One of the questions we’re most often asked by couples is for our recommendations on trusted wedding suppliers. Over the years, we’ve been lucky enough to work alongside some of the very best in the industry – talented, professional, and all-round wonderful people who know our venue inside out. That’s why we created The Great Barn Supplier Spotlight: a series shining a light on some of our favourite suppliers, many of whom are familiar faces here at our venue. Every couple who books with us receives a full copy of our carefully curated list of recommended suppliers to help with their planning. But for now, here’s a little preview.
This time, we’re so excited to feature the lovely Emma Roberts, a much-loved and familiar face here at The Great Barn and an incredibly talented bridal make up artist. Emma’s calming presence, incredible talent, and signature soft glam style make her a favourite among our brides — and it’s always such a joy to have her here on a wedding morning. We asked Emma a few questions so you can get to know her and her work a little better…
Tell us a little about who you are and what you offer…
I’m Emma, a bridal makeup artist known for my signature soft glam, elevated bridal makeup style. I’m based in South Devon and have worked with thousands of brides both in the UK and across Europe. My goal is to make every bride feel her most beautiful, glowing and polished self on the most important day of her life. I’m the ultimate “girl’s girl” and I feel so incredibly lucky to spend the morning with my brides helping them with anything they might need, from giving them the ultimate bridal glam to even helping them into their wedding dress.
How did you get started in the wedding industry?
I studied art at college and have always loved painting but decided that wasn’t the career path for me. I went back to college and did an evening course in make up, my tutor recommended me for a job at Estee Lauder, I then worked for MAC cosmetics and took the plunge to go freelance about 6 years ago. The rest is history! My first wedding was nearly 13 years ago and I’ve been wedding obsessed ever since. I always say if I wasn’t a make up artist I’d be a wedding photographer!
What makes a wedding at The Great Barn Devon so special from your point of view?
As soon as you drive through those gates you could quite literally be anywhere. The gardens have a beautiful mix of old English country charm to Tuscan luxury with the rows of beautiful trees in the outside spaces. From a makeup artist’s point of view, there are plenty of bridal prep areas to use, the big kitchen table in Place being my preferred area of choice!
Do you have a favourite memory or moment from a wedding here at The Great Barn?
I have worked with so many incredible brides at The Great Barn, but one that really stands out to me is a gorgeous girl called Beth. She got married in December 2024 and wore the most insane silver sparkly dress. She had a 2-day event and I was lucky enough to glam her on both days. She was the sweetest soul and I just loved how full of love the wedding was.
What advice would you give couples planning their wedding?
Decide from the get-go what your non-negotiables are, what elements of a wedding are really important to you as a couple and focus on those. Don’t be afraid to break the traditions and stay true to yourselves!
Are there any trends you’re loving at the moment?
I’ve had a few brides really think outside the box with their bridal looks this year and I love it. Colourful, floral wedding dresses, bag bouquets, statement earrings… I’m here for all of it!
What does a typical wedding day look like for you behind the scenes?
My working day normally starts the night before, organising my kit and cleaning of brushes, an early bedtime and an even earlier alarm! I’ve been known to get up at 2:30am before! I’ll always start my day by doing my hair and makeup before jumping in my car and heading off to grab a Matcha en route! After I finish glamming my bridal party, I’ll stay for last minute touch ups once everyone is dressed and I’ll then head home for more brush cleaning and editing some content for my socials.
Where else can people see your work or get in touch?
You can find me and see more of my work on Instagram) Tiktok or on my website.
Thank you so much to Emma for sharing a glimpse behind the scenes and being such a trusted part of The Great Barn Devon family. If you’re after a gorgeously glowing bridal look AND someone who’ll bring calm and care to your wedding morning, Emma is an exceptional choice.
Keep an eye out for more Supplier Spotlights coming soon — and if you’re planning your wedding with us, don’t forget that a full list of our most trusted suppliers is waiting for you when you book.
