Shalem Mathew
Shalem Mathew

Increasingly often, brides are requesting styles that are more formal for their ceremony but can be transitioned to looser, playful styles for the reception (can you blame them?).

Geneva Cowen, artistic director for Sam Villa, created a Great Gatsby-inspired updo that is pre-set with beach waves and can be taken down in 5 minutes or less.

"It's important that both looks are done in a practice session or two prior to the big day," Cowen says. "The more formal style for the ceremony should be crafted so it's easily transitioned to another look for the celebration, and that's the look the bride-to-be should leave the trial session with in order to get a feel for how it will hold up.

Take a look at the step-by-step below (using the beach wave technique), and make sure you check out Cowen's bridal prep checklist!

Credits
Hair: Geneva Cowen, artistic director for Sam Villa
Photography: Shalem Mathew
Makeup: Keegan Richards
Wardrobe: David's Bridal
Flowers: Bloomsbury Blooms

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