Ruth talks about how learning to handle stress that goes along withbridal hair is a cakewalk - if you say I do to a few importantvows.

The wedding season is now upon us, and most of us are either knee-deep in our work with brides or hiding in the back room, praying that we don't have to do it. I think it's a privilege to be part of a bride's inner circle and to be able to show a client that she is one of the most beautiful brides. For those who dream of doing more bridal hair, but are wondering whether the reward will outweigh the stress involved, I have a few tips on taking care of brides that may just save you from getting cold feet.

Ruth Roche
Ruth Roche

 

First, always schedule at least one trial session a month before the wedding. Just as in a haircut consultation, I ask my bridal clients to bring pictures with them of things that they like and don't like. Photos help me identify the feeling that my client is looking for. Once I've done that, I put the pictures away so that I can focus on what is best for her face, her hair, her gown.

Over the last few seasons bridal hair has become much more chic and simple, so I've taken a less-is-more approach: less elaborate, less of a construction, more elegance and individuality. Sometimes these looks are more challenging because of their subtlety, but taken step-by-step, they are very uncomplicated yet gorgeous, as well as different.

For Kelly, the bride seen here, I began by spraying Redken's Quick Treat, a heat-protective styling spray, while her hair was still damp. I set the hair with a large barrel curling iron for body and some curl, then I brushed her hair into a high ponytail, leaving out the fringe area, which I swept to the side. I backcombed her ponytail to add volume before smoothing the surface with a Mason-Pearson brush. I created a "bun" by smoothing the ponytail around my finger, placed vertically near the elastic, and secured it with hairpins. Finally, to create an abstract tiara, I used bobby pins with small rhinestones along the inside rim of the bun.

So just remember, when doing bridal hair, try to think less about the frustrations and more about the rewards that come with being part of your client's most important day. Here's to a season of wedded bliss!

E-mail Ruth at [email protected]. To find out more about RARE education with Ruth Roche, visit www.rarenyc.com , or call 866-RARE-NYC.