I cannot say enough great things about Once Upon A Bride. Stacey was extremely communicative and worked with me every step of the way to make sure that I was paired with the right beauty team for my wedding day. After several phone calls and text message exchanges, Stacey suggested that I work with Gina (makeup) and Carla (hair), who could not have been more phenomenal. Not only did they do an amazing job on my hair and makeup, but they had such great energy on my wedding day and it felt like I was spending time with old friends. My bridesmaids couldn't stop talking about how much they loved their hair and makeup, and how fun Gina and Carla were. Gina and Carla also graciously stayed with us until 7PM for touchups (a 12 hour day for them!). I highly recommend Once Upon A Bride for your wedding day! read more

My cousin hired Stacey for her wedding - you ask for very simple things yet they are not able to deliver. Now we have a very upset bride with horrible hair. Thanks for ruining her special day read more

All my bridesmaids and I agreed that Gaby and Bailey did the best hair and makeup that we'd ever seen or experienced. And we've seen a lot! Everyone at OUAB was so kind, professional, and completely understood my vision. I couldn't recommend them more! THANK YOU!!! - Julia Thompson read more

Do not use Stacey for your wedding hair. She did a trial on me and didn't tell me she wasn't going to wash my hair. She did my hair even though it was a few days dirty and tried charging me full price even though it was a simple curling iron job. I left and reached out to her because my hair fell out within 20 minutes of me leaving. Definitely would not recommend. Still extremely annoyed I had to waste all that money. read more

Truly a remarkable day! The moment I met Stacey and Sofia for my hair and makeup trial I'd known I'd made the best decision. As a former makeup artist I have really high standards when it comes to the hair and makeup, I'd actually never let anyone do my makeup before! I did some lengthy research and was thrilled to find Once Upon a Bride! They are the best!! My bridesmaids and I still talk about how amazing our hair and makeup was on my special day! I would highly recommend them to anyone who wants a real professional makeup and hair job for their big day or even a special event. I can not say enough nice things about them, don't look any further for a hair and makeup team! They also traveled to Tarrytown, my for me , it all worked out so smoothly :-) Thank you again Stacey and Sofia!!! Xoxoxox read more

See all

For my wedding, I had Bailey for hair, Alicia and Daniella for makeup. Stacey handled all communications from trial to wedding day and was very responsive and accommodating. All the women in my party loved their hair and makeup! My hair and makeup held up day and night. I got ready at 6am and was out until 11pm that night - not a hair out of place and my makeup was perfect. I love the product lines the ladies used; high end, great quality products! read more

When I first contacted OUAB, Stacey was very helpful and responsive and made every effort to accommodate me and understand what I was looking for in a wedding day hairstyle. After reviewing my vision and budget, she paired me with Destiney. I just had my trial and it was nothing short of amazing. I didn't totally understand the purpose of the trial - but during the session Destiney (and Stacey!) worked to explain and show me different hair style options, styles of curls, and haircare during the months leading up to the wedding. The experience was wonderful and my hair looked GORGEOUS - I looked just like myself but a bit more elevated. I can't wait for the actual wedding day! Not to mention I will certainly be going to Stacey and Loft 26 for all my hair care needs going forward. read more

I recently had hair and makeup done (hair by Emily, and makeup by Sofia). Both of the ladies were incredibly talented and I couldn't have been happier with the result. I had found a photo reference for the hairstyle I wanted, and Emily was able to keep the same chic look but make it a bit less editorial and I had so many compliments on it. I also can't say enough about how much I loved the makeup. If only I could look that great every day! Sofia did an amazing job without making me look like a completely different person (which my husband was very concerned about and even he approved!). Stacey was great from the start and worked with me to make it happen in spite of my slightly limited budget. If I had to do it all over I wouldn't change a thing. Thanks to the whole team! read more

