Ellie’s effortless bridal hair has made her the go-to for any bride wanting a soft, tousled up-do.
We spoke to Ellie to find out her kit essentials and signature hair style that has made her popular with brides all over the country.
Tell us a little about yourself
My name is Ellie, I live with my husband Mike in beautiful Devon. I am self-taught in bridal and occasion styling and have been in the industry for the last five years travelling all over the UK, I absolutely love the fact that I get to do something I adore as my job.
Who/What inspires you?
I find inspiration in so many different ways, online blogs/magazines, social media such as Pinterest and Instagram are incredible and just in every-day situations, I might see accessories or florals and imagine what I would do with them in someone’s hair. Social media platforms are especially useful as they feature stylists from all over the world, showcasing different trends coming in and really unique ways of styling hair. Two of my biggest hair inspirations are in the US, Stephanie Brinkerhoff and Heather Chapman, I use their techniques in my styling and love seeing their work pop up.
What has been your most worn hairstyle this year?
I tend to wear my hair down all the time which people find funny especially with what I do in my day job! I love a soft wave (using a 32mm barrel) because it looks effortless and I can make it last days, who doesn’t want to save time getting ready in the morning!?
Tell us about your signature hair style
I would say my signature hairstyle is loose around the front, soft with curls and texture within the crown with a chunky braid of some variation on one side. It has always been my most requested style to date.
What is the best part of your work?
I love a challenge so I would say my favourite part of my job is taking someone’s idea and managing to create something they love in their hair. I get so many people say I cannot believe that is my hair I just assumed it wouldn’t be possible in mine, so that always makes my day. However, I also love hearing peoples stories of how they met, seeing the dresses and I absolutely have a soft spot for seeing the dads ‘first look’ I am not sure why but I feel so emotional for my brides at that point!
Three must have kit pieces and why…
My three must haves would be; my Hot Tools Curl Bar Set (multiple sizes for different styles), a decent dry texture spray and the last one is a hard one between a smoothing cream and a comb for teasing/tidying.
One thing you have learnt about yourself during 2020…
In 2020 I definitely learnt that I need to keep a healthy balance of life and work. It is so easy to get caught up working all hours and not having enough quality time with my family and friends. It has also given me the chance to reflect on how much I do love my job, as it has been a pretty tough year but I wouldn’t give it up for the world.
