It’s not just the dress that creates a bride’s big day look, the hair and makeup styling play a big part too, which is why it’s always helpful to know a pro. So ladies, if you’re currently on the search for a bridal hair and makeup stylist, prepare to take note as we’re introducing the fabulous Becca Hunton to the blog today as a shiny new Brides Up North Sponsor.
Ticking both hair and makeup boxes, Yorkshire-based Becca is a fully qualified hairdresser and makeup artist, who’s worked in established salons and at top events in both Ibiza and London, before setting up her own company, specialising in bridal beauty.
And while Becca covers a whole range of bridal looks, she has a particular passion for vintage and festival style weddings, so if you’re planning a big day along these lines, this talented lady is definitely the stylist for you.
Here to tell us more about her services is the super stylist herself…
Can you tell us a little about your background and how you got into hair and makeup?
becca says:
I’ve always been interested in hair and makeup since I was very young. As soon as I left school I became a hairdresser. Then at 19 I got into London College of Fashion to train in makeup. I loved it! Soon after I worked in Ibiza, creating looks for Hed Kandi and gorgeous brides. I’ve been part of many different salons, including Toni & Guy in London and have worked on shows at London Fashion Week. After ten years of gaining experience I decided to set up my own business. It’s been the best thing I’ve ever done! I’ve always loved getting brides ready for their big day and with having both hair and makeup qualifications, I can offer the full package.What do you enjoy about working in the wedding industry?
I love working in the wedding industry because you get to meet so many new and interesting people all the time. Everybody loves a good wedding don’t they? There’s always a good buzz about the place!
What is your favourite part of your job?
I love it all but I’d say getting a bridal party ready for the big day is my favourite part of my job, it’s always such an excitable time. I love going to different venues too, I’ve been to some amazing places! I also love to see what lovely dresses the brides pick – there’s such a variety of dresses out there!
Can you tell us about the services you offer?
I’m a fully trained hairdresser and makeup artist. As well as getting a bridal party ready, I cut and colour. I also offer makeup lessons. I do a lot of vintage styling and have found that hen parties love to get involved with that. I can either do mini makeovers on all the hens, or give them makeup lessons and then they all have a go too.
What process will a bride go through if they pick you to do their wedding hair and makeup?
After contacting me we will discuss your wedding and ideas that you have. I can give you tips on where to look for ideas. A trial is included in the price, which usually happens four to six weeks before the wedding. That’s a time when we can try different looks. I take photos of the hair and makeup and also write up a face plan of the makeup I have used ready to recreate on the big day.
Where do you advise brides to source inspiration from for their hair and makeup?
Pinterest is brilliant – you can make mood boards of everything you like. Also bridal magazines -Unveiled and Rock n Roll bride are good ones!
What are your top tips for brides to get their hair in the best condition possible for the wedding?
Have regular trims. And really look after your hair with weekly treatments. My favourite hair brand is Davines! It’s all made from natural ingredients and some of the products are vegan too.
Similarly, what are your top tips for brides to get their skin in the best condition possible for the wedding?
Really look after your skin – cleanse morning and night, moisturise and use weekly masks. Also drink lots of water and eat healthy. My favourite skin care range is Tropic, which is a 100% natural and vegan!
Which celebrity bride would you most like to style and why?
Fearne Cotton or Helena Bonham Carter, I love both their styles equally. They’re quirky and bohemian with a vintage side too.
Any particular styles of hair and makeup proving popular with brides at the moment?
Everybody is loving a very relaxed and soft kind of look. Also, something vintage and boho. I do a lot of loose plaits with soft curls. Brides are liking more of a dishevelled textured kind of finish too.
What should a bride look for in a stylist or makeup artist?
You should get on well with your stylist and feel completely at ease with them as you’re trusting them with your big day look! You need somebody punctual and who can keep calm in a busy situation. By hiring a professional you can sit back on your big day, champagne in hand and not worry about a thing.
What sets you apart from other bridal stylists?
As I do both hair and makeup brides only need to hire one person, which makes it a lot easier. I also airbrush the makeup, using airbase, it’s fab! I do a lot of vintage/festival inspired weddings and so I tend to attract a lot of bohemian brides. Having worked a lot of festivals face and body painting, I now offer festival party styling at the evening reception, which includes face and body painting, sequins, feathers, jewels, which goes down a treat with all the wedding guests – especially when there’s a photo booth!
Are there any brands of hair products or makeup that you tend to use on your clients?
My makeup kit is mostly Illamasqua, which is a cruelty-free range. They have also brought out some vegan products. It’s my favourite makeup, I wear it all the time. For hair I use a lot of Bed Head products as I love the fruity smell of them. I also use Maria Nila, a vegan range, if the client would prefer.
How can Brides Up North readers get in touch with you or see more examples of your work?
You can click on my little advert on the side of the Brides Up North website, that takes you straight through to my website, which has a gallery and contact page and prices. I use Facebook a lot too so it’s worth taking a look at my page.
Anything else we should know?
I pop up at different wedding fairs throughout the year, so if you would like to come and meet me in person just check my website and Facebook to see where I’ll be.