Wedding Veils and Why A Bride Might Wear One

TO VEIL OR NOT TO VEIL, that is the question!

Let’s talk about why brides wear wedding veils on their big day and if you are wondering whether you should, then this may help to consider whether you want to wear a wedding veil on your special day. So, first up, let’s delve into the history of the veil and why this particular bridal accessory is still popular today.

The wedding veil is one of the oldest parts of a bridal ensemble. It dates as far back to Greek and Roman times with most experts agreeing that you can trace its roots back to Rome. This was where a bride used to walk down the aisle with a wedding veil over her face in order to hide from evil spirits who might want to thwart her happiness or to frighten spirits away. Or another theory it has been said is that by wrapping her from head to toe, the look represented one of a modest and untouched maiden. So, with this tradition being carried through to the present day (whilst other bridal trends have come and gone), the wedding veil remains a must have accessory for many brides for many different reasons.

Ivy Lace Chapel Wedding Veil
Photography by Natalie Stevenson Photography

When it comes to unveiling the bride, there are no real rules although tradition suggests that it is the father of the bride (or the person who walks the bride down the aisle) who lifts the veil, right as the bride arrives next to her groom at the ‘altar’ and just before the couple starts to take their vows.

Alternatively, as in more modern times, the groom may lift the veil at the moment before the first marriage kiss is exchanged.

Candy Blusher Wedding Veil
Photography by Natalie Stevenson Photography

Now, whether you are a traditional bride or love a more modern look, there is a wedding veil for everyone and they really can add that all important finishing touch and transform your bridal look.

Your wedding veil, like your bridal headpiece and/or jewellery, should complement and enhance your overall bridal look, so if you have chosen a wedding dress that is oozing embellishment and detail, then a paired back, simple wedding veil could be the perfect accompaniment. However, if you have chosen a more simple, timeless gown, with very little detailing, then why not add a touch of extravagance with your veil and choose 3d florals, lace or even some sparkles and let your personality shine through.

So, whether you are having a bohemian wedding under the stars or an elegant affair in a stately home, wedding veils can adapt to any type of wedding and with such a vast array to choose from, there should be something that makes you feel like the most amazing version of you and that really epitomises those bridal feels.

Here’s a few beautiful images of some of the bridal veils available…

Lily Fingertip Lace Wedding Veil
Photography by Natalie Stevenson Photography

Hepburn Pearl Wedding Veil
Photography by Natalie Stevenson Photography

Ellie Single Tier Wedding Veil
Photography by Natalie Stevenson Photography

Ivy Lace Chapel Wedding Veil
Photography by Natalie Stevenson Photography

With a plethora of stunning wedding veils available to give you all the bridal feels, it is one bridal accessory that should be a strong consideration. Even if you are adamant it’s not for you, I urge you just to try one on. You’ll never get this opportunity again and if it’s not for you, at least you can say you tried.

Hepburn Pearl Wedding Veil
Photography by Natalie Stevenson Photography

And ultimately, if you do choose to wear a wedding veil on your wedding day, whether that be for traditional reasons or simply because you are a style conscious bride, the most important thing to remember is how it makes you feel.

If you need any help or style advice in choosing to wear a veil and what might work with your bridal gown, please drop me an email on [email protected] and I’ll be only to happy to help.

Rachel xx

Inspiration Tips/Advice

Chic Bridal Hairstyles for Short Hair

As a bride with short hair, you may feel a little forgotten in the world of Pinterest inspiration. It’s full of images with tumbling curls and boho waves but contrary to popular belief, you can style short hair in the same way as you can long hair.

Every single bridal accessory, including bridal hair pins, bridal hair combs, bridal hair vines and bridal headbands are all a possibility with short hair. It’s just a case of knowing the right techniques to ensure they all secure properly to stay put.

Let’s focus on hair combs first. The image below is my most pinned image ever on Pinterest, likely because it shows what can be achieved in short wedding hair. If a bridal hair comb is your first choice, then it should be secured by kirby grips through the ‘teeth’ in the comb. Your stylist would also use these to keep a bridal hair vine in place by interlocking one across the other, whilst securing the vine to the hair. This technique will keep it securely in place.

HMUA – Make Up by Sam Bridal
‘Diana’ gold bridal hair comb

Hair by Kim Sandford featuring my ‘Honor’ bridal leaf headpiece
Photography by Natalie Stevenson

Pretty bespoke hair vine by Rachel Sokhal Bridal Accessories –
Email [email protected] for details

Next up, headbands. There’s no denying that a headband or side tiara is a perfect choice for short haired brides. It sits effortlessly on the head and will remain in situ with ease, meaning you can dance the night away until the small hours.

This option would work particularly well if you wanted a statement headpiece like the one pictured below. No amount of pins, grips and spray would keep a larger hair accessory secured into a short pixie style.

