebastian Shaper Mega
3. Beginning at the bottom, use  a 1″ barrel curing iron and curl each grouping in sections #2,3,and 5
4. Pin each curl up as you go along and spray with hairspray  Sebastian Shaper Plus
5. Let set 30 minutes
6. Drop the pins and then the rollers
7. Tease the crown high and tease section #1 off to one side creating that swoop effect in front
8. Using a boars bristle brush, smooth over the top of sections #1 and #4
9. Finger thru the curls
10. Spray with Sebastian Shaper Plus
11. Optional – Pin back small groupings of curls behind the ears to create the 1/2 up effect.

Have fun with this look!  It really is great for any bride.  Let me know your thoughts!  Jacki Norrie

Soft, Romantic Mantilla Veil

A favorite article of adornment by Queen Isabel II of Spain, Mantilla veils became an item of popular dress during her reign in the mid 1800’s. It quickly fell out of favor upon the exile and eventual abdication of the Queen as it was seen as a form of support to the dethroned Queen.  In the region of Andalusia women continued to employ the mantilla as a way to cover their heads during religious event, during Holy Week, and for meeting with the Pope.   It is believed that this is the genesis of the popularity with Catholics as an adornment during First Communion and wedding ceremonies.

Cathedral Length Mantilla

Mantillas are sleek and sophisticated and without the pouf associated with bridal veils.  They are meant to be worn alone with a beautiful border being the focus of attention.  The shape of the veil is oval or round and is one single layer of fabric.  The borders can range in size and material; some are wide bands of lace, and others are full of lace  to the center, with scalloped edges, and yet some have tiny piping along the border giving a touch of definition.  This graceful veil can be short or full cathedral length.

Elaborate Mantilla Veil, photo by Blooming Veils

There are 3 main types of Mantilla Veils:

1.  “Blonda Lace Mantillas”: these are handmade comprised of two types of silk and the lace is floral themed.
2. “Chantilly Lace Mantillas”:  are heavily embroidered with vegetable, fruit or floral designs.  They are named after the region in France that the lace comes from.
3. Modern Lace: are embroidered tuille and a blend of the Chantilly and Blonda Lace styles.  This is what brides today mostly wear.

How to wear a Mantilla Veil:
Drape the Mantilla over the head
Pin or attach with a small comb on the top of the head
Drape the material so it softly frames the face and upper body.

They are simple, yet elegance at its best.  If you wear one for your wedding day – send me a photo!  Jacki Norrie

How Beautiful! photo by Isn

Avoid this shiny, melted makeup look for your wedding day... photo credit

• Prep your skin, after cleansing, with a clay mask – applied to the oily regions of your face, it extracts under-surface oil producing a matte effect that will last all day.
• For really wet areas, beading upper lip for example, use a clear solid antiperspirant under your makeup.  It works on your lip as it does in your underarm blocking wetness all day.
• Powder mineral foundations can be applied lightly to even out skin tone and provide an SPF above 15.  As an added bonus, they are naturally sweat resistant.

Fresh Summer Makeup

• If you must use a liquid – use an oil free tinted moisturizer with SPF over 15.  This all-in-one will replace your daily moisturizer, sunblock and foundation!
• This isn’t really a secret – but it does warrant a mention: waterproof mascara and eyeshadow are a must.  Need I say more?
• Finally, the last big secret to gorgeous summer makeup is Jell-O. Yep, you heard right!  Lick your lips and dab on Cherry flavor for red stained lips and Watermelon for pink.  The color will last all day long…

The Biggest Secret to Summer Lips - Pucker Up!

Comment me once you try these!  I want to hear your thoughts…  Jacki Norrie

I asked her to tell me exactly what “smoky eye” means to her without looking in the mirror.  What she begins to describe is not a “smoky” eye, but rather a “bright” eye.  HUGE difference!  Polar opposite. Left and Right.  Up and… you get the point.  So with a laugh, I began again.

