The morning of your wedding most probably will be a busy affair. No matter how well you plan there will be a lot of hustle & bustle, with rooms full of people trying to get ready. Add into the equation all the suppliers around you and you can imagine it can become quite hectic. That's a key reason you need to choose experienced suppliers that can get a professional job done in a relaxed and stress-free manner. One part of your day that needs to be absolutely right is your hairstyle, as you want to look at your absolute best during the ceremony, the photographs, and throughout the whole day. When it comes to hairstylists then experience is key, and few are as experienced as Carolyn Clinton from Art of Hair. We catch up with Carolyn to find out a little more about her, what the latest trends and styles are, and what advice she gives for dealing with hectic wedding mornings.
Tell us little about yourself & your business. Where are you based and how long have you be a wedding hair-stylist?
My name is Carolyn and I'm the owner of Art of Hair which is based in Navan, County Meath. I've over 30 years of experience now as a hairdresser and for the last 15 years I've been working as a freelance wedding hair specialist traveling all over Ireland, but also at weddings in the UK, Europe, and the United States. I adore what I do and I just love making people feel good on their special day.
Do you have a mobile service and what areas do you cover?
My mobile service consists of traveling to bridal parties all over Ireland. On a typical day I could be on the road from as early as 5am. I always stay with my group until they are dressed when I'd do the final touch-ups before they leave for the church or venue. I want them looking perfect before they head off to the ceremony. It's a busy mobile service as I also do Communions, Confirmations, and even Hen Parties so I'm usually kept quite busy.
What are the latest trends in wedding hairstyles?
Over the last 2 years there was a big demand for the Hollywood Wave and structured down-styles but that trend seems to be softening again to a more free-flow natural style, and the Boho is definitely making a comeback. Brides lately are once again adding fresh flowers to their hair which I absolutely love as it adds colour and softness to any style. And of course the old reliable up-styles of soft knots and Chignon are still popular. It can often be the case where the neckline of the dress will inspire the hair choice and this is the reason I chat with each bride several times before the day itself. Headpieces add an element of bling to any style and the Cape veils are going to be big again this year and next. They are more of a fashion add-on to the dress than a hair accessory. I always work with a bride's personal choice first and see if her chosen style works with the overall look before I make suggestions. A hairstyle done correctly can greatly enhance the photos in the album so it needs to be chosen carefully and should complement the dress and overall look.
Are wedding mornings stressful? What tips could you give brides for their morning preparations?
Yes, stress can be a factor, as it's not easy planning and preparing for a wedding. However, I always say to my brides that it's their and their partners' day, so don't spend unnecessary time worrying. Pick your suppliers right and that will take a lot of the stress from you. Let them get on with the job at hand and you just relax, smile, and enjoy every minute of it! My top tips are...
Try to have an easy week in the lead up to the big day.
Keep a notebook by the bed and deal with items in the morning-time, don't lose sleep.
Have a pamper day at some stage, with maybe a massage?
The night before get a good night's sleep as you will be up early.
In the weeks leading up to the wedding, I normally give hair advice and some tips on what needs to be done the day before the wedding to prepare for my arrival. When I meet the bride for the trial we go through all the products and preparation needed to suit her style and texture of hair. When I arrive on the morning itself I set everything up, along with the makeup artist, and we start working efficiently through the group. My moto is fun and a bit of craÃc. Laughter solves everything and a calm bride is a calm house. I'm always there until my bride dresses as anything can happen and I try to go above and beyond making sure she looks wow coming down that stairs. Carolyn's emergency pack for the bride:
Clips and hairpins
Safety pins
Lipstick
Water wipes
Travel sew kit
Antihistamines
Small hairspray
Tissues
You've won some awards during your career. Tell us more...
Yes, I've been very lucky to have won and been nominated for some prestigious awards almost every year since 2012. I was the 'Best in Bridal' overall winner at the Meath Style Awards in 2018 and finalist again in 2019. This made me very proud indeed as I was up against such strong bridal suppliers so that was a real privilege to win. I've also won some Irish Hair & Beauty Awards and Micro Business awards.
How can people get in touch with you to book you for your wedding?
If anyone would like to get in touch they can call or WhatsApp me on 086 8531521 for a friendly chat and advice. Or, if they wish to email me at carolyn@artofhair.ie. Everyone is also welcome to follow and message me on social media at: Facebook Instagram Twitter