Photography by Natalie Stevenson
Bespoke Headpiece by Rachel Sokhal Bridal Accessories –
Email [email protected] for details
Bridal Gown by James Clarke Couture London

Image from Pinterest

Using a professional hairstylist will ensure you really can achieve anything with short hair. One of the techniques I haven’t touched on yet is texture spray. This is a godsend for adding texture and thickening the hair and a must when styling short bridal hair and especially when adorning bridal accessories too.

Imagine the most stylish, wavy, soft and romantic updo. The style that you’ve often seen on Pinterest and thought, I’ll have to grow my hair or more likely have hair extensions to achieve that, well think again. You only have to look at the stunning example below to know that an experienced stylist can really weave their magic and make you look a million dollars, literally!

Bridal accessories would only enhance this beautifully styled hair to create an exceptional look.

Image from Pinterest

If you are looking for subtle wedding hair accessories, pins can be the perfect solution. They can be added to a short wedding hairstyle with ease by being made on kirby grips. This of course allows the benefit of bespoke bridal accessories to shine through, as any style of pin can be put onto grips instead.

Image from Pinterest

I love nothing more than styling short wedding hair because as you can see, the options are endless. But, if after all this inspiration and advice you are still doubting what you can wear in your hair, email me for a free consultation at [email protected].

Until next time,

Rachel xx

Inspiration

Timeless Classic Wedding Inspiration

Us creatives in the wedding industry love nothing more than to collaborate and create incredible ‘styled shoots’ in order to inspire you to plan the wedding of your dreams, and the shoot that I’m showcasing today was no exception.

Today’s blog offers some of the most beautiful timeless, classic wedding inspiration you’ll want to see. Last year, a wonderful team of wedding suppliers came together to capture that quintessentially British wedding, one that’s enchanting and abundant with romance and elegance.

Think lush heavenly florals, enthralling bridal gowns, luxe styling and impeccable details that are sure to seduce and charm.

Trends may be fun and of the moment but a timeless wedding will ensure you won’t look back at your wedding photos and question what you were thinking. Of course, time moves on and fashion and styling changes but keep it subtle and the details will speak volumes in their simplicity. Soft or neutral palettes, greenery and florals, elegant calligraphy and romantic lighting will all go some way to create a beautifully classic wedding.

There are plenty more ways to add to your timeless wedding theme. Grand historical venues, the groom dressed in a black tux for maximum effect, recite traditional wedding vows at your ceremony to add formality to the whole affair and dance the night away to classic wedding songs such as Etta James’ “At Last”. Including elegant gold or silver details throughout your wedding decor is one trend that will continue to remain stylish for years to come. Even the most subtle details like your cutlery or floral vases can be transformed into something truly beautiful by introducing metallics. Subtlety is best though, so use these tones sparingly for a more refined look that doesn’t overwhelm.

Scroll your way through all the inspiring imagery and I’m sure you’ll be pinning some of them to your own Pinterest wedding boards for inspiration.

The all important details from the wedding day are captured exquisitely in this stunning flat lay. Exquisite handmade paper, beautiful wax seals (perhaps with a monogram of your initials) and artisan bridal accessories and jewellery that you want to remember fondly can be effortlessly assembled and captured by your photographer. Along with ribbons, petals and any other pretty elements, these can be scattered on your veil to create a meticulous keepsake, reliving the story of your wedding day.

Notley Abbey, an award winning country house wedding venue in Buckinghamshire is an absolute delight and creates the perfect backdrop for a timeless, classic wedding that oozes style, sophistication and elegance. The charming stonework is a joy to behold and just one of the captivating attributes of this stunning historical venue.

Notley Abbey is just as majestic inside as it is out. Memories of royalty and decadent gatherings from a bygone era only add to this venue’s beauty. Keeping your wedding neutral with delicate white florals, plenty of lush greenery, light linens, and minimal decor will truly align with the Notley’s magical interior and keep everything effortlessly classic and timeless. These tried and true wedding details will never go out of style.

Choosing your wedding gown is a once in a lifetime experience. Exciting, nerve wracking but overwhelmingly one of the most emotional purchases you will ever make. When choosing a timeless, classic theme be sure to keep your dress simple, elegant and sophisticated. Not only will this let your personality shine through, it will epitomise the meaning of timeless and allow you to look back fondly over your wedding photos in years to come. Think exquisite fabrics, demure necklines and impeccable embellishments from renowned designers such as Suzanne Neville, Sassi Holford and Halfpenny London whose designs are effortlessly alluring.

Timeless decor is epitomised by candles of all shapes and sizes, crystal glassware, calligraphed table stationery, beautifully detailed charger plates and neutral florals. Up the elegance factor with ornate elements that look as if they were borrowed from a royal dining room and seat guests at long banquet tables for a sense of regal drama.

