Dreamy undone updos, beachy bohemian waves and untamed textured tresses your bridal bag? Then prepare to fall head over heels for the incredible hairstyling skills of UNVEILED Network member, and our resident expert on all things tresses, Jen of Wildflower Hair Co.
Steering clear of polished, traditional styles, self-confessed “hair addict” Jen has become THE name to know in the industry thanks to her “perfectly imperfect” bridal dos for free-spirited souls. We’re talking relaxed, effortless waves, cool boho braids and beautifully ‘messy’ buns.
Based in Macclesfield, Cheshire, this super stylist travels all across the North West and beyond to beautify and boost the confidence of brides and their tribes, fitting into the proceedings perfectly, organising parties with ease and naturally feeling like a friend.
So, let’s talk locks with the queen of textured tresses – including her top tips and details of a SPECIAL OFFER – whilst showcasing some of her crush-worthy dos that have got everyone talking!
Hey Jen!
Hi, I’m Jen, owner of Wildflower Hair Co. I specialise in relaxed, undone wedding hair and create natural, understated styles for free-spirited brides that are perfectly imperfect and never too done.
Where did your passion for hairstyling come from?
I started my training as a hairstylist 12 years ago, and although I love cutting and colouring, up styling took my heart from the start! I’ve now been creating wedding hair for over a decade, and it is my favourite part of anything I do!
Why do you like working with bridal clients in particular?
There is just no experience that matches a wedding morning, the excitement, seeing the bond between a bride and those she has chosen to spend that special morning with. Seeing their face after I show them the style I have created for them. Watching everyone transform throughout the morning and see everyone’s confidence grow. It’s the best feeling in the world, and I always leave a wedding morning on a high!
Describe the service that you offer?
My bridal package includes a trial for the bride at my salon in Macclesfield and then styling for the whole party at a venue of the bride’s choosing on the morning of the wedding.
Do you have a signature style?
This may be controversial, but I’m not a lover of traditional bridal hair. And, as it turns out, my brides aren’t fans either. My signature style is anything textured and undone. May that be a beachy half up half down, a braided creation or a messy bun. The more I’ve stayed true to my textured, boho vibe, the more the word of my styling services has spread.
Where do you find inspiration and keep up with the latest trends and techniques?
I’m a self-confessed hair addict! I am constantly watching tutorials and playing on my doll to create new styles that I can implement into styles for my bridal parties. Even when I go away for weekends with friends, you can guarantee I will have taken some of my kit so I can play on their hair!
How can a bride make sure that their hair is in the best possible condition before their big day?
This is such an individual question as everyone’s hair is so different, but I would definitely recommend a tiny trim every 10 to 12 weeks up to the wedding to keep your hair in the best condition and speak to your stylist about a treatment mask tailored to your hair type you can do weekly for the three months leading up to your wedding.
Why would you recommend a trial?
A bridal trial is essential for the bride. It means we can look at all your inspo pics and break them down to work out all the elements that you would like integrated into your final chosen style. It’s also an opportunity for us both to get to know each other and have a giggle, so it doesn’t feel like you have a stranger there on the morning!
Tell us a bit about the products that you have in your kit?
I have a wide range of products in my kit and pick my favourite hero products from different brands so I can be assured I’m prepared for any hair type! I also chose the most eco-friendly products available that still have maximum performance and also have a full vegan-friendly kit if that is your preference.
How does it all work on the wedding day?
At the trial, we will discuss the plan for the morning, then after your trial, I will work out timings for the morning of your wedding and can liaise with your makeup artist to agree to a schedule. I can also set up a WhatsApp group with your bridal party to assess their hair, choose styles and supply advice on the best hair prep for the night before the wedding.
On the day, I will arrive promptly at the agreed time. Upon completion of your bespoke bridal style, you will receive a complimentary bridal maintenance kit to keep with you for any touch-ups. I’m happy to stay right up until you are dressed so I can be on hand for any last-minute touch-ups and to secure your veil if you are wearing one.
Can you do hair for the wider bridal party too?
I can do six people by myself if time allows or can do up to 12 people with assistants.
What are your top tips for clients when planning their wedding day look?
- Ask yourself, how do you feel most confident in day to day life? If you always wear your hair down and feel at your best that way, then choose a style that incorporates hair down rather than choosing an updo where you may feel self-conscious.
- Think about the style of your wedding day and the style of your dress. This will give you a starting point to create a Pinterest board of brides that have chosen a similar look and take inspiration from the hair they have chosen.
- Pick a stylist who makes you feel at ease, gets your vibe and specialises in the type of style that you want for your day.
And your no-nos?
- Don’t feel you HAVE to painstakingly grow your hair. There are still lots of options even if you have a pixie or a bob style or if you have your heart set on long locks, then there are lots of extension options; just make sure they are from an ethical supplier.
- Don’t just pick a stylist who your venue recommends. Really look for someone who has at least five pictures on their website/Instagram that you would happily wear. If you can’t see this, then they probably aren’t the right stylist for you.
- Don’t have a big colour change right before your wedding. Make the change at least three months before, so you can be sure you are happy with your new look and used to seeing yourself that way, and if changes need to be made, there is time for this to happen.
What trends do you see emerging in wedding hair in the coming year and beyond?
More texture being included in sleeker styles, brides embracing their existing length and hair texture.
Is there a special treat that you would like to offer our readers and details of how to redeem this?
At your trial, I will give you a full-size treatment tailored for your hair to use on the run-up to the big day! Simply mention Brides Up North.
How can brides get in touch with you and see more of your work?
You can visit my website and follow me on Instagram and Facebook.