Bright Eye…. (Wedding Tresses)

When you use specific verbiage to describe what you want, you are assumed to know precisely what you are asking for.  This can, and as your read above, create confusion and mis-communication.  The word “chignon” is the most overused and misunderstood word in formal hairstyling; due to that, when a bride asks for a chignon, I ask her to describe the look to me, without using that particular word (7 out of 10 times, it is not a chignon…).   Use your words to describe to us your thoughts, grab your hair and show us where you might want it placed, pull out your lipstick and show us the color you love.  As a professional it is our job to understand your layman’s terminology not your responsibility to understand us.

We may all speak English, but we don’t all speak “hair” or “makeup”, and because of this, I am a firm believer that photographs are the best tool to allow the Artist and the client to begin to speak the “same” language.  I know what you are thinking, you can find the photo – you have no idea what you want.  You don’t have to love the whole photo you bring in, rather you can love the back on this one, the front sweep on this one, the height of this one and you hate everything about this one (yes, showing us what you don’t like helps us to narrow down what you do).  I’ve had times where I have constructed a custom design from more than six photographs and without them, I would not have been able to get to the end result as quickly as we did.

Ask and ye shall receive – just remember to do it in your own words!  Let me know if you need help and I would be happy to translate for you!   Jacki Norrie

photo credit: Pinkvilla.com

The Smoky Eye is one of the most dramatic, sexy, drama provoking makeup technique there is in Bridal Beauty.  It takes a strong personality and a night time wedding to pull off the darkest, smokiest look – but, that doesn’t mean a late afternoon bride can’t have a subtle smoke for her special day too.  This “how to” will show you the steps to take, the intensity to choose and the balance that will pull it all together for your day.

The premise of this technique is to produce a dark to light effect on the eye creating focus and attention right at the center of the eye. It is great for night time weddings when lighting is from artificial sources; this look is very harsh in natural lighting but with modification it can be used in the evening and late afternoon.

This photo shows Kim Kardashian

Three colors make up the Smoky Eye and they range from light to dark within the same color family.  The technique calls for the darkest color to be near the lashes fading to the lightest color as you go to the brow. It is within the color choice you make that you can control the intensity of the look: choosing lighter colors produces a subtle smoke effect and a dark color palate creates drama. The time of your wedding will dictate the depth of color you choose:

• Late afternoon weddings: Pinkish brown, taupe, nude
• Evening weddings: Golden brown (or a medium cool brown), caramel, flesh
• Night weddings: Charcoal, taupe, gold

Keep this look balanced!  When you are making one area of your face the focal point, you must minimize the rest.  Keep cheeks light and soft in color and apply only to the side of the face on the bone keeping the apples flesh colored.  Lips should be soft and almost colorless:  nude is a good choice for evening, just gloss for late afternoon and evening you can add a smidge of color close to your natural lip color.

The Technique:

1. Apply foundation and an eyeshadow primer
2. Using your lightest color apply shadow to the brow bone
3. Using your medium shade, apply to the base of lashes, the whole lid and up to the edge of the brow bone
4. Sweep medium tone along lower lashes to the corner of the eye for definition
5. Using the darkest shade, apply to the upper lash line and onto the lid keeping the darkest application at the lash line
6. Sweep the darkest shade along the lower lash line: Evening go all the way around the eye, for the rest stop this color at the leading edge of the iris
7. Blend, blend, blend – using a dry, clean brush to swirl over eye will help to do the final blend

Drawing of Smoky Eye Technique -Over emphasized to show application regions

Remember, add liner, lashes and mascara according to time – the earlier the event, the less you use.

One final note, time changes due to season.  Evening in winter is at 3:30  and in summer it is at 7:00 here in New England- The sun determines the time label placed upon your wedding with regard to makeup.

Let me know if you try this yourself – upload a photo, I’d love to see it!  Jacki Norrie

Synthetic or Natural - you choose...

It is a must to begin your wedding day hair design with, what I have coined,  “Rehearsal Dinner Hair”.  This preparation technique will give the stylist a great base upon which to work with on Wedding Day and allow her to create styles that hold up to humidity, dancing and weather changes for your entire event without having to resort to giving you ‘helmet head’.   Rehearsal Dinner Hair is simply this:

* Wash and style your hair as usual for your rehearsal dinner using Aquage brand products – shampoo, conditioner, mousse, hair spray, gel, etc.
* Then that night before bed give it a good brush out (that old wives’ tale of 100 strokes really works!)
* Go to sleep and in the morning give it another thorough brushing before heading to your stylist’s chair.

