Nicole's Review...

Maria Chang, the genius behind Professional Makeup Artistry (PMA), is nothing short of unbelievable. She is so skilled at accomplishing stunning bridal transformations that she could easily have her own reality TV show, and this is exactly how you'll feel if you book PMA--it is an experience like no other! If you have any room to splurge on your wedding day--and frankly, even if you don't--I can't recommend Maria's work highly enough. Maria's skill will make all the difference in the world, particularly as you reminisce over your wedding pictures for years to come.

Why professional hair and makeup?

First, I would like to say a few words about my decision to choose Professional Makeup Artistry. I was referred to PMA by our extremely talented videographer, Alexa Lee, who knows Maria personally and has nothing but the highest of praise for her. Although we have a bunch of "extras" planned for the wedding (letterpress, specialty lighting, etc.), it had never occurred to me to hire a makeup artist: I've been styling myself for as long as I can remember, and it seemed like an unnecessary expense.

But then I got to thinking. First, Maria's expertise is doubly valuable, because she does both hair and makeup beautifully: from down-dos to complicated up-dos, she specializes in classic bridal styles that look timeless on camera but can be very difficult to achieve on one's own. As long as I was planning to get my hair done, I reasoned, why not makeup, too?

It is worth reiterating here that PMA's styles are specifically bridal. Maria achieves a level of sophistication that is perfect for creating a special wedding-day allure. For example, you would never mistake one of her beautiful bridal creations for a prom hairstyle, which can often be the case with other, less gifted stylists.

Second, Maria does hair and makeup for the camera, and her experience far predates her entry into the bridal industry. I started to consider how much we had invested in photography and videography, and realized that--no matter how well I could do my own makeup--it only made sense to hire somebody trained in doing hair and makeup for the camera, and who was also skilled, at the same time, in making the bride look beautiful in person.

After all, at no other time of my life will I be so heavily photographed. And I quickly came to see, as I tracked down reviews online, that hiring PMA means leaving nothing to chance: on the wedding day, Maria devotes herself tirelessly to the bride and bridal party, helping to make sure that all of the photos turn out fabulously. In addition to her flawless portfolio, what better endorsement could there be? I was sold!

Why PMA in particular?

Although my wedding is still a few months away, I recently visited Maria for my trial consultation. Maria lives in a beautiful home where the stunning and immaculate furnishings clearly reflect her bridal aesthetic: everything is very elegant, opulent in an understated way, and thoroughly pleasing to the senses.

Visiting Maria is like heading off to a luxury resort, combined with an afternoon of pampering at the spa. Although my appointment was scheduled for 10-1, a somewhat awkward time slot, I was by no means expecting the delicacies that awaited me. Yet Maria had prepared an array of goodies, from finger sandwiches and cheese and crackers to a delicious pot of jasmine tea. Set against the backdrop of her light and airy studio and its hip soundtrack, I had so much fun I could have stayed all afternoon!

As if this weren't soothing enough, Maria herself exudes confidence in her work and an extremely personal, friendly reassurance. Aside from one horrible "Glamour Shots" experience when I was much younger, I've never had my hair and makeup professionally done, and I was a bit apprehensive about trusting something so personal to someone I had only just met. But as soon as Maria introduced herself, I felt at ease--I knew I would be in good hands with PMA!

The appointment began with a brief consultation. I showed Maria all of the key details of my wedding, from the venue to the flowers, and we spent some time talking about hair and makeup styles and how they would work with my dress. One of Maria's strengths is that she tells it like it is: I had originally wanted a darker smoky eye, but she insisted that the look I desired was really too harsh for a wedding, but that she would be happy to work with softer, more bridal tones instead. Not being the expert, this was exactly what I needed to hear. The great thing about PMA is that Maria stands by her work and reputation: she will only do what's best for *you,* even when you're not entirely sure what's best for yourself.

After the consultation, Maria rolled my hair in preparation for the up-do and then began with my makeup. As she switched from one to the other, she was always careful to check up on me: Did I need more tea? Would I like something to eat? Was it too cold in the studio? She was truly the perfect hostess and conversation partner--I hardly noticed the time slipping by, and it was 2 o'clock--an hour past the scheduled time slot--before I knew it. But Maria was happy to take as much time as we needed to achieve the final look. I never felt rushed, and even though Maria does bridal hair and makeup all the time, I could tell that she was enjoying herself, too.

