Scottish Wedding Hair & Makeup Directory October 2025 by Hania McIntyre

Gothic Bridal Beauty

Styled Photoshoot by Bridal Hair by Natasha and Andrea Maxwell

Jamie Genevieve Masterclass in Glasgow

BRIDES ONE STOP ONLINE MAGAZINE FOR ALL THINGS BEAUTY HAIR AND MAKEUP

Welcome to the Scottish Wedding Hair & Makeup Directory Magazine

Welcome to October’s editions of our online Magazine. Full of wedding hair and makeup inspo for Brides getting Married in Scotland.

Cover feature is a members Styled Shoot with Bridal Hair By Natasha and Andrea Maxwell, and their Gothic Bridal Shoot. A recap of the fab VIEVE makeup masterclass attended by a few of our members, with a makeup demo by Jamie Genevieve herself.

Members Q&A with Gaynor from Elegant Bridal Hairstyling and our Portfolio Day at Glasgow featuring Bridal by Regina.

Warmest Regards

Hania

ScottishWedding Hair&Makeup DirectoryOnline Magazine

Editor

Hania McIntyre

Co Editor

Sara Bonner - O Hara

Contributor

Bridal Hair by Natasha

Andrea Maxwell

Photographers

JK Photography

John Johnstone Photography

Sky Photography

About Our Staff

Hania McIntyre

Hania is a Wedding Makeup Artist in South West Scotland and Founder of the Scottish Wedding Hair & Makeup Directory.

Sara Bonner - O Hara

Sara is a cruelty free Hair & Makeup Artist based in Scotland’s central belt. Sara also offers nail and facial services.

www.scottishweddinghairandmakeupdirectory.co.uk info@scottishweddinghairandmakeupdirectory.co.uk @scottishbridalbeauty

Halloween Inspired Wedding

Shoot: Bridal Hair by Natasha and Andrea Maxwell

GOTHIC BRIDAL BEAUTY

Member Bridal Hair by Natasha teamed up with Andrea Maxwell for a Halloween Inspired Shoot.

When it comes to creating a wedding look, hair and makeup are more than finishing touches they’re the elements that bring the entire vision together. For our styled shoot at the hauntingly beautiful ruins of St Barevan’s Church, the creative team knew they wanted a look that leaned into gothic romance without tipping into costume or cliché. The result? A bridal style that was bold, dramatic, and unforgettable.

St Barevan’s Church, near Cawdor Castle in the Scottish Highlands, was the perfect backdrop. Dating back to the 13th century, the ruins are steeped in history and mystery. Their soaring arched windows and weathered stone walls provided a moody atmosphere that set the stage for our Halloween-inspired, alternative wedding shoot.

Florals by Fiona @flosflowers inv and photography by Justyna @jkolodziejphotography gave the shoot depth and drama, but the transformation of our bride model Athena through hair and makeup was the true focal point.

For Athena’s hair, Natasha Griffin (@bridalhairbynatasha) crafted a look that balanced gothic drama with romantic softness A voluminous bun was styled at the crown of her head, softened by delicate tendrils framing her face and neck. To achieve such sculptural height, Natasha used stretched hair in a shade of green that matched Athena’s own, blending seamlessly and adding dimension.

The finishing touch was a single black rose, provided by florist Fiona, placed neatly within the bun Striking yet understated, it tied the entire look to the floral arrangements while adding a symbolic nod to gothic romance. Paired with a cathedral-length veil, the hairstyle was as timeless as it was theatrical, giving Athena an otherworldly silhouette.

Andrea Maxwell (@andreamaxwellmua) approached Athena’s makeup with a careful eye. Known for her soft, natural style, Andrea shifted toward something deeper and more dramatic while maintaining elegance. She sculpted Athena’s features with subtle contouring, highlighted the eyes with shimmer that caught the light inside the ruins, and finished with a rich lip tone that grounded the look. The overall effect was powerful yet wearable makeup that commanded attention but complemented rather than competed with the gown and setting.

Together, Natasha and Andrea created a vision of gothic bridal beauty: a bride who carried presence and drama without losing softness or romance. Athena’s black gown by Bête Noire and cathedral veil amplified the gothic theme, while Russell, our groom model, wore a petrol blue jacket with black detailing, paired with a Vanda orchid buttonhole that popped against the darker tones

Florals played their part too, with Fiona’s hoop bouquet and a striking floral installation in the ruins, but it was the beauty styling that truly defined the aesthetic The hair and makeup became the bridge between historical atmosphere and modern bridal fashion.

This shoot proved that gothic-inspired weddings don’t have to lean into stereotypes With the right team and a clear vision, hair and makeup can become the heart of a look a way of expressing romance, strength, and individuality all at once

For brides seeking something different, Athena’s look is proof that a black dress, bold styling, and a touch of gothic drama can be every bit as timeless and beautiful as traditional bridal choices

Credits

Images - JK Photography

Makeup Andrea Maxwell

Hair - Bridal Hair by Natasha

Dress - Bete Noire

Flowers - Flos Flowers Inverness

Meet our Members

Gaynor Elegant Bridal Hairstyling

Image John Johnstone Photography

Can you tell us a little about yourself and how you got started in the wedding hair and makeup industry?

