"Inspiration - do what you love doing"

Living and being brought up on a hill top farm in Yorkshire, inspiration can come in many forms.

Having a life-long interest in the countryside, health, well-being, affordability, cruelty-free products and using natural products where possible, I bring the best to my clients by doing the best for the environment in the process.

A little about me…

I studied rural science at school which I enjoyed as it covered life cycle of native animals, plants and trees, natural habitat, conservation and land management at a basic level.

However in my late twenties I decided to return to college to pursue a career in hairdressing and soon to be followed, by a two year course in beauty therapy.

My passion for natural source of healing combined with plant extracts and massage therapy was realised.

Val Preston make up artist yorkshire

At this point I was working full time in a local beauty salon in Skipton, and I also returned to Craven College to study aromatherapy part time for a further year.

After gaining valuable experience in the beauty salon, whilst having a young family I worked part time for Next PLC Skipton. This position built my confidence, varied retail business and social skills, working with amazing colleagues, as a sales adviser occasionally as a weekend manager. Enjoying my role, engaging with the local community in this progressive tourist town. Moving forward I started my own business as a beauty and holistic therapist treating my clients in their own homes or local businesses.

Always interested in building and growing my business, I have further trained in several holistic therapies, which include aromatherapy blends if requested. Indian head massage, lymphatic drainage, hot stone, Hopi ear candles, Thai hand and foot massage and reiki.

I have recently qualified as a Tai Chi for Health instructor with my own class at Craven Leisure centre, also two classes supporting Discover Tai Chi at Cliffe Castle park (outdoor venue), and Glusburn Arts centre.

My family, friends and clients have always helped and encourage me with my career choice, offering to be guinea pigs when I have required models for new treatments and accepting my flexible working hours.

One of my greatest achievements in the past was offering my expertise as a volunteer complementary therapist, aromatherapy practitioner at the local wellbeing cancer support centre in Skipton, which I still occasionally support.

What makes my heart sing? My family who have been with me every step of the way, my cocker spaniels, gardening for pollinators and bee keeping. The great outdoors, wildlife and nature conservation still playing their part.

Val Preston Beauty Therapist Skipton

At present I am a team member of SWIFT

(Supporting Women Inspiring Friendship and Training) women’s networking group. Which aims to encourage and support other business women or community projects in our local area.

Qualifications and Certifications

NVQ Hairdressing, Manicurist and Pedicurist, Cosmetic Make-up artist.

City & Guilds Beauty Therapy, C&G 3 Aromatherapy, PTLLS, 

Guild of Holistic Therapies Thai massage, Hopi Ear candles, Lymphatic Drainage massage, Hot Stone massage, Reiki 1st degree. BABTAC.

Institute Tai Chi for Health Accredited & Certified Tai Chi for Health Instructor.