The dream team on this beautiful styled shoot are all detailed below. Each and every one of them responsible for bringing such stunning details that embody what a timeless and classic wedding is. If you love what you see, hop over and give them a follow on Insta and see if they might just be the supplier who can fulfil your dreams for your wedding day.

Styling & concept: @ambiencebuckinghamshire
Photography: @nataliestevensonphoto
Venue: @notleyabbeyofficial
Flowers: @sonningflowers
Hair & makeup guidance: @amandawhitemakeup
Gowns: @morgan_davies_bridal
Accessories: @rachelsokhalbridal
Stationery: @papermillcalligraphy
Cake: @meadowsweetcakes
Shoes: @bellabelleshoes
Linens: @just_4_linen
Model: @a_lieu

If you loved the blog and found it useful and inspiring, please let me know in the comments below.

Until next time,

Rachel xx

Tips/Advice

Bridal Accessory Styling: 10 Do’s and Dont’s

Details matter and none moreso than on one of the most important days in your life, your wedding day. It’s vital that your bridal accessories are given careful consideration to ensure that you make your bridal outfit and not break it! So with this in mind, let’s discover what the Do’s and Dont’s are when styling your bridal accessories…

Photography Natalie Stevenson Photography
Dress Aleena Leena Bridal from Halo & Wren Bridal
My gorgeous ‘Mae’ Statement Earrings should be worn alone, as shown here. No necklace and no hair accessory at the front of the hair. However, it would be perfectly fine to style some pins at the back of this gorgeous low pony, but nothing elaborate.

The Do’s…

1. Find ‘the One’

The obvious starting point is that you have found ‘the one’. The wedding dress that you have fallen in love with and can’t wait to walk down the aisle in. This has to be the basis from which every accessory you choose will have to work with. Your bridal accessories must complement and enhance your bridal gown.

2. Think Less is More

Ever heard the old adage, ‘less is more’? This is so applicable when it comes to accessorising on your wedding day. If in doubt, that probably means you’ve over accessorised. So in the words of fashion designer Coco Chanel, ‘before you leave the house, look in the mirror and take one thing off’.

It’s a tricky one to quantify because there are so many different options and ways in which to wear your bridal accessories but for example, generally speaking, wearing earrings, a crown and a necklace is likely to be too much, unless it’s all really delicate. Of course, your choice of accessories will also be very dependant on how embellished your gown is. If it’s heavily embellished, earrings and a bracelet might well be enough. However, if you have a simplistic, minimal gown, then you will be able to be more creative and choose significant pieces to accessorise, such as a bridal hair vine with earrings and a bracelet.

3. Consider your hairstyle

This is such an important point. Having worked with many bridal hairstylists over a number of years, a high proportion of brides purchase hair accessories that are not suitable for the hairstyle that they want. There are certain styles of headpiece that only work with a particular hairstyle. It will save time and worry later if you have thought about this upfront. Take pictures with you of the sort of hairstyle you would like to your bridal trial or to the bridal shop you bought your dress from and either of these experts will be able to advise on the best headpieces for the hairstyle you have in mind. Alternatively, search for an accessories designer who can work closely with you to ensure that a hairpiece is created to suit your chosen hairstyle and dress.

4. Wear A Veil

I mean, unless you’re adamant that you don’t want one which is fine. It’s absolutely a personal choice. The message here is to assure you that you absolutely can wear a veil and a bridal hair accessory…be it a vine, crown or pins! I’ve been asked on many occasions if it’s too much or if you should only wear one or the other and the answer is no. If you try a veil on and fall in love with how ‘bridal’ it makes you feel, then have no fear that you can also adorn your hair with any accessory you choose. Your hairstylist should know exactly how to style both pieces confidently and if not, why not ask their advice, or mine!

5. Try Everything On

This is so important, particularly if you didn’t find your bridal accessories at the shop you bought your wedding dress from. So if you missed out on the experts co-ordinating everything for you, then you may decide to embark on an online journey to purchase your bridal accessories. When searching and considering what you like, you must keep your wedding dress (and possible hair style) front of mind before selecting items to purchase to ensure they are cohesive. In addition and even more important is, if you buy pieces from several places online then it’s vital that these all work together.

The key in this instance is to try everything on together. This will give you a clear picture as to whether or not the accessories and your wedding dress co-ordinate.

Of course, the alternative would be to seek a bridal accessories designer who can design and create pieces with carefully chosen components that work with the details of your dress. This will provide perfectly co-ordinated accessories that enhance your overall bridal look.

Photography Nikkis Moments
My gorgeous Ellene Statement Headpiece should be worn alone, as shown here. With some detail on the dress, the headpiece works in unison with that and apart from a pair of small stud earrings, is all that is needed to provide a cohesive, polished bridal look.

