This morning I’m delighted to introduce you to b.loved sponsor Lauren, from Brides to be Make-up by Lauren.

Wanting a change of career from typical city life, Lauren decided to follow her passion of hair and makeup, launching Brides to be Make-up by Lauren in 2006.  Since then, Lauren has taken on a small team of hair stylists and makeup artists, with over 30 years combined experience.  Lauren offers a personalised service for her brides throughout Kent and the South-East.

With a love of by-gone era’s influencing her style, Lauren found many of her brides were also struggling to find vintage inspired hair accessories to suit their hair styles, so in 2011 launched Brides to be Make-up Accessories, stocking much loved pieces from top designers such as Harriet Wilde and LoveArtWear Art shoes, as well as Donna Crain hair accessories.

Let’s find out a bit more about her ~

My style is… with a vintage twist

I’m inspired by… my peers as well as other like minded people that have changed their career completely, taken a risk in whatever business it may be in. I still like to hear start up stories and Lauren teaches both make-up and hair professionally so she can get the aspiring artist on the career ladder which is often very hard to do.

Sakura Shoes & Clutch by Harriet Wilde

My favourite piece is… the ‘Sakura’ nude shoes by Harriet Wilde

Trends I love right now… Vintage, although I like the English Rose style as well, and based my accessory business partly on that.  This trend can be both classic and chic.

Scarlett Ivory & Nina Clutch by LoveArtWear Art

I admire… Obviously Harriet Wilde and Nicole Le Grange of LoveArtWear Art who I am stockist for, but also I admire the up and coming designers who have just kept building and building their status in the bridal dress field.  Victoria Allinson Couture is definitely one of those designers for me. 

I love my job because… of the variety.

Milly & Honeysuckle by Donna Crain

Weddings make me… feel very satisfied.  I like to know that we as a business have created a seamless process of the booking through to the day of the wedding itself. There is a real sense of achievement. I especially like, as I am sure most do receiving photos of the bride and grooms special day and it is a real pleasure when you receive such lovely feedback regarding you and your teams hard work.

My advice for couples planning their wedding is…remain calm! Visit wedding fairs to get inspiration and ideas for your wedding day. My advice for the bride would be to have a make-up and hair trial 4-8 weeks prior to your wedding day so that the looks you have picked out are fresh in the mind. To hopefully pick out your hair accessory (if you’re having one) in time for the trial is key.  You don’t want any last minute panicking that the accessory doesn’t go or fit in properly with your chosen hairstyle!  Lastly, to remember to have your shoes present at your dress/suit fittings.