Today we are interviewing Emily, from AK Upstyles who is a hairstylist wedding vendor here in Anchorage! I’m excited for all of us to learn about wedding hair stylist things!! I’ve worked with her at multiple weddings including the January styled elopement and she always does an incredible job along with being the most fun human.
R: I’d love for you to introduce yourself!
E: I got into hair because I grew up with sisters, and did their hair all the time. And then I started watching YouTube & getting better and better at it - and then I did one wedding and realized it could be a real career! I’ve been doing this since 2019 now.
R: What aspects of your gown should you take into consideration when choosing your hairstyle?
E: The most important thing I think about is your neckline. If you have a high neckline, you’re going to want your hair up. If your neck is low, hair is usually down. I also considered the straps & backline when recommending hairstyles for my Alaska brides.
R: What is the best wedding hairstyles for short hair?
E: If you have a very short bob, there’s not a lot you can do as far as bridal updos go. But shoulder length hair, there’s a lot you can do. (Probably even more than long, thick hair!) Lots of options. I’d say just be realistic about what will work best for your hair length.
R: What are your thoughts on having a ceremony hairstyle & a different reception hairstyle?
E: I always say you need to go from down to up. So the reception can be an updo, but you need to start with the down hairstyle so there are no crimps or lines for your reception hair.
R: How far out should Alaska brides book your hairstylist?
E: I only book one wedding a day, so my brides have me all day. So I recommend reaching out sooner rather than later because there is limited availability. ASAP always.
R: Do brides really need a trial run? And do you offer them?
E: Yeah! My trial runs are included in my package if my Alaskan brides choose to do one. If you have a very specific vision for your hair, then yes - 100% do a trial look. But if you just want a messy, boho look you probably could do without a trial run. But it’s up to the bride, whatever feels the most comfortable to them. I would personally get one if it were me.
R: How much time do you require on the wedding day?
E: I always require 1.5 hours at least on the wedding day for your hair. Because then I can make sure everything for her bridal hair looks perfect. I check in every step of the way with my bride and make sure she’s loving her hair as it comes together.
R: Do brides need to bring their own products?
E: Absolutely not! I bring everything you could ever need. It’s all included. The only thing you need is props/flowers/tiaras etc.
R: What is your favorite thing about being an Alaska hair stylist?
E: I love love. I love seeing the photos afterwards, it literally makes me cry! I love being a part of their big day.
R: What is one thing you wish you could tell brides who are looking to hire you as an Alaska wedding vendor?
E: That everyone is here to support you! People are trying to make things as easy and seamless for you as possible. Also, be ready for a good time because I crack jokes constantly haha.
R: What would you tell Alaska brides to do to prepare their hair before their wedding day?
E: So it’s actually better to shower the day before your wedding than the day OF your wedding. Day-old hair is so much easier to style than super clean, silky hair. Unless we specifically design a look that needs perfectly clean hair, most styles can be best achieved with slightly dirty hair and dry shampoo.
Thank you so much for your time and your skills Emily!! If you are interested in working with Emily, here’s how to get a hold of her:
