Who I Am
I’m Danni Reading, an award-winning freelance professional makeup artist and certified wedding celebrant based in Harrogate, North Yorkshire.
My journey began with a love for my art studies, which naturally evolved into my passion for makeup. I trained in fashion and media makeup under the renowned Jemma Kidd and Ginni Bogado in Knightsbridge, London. Afterwards, I returned to the North, working with Space NK in Manchester and Harrogate before launching my own freelance business. To expand my skills, I also studied SFX makeup with Pamela Clare.
I believe this is an ever-evolving industry, driven by constant changes in fashion and trends, so I make it a priority to attend masterclasses regularly to refine and perfect my craft.
In 2017, I graduated from Makeup Mastered, where I was mentored by some of the world’s leading professionals, including Alex Box, Mynxii White, and Tom Pecheux. I’ve also had the privilege of attending a masterclass with the globally renowned Danessa Myricks, whose innovative approach to natural, flawless skin continues to inspire me.
I was honoured to be awarded Makeup Artist of the Year 2026 for Yorkshire and the North East at The Wedding Industry Awards. To receive recognition from both my clients and industry judges is incredibly meaningful and reinforces the passion, care, and attention to detail I bring to every booking. It’s a milestone that reflects not just my work, but the trust so many brides have placed in me over the years.
To say I love my job would be an understatement! Creativity fuels me, and being able to express it every day is incredibly fulfilling. I embrace every project with enthusiasm and feel truly lucky to do what I love.
“I don’t believe every day makeup should be about wearing a mask, we should be accentuating our natural beauty and features and letting our confidence shine through.”
The Secret Celebrant
My journey into wedding celebrancy stems from two great loves: my passion for the written word and my deep admiration for love itself.
Having spent over 20 years as a makeup artist immersed in the bridal industry, I’ve been fortunate to witness countless weddings up close. Those experiences sparked a desire to be part of the ceremony itself—the heart of the day where two people commit their lives to one another.
I trained with The Academy of Modern Celebrancy in the UK, guided by the wonderful mentorship of Tara Heath-Arnold, to become a certified wedding celebrant. The name “The Secret Celebrant” was inspired by the very first wedding I officiated, which was for two of my closest friends. While the bride and groom were in on the plan, it was a complete surprise for their guests—many of whom were also my friends. Seeing their joy, laughter, and emotion as they realised what was happening is a memory I’ll always treasure. That moment perfectly captures the magic and meaning I strive to bring to every ceremony I create.
Becoming a celebrant feels like a natural evolution of my career—a way to combine my creative skills with my love of storytelling, crafting deeply personal ceremonies that celebrate each couple’s unique love story. It’s a privilege to play such an important role in a couple’s special day, and I pour my heart into making every ceremony truly unforgettable.