So I say I am a fan because the owner Stacy is well ...Amazing with hair. I was so impressed with her talent...my hair was perfect and I looked like a Victorias Secret Angel with long curly hair extensions that Once Upon a Bride got for me. It was perfection. I felt beautiful on my wedding day. I would 100% hire them again if I had to do it all over. I would even pay the money again (over $1000 for hair and makeup just in case you were wondering). That being said....what attitude do these girls have! I can't even take it! I had to just laugh because they are so catty with eachother and I found it funny. I thought to myself "On my wedding day they can't act this high maintenence, right?" She did my hair so amazing at the trial I didn't want to admit she was stuck-up. But imagine this, ok...I am not making this up. ON MY WEDDING DAY, she walks in with her make up assistant...they clearly just had a fight in the car...and the first thing out of her mouth in the perfect Paris Hiltion imitation voice is not hello ... it is " UMM could we turn up the air, it is like way too hot in here???" The whole day was like that, she was ordering around the poor bridal attendant. She didn't order me around though which was good:) If you want a high cost and high attitude go to Stacy. She is good. If you can't stand girls with high pitched voices who are self obsessed like Paris and L.Lohan DO NOT GO. For me, I actually don't really mind it and I have the money to spend so it was fine for me. And like I said before...your hair will cooporate with Stacy in charge. I mean who else would have given me an earful about their dysfunctional relationships, how amazing their tiny greyhound puppys are (ew) and how life is so hard because they are moving offices...on my wedding day??? read more

Stacey's been doing my hair for as long as I've lived in New York, (very long!) so when I got engaged and became the devourer of every bridal magazine known to womankind, there was no question about who was going to do my 'do when I walked down the aisle! Stacey and her team are awesome. They listen and get an idea of what you're looking for--every bride's different, right? But they're professional enough to let you know (kindly and gently) if you're veering off into the bridal abyss. (In my case, this meant saving me from going overly cutesey with a glitzy hairband! I am many things, but I'm not cutesy ...) Every bride wants to look glamorous. Stacey and the folks at Once Upon a Bride know that it's just as important to look like a glamorous but-still-recognizable version of yourself! read more

Nicole Zurlaff does the most amazing amazing makeup! I've seen her in action she is totally brilliant! Pays attention to detail and is so easy going. Is very versatile with her style and is so naturally gifted in making others look beautiful!!!!! read more

I just recently got married in NYC and the owner Stacy did my wedding hair. Prior to the day, I had some disaster hair trials with my curly hair and by the time I found Stacy I was on the verge of tears at any mention of my wedding hair do. Since I was traveling from SF, I didn't have time for a full hair trial. So, Stacy opened up the store for me two days before the wedding day, so that we could come up with a style for the big day. Through the whole process, she was very sweet and accommodating, and did a beautiful job with my hair on the wedding day. The services are a bit pricey, but it was worth every Penny! read more

I had the pleasure of working with Janet (make-up) and Stefanie (hair) for my wedding at the Yale Club on June 4. From our first trial, I was immediately at ease with both Janet and Stefanie's professionalism, kindness, and attention to detail. I loved working with them both, and my bridesmaids and I had so much fun with them on my wedding day. They accommodated every girl's very different looks and wants, complimenting each girl's beauty in such a unique way, and we were all sad to see them leave at the end of such a great day together. I can't say enough about Stef and Janet, and the experience at OUAB - I'm so, so grateful I was able to work with them both - they made the day amazing and fun. read more

I have used Once Upon a Bride twice in the past 5 years -- the first time was for my own wedding and the second time was this past weekend for another wedding I was in. Stacey, the owner, did my hair for my wedding and I LOVED it. She did not have an attitude back then and through all of my discussions with her in the past month, she still doesn't have an attitude. Neither did Soffa or Angela, the hair and makeup artist we used this weekend. They were both amazing. They had great ideas for those who didn't know what they wanted and were happy to do exactly what was asked for those who did know what they wanted. They arrived on time and were able to get everyone looking beautiful in the allotted time without stress or worry. I would definitely recommend Once Upon a Bride for anyone who wants to make sure they look wonderful for a big event. I had no reservations about putting myself in their hands -- i knew they would do a good job. Stacey hires only the best and is herself, the supreme best. As for the cost -- this is Manhattan people, you should be used to paying more here than anywhere else. Her rates are no higher than anyone else and in most cases, they are better. OUAB has different levels of expertise, so there is something for everyone's budget. Take it from someone who has had a lot of experience with hair and make up in NYC, OUAB is wonderful and should be at the top of everyone's list. read more

