10 Questions with Jennifer Kochenour

JKo Beauty

Hair & Makeup Artist - Jennifer Kochenour

10 Questions with Jennifer Kochenour

1. Introduction: What's your story?

Hi! I'm Jennifer Kochenour, owner and lead makeup artist of JKo Beauty. My passion for beauty and fashion started at a very young age. I actually had my very own first magazine subscription when I 8 years old. I purchased a 1-year subscription to Vogue with the money I earned doing chores. It was always my goal to attend cosmetology school after high school and that's exactly what I did! While in cosmetology school, I was also working in a cosmetics department as well as working with a production company in the area doing hair and makeup for catalog shoots. A couple of years later, after realizing that I was truly most passionate about makeup artistry, I also graduated first in my class at Westmore Academy of Cosmetic Arts in Los Angeles, CA. Over the last 26+ years, I have always worked with brides and also have had the wonderful opportunity to work in fashion, commercial, beauty, salon/spa and more. Working with brides on their wedding day has always been dear to my heart. It is truly such an honor to be a small part of such a significant day. Along the years, I have also always had a strong desire to teach. I have mentored and taught younger or newer artists as well as have always worked with women for private or group makeup lessons. I find it to be incredibly rewarding!

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

With over 26 years of working with brides and bridal parties, my portfolio is quite extensive. I have worked with over 1000 brides at this point and still love it!

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

I do my best to continue to evolve and be flexible as a small business with a personalized service experience. My packages can be customized to be suit the needs to my brides. I offer bride-only packages, as well as packages for small or very large groups.

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?

As the lead makeup artist, I always work personally with my brides. When there is a much larger size party and an additional artist or two is ideal, I have other local pros to work with me. In all of my years, I have never cancelled on a bride and do my absolute best to always be there for them on their big day as well as throughout the time we work together leading up to the wedding day.

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

Travel is included for weddings local to the Philadelphia area. There are times that tolls or longer distances require a travel fee. That is something that I determine prior to booking so that there are no surprises at a later time for my brides and clients.

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

I always recommend scheduling a makeup preview appointment! This is a very important appointment, I reserve extra time to ensure we have the opportunity to discuss many different topics as well as complete the full makeup look. I recommend scheduling 1-3 months prior to the wedding date.

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

I use a wide range of products that are proven to be gentle, lightweight, long-lasting and hold up to the demands of wedding day makeup expectations. Every so often I have someone who wants to use their own product for one reason or another, I do my best to always be flexible and accommodating. I have yet to have any issues!

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

There are so many steps and product choices that I make that ultimately create a long lasting and photo friendly look. As a licensed pro, I also understand the ingredients of the products I use, how they react to others, what's most appropriate based on preferences and skin types and so much more. I have a deep understanding of the science behind the results as well as the experience.

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

Makeup for family and the bridal party can be anywhere from 30-60 minutes. It really does depend on what type of look and service has been selected. However, most ladies take me 40 minutes. I always allow an hour for my brides and again, depending on other factors, up to 90 minutes for makeup. To stay for the day, details can be discussed in advance to determine what best suits my bride and her needs.

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

For each booking their is a required non-refundable retainer along with a service agreement contract. All details are clearly expressed in the contract for both parties. I believe in clear, direct and transparent communication.

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Awards

WeddingRule Editor's Choice 2023WeddingRule Editor’s Choice 2022