Photography Natalie Stevenson Photography
Dress Anna Kara Bridal from Morgan Davies Bridal
My timeless, elegant Adrianna bridal drop earrings and co-ordinating Angel bridal necklace. This jewellery set is so delicate that you could absolutely style it with a headpiece too. Just keep it as delicate as the jewellery and you’ll have a match made in heaven.

Photography Natalie Stevenson Photography
This image shows perfectly that you can wear a beautiful pair of statement earrings, in this case it’s my Chloe statement earrings, together with a hair accessory worn at the back of the head. Shown here is my best selling Rosie bridal hair vine.

Don’t…

6. Follow Trends

Trend-focused pieces tend to date, whereas classic pieces will stand the test of time. Carefully consider the look you are going for before opting for trend-driven accessories. This will come into it’s own when you look back on your wedding photos 5 or 10 years down the line.

7. Forget about Comfort

I can’t stress this enough. It’s not often something you think about when selecting accessories but it definitely should be! As with your gown, you will be wearing your accessories all day (or you should be!). Heavy, bulky pieces will have you discarding them half way through the day, just like you do a pair of shoes when they start to hurt after several hours of wearing them. And what a shame to have to do that on one of the most special and important days of your life. In addition, with particular regards to bridal hair accessories, these pieces will not be malable and so therefore cannot be moulded around your hairstyle. Additionally, if it’s a heavy headband, your pressure points behind the ears will be adversely affected, just like they are when you’ve worn your sunglasses all day. In this instance, if you do want statement pieces that will be heavy, then consider having an accessories designer that will make you a bridal hair accessory that will be statement but lightweight too.You do not want to invest in pieces that you cannot wear for the duration of the day.

8. Grow your Hair

Of course you can, it’s a personal choice. I know many girls feel pressured to have hair extensions on their wedding day but please don’t assume that you must grow your hair long to wear hair accessories. They look equally beautiful in short hair, you simply need the embellishment set on the appropriate hair accessory.

Brides with short hair still have a plethora of accessories to choose from. For example, a full circlet headpiece or beautiful vines can easily be worn, with ribbons at the ends to keep secure.

Be you, be yourself and let your personality shine through. All your accessories should allow you to do this.

9. Leave it too Late

Start looking early for your accessories as soon as you have your bridal gown. Once you have found ‘the one’, this will in turn dictate to a certain extent, your hairstyle too so you can go full steam ahead in choosing your finishing touches. It will enable you to have browsed a variety of bridal accessories and potentially come to a decision on your co-ordinated accessories. This will be of great help, particularly if you purchase any bridal hair accessory prior to your bridal hair trial. This will then give you the opportunity to see how your hair piece will look with your chosen style.

10. Give up if you still feel confused…

If after all this advice you are still left utterly confused with all the choice and are unsure how to create that cohesive bridal look, then get in touch for a consultation. This will save wasting anymore time and ensure that you totally nail your bridal look. I can help you choose what works for you, your dress and your hairstyle either by an in person consultation or a virtual one. It will also allow you to purchase all your accessories under expert guidance, all in one go. Everything from a bridal belt to jewellery and your bridal hair accessories. This will ensure you ooze confidence, are comfortable with whatever you’re wearing, can make purchases without any worry and know that you are going to look the most beautiful and ultimate version of you on your wedding day. ,

A perfect marriage of co-ordinating beautiful Klara statement earrings with the stunning ‘Klara’ backdrop necklace. A totally one of a kind set for the ultimate in unique, bespoke bridal accessories.

So email me at [email protected] to arrange your free, no obligation consultation and take away all the stress, worry and months of shopping around for your perfect bridal accessories.

I can’t wait to hear from you.

Rachel xx

Bespoke Design

Why choose Bespoke Bridal Accessories?

Why choose bespoke bridal accessories for your wedding day? I’m here to help you understand why bespoke bridal accessories can really elevate your overall bridal look in so many ways.

It’s the one day that you want to be utterly magical, the most special day of your life so far. Surrounded by all those that you love and whose eyes will be on you. With the spotlight on you, you want to be sure that you are the most beautiful and radiant version of yourself. A time to truly showcase your beauty, personality and uniqueness. Leave your guests mesmerised as you make your way down the aisle. Choosing to adorn the right accessories can really be key to capturing all the above and more.

It’s important to consider your accessories as carefully as you did your bridal gown. Just think about how much time and thought went into selecting what style of dress you wanted, everything from fit to style, possibly even what designers you loved and where you could try their gowns. In order to elevate your gown and therefore your overall bridal look, your accessories should be sought after with the same level of consideration to truly exude perfection.

So, now you’ve found the gown, let’s hear the 4 reasons why you should choose bespoke bridal accessories on your wedding day…

Photograph by Natalie Stevenson Photography

1. Personal

You want your personality and your style to enthral your loved ones on your wedding day. You want to radiate everything that is good about you. You can really embody these traits by carefully selecting bespoke bridal accessories. Choosing accessories that you love allows your personality to shine through. Selecting elements that co-ordinate beautifully with your gown will really help to personalise and elevate your bridal look, particularly if your wedding dress allows for a bridal belt. Bespoke bridal accessories showcase your own style and can effortlessly portray this to everyone.

