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Weddings

About

On Hitched.co.uk since 2026

Last update: May 2026

At The Laurels Bridal, beauty was never simply about hair and make-up. It has always been about how somebody feels.

The journey began in 2009 when founder Emily trained simultaneously as a hairdresser and dental nurse. While they may seem like very different worlds, that experience created a unique understanding of facial balance, proportion and the subtle details that can completely transform confidence. It was here that the foundation for The Laurels approach was quietly being built.

In 2014, what began as a passion for hair and beauty grew into a business, alongside continual investment into advanced training, bridal artistry and techniques. Over the years, one thing became very clear: weddings were never just about creating beautiful hair and make-up. They were about creating an experience.

Today, The Laurels Bridal is a carefully built collective specialising in luxury bridal hair and make-up across Northern Ireland and beyond. Led by Emily, our team shares the same vision and values: timeless beauty, calm energy and exceptional attention to detail.

Whether you are a bride planning an intimate morning or a larger bridal party requiring multiple stylists, our collective approach allows us to create a seamless experience while maintaining the same high standards and refined artistry throughout.

We believe your wedding morning should feel relaxed, exciting and effortless. From your first enquiry through to the moment you step into your dress, we are there to guide and support you every step of the way.

Years from now, when the flowers have gone and the dress has been packed away, we want you to look back at your photographs and still love what you see.

  • Woman-owned

Frequently asked questions

What services do you offer?

Hairdressing
Makeup
Aesthetic - manicure, pedicure, waxing etc...
Beauty treatments
Image advice

What is included in the wedding package?

Luxury bridal hair and make-up tailored to you, including consultations, schedule planning, lashes, prep guidance and on-location services for a calm, seamless wedding morning

How far in advance should I contact you?

We recommend enquiring early, especially for peak dates. Most brides book 12–24 months ahead. Our online diary opens 2 years ahead, however bookings up to 3 years in advance can be arranged directly

Do you work at homes?

Yes

What is the charge for travelling?

Travel is charged at £2 per mile from our base, plus any parking or toll charges where applicable. Travel costs will always be discussed and confirmed prior to booking

What is your main business area?

Make up

Could you stay with the bride until the photo shoot?

Yes

How many people can you beautify for one wedding?

This depends on ceremony timings, service choices, styling complexity and availability. Larger teams can often be arranged for larger bridal parties if required

Can you provide your beauty services for pre-wedding and post-wedding photography?

Yes

What are the forms of payment?

Bank Transfer, Card, Cash
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Do you have any questions?

Reviews for The Laurels - Bridal Hair & Make-Up

Maria
Maria Sent on 31/05/2026
5 out of 5 rating

Bridal Hair Saviour!

Emily really helped me out in my month of need after my original hair stylist let me down. She pulled out all stops to fit me in, (plus trial) less than a month to my big day. I am truly grateful. Myself and my bridal party were super happy with our styling and fully aisle ready thanks to Emily's amazing skills and experience....Thanks again Emily, you're a star!!
Greta
Greta Sent on 24/05/2026
5 out of 5 rating

Professional, calm and talented!

Emily and her colleague Nicola did hair/ make up for me and my bridal party on location. Emily was a natural at understanding what I wanted in terms of both style and approach. I absolutely loved my hair and make up (natural/glowy/ with subtle lashes) but she also had the skills to meet the varying requirements of the bridesmaids. We all had different looks that reflected what we wanted. We were all just able to turn up, relax, and then feel great at the end. They also worked wonders with creating volume and texture with my fine hair. I was really impressed and so happy with both the make up and the experience. Thank you very much again!
H
Hannah Sent on 19/05/2026
5 out of 5 rating

Bridal Hair & Makeup



Emily was one of the very best decisions I made for my wedding day. From the moment she arrived, she brought such a calm, kind, and comforting energy that immediately put me at ease. She didn't just do my hair and makeup-she made me feel truly seen, cared for, and beautiful on one of the most emotional days of my life.
She listened so thoughtfully to what I wanted and somehow created a look that felt completely me,
only elevated in the most perfect way. When I looked in the mirror, I honestly felt overwhelmed with happiness. I felt confident, radiant, and ready to walk down the aisle.
Throughout the entire day, my hair and makeup stayed flawless through tears, hugs, laughter, and hours of dancing. Emily's talent is undeniable, but what truly sets her apart is her heart. She was a calming presence, a cheerleader, and such a wonderful part of my wedding morning.
I am endlessly grateful for Emily and cannot recommend her enough. Any bride would be incredibly lucky to have her by their side.
Lorrainecooper
Lorrainecooper Sent on 19/05/2026
5 out of 5 rating

Exceptional, such a blessing!

