SpaGo | vendor spotlight

We have been photographing weddings in this area for over a decade, and I have had the pleasure to meet so many great people who work alongside of us in the industry. Sometimes, it might just be a “hello” in passing on a wedding day, or seeing someone briefly at a bridal show, etc. I realized that I might know the work of a florist, or the distinctive flavor of a caterer, but I didn’t really know the people behind the scenes. So, I’ve started reaching out to some of my favorite vendors in the area, and have begun photographing and interviewing them. I’d like to give potential brides a great behind-the-scenes look at the wedding professionals in the area, and the amazing work that they do. This is the sixth installment of a large series of spotlights!

John & I have worked alongside Candace and her team at Spago for years now.  We love the way that she is able to bring out each of our bride’s natural beauty. Candace says, “I have always said that being a great makeup artist isn’t just putting a mask over someone’s face, it’s the art of bringing out their beautiful features. I can see the beauty in every face!”

How would you describe yourself and your business?

I would describe myself as fearless with no limitations. I like to try new things and be different. I let the client guide the experience. I try to interject all those characteristics within my business. SpaGo is not only a spa and salon but I believe we have the most artistic professionals in Chattanooga. We try to do things that haven’t been done before and if it has we try to do it better!

Could you characterize your style in three words?

Creative, confident, and a little bit crazy! I hardly say no to any type of challenge and when I commit to some thing, I give it my everything.

What sets you apart from your competition?

I would say my education and experience. I received a Master Makeup Artist certificate from MUD (makeup designory) in Burbank, CA and love doing at all types of makeup ranging from special effects to character and beauty. I use my experience of working with celebrities on the red carpet to help me with the sometimes craziness of weddings. Hardly anything gets me frazzled!

How long have you been in business?

I personally have been doing professional makeup for over 15 years, but SpaGo has been in business for 4 years. My business partner (Carrie Sutton) and myself started SpaGo by doing small spa parties and it has just kept growing at an unbelievable speed. We are both so proud to now be in a 3,500 sq ft place and offer a long list of services from hair, makeup, massage, aesthetics, spray tan, nails to Botox, eyelash extensions and hair extensions. We, of course, still offer our famous spa parties!

What do you love the most about Chattanooga?

I love Chattanooga because it’s a big small town. The various cultural restaurants, beautiful art district, and numerous events hosted here make it a city that’s always striving to be better without all the fuss.
As a business owner, I love Chattanooga for its loyal, real people. I don’t think SpaGo would be as successful in some of the bigger cities. I really feel like we have a personal relationship with each of our clients!

What inspires you?

Making someone feel beautiful inspires me. I love watching someone’s confidence grow just from a little makeup. I have always said that being a great makeup artist isn’t just putting a mask over someone’s face, it’s the art of bringing out their beautiful features. I can see the beauty in every face!

What is your favorite aspect of your job?

My favorite aspect of a wedding is just being part of one of the most important days of someone’s life! They have allowed us to be a part of such a magical time in their lives and I don’t take it lightly. I have always told my assistants that there are no sick days when working weddings. We have committed to this bride and nothing should stand in our way of making it perfect! I have worked extremely hard to not disappoint any bride!

Do you have any advice you’d like to give engaged couples?

My advice to any bride/engaged couples would be to savior every moment of the experience, it goes by so quickly. Also do your research when picking vendors. I have had the opportunity to work with the most amazing wedding planners, florists, photographers, caterers, bridal shops and even other salons and I wholeheartedly feel that it makes a huge difference in the success of each wedding.