I have to admit at first I was a little apprehensive of using OUAP because the price seemed so high but after doing some research I discovered that while they do charge more than most, it's pretty comparable to other salons in the city. And unlike most salons who can do wedding hair but you have to hire a makeup artist, they are a turn-key solution to meet all of the brides beauty needs on her day. I cannot say enough good things about this place. I don't know what the other review meant about an attitude because I have not encountered any. Stacey, the owner, is courteous and professional and on top of everything despite her busy schedule. She is also reliable and very responsive sans attitude. I just had my hair/makeup trial. The two ladies who did my make-up and hair trial are fantastic! Stephanie who did my hair is not only a whiz with hair but she was the sweetest person! She took a photo I had of the hair I wanted and turned my limp straight locks into ooh-la-la old hollywood red carpet! Sophia is also awesome! She turned my not so pristine skin into flawless skin and made me look like a movie star! I mean I never thought I would look this good! It's amazing what you get when you leave it to true pros. So yes, they are pretty pricey but they are worth every penny. And they sincerely want to make you look gorgeous on your day! read more

After a successful trial at Once Upon a Bride with Jacqueline (stylist) and Joanna (makeup) back in March, I booked them for my June NYC wedding. They both did a fantastic job and made me look like an uber glammed-up version of myself. No pageant hair, no garish face paint. They understood the look I was going for and there is no way I would have been able to replicate the hair or make-up myself. Yes, it was a bit on the pricey side but well worth it. After all, the wedding was like my version of the Oscar's and they definitely made me feel/look like I was walking the red carpet. They came to my hotel room (EARLY) and it was so relaxing getting ready because all I had to do when they finished was put on my dress. Thumbs up for OUAB and special thanks to lovely Jacqueline and Joanna! read more

I just adore Stacey ~ she did an AMAZING job on my hair and my bridesmaids on my wedding day... I have curly hair, and so does one of my BM, so it isn't the easiest thing to do and make look gorgeous the whole night through... I had a wonderful experience with her.. she came early, was relaxed, and we had a great time! Prior to my trial she asked that I bring in some looks I might be interested in and I also brought a photo of my dress and veil and based on my examples and wedding day look she gave me honest feedback and created something GORGEOUS that my curly hair loving husband thought that was amazing! I have since my trial gone back to Loft 26 to have my hair done and I have had NOTHING but great service and experiences.. everyone in her salon is fun to talk to as well. I really bothers me how others talk about people being caddy ~ especially when they are actually in some backwards way saying that the quality of service they received was a good one and that their experience WITH Stacey overall was positive. She works hard and I would and HAVE recommend her time and time again ~ I LOVE once upon a bride. read more

FANTASTIC! I am having my wedding in October this year and while researching hair and makeup came across the Once Upon a Bride website. After contacting them, Stacey (the owner) called me personally to discuss my needs and the kind of look I was going for. I actually went in first to get a haircut with her and she (gently) gave me a short tutorial on how to take care of my extremely damaged hair. Two months later I came back and she not only remembered me, but raved about how much healthier my hair was. On to my bridal trial consultation... I brought my mom with me to the studio, where I was introduced to both Karen (makeup artist) and Andrea (hair). I am so NOT the updo kinda girl and Andrea gave me an updo that was soft yet glamorous, I actually told her "I would love to criticize you but this look is perfect". Karen is adorable, my mom especially loved her, and she created a clean, but noticeable makeup look for me including individually applied false eyelashes.. While we were there Stacey took the time out to answer all my mom's questions about how the day would go (I have a giant bridal party and a lot of people to get ready with) and offered us champagne. It was such a fun experience and I was extremely confident in my choice to hire them. NYC is a bridal battle ground but give Once Upon a Bride a call and I'm certain you'll be thrilled with their work! read more