Aquage Products

I know what you are thinking!  “Not wash my hair on my wedding day??”  I promise, I am not crazy!  Have you ever experienced the phenomenon called Second Day Hair?  If you haven’t I am positive you know someone who has stumbled upon the basic truth that hair always behaves best on the second day after you wash it.  The facts behind this theory are:
*Overnight while you sleep, the products in your hair mix with your own natural oils creating a fixative that creates lift, volume and a texture that can not be reproduced on freshly washed hair.
* Your hair’s cuticle layer is being roughed up by the fabric of the pillow case with each toss and turn creating more texture and volume (for anyone who wakes up with knots in their hair knows how true this fact is!)
*Thoroughly brushing your hair – especially with a boar bristle brush- will distribute your natural oils down the shaft of the individual hair strands and not pool at the root causing the “oily hair” effect.
* The fixative that is produced by not washing after sleeping allows hair to accept teasing, the building block to hair styles that stay in place yet look soft and touchable.
* Aquage products are designed to resist humidity; from the shampoo to the hair spray, each step and product has a patented humidity blocker incorporated in the formulas.

If one of your girls, or even yourself, finds that they are in the 2% of the population that can not go more than 12 hours with out washing – that’s ok!  Still follow the instructions above and let your stylist decide the morning of your wedding if you should wash all or part of your hair, or if a simple dry shampoo is all that is needed (a great stylist will have some in her kit already).  It is best to let the pro make the call rather than risk your long hair look being ruined before you even make it to the ceremony.

Lush, beautiful, touchable locks are achievable in any situation, you just have to trust me… Don’t wash!  Take a peek at this amazing do I did last summer- Humid day in Boston – beautiful long hair!

Hot, Humid Boston Day - Gorgeous Lush Locks! Photo by Click Imagery

Best wishes, Jacki Norrie

Simply enhancing your eyelashes makes your eye pop with romanticism

In days past it was left to either a combination of mascara coating the lashes and black eyeliner placed close to the lash line or a full strip of falsies glued just to the edge of the natural lash – and those more daring would combine all three!  In even earlier times, coal dust was mixed with Vaseline to make a substance that would darken and thicken the look of lashes.  Today, I am pleased to tell you, we have more and better options!

The mascara revolution has continued with every cosmetic company having 3-7 versions of mascara (thickening, volumizing, lengthening…) and each of those 3-7 versions coming in a waterproof, water resistant or easy clean formulas.  I have tried them all, well as many as I can get my hands on, and I have to say I am a fan of the new HD formulas; but, nothing will compare to my Maybelline Great Lash in Waterproof for weddings!  Any makeup artist worth their salt in gold will have the trademark pink and green bottle in their kit.  I have not tried the new Stiletto Ultimate Length formula I am hearing so much buzz over – If you have, let me hear your thoughts…

Falsies have really come full circle now with the invention of individual clusters and the more dramatic jeweled full-sets seen everywhere.  Playing around with them all is the only way you will be able to decide which style is the best fit for your eye shape and size. When opting to go with a full-set go with comfort not price (there is one company whom “everyone” assumes has the best lashes because “so and so company” is the best, but let me tell you when a bride shows up to our Studio with them in hand we cringe!).  I will tell you that I have all but given up on the full set – unless that on-camera drama is a must – in favor of the individual clusters.  I am a big fan of Ardell Lashes and use their Dura Lash Individual Clusters and Duo adhesive religiously.

The 2000’s ushered in a new generation of lash enhancing devices – altering your own lashes, no mascara needed.