A significant and heartfelt choice for having bespoke bridal accessories could be to incorporate something of sentimental value. Many brides-to-be come to me with their mother’s jewellery or grandmother’s pearls and ask for them to be used within the design of an accessory that I’m creating for them. This is such a privilege and of course means there is nothing more personal to have and wear on your wedding day. If you want to have a special person near to you who is no longer with us, this is an incredibly touching and personal way to do this.

I also have requests to design and create headpieces or jewellery that mirrors the shape/colour/design of an engagement ring, a piece of jewellery that has been inherited and even a grandmother’s tiara. Nothing is impossible and having the possibility to own something so personal, which is not only beautiful but functional too, is a truly treasured extravagance.

Photograph by Natalie Stevenson Photography

2. Comfort

This is an element of bespoke bridal accessories that should not be underestimated. Just as you need to feel comfortable in your dress all day, the same must be said for your accessories. Everything from your shoe choice to your headpiece, it’s incredibly important that you don’t realise you’re wearing them. You don’t want to be removing them half way through your wedding day because they are uncomfortable. You should be able to wear your accessories for the entire day and in some cases, beyond!

Let’s talk headpieces first. Most handmade bridal hair accessories have been made entirely from scratch with wire. This means that they are completely lightweight, not bulky and can be gently moulded into your hairstyle with ease. This is not normally the case with a mass produced, manufactured piece which has the total opposite effect. With particular reference to my own headbands, I can guarantee that you will not know you are wearing it because all my bands are handmade. They will not dig into your pressure points behind the ears and therefore you will not suffer from a headache or want to remove it halfway through the day.

Is there anything worse than uncomfortable shoes?! I always find it so sad when you see ladies at a prestigious event, impeccably dressed, only for them to have tossed their shoes to one side because they can’t dance/walk in them any longer. Your wedding day shouldn’t be the day that you have to do that! And you don’t have to, but let me explain why…

Footwear should be beautiful but moreover comfortable. My bridal shoe accessory service ticks both these boxes. Firstly, ensure your comfort, by purchasing your own beautiful nude heels or a pair of shoes, to the colour and heel of your choice. Once you’ve chosen your dream pair of shoes, you can allow me to adorn them with beautiful accessories that will also co-ordinate with your wedding dress and other bridal accessories perfectly. There are two choices of design: one is an embellishment which is permanently fixed to your shoe and can be placed on the heel, front or any strap; the second is a clip which would attach to the front of your shoe and of course may be removed. You may wear these shoes time and again, long after your wedding day, enabling you to relive those special memories every time you put them on.

Photograph by Natalie Stevenson Photography

3. Unique

Yes, yes, yes! Bespoke bridal accessories will ALWAYS be unique to you. This is absolutely one way to ensure that no bride will have gone before you wearing the same. No two bespoke bridal accessories that are made by hand will ever be identical. There will always be a slight variation between two pieces.

When you purchase your bridal gown, it may be that others who have visited the same boutique have indeed fallen in love with the same wedding dress as you. This is where you can make that bridal gown utterly unique by adding bespoke bridal accessories that by their very nature, are limited edition pieces.

If you adore a particular headpiece, a pair of earrings or one of my shoe accessory designs, you can ask for it to be tweaked slightly, choose pearls instead where diamantes have been used or request for your accessory to be made in gold instead of silver. The possibility for your uniqueness, your individuality and your personality to ooze from the inside out, is by choosing bespoke bridal accessories.

Photograph by Natalie Stevenson Photography

4. Alterations

Let’s be honest, weddings can be an expensive time. The products/services you choose in some cases will only be relevant or last for the day itself. When you’ve invested so much, how wonderful would it be if you could keep some of what you paid for?

Well with bespoke bridal accessories, you can! How sentimental would it be if you could wear them again? How wonderful if you could relive the memories of one of the most special days of your life every day? With my ‘alterations’ service you can absolutely have these feelings. For example, if you’ve had any type of headpiece made, or even a backdrop necklace, it will likely be that you wouldn’t wear this after your wedding day. Why not have me deconstruct the piece and re-create it into a beautiful necklace, a pair of earrings or bracelet? You can wear these time after time, along with a heartfelt smile too, knowing that you wore all the elements on your wedding day. A new piece of jewellery that can be treasured forever and passed down through the generations as an heirloom.

So, if you needed any more reasons as to why you should choose bespoke bridal accessories, then why not get in touch with me.

I’m intensely passionate about working intimately with my brides to design and create exquisite bridal accessories that work in harmony with the rest of your bridal look, ensuring you look and feel the absolute ultimate version of you on your wedding day.