When my makeup was finished, Maria moved on to the up-do we had discussed, and--once everything was pinned perfectly in place--she took dozens of pictures from all different angles. This is an invaluable part of the PMA experience: it provides the first glimpse of how you'll really look both on your wedding day and in the pictures that will live on forever, as it documents the look from every vantage point. This is perfect for tweaking the design here and there, imagining how you'll appear to your guests as you walk down the aisle, and even seeing all of the possible angles that the photographer and videographer might capture. By that very evening I was able to print out the files Maria had emailed me, much to the delight of my family--and of my fiancé, who couldn't be more pleased with Maria's work!

This is Maria Chang's genius: I can easily and with admiration say that Maria, with her keen eye and impeccable expertise, helped me to look like my best possible self. Importantly, I was still recognizable, but she had worked her magic to enhance my best features, and to create a more formal version of myself in a palette and style that were still thoroughly natural. I was so pleased that I was sure to inquire about the eyeshadow colors Maria used, as well as the brand of false lashes--I look forward to recreating her amazing artistry (as best I can, at least!) on my own. Indeed, I would absolutely use PMA for other occasions in the future, and will recommend Maria to all of my family and friends.

My parents and sisters (aka bridesmaids) were so delighted when they saw the results that their fears about hiring a stylist melted away instantly: my parents had been convinced that it was an unnecessary investment, while my sisters--accustomed to doing their own hair and makeup--seemed certain that they would be more than happy on their own. Not so anymore: My parents are thrilled with the results (my Mom is even considering getting her own hair and makeup done!), and my sisters can't wait to see their transformations this June.

Final words

Given the expense of weddings nowadays, I can easily understand why some brides might be reluctant to hire additional professionals, especially when their services may seem unnecessary at first. However, investing in hair and makeup design will enhance every other aspect of your wedding, from your own self-confidence as you walk down the aisle and your groom's awed reaction to your wedding-day look, to the video and photographs you will have for years to come--the only long-term reminders of your exciting day. It is not an understatement to say that Maria's classic sense of style will help to ensure that your pictures look fresh and sophisticated for generations.

I would also like to stress that Maria's services come at a bargain. I have been engaged since February 2007, and at no other point in the planning process have I felt so at ease. Of course, after an excellent hair and makeup trial, I have been able to rest complete confidence in Maria. But the beauty of PMA is that Maria and her assistant(s) stay throughout the photo sessions in order to touch up hair and makeup and to lend a hand, all while helping to make sure that your day runs as smoothly as possible. Maria, in addition to having a classic sense of style and an eye for beauty, is also extremely organized and reliable--nothing will go wrong on her watch! Having PMA on scene will be well worth the peace of mind.

I can't wait to update this review after our wedding--I am definitely looking forward to working with Maria again, and can easily see why so many people refer to her as their favorite vendor. She is friendly and personable, amazingly skilled, and a complete miracle worker! Hiring PMA may very well be one of the best wedding decisions you make.

Esther's Review...

Everyone who has booked Maria Chang for their wedding rave about her.

I am no exception, however I thought I would give specific examples of the things she and her assistant did for me at my wedding to tell you all why she lives up and surpasses her reputation on being fabulous and amazing.

Her hair and makeup is exceptional but here are the other things she did for me:

1. She’s organized, on time, has her crew ready to go.

2. The makeup and hair she does is amazing, in particular, she has some sort of “magic” touch that keeps my lipstick on all night.
3. She showed me the proper way to dab my tears to not affect my makeup and also gave me advice to think of Janet Reno in a bikini to keep from crying. :)

4. She touched up my makeup for the photos my photographer shot.

5. She assisted my photographer is lining up people for formal photos.

6. After the Korean ceremony I was sweating from the layers of clothing I had to wear. She fanned my back and took my nasty sweaty bra from me to put aside! If that’s not dedication and help, I don’t know what is.

7. She pinned all the boutonnieres on all the groomsmen and the corsages on the moms, and re-tied all the sashes for the bridesmaids that came undone when I tied them.

8. Her assistant was no exception, she had a whole tool belt armed with anything I would possibly need, bobby pins, safety pins, scissors, tissue, etc.

9. They both were very detailed. Just to give an example, my flower girl had a dress with a layer of tulle on the outside of the skirt with a satin ribbon that was along the hem. I did notice several months ago that the tulle hung down past the satin ribbon but didn’t do anything about it. Maria and her assistant actually noticed this little detail and trimmed the tulle evenly so it wouldn’t stick out past the satin ribbon.

