Vendor Spotlight! Hillary Fay of Hillary Fay Studios.
Welcome to our brand-new series, the Vendor Spotlight! In the enchanting world of weddings, an entire ensemble of talented professionals works tirelessly behind the scenes to turn dreams into reality. And here, amidst the flurry of tulle and lace, we are excited to shine a light on the often unsung heroes of the wedding industry.
We’ve had the privilege of collaborating with so many exceptionally gifted individuals, each bringing their own unique style and expertise to the table. From the picturesque venues that set the stage for love stories to unfold, to the skilled photographers and cinematographers who immortalize these moments in timeless frames; from the nimble-fingered hair and makeup artists who transform brides into visions of beauty, to the culinary maestros crafting delectable delights that tantalize taste buds – and let’s not forget the artisans behind the intricate stationery and the exquisite jewelry pieces – this series promises to celebrate every facet of the wedding planning journey.
Our First Vendor Spotlight
Our first spotlight falls upon none other than Hillary Fay of Hillary Fay Studios.
Hillary is a makeup artist with a deft touch and keen eye for detail – she crafts bridal beauty that transcends mere aesthetics, reflecting the inner radiance of each bride she graces. But she is more than just a makeup artist. Hillary also has built her business comprised of a top-notch team of artists and stylists offering on-site makeup and hair services to brides, bridesmaids, mothers, attendants, and flower girls. Hillary Fay Studios has a very impressive portfolio for such a young company, and we are blessed to have them in New England for each wedding season. There is nothing we love more than flourishing businesses with fun stories and inspiration! Hillary is an inspiring, entrepreneurial, creative woman whom we know you’ll want to learn more about! Continue reading to hear her story, vision, and aesthetic.
Vendor Spotlight! Hillary Fay of Hillary Fay Studios
Events by Sorrell: Tell us a little bit about yourself and your business.
Hillary: I started Hillary Fay Studios back in late 2016 as a total “side job” when I was trying to get extra money to buy my first house. Little did I know how much I’d fall in love with the wedding industry and that it would turn into a full-fledged bridal team within just 4 years! In 2024, I have a team of 5 other talented artists & stylists who work with me. I’m even fortunate enough to snowbird between VT & SW FL for the wedding seasons.
EBS: Who is your ideal client?
Hillary: My ideal client is a bride who grew up skiing in Vermont, or had a family camp on Lake Champlain and wants to celebrate her marriage in a place that’s meaningful and special. She wants to hire the “A Team” vendors and fully trusts in our professionalism, opinions, and styles. She has a vision, but allows us to “do our thing.” She might even opt for a hairstyle change once she switches into her reception dress, too!
EBS: When you’re working with wedding clients, how do you typically work? What’s your experience like teaming up with wedding planners and other vendors?
Hillary: When working with clients, I like to work with them AND their planner directly. I think cutting out the client with all communications, or vice versa- the planner – things can get overlooked or miscommunicated. An open line between all of us is key, especially when that month-out mark for the wedding hits. That’s when I like to finalize our beauty timeline, headcount, invoice, etc. I also like to send our Hair & Makeup Prep Guide to both the bride and planner so that everyone is on the same page and knows exactly what to expect from our end. Teamwork makes the dream work, and no one vendor is “more important” than another!
EBS: Describe your style or aesthetic.
Hillary: An elevated, classic, soft glam is very much our vibe! The bride still feels and looks like herself, but has that extra “sparkle” to bring the entire bridal style to the next level. This type of makeup & hair will also reflect beautifully in the photographs for years to come.
EBS: Who or what lights up your creative fire, both in your personal life and work?
Hillary: In my work life, watching celebrity artists & stylists create red-carpet looks always gets the creative sparks flying! When a bride brings in a red carpet look as inspo, it’s always so fun to recreate (and more realistic to do than a Pinterest one). In my personal life, my fiancé keeps me always wanting to do better and be the best. Combining both makes magic happen!
EBS: Tell us a bit about your creative process.
Hillary: From the initial inquiry, I want to know what the potential “vision” might be for the bride. An updo? Full glam? Hypernatural makeup? Once I get an idea of the inspo, my brain instantly starts creating what would look best on that particular client’s features (i.e.: eye color, face shape, hair length, etc.) Getting this look nailed down at the trial and then seeing the bride on the wedding day in her dress with the WHOLE vision come to life always makes me do a little happy dance!
EBS: What is your favorite way to unwind?
Hillary: After a wedding day, I love coming home and instantly cleaning, sanitizing & re-organizing my kit (with a glass of wine!). I’m very Type A, so knowing that my kit and brushes are cleaned, prepped, and ready to go again allows me to relax and enjoy the rest of the night. I’m also fortunate that my fiancé loves to cook! So, I always have a great meal to come home to after work. That, followed by a walk with my dogs, is the best.
EBS: If you weren’t a hair and makeup artist, what career path would you choose?
Hillary: If money weren’t an issue, I would run an animal rescue for senior dogs and cats! I have SUCH a soft spot for animals (my degree is actually in Equine Science); so anything to help give them the best life possible for the remainder of their days would absolutely be my dream job.
If you want more information about Hillary Fay Studios, please check out their website and Instagram to discover unlimited talent.
Photo Credits:
Series: Vendor Spotlight!
