Hello again, I thought it was time I popped back on here to say HI and show you a few of the weddings I’ve done over the past little while and not shown you.
But firstly I’d like to introduce myself to you once more.
I’m known as Laurel Stratford-Ellott. I leave the last part off for work as it’s easier, though I’ve been married to Pete for 14yrs now. I have three grown Sons, two are married (oldest & youngest). Two have children, two each, who call me Lala. I live in Kerikeri, Bay of Islands, Northland, New Zealand. I travel all over Northland to do Wedding Hairstyling. I average 30-40 weddings a season. Last season was my smallest due to a nasty back injury, where I could only work at half my capacity. So I had an assistant with me for all weddings post xmas except the odd smaller one.
I am passionate about Bridal Hairstyling & also continue to educate myself by going to workshops as well as belonging to an online academy in the Uk. I have even dabbled in education for stylists. I have won a National long hair competition, been a Finalist a number of times as well as placing with highly commended. I’ve competed in live competitions, won a section & then placed 4th in the Supremes for my cutting as part of that comp. I’ve been recognised in the “Bang Style” competitions. Recently I was one of three Finalists for the ‘Wedding Industry Awards NZ 2025’ for hairstyling & business.
I’m currently the ‘Lead creative’ for the Mid North Hospice ‘Battle of the Ballroom’, held every two years. In fact this is the third year I’ve organised it. I lead a team of hairstylists who style 8-12 dancer’s hair for 2-3 nights. So much fun and such a great fundraiser to be part of.
I am also getting ready for a Wedding Expo in Whangarei July 12, the following weekend is a local High School Ball. I also contract in a Kerikeri Hair Salon 3 days a week, just in case you thought hairstyling is all I get up to.
My down time is often spent fluffing around with all things hair, knitting garments or crocheting a temperature blanket (look that one up), seeing the family in Auckland & Hamilton or at the beach in our camper van with our Cat Blue.
My favourite holiday spots are Rarotonga & Perth (visiting Son number two & family), or on a Roadie with Pete & Blue in the Camper van exploring NZ. Next place to see is the Coromandel down to Tauranga.
My aim for Weddings is connecting with my Bridal Party, making hair dreams come true and getting you there on time. It’s as simple as that…oh yeah and having some fun along the way.
Lxx
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