Today we’d like to introduce you to Kelly Tase.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
It started 11 years ago, when a friend was getting married and asked if I would come to her hotel and do her hair as well as the rest of her girls. I had already planned on taking off at the salon that day to attend the wedding. I happily showed up and did everyone’s hair. It was such a fun and relaxed atmosphere that I fit right into, versus the hustle and bustle of a salon. Even though weddings are crazy, it is a much more carefree environment. After that, I had noticed our salon wasn’t having that many brides come in (although we were a smaller location), and I did some homework and saw that brides wanted their regular stylist to come to the hotel like I did. Some stylists didn’t want to take off and lose a whole Saturday of clients to do a wedding party. So, I took to social media and Brides by Kelly was born. I started to google how to start a legit business, registering in my county, IRS, etc. And 11 years later here I am! One of the original on location wedding hair and makeup companies. We have received numerous awards from Wedding Wire, The Knot, and Wedding Guide Chicago for our customer services-all awards based on our brides’ reviews of us!
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
Like any business, nothing is ever smooth. With the boom of social media, YouTube, and Pinterest, they have definitely made our job more difficult. With these social media avenues and filters people now use, it has distorted fantasy from reality and what is actually achievable for each person’s hair or makeup.
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Brides by Kelly – what should we know?
11 years ago, a company that traveled onsite for hair and makeup was few and far between. We conceptualized the idea of on-site hair and makeup before it was popular, and before other businesses began to travel. We pride ourselves on having extensive years of experience in wedding day beauty, prompt responses to our brides inquires and emails, our numerous awards we have won, and our most recent accomplishment that I am beyond proud of my team for is making the cover of Wedding Guide Chicago Magazine!
Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
First and foremost, my husband, for being my cheerleader and supporting me when I started this, telling me I can do anything I want, as long as I work hard for it! Next would be Casi, my assistant manager. She started as an assistant for me 11 years ago, just pre-curling hair, basing faces. She then took 2 years off, pursued beauty school, and came back as a stylist. She has been my go to confidant for all things related to Brides by Kelly, and a supportive friend to boot.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.bridesbykelly.com
- Phone: 630-290-6980
- Email: info@bridesbykelly.com
- Instagram: @bridesbykelly
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bridesbykelly/
Image Credit:
WS Photography
Winsome & Wright
Soda Fountain Photography
Courtney Rose Photography
Getting in touch: VoyageChicago is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