I had a day of coordinator but she was busy running around setting things up so it was great to have Maria by my side the entire time leading up to the wedding to help with any little details or hiccups. It was absolutely invaluable service. There are so many little stresses and things to worry about on your wedding day, and with Maria by my side I felt perfectly fine. She make sure I looked good for all the photo shots with my photographer as well.

PMA is worth every cent you pay and more. My mom was so happy I booked her and was grateful for her help and her assistants help as am I. It’s the best decision I made as far as booking my vendors!!!

Maria's Review...

I booked Maria Chang for my May 2005 wedding, and it was the best decision I made. Right from the beginning when I emailed her an interest in booking her I received an immediate response. Since I had booked her 9 months before my wedding we were in close contact with each other. She responded to my concerns and questions immediately.

The day of my trial which was 4 months before my wedding day was awesome. Not only did she make me a beautiful bride, but we had an awesome day chatting about everything!

The day of my wedding, she arrived at the hotel early in the morning as planned and got to work (with her assistant, Camille) immediately on my 6 bridesmaids and then me. ( My bridesmaids all still talk about how awesome , and how on time everything was!) Maria stayed with us until we got introduced at the reception, and made sure that we were all beautiful!!

I think the best story that my husband and I share is after the ceremony, I forgot that I had a train (I was just so excited) and suddenly I realized "Oh my gosh I have a train!" so I quickly told my husband to carry it, he was laughing and said Maria had been there the whole time! She was there for me to help me with my wedding but still allowed me to have that time with my new husband!

Since it's been almost a year since my wedding, I still recieve compliments about how my bridesmaids and I looked on my wedding day! Saying thank you to Maria and her staff a million times cannot express the amount of gratitude I have towards them. I still keep in touch with Maria today through email, and it is a freindship I treasure.

Lucy's Review...

Hiring Maria for my wedding was the best decision I made! By far, she was my favorite vendor! Not only is Maria a brilliant stylist, but she is so helpful and fun...all the girls and I just had a great time with her! We were all impressed.

My first impression of Maria was through her website and via email. She was very prompt and professional. When I met her for my trial, she made me feel so comfortable, just like a friend! She spent a lot of time with me and we discussed my ideas and concerns. She is very genuine and really understands the importance of this aspect of a wedding. She does everything she can to give you exactly what you want! I had so much fun at my trial it just made me more excited to have her be with me on my wedding day.

On my wedding day, Maria showed up with a big smile as always! Maria made everything run very smoothly. It was enjoyable getting our hair and makeup done...Maria was just like one of the girls! Besides doing a fabulous job on all the girls and myself, she went above and beyond and helped a groosman fix his pants, helped the girls and I get stains off our dresses, helped the photographer, etc. She was a total life saver, I really don'y know what I would have done without her! She also took some really beautiful pictures at my wedding and captured some special moments.

I also took Maria's makeup class after I got married. It was so helpful and fun that my only regret is that I didn't do it sooner. Maria is very skilled and experienced at what she does, she is a true professional in every way! I can't say enough good things about Maria. I would recommend her in a heartbeat! I loved working with her and look forward to more visits with her in the future!

Karen's Review...

Booked with Maria Chang (PMA) 2 years in advance for my wedding. Maria not only did my hair and makeup for my wedding but she also did my hair and makeup for my engagement pictures as well. It was awesome!

For the wedding, words cannot explain how grateful and thankful I am to Maria Chang. From the beginning of the day to the end she helped make everything run smoothly and most of all keep me calm.

She turned my silly and goofy bridesmaids into beautiful women. I was so happy to see how elegant each girl looked. PMA really brought out the natural beauty in each girl. It was really important to me that my girls looked and felt just as beautiful on my special day. It just made everything ten times better!

Maria made me feel and look like the most beautiful bride that day. Deep down inside I felt like a princess. My hair and makeup complimented my dress, veil, hair pieces, and even my shoes. She gave me the most elegant and classic look! She was able to fix my hair in an updo for the ceremony and a half updo for the reception. So I had the best of both worlds!

My favorite part of the day was getting ready with Maria and her team of girls. Not only that I had enough time to bond with my bridesmaids but I felt I had time to bond with Maria. My bridesmaids and photographer kept complimenting Maria throughout the day and even the day after.

The day after the wedding I was a little sad because I had so much fun and I didn't want it to end but Maria came to save the day again. She was so thoughtful and sent me pictures of my wedding the day after. Seeing the pictures for the first time truly brought me happiness. It gave me memories of an unbelievably perfect day.