Rachel xx

Tips/Advice

20 Bridal Hair Updos for Modern Brides

20 Bridal Hair Updos for Modern Brides

When it comes to wedding hair, an updo is a classic hairstyle option. From sleek and elegant chignons to tousled wavy boho braids, I’ve bought you 20 of the best bridal hair updos for all the wedding hair up inspiration you need.

Updos highlight your face, as well as your gown’s neckline and back detail. From high to low, perfectly coiled to messy and everything in between, your options are endless.

Updo hairstyles are practical as well as elegant and wearing your hair up on your wedding day, allows every spectacular detail of your wedding dress and bridal accessories to be seen.

Scroll on to see some truly beautiful inspiration for your bridal hair on your wedding day…

Here’s a stunning example of a textured bridal hair updo, with braids, from my incredibly talented friend and ambassador Danica Zurawel Hair. Enhanced here with beautiful Swarovski hair pins from my new collection.

There’s nothing I don’t love about this updo! Messy and low, it provides a gorgeous canvas for the pretty floral ‘Louise’ hair vine to complement. Hair styled by the insanely talented hairstylist Emma Kim Hairdressing.

Photography by Nikkis Moments.

Two stunning examples of textured hair updos, are the beauties above styled by my friend and uber amazing hairstylist, Sarah Henning Hair.

Now comes some of the most beautiful updos from the queen of hairstyling herself, Belles Beauty! Her work floors me everytime and I’m always happy to adorn my accessories into her styling. This beautiful hair vine is new and available at Rachel Sokhal Bridal.

Beautiful ‘Sacha’ bridal hair pins enhancing the gorgeousness from Leah at Belles Beauty.

This is one of my favourite bridal updos ever! Complemented perfectly by the ‘Madeline’ bridal hair pins.

Hair by Lois at Maxwells Hair with my ‘Anthea’ bridal hair vine.

Photography Natalie Stevenson Photography

Hair up by Kim Sandford Hairdressing, finished off beautifully with the ‘Caterina’ bridal hair pin.

Photography Bond Photography

Beautiful bridal hair up from Charlotte Jay, complemented by this stunning bridal hair leaf comb, ‘Honor’. Such a captivating and versatile piece to complete that finishing touch.

Photography Nikkis Moments

Love, love, love this updo from Kate Atalay Hairstyling and perfected with the gorgeous ‘Sacha’ bridal hair pins.

Photography FJS Photography

Delicate and pretty little ‘Jasmine’ bridal hair pins enhance this gorgeous hair styling by the amazing Danica Zurawel.

Styled hair up do by Emma Kim Hairdressing.

Beautiful braided updo from the uber talented Charlotte Jay, with this gorgeous floral headpiece, ‘Magdalena’.

Photography Nikkis Moments

Another gorgeous bridal hair up do, styled by Kate Atalay and fully complemented by these beautiful ‘Adeline’ rose gold leaf hair pins.

Photography Emily Little Photography

One of my absolute favourite bridal hair updos to date is this beauty from my wonderful friend and talented hairstylist, Kim Sandford. One of my favourite bridal hair vines too, the delicate and oh so pretty, Valentina, just wrapped around the hair and finished this look to perfection.

Photography Nikkis Moments

Accessorising Bridal Hair Updos

Bridal hair updos can feel both feminine and romantic, and be accessorised with versatility, suiting a delicate bridal crown just as much as a wedding hair vine or bridal hair pins or even just a pair of beautiful statement bridal earrings.

My collections feature some of the most beautiful bridal hair accessories, as you’ve seen in some of the examples above, that pair perfectly with bridal hair updos. But of course, all my designs are handcrafted in-house and can be fully customised in order to take your dream bridal hair accessories to a beautiful reality.

If you’d like to get in touch to chat about your bridal look, please send me an email [email protected]. I’d love to work personally with you to create stunning and unique, heirloom bridal accessories for your wedding day.

Let me know in the comments if there’s a particular look you would love to see.

Rachel xx

Tips/Advice

15 Half Up Half Down Bridal Hair Styles

Arguably one of the most requested bridal hairstyles, the half up, half down is a firm favourite with brides across the globe. Trends for ponytails and updo’s are around too but a half up, half down look manages to look polished and effortless all at the same time, making it the perfect choice for your wedding day.

A half up do provides the best foundation for perfect positioning of your bridal hair accessory and of course your veil, if you are wearing one. This popular style allows you to wear a plethora of bridal accessories such as a wedding tiara/crown, bridal hair pins, a hair comb or a bridal hair vine, it really is so versatile. It doesn’t matter what length your hair either, anyone can achieve it whether you have long flowing locks or a short bob.

Without further ado, let’s take a look through 15 beautiful examples of half up, half down bridal hairstyles. Everything from twisted to braided half up, plus lots more.

