Jira is a true professional, a calm cheery personality, listens to what you want and punctual!
On the day of my wedding she showed up 10 minutes early and cheerfully began setting up all her equipment. When my mom decided that she wanted her hair and makeup done as well, Jira was able to accomodate my mom within the give time frame (30 minutes) and have my mom look and feel gorgeous.
During the trial, I expressed reservations about using shimmer, false eyelashes, a foundation color that doesn't match my neck, etc. Jira was able to asess my features and my needs to tell me what would work best for me. She had me try the fake eyelashes and she was right. They looked great in the photos without being over the top.
I was so impressed with her hair and makeup skills that I got her to teach me her makeup application tips using my own stash of makeup and brushes. I also set up an appointment for a haircut.

A friend of mine getting married three months after me loved my light and natural makeup so much that she's booking Jira too.

It's a beautiful place that is very very popular for a small (or on the small side) intimate garden wedding. My first choice date (a Saturday in June) was booked more than 14 months ahead. April is a popular wedding month because the wisteria, irises and cherry blossoms are in bloom.

Lots of restrictions and rules to follow. If you go off their recommended caterer list, you have to pay extra. For decorating, you can't tape or nail, so your best bet is hanging. We used wire and paper clips to hang up colored lanterns of various shapes and sizes. The staff is unbelievably helpful and will go above and beyond for you. Tables and white chairs are included in the rental price.

The guests really loved the wedding. They liked how they could walk around and explore the garden during "down time" so they weren't bored. The little kids could run around without being distracting, at a hotel you can't really have kids doing that. One guest commented that our wedding was very "zen," calming and relaxing.

I give it four stars because it's a beautiful place, easy to get to. I took off one star because it's expensive to rent, has very restrictive rules and restrictive time. For an evening wedding, guests can be there only from 5-9pm.