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Author: Erin Dowling

Wedding Hair Timeline: When to Book, Trial Tips, and What to Bring (Central Texas)

Written by Erin Dowling on . Posted in Event Hair, Wedding & Event Hair, Wedding Hair. No Comments on Wedding Hair Timeline: When to Book, Trial Tips, and What to Bring (Central Texas)

Wedding hair should feel beautiful, secure, and like you—without stress. The easiest way to get there is a simple plan: book early, do a smart trial, and prep your hair the right way.

I’m Erin Dowling, a hairstylist at Salon MINK in San Marcos, and this is a clear, easy timeline to help you plan bridal hair in Central Texas (San Marcos, Kyle, Buda, New Braunfels, South Austin).

Quick Take

  • Book wedding hair 6–9 months out (earlier for peak spring/fall dates).
  • Schedule your bridal trial 6–10 weeks before the wedding.
  • Pick your dress/neckline and accessories before the trial.
  • Hair prep matters more than people think—healthy hair holds styles better.
  • Texas heat + humidity = choose styles built to last.

6–9 months before: book your wedding hairstylist

This is when most brides should lock in hair—especially if your wedding is:

  • spring (March–May)
  • fall (September–November)
  • a Saturday
  • in a popular Central Texas venue area

When you reach out, include:

  • wedding date + start time
  • getting-ready location (hotel/venue/city)
  • number of people needing hair (bride + bridal party)
  • style vibe (updo, waves, half-up, sleek, boho, etc.)
  • inspiration photos (2–3 max—choose your favorites)

3–6 months before: make your hair plan (color + cut included)

If you color your hair (blonde, brunette gloss, vivids, etc.), this is the window to map out what you want so nothing feels last-minute.

Helpful timing:

  • Major color changes: plan months ahead
  • Routine color maintenance: keep consistent
  • Trim schedule: stay steady so ends look healthy in photos

If you’re growing your hair out or adding extensions, start planning early so everything blends seamlessly.

6–10 weeks before: schedule your bridal hair trial

Your trial is where we turn Pinterest into a style that works for:

  • your hair density + texture
  • your length
  • your face shape
  • your dress neckline
  • your wedding day conditions (heat, wind, veil, dancing)

What to bring to your trial

  • 2–3 inspiration photos (front/back preferred)
  • a photo of your dress (or neckline)
  • your veil/hairpiece (or something similar)
  • how you’ll wear your makeup (a reference photo helps)
  • honest notes: what you love, what you don’t

What we decide at the trial

  • updo vs half-up vs down
  • part placement
  • volume level (soft vs glam)
  • face-framing pieces (what stays out vs pinned)
  • how it will hold for hours

Pro tip: If you’re between two looks, we can pick the one that will hold best for your hair and your day.

2–4 weeks before: final adjustments

Now is the time for:

  • a trim (if needed)
  • final color refresh planning
  • confirming hair accessory placement
  • deciding bridesmaids styles (coordinated, not identical)

7–10 days before: color (best timing for most brides)

For many brides, the “sweet spot” is refreshing color about 1–1.5 weeks before the wedding. It looks fresh but still natural in photos.

(Exact timing depends on your service—your plan may be different.)

2–3 days before: wash schedule + prep

Most wedding styles hold best when hair isn’t overly silky-clean.

General guidance (I’ll personalize this for you):

  • wash the day before or the night before
  • skip heavy masks/oils right before (they can make pinning harder)
  • arrive dry unless told otherwise

Wedding day: what makes hair last in Texas

Central Texas can bring heat, humidity, and wind. To make hair last:

  • choose a style that matches conditions (updos usually last longest)
  • use the right foundation prep + hold strategy
  • plan veil/accessory placement early
  • allow enough time—rushing is the enemy of longevity

Styles that typically hold best

  • classic updos and textured buns
  • secure low buns
  • half-up with strong anchoring
  • glam waves with proper pin set + hold

Down styles are absolutely possible—just plan for weather and touch-up options.

Bridesmaids: keep it cohesive without feeling “same same”

The easiest formula:

  • pick one vibe (soft waves, low buns, half-up)
  • let each person choose a variation that suits them
  • keep one shared detail (matching pins, similar texture, similar part)

This looks polished in photos and keeps everyone comfortable.

