BBC Review: Lauren P

I can't believe I waited so long to review BBC!

Krystyn and Samara did my hair and makeup for my April 2010 wedding. I found them online, I think just through a google search, or maybe it was on the Knot, I really don't remember. Anyway, as soon as I saw their portfolio I knew they would be PERFECT for me. I had originally wanted to wear my hair down but realized I wouldn't be able to stand it, so I was looking for a simple, pretty, slightly messy sort of up do. I could tell just by looking at the photos that they would definitely get it. As for the makeup, I *loved* how all the girls on their site looked ethereal and natural, not 'bridey' at all.

I had my trial back in February when my mom and sister were in town- they were also getting hair and makeup for the big day, but only my mom had a trial. It took some playing around with my makeup to get the colors just right, but once Krystyn did, it was great. Same goes for the hair- I showed Samara a picture I liked and she did a great job of adapting it to suit me.

When the big day came, they were not only prompt, they were actually early! They're both so cool and fun to hang out with, so that helps with those wedding-day jitters. Everything went very smoothly. . . I kind of think both the hair and makeup were a little different than at the trial, but I looked hot, so who cares? But if you're super picky about that, my advice is to take lots of pictures and bring them with you that day. My sister had taken a bunch at the trial but left them at home. In Connecticut.

Highly, HIGHLY recommended!!!

BBC NOTE: Lauren is the owner of the fabulous Rich Chocolates & Candies She has been featured in Daily Candy, Time Out Chicago, The Red Eye, The Tribune and the Chicago Reader! For "Specialty Sweets for Grown-ups" check out www.RichChocolates.com and tell Lauren BBC sent you!

Meet: Tara

MAKEUP: KRYSTYN
Well, what can we say about Tara other than we loved her from the moment we met her! And we loved her even more when she pulled out Kim Kardashian reference pics for makeup and had visions of braids inspired by Jessica Alba! Tara is half Caucasian and half Indian which made for a beautiful olive colored, flawless complexion. Normally Tara wears very little foundation as she has nearly perfect skin and she likes to play up her eyes.





So I used my OCC airbrush foundation, but applied it by hand by buffing it into her skin with a MAC 187 skunk brush. She said that she wanted Kim’s signature smokey eye and she was open to incorporating some color as her wedding colors are white and green. Excited to have the opportunity to play with colors, I got out my Yaby “Best of Both Worlds” palette and lightly applied Psychedelic Caterpillar and Spring Garden pearl paints. I then popped a little MAC Satin Taupe in the corner and crease and then lined all the way around her eye with MAC’s Kohl pencil in Smolder. And of course, Kim Kardashian's signature smokey eye would not be complete without lashes…tons and tones of lashes! I blended Ardell cluster lashes in with Tara’s natural lashes to create Kim’s dramatic, feathery lashes. To complete the look, I used a bronzer instead of blush on Tara and finished it off with a slightly nude lip. The end result was a beautiful modern, bridal look with a hint of color-definitely one of my favorite looks thus far!

HAIR: SAMARA
For Her Hair, she knew exactly what she wanted. Jessica Alba's Oscar braids!

Being a fan of braids myself and the carefree feel that they add to any hairstyle, I was on board. Tara described her every day hair as simple, opting for a messy bun most days. She didn't want her hair to look forced or too far removed from her everyday but the appeal of soft waves and french braids seemed to make her happy. We decided to pull a few loose strands to add softness to Tara's face. I intertwined some of the braids into Tara's bun to add a little something extra and to tie the whole look together.



We can't help but say... She looks pretty awesome. She was so happy with what we did, and that is the best compliment to our work. We love taking a brides vision and making it into a reality.