If any of you has ever been to any wedding fair, brought a wedding magazine or seen styled shoots for social media or print publications you will be in no doubt that the wedding hair and make up industry is huge and legion. There are numerous suppliers that all have their own styles and inspirations but none stand out quite as much as the gorgeous Ann and her Vintage Glamour.
I first met Anna at a wedding fair and we chatted the entire day about all things aesthetic and funny things at weddings, I had a hoot! So imagine how thrilled I was when I met her again at the Quirky Wedding Awards and we got to share a table, which turned out to be a table full of fabulous winners, so it made absolute sense to invite her to share her thoughts and feelings on my Blog. So here she is…….the gorgeous, glamourous…..Anna…..
Your Name: Anna
Your Business Name: Vintage Glamour with Anna
What do you do? I am a vintage hairstylist, offering makeovers for weddings, proms, gala events and photoshoots. I also offer a vintage wig styling service along with 1-2-1 styling lessons on how to re-create vintage hairstyles on yourself for the everyday.
What do you love about what you do? I love seeing the confidence shine through someone once they see themselves made-up in a vintage style from the red carpet. Making them feel empowered and beautiful from the inside out is a very special moment to be part of. I work with a range of clientele, some who live a vintage aesthetic daily and others that are just dipping their toe in, I love seeing the transformation in how someone holds themselves after having a vintage makeover with me. They stand a little taller with their head held high and its a joy to be part of.
How did you start out? I started by experimenting with vintage looks on myself as have always been drawn to the glamour of 20th Century vintage looks. In 2019 I took the bold move to go full time with my own business by opening a vintage themed salon and party venue operating under a Franchise. Sadly, due to the struggles that the Covid pandemic brought to all independent businesses I closed my Franchise business at the end of 2023 and decided to take a break from the industry. During that break I had the amazing opportunity to work in an industry which holds another passion for me, the English Wine industry at one of the oldest Vineyards in Essex. However, a year on, I still really missed styling as a profession, so this time round I decided to open a mobile styling service to run alongside my role at the vineyard, and so Vintage Glamour with Anna began.
What sets you apart from the rest? Being a stylist that focuses on vintage styles I offer a very different type of hairstyling service. The techniques and products I use have been passed down the generations, ensuring any style I create will last for days when my care guidelines are followed. I once had a bride tell me that 4 days after the wedding they now really needed to wash their hair but were sad as it meant no longer having the glamorous Hollywood Wave I had created for them.
What do you hate to see in the industry? Weddings should be about what makes each couples love unique, why they fell in love, their quirks, and individuality. After all there is only one you so why would you want to be someone else. For this reason I dislike any cookie cutter style wedding that lacks personality. I also dislike how far the industry still needs to move forward as there is not enough representation for all our communities to be showcased.
What do you love to see in the industry? I love working with suppliers that have the same core values as me, wanting to have representation for everyone so that we can celebrate love in all its beautiful diversity and allowing everyone to have the wedding day they dream of. Thankfully I have made some wonderful connections throughout the industry with suppliers that support these views. I particularly love working with Quirky Weddings and Rock n Roll Bride as they embrace celebrating and showcasing weddings that are truly indvidual and unique to each couple featured.
What is your favourite venue type? From a professional point of view I love venues that have lots of natural light and big surfaces for me to set up my styling kit. Anywhere with big windows is a huge bonus, as is great for taking gorgeous photos, no filters needed. On a personal view point, I love anything that involves natural beauty and History. So, venues set in forests or under woodland, and converted barns and Orangery’s are so dreamy.
Who is your ideal client? Anyone who will trust the vintage styling process (because it is a process, and can sometimes look overwhelming before we make everything look polished). Clients that are quirky, dance to the beat of their own drum and who that want to embrace a touch of vintage glamour to their day are a vibe for me. Also bonus points for those into Musical Theatre, as we can have the tunes blaring as we style, and I love a themed/inspired look, such as Satine’s beautiful Hollywood Waves from Moulin Rouge.
What awards or accolades do you have? I am honoured to have been recognised for my craft in various awards over the years. These include; Most Unique Supplier & a Highly Commended Award in Essex with the Essex Wedding Awards, Most Unique Hair & Makeup Stylist with Quirky Wedding Awards and Overall Winner with the British Hair & Beauty Awards for Bridal/Special Occasion Hair Stylist of the Year.
What causes do you contribute towards or believe in? I’m passionate about creating an inclusive space where everyone feels seen, heard, and celebrated. I ensure that my language and approach are welcoming to all. Your big day should be all about you, which is why I love referring to my clients as the “Stars” and “Glamourettes” — because you deserve to shine in the spotlight! I’m also deeply committed to sustainability, incorporating eco-friendly practices and products into my styling process to help you look and feel amazing while caring for the planet.
Things I consider;
- Product selection: Opting for hair products with sustainable packaging, that are also certified cruelty-free and environmentally friendly.
- Energy efficiency: Switching off appliances when not in use, and considering energy-efficient equipment like hairdryers.
- Waste management: Establishing a robust recycling system for hair clippings, foils, plastic bottles, paper, and aluminium.
- Cleaning practices: Using eco-friendly cleaning products that are biodegradable and non-toxic.
- Client education: Informing clients about sustainable practices and encouraging them to have their own reusable towels or combs at their appointments.
- Paperless operations: Using a digital appointment booking system, client forms, and receipts to reduce paper usage.
Why do you love working with Celebrants? Celebrants offer couples the opportunity to personalise what I believe is the most important part of your wedding, your vows to each other. They will take the time to put together a service that is unique to you and your relationship. If I ever renew my vows I will defiantly use a celebrant to add that personal touch.
How can people get in touch with you? Get in contact by email at vintageglamourwithanna@outlook.com or pop me a message through one of my social media platforms. Instagram @vintage.glamour.with.anna
