10 Questions with Marisa & Illiana Conway

Sorella Salon

Hair & Makeup Artist - Marisa & Illiana Conway

10 Questions with Marisa & Illiana Conway

1. Introduction: What's your story?

We are a sister duo specializing in hair and makeup, driven by our lifelong passion for beauty and creativity. Surrounded by sisters and friends, it was only natural that we chose careers in this field.

Illiana discovered her love for styling early in her apprenticeship. She has an eye for detail and a finger on the pulse of all the latest styles that look effortless and timeless. Meanwhile, Marisa began her journey with makeup as soon as she could hold a brush. Her skills have refined significantly over the years, fueled by her passion for color and balance. She has a true understanding of how to use makeup to enhance a person's natural beauty and to make their inner beauty shine.

Joining forces was a seamless transition into the wedding industry, where our combined talents have flourished. With over 100 weddings under our belts, we’ve gained invaluable experience.

We deeply understand the importance of not just how the wedding looks, but also the sacred moments shared with your loved ones. The essence of your day is something we cherish and honor.

2. What's your experience as a bridal hair & makeup artist? How many brides are in there in your portfolio?

We have had a wonderful experience in the wedding industry, and we are deeply grateful for the privilege of being part of the day that is arguably the most relaxing .

A typical wedding morning for our brides is a delightful blend of fun, relaxation, and special moments.

With over ten years of experience and hundreds of brides, we are committed to making the pre wedding moments as unforgettable as the rest of the day.

3. What are the different packages that you offer and which one is your most popular package?

We proudly offer a range of hair and makeup packages designed to meet your needs. Whether you prefer us to travel to your location or want to take advantage of our stunning salon space while you prepare, we are ready to make it happen!

For those considering an elopement, we also have exclusive packages just for that occasion. Our most sought-after option combines hair and makeup services with our travel to your wedding venue, ensuring a seamless and effortless experience on your big day. Our beautiful salon space is also gaining popularity with clients who appreciate a more relaxed atmosphere. Whatever option you choose, we're here to elevate your experience and make your special day unforgettable!

4. Do you have a team of assistants or will you be the only artist that day? What will happen if you're sick or have an emergency on the wedding day?

With Illiana for hair and Marisa for makeup, our team delivers a personal and high-quality experience crafted just for you. On your special day, if unforeseen challenges arise, we will rise to the occasion to manage them seamlessly. We also have a trusted list of vendors ready to support your needs.

We believe in giving you enough time to address any issues because we understand the importance of this moment in your life, and we take our commitment to you very seriously.

5. Do you charge a travel fee? For what distance? What does that cover?

The advantage of choosing us for both hair and makeup is that we come as a team, ensuring a seamless experience. This means that the travel fee covers both of our services, providing you with convenience and quality.

We do charge a travel fee, and we confidently travel wherever needed, whether interstate or internationally. Our quotes are tailored based on the location of your event.

As we are based in Newcastle, the travel fees will be determined by the distance from our location. We can arrange accommodations if necessary, but we will handle our own flight costs. All these details will be clearly discussed during our initial planning conversations.

6. Can the bride book a wedding makeup trial appointment and will you also do a trial before the wedding?

We’d love to suggest a trial! It’s a great way for us to make sure you’re not only happy with the look we create but also feel comfortable with us.

7. What beauty products do you use and would you be open to the bride using her own make-up?

I utilize a wide range of makeup products that deliver outstanding results. My top choices are Charlotte Tilbury, MAC, Hourglass, Natasha Denona, NARS, and several other niche brands that are recognized for their exceptional quality and performance. Id be more than happy to work with my clients products if requested to come up with a look that will make them feel their most comortable.

8. How can you make the bride's wedding makeup last and look good in photos?

Lasting power is crucial for me. On such an emotional day, when we’re working against time, various elements, and heightened feelings, I prioritize these factors in my makeup approach.

I rely on setting sprays, layering products, powders, and proven techniques, using high-quality products. My ongoing education and extensive experience with weddings and photoshoots have allowed me to develop a formulation that effectively addresses all these challenges. That’s why I strongly recommend a trial; it gives us the opportunity to understand your skin type and collaborate on the best approach for your needs.

9. How long will makeup take on the day and how long will you be staying for on the day?

We usually allocate up to an hour for makeup at most. The amount of time we will be there depends on the number of people. We typically allow extra time because we are very conscious of ensuring the day runs smoothly. Our goal is to be efficient while also maintaining a relaxed and unhurried atmosphere.

10. What is your cancellation and/or refund policy?

We require a non-refundable deposit, with the remaining balance due one month before the wedding date. The only circumstance in which we would refund the deposit is if we are unable to provide our services for the wedding. In that case, the full deposit will be refunded immediately.

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Awards

Wedding Diaries Editor's Choice 2025Wedding Diaries Editor's Choice 2024