I would just like to say that I had a lot of high hopes for Allison. Coming from the US and looking for someone to do my hair and makeup for my wedding photoshoot wasn't easy because a lot of people were booked during the time I stayed in Paris (May 17-22). She was a little bit more expensive than others, but because it was a sunrise shoot, I understand that it is very early for Parisians so the pricing is ok. What wasn't alright was when Allison did not show up to my session. I nearly cried and was so upset. We were supposed to meet up at 5:15am at my hotel lobby and I waited until almost 6am before I had to do everything myself. It was a good thing I am a worrier and I brought all my makeup and curling iron with me. I contacted her via Instagram, through email which we had talked on prior to me traveling overseas, sent another email via her own personal website and asked hotel concierge to call the number listed on the email. Nothing. Mind you, I had confirmed with her about the date and time about a week before our scheduled session and she agreed on everything.
We received an email at 9:30am (we were nearly done with our photography session by then) with a full refund on our deposit to secure the date, an apology from Allison stating that her iCloud was bugged and set our appointment for next year and offered a free makeup and hair session in the future. Well, why in the heck would I confirm our session a year in advance? And I had done my research and specifically picked someone who was reputable, had her own website, represented by a company, works for fashion shows, etc etc... to do my hair and makeup only to not show up? I didn't think I would need to have to contact her more than once to confirm because that would have felt like I was helicoptering someone who is supposed to be more than professional.
Needless to say, I don't think I will be taking up on that free offer (because hello, you weren't there when I needed you for the most important part of our trip) and my advice to everyone when booking with Allison - and anyone else overseas for something this important - don't give a crap about over-confirming with someone. Check and triple check with the person even if they are reputable. read more