Taking the world by storm are eyelash extensions.  I can’t begin to count the companies who supply the extensions, or the salons and dedicated businesses that have popped up devoted to just lashes  – but I can tell you the demand for this product is huge.  For the first time, eyelashes themselves can be extended with semi permanent synthetic lashes that are curved to replicate natural lashes.  Unless you opt for the ultra glam look, no one will know that these are not your lashes since they are bonded to your lashes.  This is a costly procedure and will need monthly “fills” (similar to fills for artificial nails); but never again will you go swimming, cry or come out of the hot tub with mascara running down your cheeks.  For a listing of companies in your state you can go to eyelashextensions.net.

Before and After Eyelash Extensions

Another amazing find of the ’00’s are the inventions of chemical formulas that when put on the follicle of the eyelash increase the growth, thickness, and length of your own natural lashes.  One of such formulas is Revitalash.  This product is an eyelash conditioner and is applied similarly to hair conditioner once per day; their claim is beautiful healthy lashes in 10 weeks.  If you are willing to shell out $110 per month, the FDA just approved an off-label use for the glaucoma drug, Bimatoprost, for use as a follicle stimulator.  Latisse brand is marketing this product that has been shown to clinically improve length, fullness and depth of color in natural lashes. What fun!

Whatever method you choose to employ for your wedding day, be sure to try it out at least 1 month in advance – just in case.    Let me know what you try… Jacki Norrie

Gorgeous green gams!

The main thrust of the Green push in cosmetics has been ingredients – the more organic the better.  This ushered in a whole new type and constitution of makeup, and from my opinion, created a revolution – enter the era of Mineral Makeup.  No where is it more apparent that the industry has given the masses what they clamor for than with mineral cosmetics.  Every day, every hour, on every television channel out there you can find, at any given point, 6-7 major mineral makeup lines being promoted by any number of celebrity endorsers.  Bare-”whatever” is right there, front and center in every Sephoria in the country with its counters being the most popular in the store.  In every woman’s bag at least one item of mineral makeup can surely be found (I have a whole kit full?)

Everyone is getting into it now.  Companies whose products are not organic are finding ways to still “Go Green“.  Stella McCartney has created a  super luxurious skin care line, Care, that 100% of its active ingredients are organic,  and whose containers are all biodegradable.   Cargo has come out with a specific line of organic lipsticks, PlantLove, whose packaging, right down to the lipstick tube, is made from recycled materials; they’ve taken one step further and embedded the packaging with wildflower seeds! Just moisten the package, plant in the ground and for $20 you can have your lipstick and a garden too!

May you find your pot of gold today...

Using sustainable resources to minimize the negative effect on the environment is a sound investment in the future of our Earth.  Using environmentally friendly materials that are free of Parabens, harsh chemicals, petroleum, synthetic colors and fragrances, Paraffin, PABA, mineral oil, propylene-glycol, phthalates, genetically modified organic material, DEA and animal ingredients is a sound investment in you.

Happy St. Patrick’s Day to  you all – Jacki Norrie

Keep your under eye area smooth and flat with this quick fix!

We are often asked, or rather bombarded upon by brides as we enter the door on their wedding day, what can be done for under eye puffiness??  For a multitude of reasons, brides are prone developing issues with the skin surrounding the eye: lack of sleep, stress, dehydration… Prevention really is the key- but, try telling that to a bride who is scurrying around tying up all loose ends in the few short days she has before the wedding. If the blessed day has arrived and you find yourself with monstrous mounds beneath your lids, relax and have a cup of tea. Caffeinated tea bags are the best thing you can do for the immediate relief of under eye puffiness.

Follow these simple steps to prepare the miracle bags:
Boil (not microwave) enough water for two cups of tea
Pour boiling water over the tea bags into the cups (don’t add tea bags after water)
Let the bags steep for 3 minutes
Gently squeeze the bags of liquid and set on a plate
Place the plate in the freezer for 15 minutes
Sip and enjoy the cup of tea while you wait
Lie down comfortably and place the bags directly on of the puffy lump (not on the eye lid)
Relax, without talking, for 15-20 minutes

This process will not only take care of your eyes, but will serve to give you a quiet time out and relax you for a few minutes, letting you collect your thoughts and get on with the business of your wedding day.

