Wedding "I Don'ts"

Yes, it’s your special day, and you should have everything your bursting heart desires. But it’s my livelihood, and there are a few things I can’t and won’t do. I’d rather not have to tell you (or your mother, or your bridesmaids) “no” on your day of “I do,” so here are some things you should just not ask me.

“Can I borrow your ...?” Hairspray, lip gloss, curling iron, whatever… just no. If you use one of my tools or products, I’m legally liable when you blind yourself with my hairspray in your eye, have an allergic reaction to my lip gloss, or burn yourself with my curling iron. Never mind the fact that you’re using a product that I have to pay for. And then you forget to give them back. Not happening.

“Real quick, can you just help me with ...?” Your mother did her own makeup but wants me to apply false eyelashes. Your Maid of Honor got her hair done (badly) somewhere else, but wants me to fix her fallen updo. You want to change your eye makeup for photos. Those are all extra services with added charges, and if you didn’t pay for them, I’m not going to do them. This isn’t Olive Garden - the bread isn’t free.

“The photographer needs us ready by ... time, so can you move up your schedule?” There is a reason we book these things weeks and months in advance. My schedule is tight. I have a family and other clients, and I can’t throw all of them off because of your photographer's poor planning. I understand he or she is on a schedule, but so are the rest of us. I also can’t cut the time required to do my work just because you’re in a hurry, nor would I want to. Surely, you don't want the professional that you've paid for services rushing through and not giving it their 100%? Frankly, the photographer isn't getting photos if your bridal party is only half done anyways... Get your photographer’s requirements when you book him or her - weeks and months in advance - and plan accordingly. If things need to change, give me the heads up in plenty of time, and I will arrange accordingly. Not the day of...

Don’t get me wrong - I love weddings and I’m honored to be part of yours. Be respectful of my time and work, and I’ll make sure you’re the beautiful blushing bride you (and your new spouse) dream of.