The Bride Guide

Featuring everything you need to know about being a Natalie Willingham bride.

communication

My preferred way of communicating with you is by email. We are all super busy and messages via whatsapp or messenger can often get lost. Of course I’m happy to chat on the phone or via video call but email means that everything is kept in one place.

pricing, payment terms and contract

All of my prices are stated in your quote which is valid for 14 days and can be accepted online. Prices are reviewed annually. If a price increase is applied and this affects your booking you will be advised in a timely manner.

I accept payment by bank transfer (BACS) or cash only. Cash payments for trials and final balances are by prior arrangement only. Payment terms are as follows: Booking Fee - 7 days from invoice; Trial - 7 days prior to appointment; Final Balance - one month prior to wedding day.

You can find a blank copy of your contract here Should you need a copy of your acceptance email please let me know.

Come to your trial appointment with an open mind. Often hair styles and makeup looks have to be adapted to suit your features and colouring. Sometimes brides find it tricky to communicate what they want, so come prepared with images of what you love but also what you don't like so we can work out what will become your stunning bridal look

Feedback is key to making sure that you are happy with your makeup and hair styling so don't be scared to speak up. Tell me what you want to change but also tell me what you love. Usually, I start off with the lightest makeup as its easier to add colour and depth as opposed to lighten something

Trials take between 1-2 hours and can be scheduled as far in advance as you wish but no less than 6weeks before your wedding day. Of course there are exceptions to this - in these instances get in touch and let me know how I can help. You can have as many trials as you want but if you folow my advice and prepare in advance one trial should be sufficient. Trials are available for your bridal party but are not necessary.

YOUR WEDDING MORNING

One month prior to your wedding day youwill be sent an email confirming arrangements for your wedding morning. I will arrive 15 minutes before my first appointment to set up my kit. Having a table near a window, with a plug socket and stool or chair is extremely helpful and makes my set up even quicker. Each member of the bridal party will be allocated an appointment time. It is essential that everyone arrives on time for their appointment as any delays can make the bridal party late

The Bride’s appointment tyically lasts between 1.5-2 hours for both hair and makeup. Depending on your style this appointment may be split into smaller sessions to facilitate activities such as setting the hair or if more intense skin prep is required

Appointments for mums and maids typically last an hour for both hair and makeup. Their styling may be completed by an associate / assistant in full or part and their appointment will reflect this

I will stay with you for as long as you wish and often complete certain tasks such as place button holes, dress the bride, dry flowers etc .

AFTER YOUR WEDDING

A short time after your wedding day, I will pop you an email asking you to provide feedback or write a review. All of this makes a huge difference to small businesses such as mine and I really appreciate you taking the time to lend your support.

And of course, I love to see and share the beautiful photos of your wedding day - so please remeber to send some to me.