From Toddler to Prom

I've known this smart, sweet girl since she was about 2 years old. I used to babysit her and paint her nails. She holds a special place in my heart and my fondest memories are cuddling up to her, eating strawberry Pocky sticks and singing along to Cinderella (the Brandy and Whiteney Houston version). 

Last weekend I had the honor for doing her makeup for her junior prom. I'm pretty sure I was close to tears near the end of the transformation. I can't believe how grown-up she is! 

Her gray chiffon gown from Jcrew was a sophisticated choice! This girl is an honor student, an athlete and an amazing painter. A very well rounded young lady! She is a little sister to me and I'm so glad I got to be part of this special day. 

#finallykvlau

A short film starring Kimmie and Victor from their November wedding day.

It was a long time coming and the wedding was so so special! I had such a great time spending the morning with Kimmie and her best friends shouting, "Someone's getting married!!!". We started at 7am and snacked on tasty dim sum. You could really feel the excitement and anticipation!

This film captures all the scenic beauty of the city of Oakland. I loved all of their cute stationary by Kate Morales, fun cake by Tucker's, and film by Donmichael Usog Productions. You guys, the vows are a real tearjerker... you've been warned!

Watch Kimmie's makeup and hair last til midnight. She danced her heart out and it all held up quite nicely.

Congratulations to Kimmie and Victor!

KIM & VICTOR | 11.15.2013 | OAKLAND, CA from Donmichael Usog on Vimeo.

2013

It was as a great year for us! We got to work with so many beautiful brides and prep at some amazing Bay Area locations. Here are some of our favorite memories of the year... 

That one time we got to hang with Mayor Ed Lee's amazingly funny daughters - bride Brianna and Maid of Honor Tania. via @emkamlley on Instagram

Working with Rina whose husband planned the entire wedding. via WM Eric Images

The most creative bride Jeneille and her candy coated bridesmaids. via Nate Fong Photography

Dolling up Jenn's baby sister Mimi for her prom. 

Meeting new friends during this photoshoot at the Fox Theater. via Photograffiti by Auey Santos. 

Portraits for Michaela's sister Taryn to celebrate her graduation from Cal Poly SLO. 

Getting ready with these blonde beauties and my sweet friend Ana at the most magical of venues. via Michael's Wedding Group

Spending the day with one of our favorite brides Wen-Yin and her mom, a cancer survivor. via WM Eric Images

After a 7 year engagement (and re-booking hair and makeup with us for 3 of those years) prepping bride Kimmie to marry the love of her life. 

Receiving this heartfelt Christmas card from Stephanie. via Emily Scannell Photography

Looking back on 2013, we know that we are incredibly lucky to spend time with people celebrating the biggest moments in their lives. We love what we do! We can't wait to see what 2014 has in store for us. Have a happy new year! 

Love, 
Michaela & Jenn

A&S: A Storybook Wedding

Ana, whom I've known for half of my life, married her long time love Sean last month in a gorgeous wedding straight out of a fairytale. From her ball gown skirt, the animal statues, to the fountain in the lagoon, this really was a wedding dream come true! It was a pleasure working with Ana, her sweet sister Amy and their lovely mom all morning long in the beautiful guest house on the Nestldown property.

All three ladies requested fresh, bright-eyed looks with dewy skin. I applied gold and bronze eyeshadows, accented with clean caviar eyeliner. They all have long, yet fair lashes, so I added individual lashes for fullness, but not length. Accompanied by fresh peachy tones on the lips and cheeks, this summer look complimented the warm weather. 

Love their coordinating robes! 

Ana is all about family... "ohana" . Good thing, since Sean is one of 14 kids! Sean is an amazing guy who treats Ana like a princess. It's no wonder they had a storybook wedding (with a little Hawaiian twist).

We had a great time at the reception. These two pulled out all the stops for their guests. There was a slideshow, photobooth, an ice cream bar, delicious cake, giant glasses, silly hats, and glow sticks! The glow sticks were a hit with kids and adults alike. Highly recommend them!

It was a true joy for me see friends I haven't seen in years, and to witness one of my close friends marry the man of her dreams. Congratulations Ana! And now, I'll let you enjoy the photos of Ana and Sean's beautiful day...

 - Michaela

All images by Michael's Wedding Group.

Fall is Almost Here

You may have noticed it's been very quiet around here lately. Truth be told, we've been busy bees and haven't been able to update as much as we'd like. With one stylist down at Jenn's salon, she's been over booked with back to back appointments. I started a fun new weekday job that has me on the computer all day, so the last thing I want to do when I get home is be online.  

I'm also the new featured artist for Nofu Skin Studio and will be there a couple Saturdays a month. Make an appointment if you need a refresher on any application or just need some new colors. Also, if you're in need of a facial series before your big day, go see Susan at Nofu... she is a skin magician! 

But don't worry, we're still around, excited as ever about fall weddings (our favorite time of year) and gearing up for our very busy fall season! October 12th was one of our most requested dates this year (8 inquiries!), and we're looking forward to working with the special lady that booked us for that day. More on that later.

For now, enjoy these lovely photos taken by Emily Scannell of bride to be Stephanie. This photoshoot among the trees really got us in the mood for autumn! 

Don't you love the way she's looking at her fiance?  Stephanie is a busy professional who travels a lot for work. I think she has the cutest cheeks! She requested a natural, peachy look with emphasis on the lashes. Take a look at this last photo - it really shows off her eyes!

We'll be seeing Stephanie again soon and we couldn't be more excited!

-Michaela