Hello, I’m Gaynor! I’m proud to be a multi-award-winning bridal hair and makeup artist, with my most recent achievement being Best Wedding Hairdresser at the 2025 Confetti Awards. I’m married, a proud mum of three, and have both a cat and a dog (though if it wasn’t so costly, I’d happily have a house full of children and animals!). My husband and I have been together since we were 14 we’re true high school sweethearts.

My journey began with bridal hairstyling. I bought practice dolls and spent hours every day working on different looks until I found my own style and strengths. From there, I started doing styled shoots and running competitions for brides to win their hairstyling. Things quickly took off, and within a year I had a full diary.

At trials, I was often asked if I also did makeup. After two years of offering just hairstyling, I decided to expand into makeup and the demand for someone who could do both was incredible. Eventually, I opened my own salon just two years into my business, which is still thriving today I’m so proud of how far it’s come, but none of it would have been possible without my amazing brides, my fellow suppliers, and of course, my husband who truly is the backbone of everything I do.

How many years have you been working as a wedding hair and makeup artist?

This coming January will mark 6 wonderful years and I’ve never looked back!

Can you describe the range of services you offer to brides and bridal parties?

I provide a full range of bespoke bridal packages, including:

Image Willow & Wilde Photography

Can you walk us through your typical process when working with a bride from the initial consultation to the wedding day?

The process usually begins with an enquiry through my website booking form or via email. If I’m available, I’ll provide a tailored quote and answer any initial questions. To secure the date, a small booking fee is required, with the final balance due two weeks before the wedding. Early in the year of your wedding, I’ll reach out to suggest a trial, though this is completely optional. If a trial isn’t possible, I’ll ask you to share photos both with and without makeup, plus inspiration pictures, dress details, and bridesmaids’ looks so I can get a strong sense of your style and vision.

About a month before the wedding, I’ll check in again to confirm timings, go over the morning schedule, and ensure everything is set. On the wedding morning, I always arrive in good time to set up. I prefer a bright space near a window with room for my kit and access to sockets for my tools and lights. I work through each person calmly and efficiently, staying right up until you’re ready to step into your dress (or until your veil is placed). I always do final touch-ups before leaving because for me, perfection matters, and I want every detail to be flawless for your big day.

What advice do you have for brides who are in the process of choosing their wedding hair and makeup artist?

Avoid relying solely on Pinterest it’s much better to look at real work on Instagram, Facebook, or supplier directories. Every artist has their own style, so choose someone whose portfolio feels like “ you. ” Make sure they have strong reviews and recommendations, ideally from venues or other trusted suppliers Above all, trust your instincts you should feel confident and comfortable with your artist.

Image John Johnstone Photography

Do you have a favourite wedding location in Scotland where you’ve worked?

Without a doubt Auchen Castle! If you follow my socials, you’ll know it’s like my second home. It’s under an hour from me and always such a magical place to work.

What are your top 3 products in your kit?

Such a tricky one to narrow down! But if I had to choose:

* Hair: KYK Volume Spray, got2b hairspray, and Schwarzkopf pump spray.

* Makeup: Niche brow pencil, Natasha Denona warm palette, and Haus Labs foundation.

How can brides get in touch with you to learn more about your services or to book a consultation?

The best way to reach me is through my website: www.elegantbridalhairstyling.co.uk, where you’ll find my booking form.

You can also email me directly at elegantbridalhairstyling@gmail.com. All enquiries go straight into my inbox, which keeps everything clear and organised

S C O T T I S H B R I D A L

B E A U T Y A T J A M I E

G E N E V I E V E ’ S

E X C L U S I V E V I E V E

M A S T E R C L A S S

On Thursday, 25 September, Glasgow played host to a celebration of modern makeup artistry as the Scottish Wedding Hair & Makeup Directory attended an intimate VIEVE masterclass led by the brand’s founder and global beauty muse, Jamie Genevieve.

Taking place at the Social Hub in Merchant City, the evening brought together industry professionals, bridal specialists, and devoted makeup enthusiasts eager to experience Jamie’s vision firsthand. Jamie brought her signature mix of

A Masterclass in Modern Glamour.

The night’s creative focus was a cool-toned, grunge-inspired look. Jamie worked with some fab new products that will be launching soon!

As the evening unfolded, guests were treated to exclusive previews of upcoming VIEVE launches, While details remained closely guarded, the new products promise to blend seamlessly with VIEVE’s existing, muchloved range.

Adding to the buzz, Jamie revealed that a new service will soon debut at the VIEVE pop-up in Glasgow Though specifics remain under wraps at the moment, you won’t be disappointed!

For the Scottish Wedding Hair & Makeup Directory, the evening was more than an industry event, it was a lovely night with members Michaela Sands and Gaynor from Elegant Bridal. The evening finished with a photo opportunity with Jamie herself, she is the loveliest most down to earth woman.

