Kerry Hair Stylist Plans Own Wedding And Shares Hair Tips
Maureen's Love Story
Multi award winning bridal hair stylist Maureen McCarthy, with over 10 years’ experience, is now a bride herself. Maureen met Kevin on Tinder four years ago. They only lived 30 minutes from each other in Co. Kerry, but their paths had never crossed. As soon as they met, sparks flew and now they are on their own journey of planning their 2024 Kingdom wedding. “We didn’t “officially” start dating until a full year later May/June 2020 when the first pandemic restrictions started easing. Looking back on it now, it was such a lovely time to start a relationship (global pandemic aside) the pubs were closed so you weren’t relying on alcohol for Dutch courage, you really got to know someone and spend proper time with them. I think Covid forced people to get creative. One of our first dates we drove the ring of Kerry, I’m embarrassed to admit I had lived in Kerry 26 years and had never done it. We spent so much time together that summer I think we both knew pretty quickly that this relationship would be forever.” Maureen shares Kevin’s ever romantic proposal: “This past Christmas Kevin planned a surprise trip to Vienna for New Year’s Eve and two nights in Milan on the way home. Even though it was NYE I didn’t expect the engagement as we always try to plan a trip or a night away when we are off work together and I thought this was no different. For New Year’s Eve in Vienna, they really go all out. Classical music and waltzing at different locations all over the city. Kevin had booked a classical orchestra concert at the Schönbrunn Palace to start the evening; very romantic yes but played it off by saying “sure when we are in Vienna we might as well”. After the concert we went out in the city and at about 11:30pm he found a quiet place and got down on one knee. We started planning when we got home from our trip, working in the wedding industry I knew that things book up very fast and I had a good idea of the suppliers that we would be interested in. We viewed three hotels and have everything booked now for Summer 2024 at the Killarney Oaks Hotel.
Maureen's Hair Prep Journey
It’s still a bit away so I’m not worrying about my colour just yet although that is a very important part of the prep, and I won’t do anything drastic to the colour this year that will come against me next year. My priority is making sure my scalp is healthy and my hair is in its best condition. The scalp often gets overlooked but a healthy scalp is essential for healthy hair and for your hair to grow! I found after the winter that my scalp is a bit dry and flaky so I’m starting by using a shampoo from our Milk_shake range specifically for your scalp’s health. Remember, your scalp is an extension of your skin! So, you should look after your scalp like you look after your skin! Im using Kevin Murphy Hydrate conditioner to keep my mid lengths and ends hydrated and healthy, and I have got militant with making sure I use a heat protector before putting any heat on my hair. I also gave my hair a good chop to cut off any dead ends and I will trim it from here on every 6/8 weeks until the wedding.
Maureen's Tips For Your Wedding Hair Journey
When You Should Start
Good professional products are so important and that’s where you need to start your hair journey. Get your hairdresser to analyse your scalp and your hair’s condition. You can start with your “prescribed” products then. I would recommend having your hair trimmed at least every 8 weeks and introducing a heat protector into your hair care routine. Plan your hair appointments by working back from your wedding day. Decide what colour you want your hair to be when you get married. If you are going for a complete colour change you need to allow enough time to achieve it. I would recommend being happy with your colour no less than 3 months before the wedding and just maintaining it from then on. DON’T do anything drastic to your hair the year before or of your wedding like dying it darker if you want to be lighter on the day or cutting in a fringe etc.
Hair Extensions
If you are thinking about getting hair extensions, you need to start with a consultation as extensions are not a service that one suits all. We will analyse your hair and talk about your hair goals to see exactly what you need. Extensions are the ultimate way to add length and volume to your hair and as well as that they will ensure the longevity of your curls etc if you plan to let your hair down. Even if you already have length, adding in a few extensions will just anchor the style, remember you are getting ready in the morning and the style must look perfect for the whole day into the night. Extensions are a high maintenance product you really need to be committed to looking after them when you have them fitted. Once they are looked after and maintained correctly, they are life changing!
Fine Hair
For anyone with finer hair again I would start with what products you use. At Brush n Blush we have two product ranges, Kevin Murphy and Milk_shake. Every brand would have their own shampoo suitable for fine hair or hair thickening products. Vitamins like biotin and zinc are essential for healthy hair growth and may help in preventing hair shedding and thinning. Don’t underestimate the power of a good haircut. Again, having regular haircuts will help to make the hair appear fuller and healthier. Lastly, extensions! If all else fails using some extensions on the day, even clips, will help you achieve the style you desire.
Booking a Stylist
The wedding industry has gotten so busy in the last few years that I would recommend booking your hairstylist a year in advance, particularly if you have your heart set on a certain stylist.
Weddings at Brush n Blush
At Brush n Blush we really are a one stop shop for getting you wedding ready! Hair wise we offer everything from bespoke colouring and cutting, to conditioning and shine treatments, luxury hair extensions to add length, volume or both, engagement party hair styling, hen party hair styling and the big day, wedding hair styling which we offer from our state-of-the-art salons in Tralee, Co. Kerry and Ballina, Co. Clare or you can avail of our mobile service also.
Other services available at Brush n Blush are Nails by Daniella, Make Up by Juliette and semi-permanent brows and lip enhancements by Transform by Mon.
brushnblush.me
maureen21mac@yahoo.com
Instagram @brushnblushbridal
Milk Market Lane, Tralee, County Kerry (066) 7119440
Main St Ballina, County Tipperary (061) 376787