FAQ

Do I need a trial?
If you want a stress-free morning and a style that truly feels like you—yes. It’s where we remove uncertainty.

What if my hair doesn’t hold curl?
We plan a style that works for your hair type (and prep it properly). Some looks need a different foundation than others.

Should I get extensions for wedding hair?
Not always. But if you want extra fullness or length, extensions can help. Plan early so we match and blend.

What if it’s going to be humid or windy?
We choose a style and hold strategy designed for the conditions—especially important in Texas.

Ready to plan wedding hair in San Marcos (Central Texas)?

If you’re getting married in San Marcos or nearby Kyle, Buda, New Braunfels, or South Austin and want wedding hair that lasts and feels like you, I’d love to help.

DM me “WEDDING” with:

  1. your wedding date
  2. getting-ready location
  3. number of people needing hair
  4. your top 2 inspiration photos

Or book through Salon MINK and we’ll get your timeline locked in.

Vivid Hair Color 101: What to Expect, How Long It Lasts, and How to Keep It Bright

Written by Erin Dowling on . Posted in Hair Health, vivids, Vivids & Fashion Color. No Comments on Vivid Hair Color 101: What to Expect, How Long It Lasts, and How to Keep It Bright

Vivid hair color is fun, bold, and seriously custom—but it’s different than traditional color. The biggest surprise for most clients isn’t the color itself… it’s the maintenance and fading timeline.

I’m Erin Dowling at Salon MINK in San Marcos, and if you’re thinking about vivids (fashion color), this is the simple, honest guide to help you decide what to do—and how to keep it looking fresh.

Quick Take

  • Most vivids are semi-permanent, so fading is normal.
  • The brighter the color, the more you need a maintenance plan.
  • Some vivids require pre-lightening (especially pastels).
  • Best home habits: cool water, gentle shampoo, less heat, UV protection.
  • Expect refresh options: gloss/top-up, color deposit mask, or a quick vivid appointment.

What counts as “vivids”?

Vivids (fashion color) include shades like:

  • pink, coral, magenta
  • purple, violet, lavender
  • blue, teal, aqua
  • red, copper-red, cherry
  • green, neon shades
  • pastels (rose, lilac, baby blue)

Vivids can be full coverage, panels, peekaboo, money piece, ombré, tips—whatever fits your vibe.

What to expect before your appointment

1) We start with a consultation (always)

Vivids are not “cookie-cutter.” I’ll look at:

  • your current color + hair history (especially box dye)
  • your hair health and breakage risk
  • your inspiration photo and how realistic it is for your hair
  • your maintenance preference (how often you want to refresh)

This is how we protect hair health and avoid surprises.

2) You may need pre-lightening (depending on the shade)

Here’s the simple rule:

  • Neons + pastels usually need a lighter base to look true-to-photo.
  • Jewel tones (like deep purple or blue) can sometimes work on a slightly darker base.
  • Reds can be more flexible, but still fade and shift in tone.

If your hair is darker or previously colored, we may need a plan to lift safely.

3) Expect the first appointment to take time

Vivid services can include:

  • lightening (if needed)
  • bonding/hair health support as needed
  • vivid application
  • a final rinse + finish
  • education on how to keep it bright

How long do vivids last?

This depends on your hair, your shade, and your routine. But here are realistic ranges:

Typical vivid fade timeline

  • 2–4 weeks: still vibrant, but you may notice a shift
  • 4–8 weeks: noticeable fading, especially around the hairline and ends
  • 8+ weeks: often ready for a refresh or tone adjustment

Pastels usually fade faster. Deep jewel tones often hang on longer but can shift (example: purple fading to pink).

Important: fading doesn’t mean it looks bad—it just means it changes. The goal is to fade pretty, not patchy.

What makes vivid color fade faster?

  • hot water + frequent washing
  • high heat styling
  • sun exposure (Central Texas sunshine matters)
  • chlorine/saltwater
  • harsh shampoos (clarifying, dandruff, “deep clean”)
  • porous/damaged hair (it can grab color but also release it faster)

How to keep vivids bright (simple habits that work)

1) Wash less, rinse cooler

The easiest win: wash fewer days and use cool to lukewarm water.

2) Use the right shampoo

Choose color-safe, sulfate-free and keep clarifying shampoo for rare use (or ask me when to use it).

3) Heat protect every time

Heat fades vivids fast. Heat protectant isn’t optional if you’re styling.