If you haven’t yet been into the Glasgow pop up, please make sure you do as the staff are so lovely and welcoming. I have been into many Makeup shops and I know they can often feel intimidating, but I promise you, VIEVE isn't.

Located at 220 Buchanan Street, Glasgow (at the bottom of Buchanan Galleries).

members portfolio day 2025

Back in August, the Scottish Wedding Hair & Makeup Directory hosted an exclusive Members Only Portfolio Day in Glasgow at Broadscope Studio. It was a creative collaboration.

Working with Sky Photography, Pretty Little Details and Opus Couture, it was a fab day full of creativity and fun.

Bridal by Regina created an effortlessly elegant hair and makeup style that perfectly balanced modern bridal sophistication with timeless romance. Regina’s soft yet polished finish highlighted natural beauty while ensuring a camera-ready glow, beautifully complementing the couture gowns provided by Opus Couture. Capturing every detail was Sky Photography, together, this dream team produced a set of stunning bridal portraits, perfect inspiration for brides seeking refined beauty with a Scottish touch.

Events like this are at the heart of our mission: providing members with opportunities to grow their portfolio, build meaningful industry relationships, and stay inspired while creating content that resonates with real brides. We’re proud to support such talent and can’t wait to see these looks gracing future wedding mornings across Scotland.

One thing I hear all h wedding makeup “Why does it cost because it’s for a

It’s a fair question speak for every w can answer it as s spent the past ten bridal looks acro Spoiler: it’s not ju the word “weddin the work behind y very different fro out glam session.

Let’s break it dow

1. The Venue Factor. We Come to You. For a Saturday night out, you usually travel to your artist’s home studio or salon For a wedding, it’s the opposite, we pack up our entire kit and come to your venue or chosen location.

In Scotland, that often means a long early morning drive, sometimes hours before sunrise. Those 5 a m alarms are part of the job. Night out glam, on the other hand, rarely starts before midmorning or early afternoon.

2. Big Bridal Parties Mean Big Logistics. Wedding mornings often involve multiple services at once, the bride, bridesmaids, mums, sometimes flower girls too. If the numbers are high, your artist may need to hire a trusted assistant or second artist.

That’s not just about extra hands, it’s about finding skilled professionals willing to travel and work to the same standard, which can be surprisingly challenging.

3.

Timing Is Everything

A full wedding morning runs to a strict timeline, hair and makeup must be flawless and finished on schedule for photos, travel, and the ceremony This usually means longer applications and meticulous time planning. In a salon setting, an artist can fit in back-to-back clients with no travel, setup, or strict deadlines. On location bridal work is more time-intensive from start to finish.

4. Makeup & Hair Built to Last and to Photograph

Wedding makeup isn’t just about looking pretty, it must:

Last 12+ hours through happy tears, hugs, dancing, and Scottish weather.

Photograph beautifully in professional photos and HD video. That means specific product choices and application techniques. The same goes for wedding hair, it’s styled to last all day, support veils or hair accessories, and stay picture-perfect from ceremony to ceilidh

5. Professional Grade Kits Aren’t Cheap.

Take a peek inside a pro bridal artist’s kit and you’ll find luxury, longwearing products, not just drugstore dupes. From premium foundations and setting sprays to pro hairstyling tools and products, the investment in quality is huge.

Add to that: lighting equipment, durable cases, portable chairs, social media cameras, and the costs start to climb.

6. You’re Paying for Experience and Reliability

Most full-time wedding hair and makeup artists have spent years perfecting their craft, investing thousands in:

Training & advanced masterclasses (good courses often cost £400+)

Business insurance, contracts & reliable booking systems

Professional branding & marketing

A seasoned professional knows how to run a calm, punctual wedding morning, handle unexpected hiccups, and deliver results under pressure. Sadly, I’ve seen brides left in the lurch by hobbyists with no contracts, no insurance, and no backup plan.

7. Behind-the-Scenes Business Costs

Being a professional isn’t just brushes and lipsticks. There’s also:

Car insurance, mileage & wearand-tear

Business banking & accounting

software

Website hosting, invoicing systems, and admin tools

Ongoing subscriptions for training and client management

Paid advertising (Facebook, Instagram, Google) to stay visible in a crowded market

A beautiful Instagram feed or polished brand isn’t accidental it’s a strategic business investment.

✨ The Bigger Picture

When you book a professional wedding hair or makeup artist, you’re not just paying for an hour of glam. You’re investing in:

✅ Experience & expertise built over years

✅ Premium products that last all day & photograph flawlessly

✅ A calm, reliable presence on one of the most important mornings of your life

✅ Travel & logistics handled seamlessly so you don’t have to stress It’s about peace of mind as much as it is about beauty.

So next time you wonder why there’s a difference between night-out makeup and bridal pricing, remember: a wedding morning is a full-scale production and your artist is part of the crew making sure it’s perfect.