Relax.  No, its really not all about you… (hahaha…bet cha haven’t heard that one since you started planning your wedding!). The word chignon, pronounced “sheen-yon,” is actually derived  from the French phrase “chignon du cou,” which translates to “nape of the neck”.  People are often very confused as to what exactly a chignon is, and that is primarily because the modern term is not restricted to any one style in particular; rather, it is a generalized term referring to any bun positioned  low, on the nape of the neck.  The photo shown here depicts a Classic Chignon, the one most readily associated with the word.

Classic Chignon
To create this look I suggest beginning on second day hair, or what I term Rehearsal Dinner Hair.
* Brush hairspray into the roots of your hair and tease the bases.

* Smooth out the top layer with a natural bristle brush and pull it all back into a low ponytail securing with an elastic hair band.
* Gently tease the underneath of the pony and them smooth out the top with a natural bristle brush.

* Keeping the pony’s new fullness intact, loosely twist the pony in you hands three times.
* Then begin wrapping the twisted pony around the hair band, pinning as you go, creating a circle around the hair band.  Secure with pins all over.
* Don’t forget to us Sebastian’s Shaper Plus to get good hold!  http://www.sebastian-intl.com/shaper_finishing.php

This look is amazing with jewels or flowers strategically placed as I have done here:

Beautiful low chignon with a gorgeous peony tucked in!
Or give it a free form for a beach wedding -

Jacki Norrie creates a tossled chignon for this bride

Jacki Norrie adds Romanticism to this chignon with a fluffy peony
I had a great time with this bride!  Sky’s is the limit when it comes to designing your chignon – play around and find one that suits your personality and style,  Let me know how it turns out!

Jacki Norrie

Here are but a few absolute MUSTS:

•    Your eyelash curler is a must! Every day.  Ok, the theory is this – if you take a piece of paper and hold it at eye level horizontally (flat, like it would be on a desk) you see how thin the paper is -  now bend the paper in half (like eyelashes being curled) and look how much more of the paper you see? Same thing happens to lashes when you curl them.
Go try it, I’ll wait….  See?? I KNOW!!

Curling your eyelashes is a MUST!!

•    A sponge is an essential tool for making your skin look radiant and like, well, like skin.   Once you have applied foundation, slightly dampen a clean sponge and rub all over your face with it.  This will remove any excess foundation that your skin wasn’t able to absorb.
•    Applying your powder finish over this smooth skin will allow the powder to float evenly on the skin.   Here’s where your trusty cotton ball comes in handy – using a clean cotton ball, buff the powder into your skin so it becomes part of your skin and not a layer sitting on top.  You will look flawless!
•    Last in this list, but not least lip balm!  We love Burt’s Bees – the balm moistens the skin in a way gloss doesn’t. Softened and moistened lips provide the best base upon which to apply lip liner, lipstick, and yes, even lip-gloss.  It’s worth it!

Radiant, Natural, Beautiful...

The most beautiful painting began with an amazing canvass.
Let me know your thoughts after you try any of these tips!  Jacki Norrie

Many makeup artists offer “Makeup/Makeover Lessons”. These classes are designed to teach you about your own bone structure and facial features and how to best apply makeup to achieve the look you prefer.  Typically lessons run $100 per hour and run two to three hours. However, if you go to your private class with a specific “look” in mind (in this case, your bridal Look) you can focus the lesson to one look and keep it under an hour.  Be sure to have the artist emphasize the aspect of applying the correct type of makeup and the correct techniques to enhance the photogenic quality of your look – the camera does pick up hues and shapes differently than the naked eye and a great makeup artist knows the tricks.

Bring your makeup with you to the lesson so you and the Artist can go through your bag and utilize as much of what you already own as possible cutting down on the expense of having to buy it all. Ask  the artist make a list of what you need to purchase and the brands she/he recommends – some makeup just doesn’t have the best photogenic qualities. (Smashbox is my favorite! http://www.smashbox.com/).

Rather than bother to try to take notes, or (GASP!) simply remember what was said and done, bring a video camera with you and set it up to capture the scene so when you go home and practice (and practice, practice, practice) you will have an instant replay of the lesson to listen to and watch.

Good Luck! Have Fun!  and let me know if you have any questions…