My bridal hair trial with Emily at Once Upon A Bride was really fantastic. Not only is she an excellent stylist but her demeanor was nothing short of perfection. The kind of personality you want with you on your wedding day! Calm, kind, pleasant A++ After my trial I left completely confident that at least with regards to my hair I will be worry free on my wedding day. I know my hair is in good hands with Emily and will look amazing on the day of my wedding. The first look she gave me was exactly what I asked for (even better than I imagined) and I loved it. Didn't even feel like we needed to try an alternate look but Emily recommended we try one anyway since we had time. Really appreciate the way she worked, professional and I never felt rushed. The second look Emily styled was also fabulous!! And now I have big decisions deciding between two looks I love. Thanks so much and looking forward to working with you on my wedding day!! -Jessica W read more

BUYER BEWARE! Stacey promises to help you get the most of your wedding trial, which should include 2-3 signature looks, makeup from modest to dramatic, and pictures throughout to help recreate the looks, but she definitely did not do so with us. The minute we walked into the door for our wedding trial, we were asked to pay right away (not the most professional, honestly), but then we never got all the services for which we had paid and generously tipped. The artists were wonderful and did a great job in the time they had but they were rushing to another wedding and so I left with only 1 hair look (that wasn't even the complete look for my wedding) and without the eye makeup I had requested (and no information on recreating the looks whatsoever). I was just told to come back to finish my trial, which I was happy to do even though I was flying from out of town. But then, I found out I would have to pay for a new trial (another $400!) when I talked to the owner, who was extremely rude to me and refused to do anything at all to rectify the situation fairly. All I wanted was to receive the services I was promised and paid a great deal for so that I could comfortably hire them to do my makeup and hair and that of all of my bridesmaids and know they'd be worth their ultra-expensive prices. I was really hoping to love OUAB and use them for my wedding but I simply cannot recommend this company based on my unfair trial experience there. Their work seems to be quite inconsistent (depending on how much time they have not what you paid) and it is clear that you cannot rely on Stacey to deliver what was advertised at her ultra-expensive prices. I've received MUCH better treatment at other high-end salons and you will too, as this one seems to be resting on their laurels. read more

Update: I got married during the record breaking heat wave in July. Not only did my gorgeous hair and makeup hold up until the end of the evening, but numerous guests kept remarking about how I looked "fresh" despite the heat and humidity. Stacey and Janet were a joy to work with during the trial and on my wedding day. Worth every penny! read more

First, I should have never pursued to keep going to this place after the first trial. On the first day, which was supposed to be hair AND make-up...I show up ready to see the whole picture (hair with make-up). Come to find out Stacey called out sick that day. So I only got make up done and had to return the following week for hair. When I showed up for hair a week later, I had to wait 15 minutes for Stacey to come over because she was running around with another stylist trying to decide what color she should put on her hair extensions. I should have walked out!!! Instead, I figured ok she's a little crazy but maybe she's cool. Seriously I should have never returned. Ended up loving my hair, so I made sure I confirmed with Stacey that she was available on my wedding date. Her reply, "of course, I wouldn't be doing a trail if I wasn't." Yeah sure! Seriously 2 weeks went by until I heard anything about doing a price proposal. Instead, I get an email saying that she has to leave with Betheny Frankel to do a show the week before my wedding so I'd have to come in for ANOTHER hair trial. Ok, i agreed. Instead of accommodating the person with the money (me) they replied ( another 2 weeks later) that the 2 stylists I was to meet are only available at certain days and times. Totally inconvenient!!! Let me remind you, this all is taking place OVER A MONTH after the first trial. So for one month I got messed around with. And I wasn't planning a wedding within a year like usual, I only had 4 months until my wedding date. So having hair & make-up was kind of a matter of urgency at this point, especially for a June wedding. I'm still waiting for a refund but I doubt that will happen! I also found it to be really strange that Stacey and her receptionist asked me to write reviews on here. So I did. I wrote a really nice review before this, and less than a week later Stacey flaked on me. You have been warned about this place. Honestly, you only get to have these experiences once in your life...go somewhere where you'll feel like a bride, and they'll treat you the way you deserve. This place deserves negative 10 stars!!!!!!!!!! read more