TWISTED HALF UP DO’S

Here’s a twisted half updo, which shows of the beautiful tones in the hair and is perfectly accessorised with the ‘Beatrice’ floral hair vine to co-ordinate with the gorgeous large bloom.
Hair Charlotte Jay Make Up Artist
Photography Nikkis Moments Photo and Film

Accessory ‘Zelda’ leaf bridal hair comb
Photography Nikkis Moments Photo and Film

BRAIDED UPDOS

Beautiful loose curls, finished off with a whimsical braid, styled by Barbarella Bridal Hair, gives the ultimate nod to the boho bride. Perfected by the addition of the pretty Clara headpiece.

Photography by Natalie Stevenson Photography

Stunning braided half up do, styled by the talented Bespoke Bridal Hair by Nicola, accessorised for maximum impact with bespoke Swarovski diamante pins. Email [email protected] for more details.

Just how beautiful is this braided half up do styled by Sarah Henning Hair, finished off with the gorgeous Eden bridal hair comb that co-ordinates so delightfully with this romantic lace bridal gown.

Photography Ami Louisa Photography

And here’s some more dreamy inspiration for you, featuring bridal half up half down hair…

This gorgeous hair features my Sacha bridal hair pins and bespoke bridal hair comb.

Hair by the talented Kim Sandford Hairdressing

Hair by The Grey Room

Photography by FJS Photography

Beautiful pins by me and hair styled by Kim Sandford Hairdressing

Beautiful hair styled by the amazing Emma Kim Hairdressing and accessorised with my Adeline bridal hair pins.

Photography Nikkis Moments Photo and Film

Bespoke bridal hair comb by me.

Photography Natalie Stevenson Photography

Beautiful hair styled by Kim Sandford Hairdressing and the ethereal bridal hair accessory Clara.

Photography Bond Photography

Gorgeous inspiration here from the talented Charlotte Jay, enhanced by my Honor bridal hair vine and captured beautifully by Nikkis Moments Photo & Film.

Finishing with this stunning half up do, styled gorgeously by Kim Sandford Hairdressing and captured perfectly by Nikkis Moments Photo & Film. Accessorised with my beautiful Clara headpiece and co-ordinating pins.

ACCESSORISING HALF UP, HALF DOWN BRIDAL HAIR STYLES

Half up, half down wedding hairstyles feel both feminine and romantic, and can be accessorised with versatility, suiting a delicate bridal crown just as much as a wedding hairvine or bridal hair pins or even just a pair of beautiful statement bridal earrings.

My collections feature some of the most perfect wedding accessories, as you’ve seen in some of the examples above, that pair perfectly with half up, half down hairstyles. And of course, all my designs are handcrafted in-house and can be fully customised in order to take your dream bridal accessories to a beautiful reality.

If you’d like to get in touch to chat about your bridal look, please send me an email [email protected]. I’d love to work personally with you to create a beautiful heirloom bridal headpiece for your wedding day.

Let me know in the comments if there’s a particular look you would love to see.

Tips/Advice

5 Things to Consider When Buying your Bridal Accessories

Before you even start to think about what bridal accessories you may want to wear on your wedding day, there are certain things that need to be thought about before you purchase anything. Sure, your bridal gown is the main and biggest purchase but the right bridal accessories should not be underestimated and will totally elevate your look and add a personal touch. So, before you buy anything, read my ‘5 things to consider when buying your bridal accessories’:

Dress First!!

Please, please make sure you have fallen in love with and purchased your bridal gown! Now, whilst this may seem obvious to most, there are still those that see a hair accessory that they love and go ahead and purchase it before anything else! You cannot possibly make an informed decision on any of your accessories before you know, for example, what the neckline of your gown is. Is it backless or does it have an illusion back? Does it have long sleeves or no sleeves? Will I need to wear my hair up or down? For your bridal look to be cohesive and co-ordinated, your gown should be your first purchase. Only then can every other detail be considered.

Illusion back wedding dress — Beautiful bridal gown from a selection at George James Bridal, Bedford
‘Ethereal Beauty’ bridal hair comb from my collection
Photography by Lee Rushby Photography

The romantic ‘Beverly’ gown from Claire Pettibone

A dramatic low back on this exquisite couture gown from dress designer Kate Edmondson
One of a kind, bespoke ‘Klara’ backdrop bridal necklace from my ‘Bel Fiore’ collection
Photography by Natalie Stevenson Photography

2. Hair Trial

If you are confident you know how you are going to be wearing your
hair on your wedding day, then you may wish to purchase bridal hair accessories
to take to your trial with you. However, like in a lot of cases when purchasing your bridal gown, you may end up with something slightly different to what you were initially considering. Please don’t forget that your wedding dress will likely dictate how you will style your hair. A hair trial first is ideally the way to go as you can be totally confident what you select will be the perfect choice. Bear in mind that your other bridal
accessories, bridal earrings, bracelet or even shoe adornments will need to be
considered with what bridal hair accessories you choose in order to beautifully co-ordinate.

