Shannon and I first met when she was styling Jenny, the bride in the above shot during bridal prep.  We have since worked together on various weddings and she is now the proud owner of Fringe Beauty Salon, a spacious full service building in Merrillville across from the Post Office.  It's a great all in one shop that will fit your entire wedding party and is close to many popular venues. Here is my recent interview with Shannon:

How long have you been working in the wedding industry?  

I am passionate about creating flawless, detail oriented styles for my clients. My passion for the wedding industry was influenced as my career in the beauty industry began professionally over 15 years ago. Realizing that there was a lack of accommodation for wedding parties inside the salon and also a disconnection with brides, I decided to start Shannon Grimmer Beauty Concepts which has now evolved into Fringe Salon.  I say "professionally”, because I think if you were to slit my wrists shampoo would come oozing out. I've had a lifelong passion for weddings and the beauty industry ever since I stole an Avon sample of Passion Red lipstick from my mom's makeup bag and snuck it to school in 1st grade. 

Tell us about Fringe Salon, your full service hair and nail salon. What does that all entail? Where is it located?

Fringe is located in the heart of Merrillville, just 40 minutes from Chicago. We are a collective of stylists who have been doing hair for years! Fringe is a booth rental based salon where each stylist has the freedom to create their own schedule and use products that they are passionate about. The salon itself retails an exclusive brand, Kevin Murphy, born from the same philosophy as skin care. You can learn more about us by visiting the Experience Fringe website. Stop by just for the hugs or a killer cup of coffee! 

Can a bride bring her entire wedding party to the salon? If so, how far in advance should they book? 

Absolutely-the more the merrier! We do suggest booking at least a year in advance if you are planning for a Saturday wedding or during a holiday weekend. I've had plenty of brides secure their artist once the date and location has been booked. Large wedding parties are also welcome! In that case, I will have one of my assistants, who are also licensed, to help collaborate. This ensures that everyone will be picture perfect for the day. 

Do you have online booking? 

Yes, online booking is a must in this day and age! I understand the need to connect on the client's terms. Especially if you happen to be a bride the week of your event awake at 2am and you suddenly realize you need to get your brows shaped! 

Tell us about the Muse Beauty Bar. 

At the Muse Beauty Bar we are passionate about sharing the art of makeup and beauty. We provide applications, niche professional product, and makeup lessons. Whether you're the professional looking for fresh airbrush tips or the private client looking to hone in your personal application; I love to share the products, my expertise and techniques. Muse is for anyone! 

Are you available for on location hair? 

Absolutely! I have traveled as far as Boise, ID for a bridal party. Of course certain travel terms and conditions may apply if the bride is planning for a destination wedding but most of my on location travel has been fairly local.  On location is very important to me because I want to make sure I synchronize with what works best for my client. If getting ready at home, hotel, etc. is the desired choice I can absolutely accommodate with my traveling kit, lighting, and chair. I want to make sure my client is their most comfortable before they walk down the isle. 

What are your top tips for hair on your wedding day? 

I like to create the total package for my clients. I like to meet with them even before we do a trial and find out what the utmost important aspects of the brides' day might be, as well as set a game plan for their hair to be its healthiest. I like to have a conversation to see if the bride has any major cut/color transformations that I may need to consider. I do suggest having your last color and haircut appointment approximately 7-10 days before the big event. You don't want to run the risk of trying something new and not loving it. Conditioning and restorative treatments are something I also highly recommend and will customize to individual needs. I offer Olaplex treatments in the salon to help to keep the integrity of shinier, healthy hair. Lastly, for the best up-do to happen the hair needs a little grit. I always prefer that those getting an up-styled service don't wash their hair the day of.