Bouquet: Ask the Experts: Problem Solved!

Q: My regular hair stylist doesn’t do updos; where do I even begin finding someone good who can do what I want for my wedding day?

Expert: Jennifer Luszczak, stylist and bridal specialist at AMS Salon and Lounge, Philadelphia

A: “Narrow it down to a small list of recommendations, and start making phone calls,” says Luszczak. Recs from local magazines, websites and, most of all, word-of-mouth are probably your best bets for compiling a list. Then, it’s all about the trials. Come in with at least a basic idea — updo, half up, down and curled — if not an actual picture (just cover up the celeb’s face in order to picture yourself with the ’do, says Luszczak). And, she says, just remember: “It may take a few trials to find someone you click with, whose style you’re really comfortable with.” But when you get those gorgeous photos, it will all have been worth it.

Q: I’d love to fill my wedding-day menu with as many local and sustainable ingredients as possible. How can I work with my caterer to do that?

Expert: Liz Solms, founder of Philadelphia-based Sweet Pea Nourishment

A: “Get to know your local farmers’ markets—and the actual farmers!” says Solms, whether you live in the ’burbs or Rittenhouse Square. Learn what’s available when, the types of foods you love and the regions they come from — and then, when you meet with your caterer, you can be the link that makes it all happen. “If you can go to your caterer and say, ‘Here is Amos’s name and number, and I would love to somehow incorporate his tomatoes and peaches into our menu,’” says Solms. “Then that begins bringing everyone together, which is what sustainability is all about.”

Q: I’ve seen my friends run into unexpected costs — and ­disappointment — with their photography after the wedding. What are the most important things to know before signing with a photographer?

EXPERT: Sarah DiCicco, owner of Sarah DiCicco Photography, Wayne

A: 1. Find out the deal with proofs. Says DiCicco, “Some photographers will only give digital proofs, which basically means a website. Some will give you prints, with their logo stamped across your foreheads. Some will give them to you, but for extra cost. Some won’t release them at all, and some do include proofs in their fee. You’ll want to know how they do it.” 2. Find out how much any prints cost up front. “You don’t want to find out after you see your proofs that an album is another $3,000 and any 8x10s you may want are $50 each,” says DiCicco. “Ask them how their à la carte printing works.” 3. Find out the plan of action in case of emergency. “Your contract should name both your wedding-day photographer and the names of who your photographer will replace himself or herself with — in order — should he or she not be able to make it the day of your wedding,” says DiCicco.