Wedding Hair loose bun — Gorgeous loose wedding hair up by the talented Emma Kim
Photography by Nikki’s Moments Photography & Film
Delicate ‘Louise’ rose gold hair vine from my custom made collection

Bridal flower hair pins — Scattered ‘Madeline’ large floral hair pins in amongst this beautiful romantic hair up by the uber talented Leah at Belles Beauty based in Biggleswade, Bedfordshire at the stunning Hunton Park, Hertfordshire
Photography by Natalie Stevenson Photography

Ever popular half up half down style which has been styled with an on trend braid by the fabulous
Claire from Barbarella Bridal Hair in Stotfold, Hertfordshire is beautifully adorned here with my
bestselling ‘Clara’ bridal headpiece.
Photography by Natalie Stevenson Photography

3. Jewellery

You should keep in mind what you wear on a day-to-day basis. Don’t try to reinvent the wheel, and make your every day accessories relevant to your wedding day look. For example, if you don’t usually wear statement earrings then there’s no reason to wear them on your wedding day. Generally speaking, less is more. You want to look elegant and demure on your wedding day and so it really isn’t always necessary to have a tiara, veil, necklace, earrings and bracelet. Carefully select the right number of accessories and don’t go overboard. Try them all on together before the big day and don’t be afraid to scale back. The wedding images are a permanent keepsake of your very special day and with this in mind, you want to make sure that your choices aren’t too trendy or your photos will look dated really quickly. Opt for luxurious classics instead and your bridal style will remain timeless and sophisticated in years to come.

Sparkly bridal earrings — Classically beautiful and timeless ‘Danielle’ bridal drop earrings, the perfect accompaniment to this romantic Justin Alexander bridal gown, which has co-ordinating diamante straps.
Photography by Nikki’s Moments Photography & Film

Gold bridal necklace — Feminine and delicate, this 14k gold filled ‘Angel’ bridal drop necklace is perfect for the neckline on this gorgeous bridal gown from a selection at Morgan Davies Bridal , Hitchin
Photography Natalie Stevenson Photography

'Lisa' 14k gold floral bridal earrings — A high necked couture bridal gown by James Clarke is perfectly complemented by these medium sized ‘Sasha’ hydrangea floral hair pins scattered throughout this gorgeous styled hair updo by Belles Beauty, with the perfect finishing touch of these delicate co-ordinating ‘Lisa’ gold bridal drop earrings.

4. Comfort is Key

Let’s focus now on footwear, although it is important that ALL of your bridal accessories are comfortable since you will be wearing them all day. This is
why most of my brides come to me as not only do they want something unique,
they can also guarantee that they will not even realise they’re wearing them
throughout the day.

Ask yourself, where are you marrying your beau? Are you having an outdoor wedding? Destination Wedding? Stately Home? Do think carefully about this when you’re choosing your wedding shoe. Clearly heels are not the way to go if you’re getting married on a beach! And if you don’t normally wear heels, then consider beautifully adorned flats for your wedding day.

One of the biggest trends of recent years is instead of buying ivory wedding shoes, buy a beautiful nude heel or a pair of shoes to the colour of your choice so that they may be worn many times after your wedding day. This way, you’ll be able to relive those special memories every time you put them on. My recently launched bridal shoe accessory service is perfect for this as you can purchase your very own pair of shoes and allow me to adorn them with beautiful accessories that will also co-ordinate with your wedding dress and other bridal accessories perfectly. Get in touch for more details.

Gold Bridal Shoes — Bespoke bridal shoe accessories, these ‘Klara’ adornments are a ‘one of a kind’ and will not be repeated, they are the perfect accessory for any heeled shoe, high or low.
Photography by Natalie Stevenson Photography

Blush Rose Gold Wedding Heels — Choose your own beautiful but most importantly comfortable wedding shoes and then accessorise them to reflect your individual style. I adore that you can then wear your wedding shoes again and again, making them the most unique and stylish investment.
Photography by Natalie Stevenson Photography

Rose Gold Wedding Shoes — The attraction of custom made bridal accessories is that you will always be
beautifully co-ordinated. Gorgeous rose gold hairpin ‘Leah’ (coming soon), sitting perfectly
alongside the complementing shoe accessory.

5. The Most Authentic and Beautiful Version of You

Above all else, don’t stray too far from your normal style! Although it’s the most special day in your life, the idea is to look and feel like the best, most beautiful version of your regular self.

If you require any advice on selecting the right bridal accessories for you, please do contact me or comment below, I truly would love to be able to help you.

Rachel xx

TO VEIL OR NOT TO VEIL, that is the question!

1. Personal

2. Comfort

3. Unique

4. Alterations

WELCOME