I had the pleasure of using The Laurel’s on a couple of occasions, as a wedding guest, then as a bride. I can honestly say it exceeded my expectations. From the initial consultation through to the final look, Emily was professional, attentive, and incredibly skilled.

She took the time to understand exactly what I wanted, offering thoughtful suggestions while always respecting my preferences. On each occasion, she created a look that felt polished, yet natural, and completely “me.” My hair and makeup held beautifully and photographed wonderfully, and I felt confident and comfortable throughout each event.

Beyond Emily’s technical ability, her calm and reassuring presence made the experience genuinely enjoyable. It was clear that Emily truly cares about her clients feeling their best.

I would wholeheartedly recommend Emily if you want high-quality hair and makeup delivered with care, talent, and attention to detail.
K
Kathryn Sent on 19/05/2026
5 out of 5 rating

Highly recommended

I chose Emily to do my hair and make up for a two reasons - 1) I wanted the same person to do both rather than try and navigate arrival times of different people. 2) I wanted a glam look which also looked natural and not too much.
I found it very overwhelming trying to find the right ‘look’ as I found a lot of make up artists were too heavy and that the brides didn’t really look like themselves once the make up was done.

Emily surpassed all my expectations. From our first meet she made me feel so at ease and took the time to listen to what I wanted and delivered in every aspect. I had full coverage without looking ‘caked’ in make up.
I felt so beautiful during the wedding uday and felt so confident walking down the aisle (which I didn’t think I would with everyone looking at me!). The make up also lasted all day which was another thing I was worried about.
Would definitely recommend The Laurels.
Deana
Deana Sent on 19/05/2026
5 out of 5 rating

What a talent!

Well, what can I say...
I am so glad I chose Emily for my wedding hair and make-up.
The girl is an artistic creative genius!
A God given gift!
Absolutely blown away by her talent and she made me feel like the most beautiful bride in the world! And for that I am truly thankful 🥰

Her attention to detail and her kind heart is quite the package.
Cannot recommend this lovely lady enough.
Thank you for making me feel absolutely beautiful on my big day, Emily ♡

Mrs Deana Marie Kelly
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Meet the team

Emily Tonkinson
Emily Tonkinson
Lead Artist/Stylist

I’m Emily, a bridal hair and make-up artist specialising in timeless, elegant beauty with a soft, modern feel. With over 10 years in the hair and beauty industry, I am passionate about creating polished, camera-ready looks that still feel natural and effortless.

My background in both hairdressing and cosmetic dentistry gave me a strong understanding of balance, detail and enhancing natural features in a refined way. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of working with hundreds of brides, helping create calm, enjoyable wedding morning experiences while ensuring every look feels beautifully tailored to the individual.

I particularly love soft glam make-up, romantic hair styling and creating looks that feel elevated yet still like you. My aim is always for every bride to feel confident, comfortable and truly looked after throughout the entire experience.

Nicola Nugent
Nicola Nugent
Assistant Stylist/Artist

I’m Nicola, a bridal hair and beauty artist with a passion for helping clients feel confident, relaxed and beautiful for every special occasion. Coming from a beauty background, I love the finer details of bridal styling and creating soft, polished looks that enhance natural beauty while still feeling effortless and timeless.

I particularly enjoy working with glowing skin, modern soft glam make-up and elegant hair styling that photographs beautifully and lasts throughout the day. I understand how important it is for brides and bridal parties to feel calm and comfortable on the wedding morning, and I pride myself on creating a friendly, supportive atmosphere throughout the experience.

My approach is always tailored to the individual, ensuring every client feels like the very best version of themselves while still looking natural, refined and completely comfortable in their look.

Map

Ballyrolly Road BT30 8SP Belfast (Co Antrim)

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