4) Protect from sun + water

  • Wear a hat when you’ll be outside for hours
  • Wet hair + conditioner before pool days
  • Rinse immediately after swimming

5) Use a color-deposit option (when it makes sense)

Depending on your shade, I may recommend a color-deposit conditioner/mask to keep tone bright between visits.

The best “first vivid” option if you’re nervous

If you’ve never done vivids, these are great starters:

  • peekaboo panels
  • money piece
  • vivid tips
  • lower contrast jewel tone

You get the fun without committing your entire head—or your entire schedule—to upkeep.

What vivid color looks best as it fades

Some colors fade more gracefully than others:

  • pinks and rose tones often fade softly
  • purple can fade into pink tones
  • blue/teal can shift greenish depending on base
  • red can fade warm and need tone balancing

During your consultation, I’ll help you pick a shade that fades in a way you’ll still like.

Refresh options (you’re not stuck)

Most vivid clients choose one of these refresh paths:

Option A: Quick vivid refresh (best for staying bold)

Re-saturate and bring it back to “day one” brightness.

Option B: Gloss/top-up (great if you want softer vivid)

Boost shine and tone without doing a full vivid reapply.

Option C: Fade-out plan (if you want to transition)

We can plan a fade that leads into something else—so it doesn’t feel abrupt.

FAQ

Do vivids damage hair?
Vivids themselves are typically not the damaging part—pre-lightening is what needs a careful plan. Hair health comes first.

Can I do vivids on dark hair without bleaching?
Some deeper shades can show subtly, but most bright vivids need a lighter base to look true.

How often will I need to come in?
Most vivid clients refresh around 4–8 weeks, depending on shade and how bold they like it.

Will it stain my towels/pillowcase?
It can early on. I’ll give you aftercare tips to reduce transfer.

What if I have box dye?
Still possible—just expect a custom plan and potentially more than one session for even results.

Ready for vivids in San Marcos?

If you’re in San Marcos (or nearby Kyle, Buda, New Braunfels, or South Austin) and you want vivid color that’s bright, wearable, and planned for real life—let’s do it the right way.

Book at Salon MINK or DM me “VIVIDS” with:

  1. a photo of your hair in daylight
  2. your inspiration photo
  3. your hair history (especially any box dye or previous lightening)

Going Blonde for the First Time: A Safe, Hair-Healthy Plan (and What to Expect)

Written by Erin Dowling on . Posted in Blonde Education & Maintenance, Blonding Services, Consultation & Hair Health. No Comments on Going Blonde for the First Time: A Safe, Hair-Healthy Plan (and What to Expect)

Going blonde for the first time is exciting… and a little intimidating. Most first-timers want the same things:

  • “I want to be lighter, but I don’t want to fry my hair.”
  • “How many appointments will this take?”
  • “What do I book?”
  • “Will it look natural and grow out nicely?”

I’m Erin Dowling, a hairstylist at Salon MINK in San Marcos, and I’m big on a consultation-first approach—because the safest, prettiest blonde is the one that’s customized to your hair history, your lifestyle, and your long-term hair health.

Quick Take

  • First-time blonde is rarely “one size fits all”—your starting color + past color matters most.
  • Most healthy blonding is a plan, not a single appointment.
  • The “best blonde” is the one you can maintain (time + budget + hair health).
  • Expect toner/gloss to be part of the process (that’s what keeps it looking expensive).
  • If your hair has box dye, we can still go blonde—just with a smarter timeline.

First: what kind of “blonde” do you actually want?

A lot of people say “blonde” but mean different things. Here are the most common first-time goals:

Lived-in blonde (most popular first-time choice)

Soft root, blended grow-out, looks natural longer. Great if you want lower maintenance.

Brighter blonde highlights

More blonde throughout, more noticeable brightness near the root. Usually higher maintenance.

Face-framing brightness

A lighter “money piece” effect without changing everything. Great if you’re nervous.

“I just want it warmer/cooler”

Sometimes you don’t need more blonde—you need the right tone.

This is for you if…

  • You want lighter hair but still care about hair health
  • You like natural-looking blonde or soft dimension
  • You’re open to a realistic timeline
  • You want a stylist who will tell you what’s safe (and what’s not)

This might not be for you if…

  • You need a dramatic change in one session no matter what
  • You’re not willing to adjust expectations for hair integrity
  • You don’t want any maintenance (even great blonde needs some)

(If that’s you, we can still talk—my job is to match your goals with what’s realistic.)

