Beauty for Everyone
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The wedding industry has come a long way. But there’s still a gap that doesn’t get talked about enough – finding hair, makeup and wellness suppliers who are experienced and comfortable working with grooms, trans and non-binary clients. Scottish experts talk it through with YSW…
Same-sex couples are increasingly well represented in wedding media but the practical question of who’ll do the hair and makeup for every member of a diverse wedding party is one that catches couples off guard more often than it should.
This isn’t a criticism of the industry. It’s an acknowledgment that attitudes are shifting, skills are evolving and the best suppliers have always known that a wedding morning looks different for every couple. Here, suppliers in the hair, beauty and wellness industry share how they approach inclusivity in practice – and what every couple should know before they book.
Caroline, Caroline Stewart Makeup Artistry and Hair Styling
"I trained for three years at makeup school, and part of it was men’s makeup and drag. So, working across genders and identities has always been part of what I do. It doesn’t matter what or who you identify as. It’s just another amazing face to work on.
What men and trans clients most often tell me they’ve struggled to find is artists who do all styles for all genders. My consultation approach doesn’t differ at all depending on who’s sitting in my chair. It’s a kind, safe space for all.
If you’re unsure how to communicate what you want, find some images you like on social media or Pinterest. But don’t use AI, it’s unrealistic. Bring a photo of how you might normally wear your makeup. And don’t worry if your look is way out there. We can always adjust slightly so it fits with the wedding vibe."
Katrina, VIEVE
"True inclusivity means creating products and experiences where everyone feels seen, represented and comfortable expressing their own style. And VIEVE’s products are designed to enhance individuality rather than create a one-size-fits-all look.
To grooms, non-binary or trans clients who might be nervous about exploring makeup for their wedding day: makeup is simply a tool for self-expression and confidence. It’s not limited to any gender. Your wedding day is about feeling like the most authentic version of yourself, whether that means a subtle enhancement, a polished finish or something more expressive. The right artist will listen to what makes you feel comfortable and create a look true to you.
For grooms or male members of a wedding party wanting to look their best without it feeling like a big step, our Modern Radiance Concealer is a great starting point. It evens out the complexion, reduces redness and brightens under the eyes. Fresh, natural-looking skin that’s comfortable and camera-ready."
Maureen, The Bride to Be…
"Over the years I’ve had the pleasure of styling brides, grooms, same-sex couples, non-binary and trans clients. My approach is always the same. I take the time to listen, understand how each person wants to look and feel, and create a style that reflects them authentically.
To anyone who feels nervous about asking for hair or makeup services outside the traditional bridal setup, I would simply say: ‘Please don’t be’. My chair is a welcoming, inclusive and judgement-free space. Whoever you are and whoever you’re marrying, my focus is on helping you feel like the very best version of yourself."
Adam, HAUS of Dentistry
"We have a platinum rule at HAUS – treat each person how they want to be treated, not how you want to be treated. It doesn’t matter who someone is, where they are from, what they look like or what their role is in a wedding.
Everyone should leave feeling like the whole clinic was built just for them because, in reality, it was. Today more than ever, people have so much choice. Our job is to make the experience so good that the choice is easy, regardless of what your role is in the wedding."
Dr Kaly, The Secret Clinic
"Everyone who walks through our doors is welcomed like family, regardless of how they identify. Whether you’re a bride, groom, in a same-sex relationship, non-binary, trans or simply someone wanting to feel your absolute best for one of the biggest days of your life.
Our clinical standards never change. What does change is the conversation. I don’t ask my patients how they think they should look. I ask them how they want to feel. Feeling confident, comfortable, radiant – like yourself. Those emotions are universal but the journey to achieving them is deeply personal.
If you’re curious about aesthetic treatments but nervous about whether you’ll feel welcome, you don’t need to fit a particular mould to belong here. Our job isn’t to tell you who you should be. It’s to create a safe, respectful space where you feel heard, understood and empowered."
Rhona, H Beauty
“Whether we’re helping a groom build a skincare routine, creating a makeup look for a same sex couple or helping someone who is new to beauty feel completely at ease, our approach is always the same, we listen first. Every consultation is tailored to the individual.
One of my favourite parts of working in beauty is seeing someone’s confidence grow. If they leave H Beauty feeling looked after, understood and excited for their special day, then we’ve done our job.”
Leigh, Artisté by Leigh Blaney
"If I’m booked, everyone is treated exactly the same and respected for their choices. Love is love. I’m trained across all skin types, ages, ethnicities and genders, and I’m fully LGBTQ+ friendly.
If someone is nervous, I’d put them at ease exactly as I would with anyone else. I just need some guidance to help them look and feel the best they ever have. My aim is always to help people feel comfortable and confident for their special day. Whatever that looks like, we can work together to create it."
