We found 10 local stylists who are masters at creating hair as unique as the bride herself. Here are some of their secrets.
La Difference Salon & Day Spa
830 Paoli Pike, West Chester; (610) 429-1808, ladifferencesalon.com
Stylist: Heather Thomas
The look: The definition comes from the front, with hair swept straight to the side. A few curls gently cascade down the side of the face for an asymmetrical feel.
Makeup: Anna Khachaturova
Jewelry: 18-karat pave diamond earrings with hanging pearls, $1,250; 18-karat necklace with coin pearls and diamonds, $4,450; both from Jack Kellmer Co., Haverford.
Lauren Hair Style
348 W. Lancaster Ave., Wayne, (610) 971-2104
Stylist: Susan Thayer
The look: This half-up, half-down style proves that not all brides need an updo to look sophisticated. Curls are long and loose, the sides softly pulled back and held in place with pearl-and-crystal combs.
Jewelry: platinum earrings, each with a diamond top and aquamarine briolette dangle, $7,800; from Jack Kellmer Co., Haverford.
Model (this spread): Erin, Greer Lange Model & Talent Agency, Bala Cynwyd.
Nirvana Hair Gallery & Spa
779 W. Sproul Road, Springfield, (610) 328-1290; 1012 W. Lancaster Ave., Bryn Mawr, (610) 525-9620; nirvanahairgallery.com
Stylist: Nicolette DiGiacomo
The look: A dramatic upsweep of one side with flowing curls down the other. The perfect way to draw attention to a stunning neckline or gorgeous jewelry.
Makeup: Casey Devlin.
Jewelry: 18-karat diamond necklace with four-circle dangle, $6,700; from Jack Kellmer Co., Haverford.
Salon 191
191 Presidential Blvd., Bala Cynwyd, (610) 667-1100
Stylist: Dominiki Karalis.
The look: A romantic updo achieved by gathering the hair into a soft twist, section by section. Floral accents add a natural element.
Jewelry: 18-karat earrings with dangling oval coin pearls, $2,700; from Jack Kellmer Co., Haverford.
Model (this spread): Nina, Greer Lange Model & Talent Agency, Bala Cynwyd.
MaryAnne Christopher Salon Spa
3618 Chapel Road, Newtown Square; (610) 359-9080, maryannechristopher.com
Stylist: Lisa Goldsmith
Hair type: straight, long, layered; medium texture
Style: Positioning a generous amount of hair in the front and the side prevents this updo from looking too severe. Front and sides are wrapped toward the back, with hairpins sprinkled throughout the chignon of curls.
Stylist tips: “Brides want to have their hair professionally styled, but want to not look too done. I love when clients come in with pictures. I tell every bride to come in for a trial-run hairstyle before her big day. It’s as important as having your wedding dress fitted and trying it on before you wear it the first time.”
Calista Grand Salon & Spa
1211 Wilmington Pike, West Chester; (610) 399-6677, calistagrand.com
Stylist: Robin Birth
Hair type: fine- to medium-textured shoulder-length, with Great Lengths hair extensions Style: A starlet style
with a classical finger wave commands interest and detail in the front; a chignon with an antique rhinestone broach highlights the back.
Stylist tips: “There are no rules when it comes to styles for the big day. I base the style on what the bride wants, and if there’s a theme of the wedding or a particular style of the dress. Brides don’t have to wear a traditional veil or blusher. There are so many options now, so it’s helpful to bring in pictures.”
Ame
111 Waynewood Ave., Wayne; (610) 995-2631, amesalonandspa.com
Stylist: Heather Freeland
Hair type: curly, thick, shoulder-length
Style: The stylist went with her model’s request for a classic Audrey Hepburn style, individually pinning each barrel curl separately. Straightened bangs were swept to the side for a polished look in front.
Stylist tips: “Shampoo and condition your hair one or two days before you come in for your updo. Dirty hair holds easier and is easier to style. Many brides are asking for simple bun styles and are accenting their hair with beautiful flowers like calla lilies, instead of headpieces and veils.”
Onde Spalon
224 S. Newtown Street Road, Newtown Square; (610) 356-4378, ondespalon.com
Stylist: owner Ellen Gorbey
Makeup: Rachel Garnet
Hair type: wavy, thick
Style: The thick mass of wavy curls piled high. A tiara was made by the stylist with starfish accents that complement the hairpins. Perfect for a summer bride.
Stylist tips: “There are always tricks to making styles work. Bring in pictures of various hairstyles from the front and the back to illustrate what you want. I used the starfish headpiece and pin to demonstrate that there are other ways to dress up the hair other than a veil.”
Salon Bella Gente
7 E. State St., Media, (610) 566-9976
Stylist: Sharon Hatala
Hair type: thick, textured, long
Style: Two simple, loose strands hang in front to soften the curls, which are pinned into a high bun. Fresh rosebuds add a fresh touch.
Stylist tips: “Fresh flowers give it a natural look. Brides will supply flowers, or we’ll find what will work with what they’re carrying. The most important thing is that the hair doesn’t droop down. It has to be secure so it lasts the entire day through the end of the reception.”
Currie Hair, Skin & Nails
Glen Eagle Shopping Center, 585 Wilmington Pike (Route 202), Glen Mills, (610) 558-4247; 121 E. State St., Kennett Square, (610) 444-1644; curriedayspa.com
Stylist: Christine Boub
Makeup: Carmella Camagna
Hair type: thick, medium-length
Style: Each curl was intricately woven and pinned. Decorative hairpins offer an element of surprise.
Stylist tips: “You don’t have to have thick hair for an updo. Hairpieces can be attached to make the hair fuller. A bride should want her hair to look different—but not so different that she doesn’t recognize herself in five years when she’s looking at pictures.”