The #1 factor: your hair history

Your hair history determines how quickly (and safely) we can lift.

If your hair is virgin (no previous color)

You’re typically the easiest candidate for a smooth first-time blonding plan.

If your hair has old color or box dye

This is still doable—just different. Previously colored hair can lift unevenly, hold warmth, or need a slower approach.

If your hair is fragile or heat-stressed

We build a plan that protects integrity first—because blonde is only pretty if your hair still feels good.

What to book if you’re a first-time blonde

If you’re unsure, this is the simplest way to choose:

  • Want the most natural, low-maintenance blonde?
    Book a lived-in blonding / balayage-style service (blended root + dimension).
  • Want noticeably brighter blonde throughout?
    Book highlights (often foils), plus toner/gloss.
  • Nervous and want to start small?
    Book face-framing brightness or partial highlights, then build from there.

If you’re not sure, book a consultation. It saves you time, protects your hair, and makes sure you’re scheduled correctly.

What happens at your consultation (my approach)

I’ll look at:

  • Your current hair in natural light
  • Your inspiration photos (and what you like about them)
  • Your hair history (color, box dye, highlights, keratin, etc.)
  • Hair health + porosity (how your hair holds tone)
  • Your maintenance preference (how often you want to come in)

Then we choose the safest path to your goal—without rushing.

A realistic “first-time blonde” roadmap

Here’s what many first-time blonde journeys look like. (Not everyone needs all steps.)

Session 1: The foundation

Goal: create a beautiful, safe first lift with softness and blend.
Often includes:

  • Lightening (partial or full, depending on goal)
  • Bond-building/hair health support as needed
  • Toner/gloss for the finished tone
  • A maintenance plan so it stays pretty

What you’ll leave with: noticeably lighter hair that still feels healthy, plus a clear path forward.

Session 2: More brightness and refinement (if needed)

Goal: push lighter in a controlled way, add more dimension, perfect the tone.
This is common if you want a brighter blonde than Session 1 safely allows.

Session 3: “Blonde goals” level (for bigger transformations)

Goal: the brightest, most polished version—once your hair is ready.

The safest blonde is built in steps. If your hair can handle it faster, great. If not, we protect it.

How long does it take?

A first-time blonde appointment can range from a couple hours to most of the day depending on:

  • starting level
  • density/length
  • technique
  • how much warmth we’re correcting
  • whether we’re doing a major change

I’ll give you realistic timing expectations up front.

How long will it last before you need to come back?

This depends on the type of blonde you choose.

Lower-maintenance blondes (most first-timers love these)

  • Lived-in blonde: often 10–16 weeks between major appointments
  • Gloss/toner refresh: often 6–10 weeks (quick refresh to keep it shiny and toned)

Higher-maintenance blondes

  • Traditional highlights near the root: often 6–10 weeks depending on regrowth tolerance

I’ll help you choose a blonde that matches your schedule.

The truth about toner, gloss, and brassiness

If you go blonde, you’ll hear words like toner, gloss, root smudge. Here’s the simple version:

  • Lightener lifts pigment (makes you lighter)
  • Toner/gloss customizes the shade (makes it look expensive)
  • Brassiness happens when underlying warmth shows through (very normal)

Toner isn’t “extra.” It’s part of what makes your blonde look intentional.

Central Texas factors that affect blonde

In Central Texas, blonde can shift faster because of:

  • sun exposure (UV)
  • heat styling
  • frequent shampooing
  • hard water in some areas

You can absolutely keep blonde bright here—you just need a plan.

How to prep for your first blonde appointment

  • Bring 2–3 inspiration photos (different lighting helps)
  • Be honest about hair history (especially box dye)
  • Arrive with clean, dry hair unless told otherwise
  • Avoid heavy oils/products right before

How to maintain your blonde at home (simple and realistic)

  • Use a color-safe shampoo
  • Always use heat protectant when styling
  • Add a hydrating mask 1x/week if your hair feels dry
  • Use purple shampoo strategically (not daily)
  • Plan for a gloss/toner refresh if tone starts to fade

I’ll recommend what fits your hair—not a complicated routine.

