Laura Chihaia—known across the industry as Lala—helps bridal stylists turn “I hope this holds” into calm, repeatable results. Based in Fort Lauderdale, she’s the educator behind Lala’s Updos, where her work lives at the intersection of artistry and real wedding-day practicality: structure, speed, and styles that photograph like a dream.

Her story has grit in it. After immigrating from Romania to the U.S. in 2006, she built her career the hard way—through sacrifice, trial-and-error, and a refusal to quit. That experience shows up in the way she teaches: warm, direct, and focused on helping stylists work smart (not just harder).

Through Lala’s Bridal Academy, Laura offers a library of 100+ tutorials (from hair prep and braids to boho texture, Hollywood waves, and more), with certification available—plus a mentorship program for stylists who want personal guidance, accountability, and career direction.