With years of experience in the beauty industry and a diverse portfolio to boot, meet Merak & Wanderlust! LGBTQ+ owned, owner Cristina has freelanced for over 18 years as an artist; now setting out on her own business venture. Her passion to make clients feel beautiful paired with her calm demeanor make her a joy to work with! We’re so glad to have Merak & Wanderlust as part of Nashville Bride Guide. Keep on reading to learn more about this fantastic Nashville hair and makeup artist.
Tell us about Merak & Wanderlust + how long you’ve been in business.
Cristina: Merak & Wanderlust was established 2022, but has been working in the beauty industry as a freelancer for 18 years.
How did you get started in weddings?
Cristina: Behind the chair, doing proms. One person told another and then I was suddenly doing a whole wedding all on my own.
What’s the philosophy behind Merak & Wanderlust?
Cristina: Truly to just make my guest feel their most authentic self. To take them to a place where they experience feeling beautiful inside and out.
What are your strengths compared to others in your category?
Cristina: Honestly I don’t really like to compare myself to others. I know for a fact that there is many talented businesses out there, that offer exceptional work and service. I can only speak for myself and my brand. My values, years of experience, sense of empathy, and responsibility have been what has gotten me to succeed in this business. What I offer is experience, reliability, passion for this art, and a sense of etiquette.
What attracts couples to your business?
Cristina: Most definitely my relaxed and patient personality. I am very even tempered even in stressful moments.
What is the most innovative new product, service, style or other aspect of your industry that brides and grooms might appreciate?
Cristina: I work with all sorts of skin color and textures, my kit is equipped with luxury brands for those with sensitivities or not. I also stay up to date with trends. And I dont specialize in only one technique, but many. I can do a soft natural look to all the way to lustry boudoir. I also work behind the chair at a hair salon for those clients wanting more such as extensions or pops of color/highlights.
Is there anything else you’d like to share about Merak & Wanderlust?
Cristina: Merak & Wanderlust is LGBTQ+ owned and I welcome all genders, religion, and ethnicities. Hablo español.
Nashville Bride Guide’s Owner + Editor, Alyssa DiCicco
Since 2016, Alyssa has combined her loves to become the owner and editor of the local wedding blog, Nashville Bride Guide! The online publication showcases weddings, engagement sessions, styled shoots, vendor spotlights and advice posts from all across the Middle Tennessee area. Read more...