FAQ: First-Time Blonde

Do I have to go blonde in multiple sessions?
Not always. It depends on your starting color and hair history. Hair health decides the timeline.

Will going blonde damage my hair?
Any lightening changes the hair. The goal is to do it in a way that keeps your hair strong, soft, and wearable long-term.

Can I go blonde if I’ve used box dye?
Often yes, but it may require extra strategy and a slower timeline to keep it even and healthy.

How do I choose warm vs cool blonde?
We choose based on your skin tone, lifestyle, and what will look best as it fades. The most flattering blonde is the one that still looks good between visits.

What if I don’t want high maintenance?
Then lived-in blonde is usually the best first-time choice.

Ready to go blonde in San Marcos?

If you’re in San Marcos (or nearby Kyle, Buda, New Braunfels, or South Austin) and you’re thinking about going blonde for the first time, I’ll help you do it safely—with a plan you can actually maintain.

Book at Salon MINK or DM me “FIRST TIME BLONDE” with:

  1. a photo of your hair in daylight
  2. one inspiration photo
  3. your hair history (especially any box dye)

Dimensional Brunette: How to Add Depth and Shine Without Going Lighter

Written by Erin Dowling on . Posted in Brunette Color Education & Shine, Dimensional Color, Hair Health, Low-Maintenance Color. No Comments on Dimensional Brunette: How to Add Depth and Shine Without Going Lighter

If you love being brunette but your hair feels flat, dull, or “one-tone,” you don’t need to go lighter to make it look richer. Dimensional brunette is all about adding depth, movement, and shine while keeping your overall brunette vibe intact.

I’m Erin Dowling at Salon MINK in San Marcos, and this is one of my favorite upgrades for clients who want their hair to look healthier, glossier, and more expensive—without committing to blonde.

Quick Take

  • Dimensional brunette adds depth + shine with low-contrast tones
  • Great for brunettes who feel flat, brassy, or faded
  • Can be done with gloss, lowlights, or subtle ribbons
  • Designed to look good as it grows out
  • Hair health stays the priority

What “dimensional brunette” actually means

Dimensional brunette is a custom blend of brunette tones (think: espresso, mocha, soft chestnut, neutral cocoa) placed in a way that creates movement—especially in natural light.

It’s not about getting lighter. It’s about:

  • Adding depth (so your color looks richer)
  • Enhancing shine (so hair looks healthier)
  • Creating contrast that’s subtle, not stripey

Signs you’d love dimensional brunette

  • Your brunette looks flat in photos
  • Your ends look dull or faded
  • You’re dealing with warm/brassy tones you don’t love
  • You want a change that still feels low-maintenance
  • You want shine without a full color overhaul

3 ways to add depth and shine without going lighter

1) A brunette gloss (fastest upgrade)

A gloss is a tone + shine refresh that can:

  • Neutralize unwanted warmth
  • Deepen your brunette slightly
  • Make hair look instantly healthier

Best if you like your current shade but want it richer and shinier.

2) Soft lowlights (depth without “dark”)

Lowlights add a few deeper ribbons to create dimension and contrast—without changing your overall look.

Best if your brunette feels “one-note” and you want movement.

3) Micro-ribbons for dimension (still brunette)

Tiny, strategic placement can create depth and separation so your color looks dynamic—especially around the face and through the crown.

Best if you want a subtle but noticeable upgrade.

How long does it last?

Most dimensional brunette services are built to grow out gracefully.

Typical ranges:

  • Gloss refresh: often every 6–10 weeks
  • Dimensional placement (lowlights/ribbons): often every 10–16 weeks

(Your hair history + how often you heat style matters.)

My consultation-first approach (so the tone stays “you”)

Before we pick tones, I look at:

  • Your natural level and how your hair pulls warmth
  • Previous color (especially box dye or old highlights)
  • Hair health and porosity (this impacts shine + longevity)
  • Your styling routine and maintenance preference

The goal is rich color + long-term hair health, not a quick fix that fades weird.

How to keep dimensional brunette glossy at home

  • Use a color-safe shampoo
  • Don’t over-wash (it fades tone faster)
  • Use heat protectant every time you style
  • Book a gloss refresh before it looks dull—not after

FAQ

Will dimensional brunette cover gray?
It depends on your gray percentage and coverage goals. We can blend gray beautifully, but full coverage may require a different plan.

