Hannah Sinense
Can you tell us a little more about you and your styling background?
I knew from a very young age that I wanted to be a stylist. I started doing dance when I was 3 years old and we used to do annual shows at a local theatre. It involved a lot of hair and make-up styling and it always intrigued me as to how you can completely change someone’s look. I was forever practising different styles and braiding on my friends in the playground at school. I started off training as a stylist full-time at the Toni & Guy Academy in London and then worked for them for 7 years. During this time, I also did several seasons at London Fashion Week which was very exciting. For the last 5 years I have worked freelance and in other salons. During this time, I have specialised in bridal hair.
What bridal trends are you loving right now?
I am loving the relaxed ponytails, chunky loose braids and textured low buns.
What new trends can we expect to see this season?
Boho half up with pull through braids, Hollywood waves and romantic elegant buns with less movement.
How do you stay inspired?
I get most of my inspiration from magazines, Instagram and Pinterest plus I follow leading specialists and attend as many masterclass workshops as I can. I particularly love creating something that looks effortlessly romantic and soft but, secretly, is very intricate. You’ll always find me in my spare time practising on my dolly head
What advice would you give to a bridal hairstylist just getting started?
Buy a mannequin head with a good amount of hair to practice on. Don’t get put off by the number of followers other stylists have. Be yourself and brides will love not only your work but having you share their special morning with them.
Best advice to a bride regarding her hairstyle?
I would say it is always best to choose your dress first and then, when it comes to deciding on a particular hair style, we can see what would work best taking into account the neckline and other features of the dress. I would also recommend bringing a hair tie or clip when choosing a dress in the bridal shop to see how comfortable you feel having your hair up or down, half-up, or to one side.
What is the one product/tool you can not live without?
Hot Tools Curl Bar – it’s incredible and not only curls hair beautifully and is fast but also because of the shape of this tool it helps protect my wrist while styling many people in one morning.
Best advice you have ever been given in the hair industry?
Someone once told me “Believe in yourself and just go for it!” and to “Practice, Practice, Practice!” years ago, I never would have believed I’d be talking into a camera trying to build my online business doing live tutorials. Pushing myself has really helped my confidence not only with hair but also with meeting new brides, being around lots of big bridal parties on a busy wedding morning and building a friendship/trust with each bride.
What do you love to do outside of work?
I love going to new cities and experiencing different cultures. I enjoy doing yoga and meditation, it really helps me clear my mind and switch off. I enjoy catching up with family and friends. I’m lucky to live by the sea so spending time on the beach on a sunny day is amazing.
Guilty pleasures?
Spending an evening watching hair videos on Instagram and saving my favourites to practice. Plus cheese and chocolate of course!