HOT HEN PARTIES - holly young hats -
As one of Cornwall’s leading contemporary milliners, self-established Holly Young is one to not only watch, but learn from, in a completely unique new creative workshop currently doing the rounds in the county. Holly is teaching brides-to-be and their hens how to make beautiful, one-of-a-kind fascinators from scratch to wear on a night on the town or on the big day itself, in what has rapidly become a refreshing step away from the usual celebratory pre- wedding hen-night.
Having been booked up all summer, Holly took time out from her busy schedule of workshops and wedding commissions to talk about her new venture. ‘People really surprise themselves by what they can do in a relatively short space of time’, says Holly, on how her alternative hen- parties are being received. ‘All of the materials, tools and guidance are there and everyone gains confidence as they work. At the end of the session, there is such a sense of achievement from everybody; knowing that what they’ve made is entirely their own innovation, design and hard work.
It’s so rewarding.’
Hosting parties at her studio in the Old Bakery, Truro, or at the homes of the bride or hens, Holly is quick to point out that no workshop has ever been the same as the last. ‘Tea, coffee and sweet treats are provided for daytime workshops, while some people will bring along a bottle of wine and will head into town for a night out wearing what they’ve made’, she says. ‘Whatever people decide to do, it’s always relaxed, interesting and lots of fun.’ Fascinators
are made completely from scratch, starting with different shaped templates and materials and finishing with any kind of decoration, ranging from flowers and feathers, to ribbon, lace and sequins.
Having studied Costume Design for the Performing Arts at the London College of Fashion, Holly has worked across various strands of the fashion industry, appearing in regional and national publications and boutiques with her designs for bridal hats and fascinators. Establishing her business – Holly Young Hats – in early 2010 and undertaking commissions through word of mouth and via her website, Holly has fast become the go-to girl when it comes to expertly crafted and classically beautiful millinery accessories. What’s more, her versatile, universal workshops have created a much-needed niche on the 21st century wedding scene; one that combines the creativity and individuality that every bride looks for, with an enjoyable and engaging way for groups of women to get to know each other in an informal atmosphere in which everybody starts from the same point.
‘People’s personalities will shine through in their designs,’ says Holly.
‘And it’s a very interesting
way of getting to know people. One person will make a compact, minimalistic little fascinator with very delicate detailing while another will just go all-out, using bright colours and shapes to make something bold and striking. The end results are always very beautiful and so varied; each design reflects its particular designer.’
At £35 per person, each workshop lasts four hours, with all materials, decoration and tuition included and can be booked by calling Holly on 07968 783320 or via her website. Holly also undertakes commissions for brides, bridesmaids and mother-of-the-bride/groom and can be contacted for a consultation.
www.hollyyoungboutique.com
Words by Rosie Wilmot; Photography by Lucy Gregory Styling by Tessa Humphreys; Flowers by Rachel Damerel
56 Cornish Brides : Autumn/Winter 2011
in focus
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