Can you do this on previously colored hair?
Yes—just expect a custom approach based on what’s already on your hair.

Will it make my hair darker?
It can, slightly—if your hair is faded, a richer brunette will often look deeper at first (in the best way).

Ready for richer brunette hair in San Marcos?

If you’re in San Marcos (or nearby Kyle, Buda, New Braunfels, or South Austin) and want a brunette that looks richer, shinier, and more dimensional—without going lighter—let’s do it.

Book at Salon MINK or DM me “BRUNETTE” with:

a photo of your current hair in daylight

one inspiration photo

your hair history (box dye, highlights, etc.)

Lived-In Blonde vs. Traditional Highlights: Which Looks Best (and Lasts Longer)?

Written by Erin Dowling on . Posted in Blonde Education & Maintenance, Blonding Services, Consultation & Hair Health, Highlights & Balayage. No Comments on Lived-In Blonde vs. Traditional Highlights: Which Looks Best (and Lasts Longer)?

If you’re torn between lived-in blonde and traditional highlights, here’s the real difference: how they grow out and how often you want to come in.

I’m Erin Dowling, a hairstylist at Salon MINK in San Marcos, and my goal is always the same—create a blonde that fits your hair history, lifestyle, and maintenance comfort level.

Quick Take

  • Lived-in blonde = softer root, more blend, longer-lasting grow-out
  • Traditional highlights = brighter and more uniform, more frequent touch-ups
  • Both can be hair-healthy with the right plan

What is a lived-in blonde?

A lived-in blonde is designed to look natural and “expensive” as it grows out. The root stays softer and blended (often using balayage-style placement, teasing, or a root smudge).

Best for you if you want:

  • Low-maintenance blonde
  • Seamless grow-out (no harsh lines)
  • Dimension and softness
  • Fewer “I need my hair done” moments

What are traditional highlights?

Traditional highlights usually use foils placed closer to the scalp for a brighter, more consistent blonde.

Best for you if you want:

  • A brighter overall blonde
  • More blonde near the root
  • That classic fresh-highlight look
  • A consistent appointment schedule

The big difference: grow-out

Lived-in blonde grow-out

  • Softer regrowth
  • Less obvious line at the root
  • Stays flattering longer between visits

Traditional highlights grow-out

  • Regrowth shows sooner
  • You’ll want touch-ups more often to keep it looking fresh

Which lasts longer?

This depends on what you mean by “lasts.”

If you mean: still looks good as it grows out → lived-in blonde usually wins.
Typical ranges:

  • Lived-in blonde: often 10–16 weeks
  • Traditional highlights: often 6–10 weeks

(Your natural color, contrast, and hair history matter—these are general ranges.)

Which looks best?

Choose lived-in blonde if you want soft, natural, and low-maintenance.
Choose traditional highlights if you want brighter, more uniform, and don’t mind regular refreshes.

My consultation-first approach (so you don’t have to guess)

When you sit in my chair at Salon MINK (San Marcos), I look at:

  • Your hair history (old color, box dye, previous highlights)
  • Hair health and breakage risk
  • Your goal photos
  • How often you want to come in
  • A realistic plan to keep your hair healthy long-term

Sometimes the best answer is a hybrid: bright highlights + a soft root blend for the best of both worlds.

How to make your blonde last longer (either way)

  • Use a color-safe shampoo
  • Protect from heat (real heat protectant matters)
  • Plan for a gloss/toner refresh when needed
  • Be mindful of sun exposure (Central Texas sunshine is no joke)

FAQ

Is lived-in blonde the same as balayage?
Not always. Balayage is a technique—“lived-in” is the result.

Can highlights look stripey?
Only if they’re not blended well. Modern placement + toning makes a huge difference.

Can I switch from highlights to lived-in blonde?
Yes—and it’s a great option if you want easier grow-out.

What if I have box dye or uneven color?
That’s where a thoughtful plan (and sometimes multiple sessions) protects hair health.

Ready to pick your best blonde in San Marcos?

If you’re in San Marcos (or nearby Kyle, Buda, New Braunfels, or South Austin) and you want a blonde that fits your lifestyle, let’s create a plan.

Book at Salon MINK or DM me “BLONDE” with:

  1. your current hair color/history
  2. your goal photo
  3. how often you want to come in