hair prep

Whether it’s your wedding day, a gala, or a party, your hair prep is the secret ingredient to a flawless look. Proper prep doesn’t just make my job easier—it ensures your style is high-quality, long-lasting, and camera-ready from the first photo to the last dance.

Follow these updated tips to ensure your hair is the perfect canvas for your big day!

Know Your Hair Type

Every mane has a different personality. Here is how to handle yours:

  • If your hair gets oily quickly: Wash and blow-dry it the morning of your event. Modern products can easily add "grip" to clean hair, but it’s much harder to hide excess oil.

  • If your hair is thick, coarse, or frizz-prone: Wash it 1–2 days before your event. This allows your natural oils to settle and soften the cuticle.

  • The Myth Buster: The old saying that "dirty hair is better for updos" is officially retired! If you aren't sure, always opt for a wash the night before. I can always add texture to clean hair, but I can't "un-wash" oily hair.

The Perfect Product Prep

What you apply after your final wash is the foundation of your style. Use these guidelines based on your hair goals:

For Fine or Thin Hair (Volume Seekers)

  • The Routine: Apply a volumizing mousse to your roots and mid-lengths.

  • The Technique: Blow-dry your hair upside down to encourage maximum lift at the scalp.

  • Pro Tip: If prepping the night before, sleep in a high, loose "scrunchie" bun or loose braid to keep that lift from falling flat overnight.

For Thick, Coarse, or Frizzy Hair (Smoothness Seekers)

  • The Routine: Use a smoothing control cream or a leave-in conditioner.

  • The Technique: Blow-dry in sections using a paddle or round brush. If you have a very tight curl pattern and want a smooth style, a light pass with a flat iron (on low heat) can help—but don't overdo it!

  • Pro Tip: A loose braid before bed helps prevent overnight friction and tangles.

For All Other Types (The "Standard" Prep)

  • The Routine: Use a lightweight heat protectant or blow-dry cream.

  • The Technique: Rough-dry until about 80% dry, then finish with a brush to keep the cuticle laying flat.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure a smooth styling session, please avoid these "hair hurdles":

  1. Air-Drying: Try to blow-dry your hair rather than letting it air-dry. Blow-drying "sets" the cuticle and prevents frizz from forming before I even start.

  2. Heavy Silicones or Masks: Avoid deep conditioning treatments or heavy oils right before your event. These can make the hair too "slippery" to hold a curl or pin.

  3. Metal Accessories & Tight Ties: Avoid tight elastics that leave "dents" in the hair. Use a silk scrunchie or a claw clip instead.

  4. The "Wet Hair" Surprise: Unless we have specifically discussed a blowout service, please ensure your hair is 100% bone-dry when you sit in my chair. Styling damp hair compromises the longevity of the look!

Final Thoughts

Your hair is the crown you never take off—prepping it properly makes a world of difference! If you have questions about a specific product or your unique hair texture, please reach out in advance. I’m here to make sure you feel confident and look incredible.

Can't wait to get you glam!