If I had to give anyone a word of advice I would “HIGHLY” recommend working with Maria. She's everything all in one! Maria has the magic to turn any bride or bridesmaid into a lovely woman. She's super organized and detailed oriented which I LOVE!!! Details always count. :-) The best thing is that she always took care of me. She was like the sister I never had. Maria always made sure I was eating, drinking my water, taking me to the ladies room and asking me how I was feeling.

If I could turn back time I wish I were back at the Rose Hotel getting ready with Maria for the big day. I thank her from the bottom of my heart for making my wedding day unforgettable.

Sarah's Review...

Going with PMA for my bridal hair and makeup was honestly one the best decisions I made for the wedding. I cannot express enough how incredibly awesome Maria and her staff are.

First of all, Maria is an incredibly talented hair and makeup artist. Maria herself is Latina (despite her Chinese last name), but she does Asian makeup incredibly well. She listened to all my concerns and ideas and came up with a look that I loved and was truly me. I didn't want to look overdone but wanted a look that was dressed up enough to look really good in pictures, and she accomplished just that.

The day of the wedding, I felt like I really looked like myself, but perhaps a version of me from 1920's Shanghai :) Maria and Sue did a fabulous job with my bridesmaids' hair as well, capturing exactly the look that I wanted that went incredibly well with their dresses. But Maria goes way above and beyond this. Most makeup artists would leave right after getting all the girls ready. But Maria and her wonderful assistant Tanya stayed with us until after the ceremony.

She touched up my makeup all throughout our pre-wedding pictures, touched me up after the ceremony, helped me change my hair piece for the reception. Not only that, but she helped my bridesmaid with their dresses, provided double sided tape to make the dresses secure, helped one of my bridesmaids cover up her tatoos, pinned the boutonnieres onto the guys' suits, applied lipstick on the girls (even though I didn't pay for makeup for the girls).

She made sure that we stuck to the timeline and got us to the church in time. And this is all part of her service. As for as price goes, PMA is definitely on the upper end of the range. But honestly, PMA is worth every penny.

Mama Mia!

I have the privilege to witness all of my brides happiest day of their life... often time many of them keep in touch with me and I become part of other happy occasions in their life. This is the case with Karen. I did her hair & makeup for her engagement pictures, wedding, and now I get to be part of her maternity photo shoot. The photo shoot took place in my home and Jennifer Skog worked her magic with photography. We wanted "Vanity Fair" style pregnancy photo shoot, we called it "Pea in the fashion pod"; it was such a fun shoot! The baby came two weeks after the photo shoot at the eight month of the pregnancy... Phew! that was close!

This is Karen in her 2006 wedding:




UPDATE!!
Here is a picture of the Baby:

1940's Shanghai Style...

Sarah was my 1940's Shanghai Bride. I loved when her father approached me and told me that I've turned his daughter into a classic beauty reminiscence of "1940's Glamour", he was the proudest father I've ever met. Sarah style was so avant garde and as unique as her personality. She was classy and sophisticated. Her hair & makeup was old Hollywood style. After looking at her dress for the first time...What else could I do?

The photographer at this wedding was Ben Chrisman. I've been waiting to work with Ben for a long time (I'm a big fan of his photography) and when Sarah told me she had hired him, I was jumping with joy. I was to finally work with him! Let me tell you... I was not disappointed! See for yourself: Sarah's Wedding Slideshow by Ben Chrisman.

I'm looking forward to working with him again!

Creme de la Mer

Is no secret that the ubber expensive Creme de la Mer has a cult celebrity following but that's not the reason I use it on my clients. Flawless makeup starts with very hydrated skin, my first and most important step before I start makeup is skin preparation. Since I don't have control of how my clients take care of their skin, I need something that can give me instant hydration; Creme de la Mer delivers every time. It is like putting 8 glasses of water in your skin, dehydrated skin becomes plumped with moisture instantly. For me, the high price is totally worth it, I don't mind it since it gives my clients a glowing complexion on contact. Check out the Story behind this miracle in a jar.

The Knot...Surprise!!

I don't know why but I get a huge kick out of seeing my clients being published in a bridal publication. There I was, flipping the pages of the Knot Northern California fall issue, when I came across Myra being featured. Of course I was not surprised, she was a beautiful bride with impeccable taste. Congratulations! What a great wedding souvenir to keep!