My daughter was married on 4-6-2013 at the Tribeca Rooftop. at 6:30 PM. Stacey arrived at 12 PM. She brought Angela along to help with hair and Karen for make-up. They were all amazing. Stacey is so much fun and a brilliant artist with hair. She has a vision. Angela was fantastic with braids and beautiful hairdos and Stacey helped complete the vision. Stacey and Angela did hair for the bride, five bridesmaid, the mom (me) and one minor fix for a grandmother. Everyone looked beautiful and each style was different and reflective of the individual's look and request. The hair lasted through the whole evening. They were so fantastic, that i cannot say enough good things about them. Karen was not our original makeup person, but we so lucky to have her. The makeup was absolutely breathtaking. Each person described the look they were going for and she created it.. I thought the makeup was stunning. She enhanced everyone's natural beauty. By the end of the afternoon, I felt that we had made three new friends. They were spectacular. They were worth every penny. The end result spoke for itself. read more

Stacey and her team are amazing. I have known Stacey for a very long time and she has always been professional, courteous and friendly. I could not have asked for a better experience my hair looked amazing and i had a great experience. Stacey had to meet me all the way in Long Island at 5:30am on a Sunday morning and got there with no problem and on time. She is the greatest and I thank her for making what was a stressful morning into a wonderful relaxing experience. Love her!! read more

Stacey is a master at what she does! She did my hair for my wedding at the last minute because another one of her stylists had an emergency and couldn't do my hair. Because she had been so hands on during my trial, even though she was not my original stylist, she had no problem stepping in at the last minute, all the while making me feel cool and comfortable about the situation (I was obviously worried about the last minute change of plan!). Normally I wouldn't have been able to afford Stacey's rates but she charged me the rate that I had signed up for, and gave me nothing but TLC on the big day. She did a beautiful job not only on my hair but on my sister's hair as well, we got so many compliments on her work throughout the day. Most importantly, the hair style held up despite the summer weather, and didn't fall out despite tons of dancing into the early morning. Stacey has incredible style and knows what looks good on you. I appreciated her honesty and her input, but she also respected what I wanted and listened very carefully to all of my requests. I was impressed that she stepped into such a stressful situation and handled it with no problem. I always recommend her to my friends who just want natural, sexy, and beautiful hair on their wedding day. OUAB delivers! read more

I worked with Stacey, Emily, Karen, and Erica and was thrilled with Stacey and the OUAB team. First, they're a team. When I learned that I had less time to get ready than I originally thought, Stacey brought on an additional stylist and we were done 30 minutes early. OUAB is very experienced and does weddings almost every weekend during peak season. They roll in exactly on time (in fact, they were calling me 30 minutes early letting me know that they were on site and asking if they could start setting up), they set up, they execute, and they roll out. They are a wedding machine. As for the styling itself, they are very good. I had bad hair and makeup trials at other salons before meeting Stacey and so I learned that just because someone is a hair stylist or claims to do weddings doesn't guarantee that they can do much more than basic styling, maybe a blow out or a few curls. Stacey is a true bridal hair stylist. She created a beautiful updo for me using almost a full head of hair extensions (which she can make for you herself). I would also like to say a few words about Karen who is a wonderful person and makeup artist. I asked for less makeup and she really listened to me and gave me a very natural look, but, at the same time, also pushed me out of my comfort zone with some lash enhancements and the result was just beautiful. I highly recommend OUAB and particularly Stacey, Emily, Karen, and Erica. read more