Hair guide - the basics

Where to start?

Will you, or one of your friends, do your own hair?

If you are confident and trust someone to do your hair then this is a good way to chip away at your budget. You will still need to have test runs and make sure you have all the right products on the big day. Remember that the wedding morning may be a little stressful and doing your own hair could add to the stress. If there is any chance you will panic, stick to the professionals and don’t out extra pressure on your pals.

Will you use your regular stylist or will you look for another hairdresser for the big day?

This really depends on where you are getting married. If you are within reach of your regular stylist then it makes perfect sense to stick with them. They know your hair type, face shape and personality so together you can create the perfect look.

If your wedding is further afield, you will need to start researching local stylists and visit a few to have a chat and consultation. Book early to avoid a last minute panic.

It is always advisable to have a trial so why not make a girlie weekend out of it if you have to travel?

Don’t forget to take any accessories with you to your trial so the stylist can work with the whole package.

Will you go to the salon or ask the stylists to come to you?

Not all hairdressers offer the option of a home visit so if you are sure you want to have your hair done at home you will need to check this out. It’s important that you tell a hairdresser how many people will need their hair doing as it may require more than one stylist. Do you have the space and facilities at home to cater for this?

Some salons offer the option of an early opening to allow the bridal party to have their hair styled on site without any other customers present. This is a great way to have each member of the party styled at the same time, with products and styling equipment on hand. The team will also know how to handle any unwanted stray hairs and use the right products to hold the style all day. Warning - this could be an early start but why not take some Bucks Fizz and croissants to get the party started. At least this way you have all morning to beautify yourself.

Budget:

It all comes back to how much money you have to allocate to hair styling. You also need to think about whether your bridesmaids will pay for their own hair or if you will cover the cost. It is wise to talk about this upfront so it is fair to everyone. If you have chosen an expensive stylist and want a specific look for your bridesmaids, it may be fair to share or cover the cost. If you are allowing them to choose their own style and they are happy to pay, that may be the best option.

Most hairdressers offer a package including a trial. If your budget is tight you could work around this by washing your hair ahead of the visit or working a trial into one of your routine cuts. If you have a good relationship with your hairdresser, they may be happy to blow dry your hair in different ways ahead of an official trial. Take pictures so you can look back and compare each style. Don’t be cheeky though and expect them to spend hours on you if you’re just have a fringe trim.

Time line:

If you have your hair coloured, talk to your hairdresser about booking in appointments make sure your hair is in perfect condition for the big day.

If you are trying a different colour, do it with enough time to make changes if you decide it doesn’t look right.

Your hairdresser will be able to advise you about when to have your final cut and / or colour so get it booked in early to avoid disappointment.

If you want to try a fringe, give yourself plenty of time to grow it out just in case!

It may be that you grow your hair out of your usual style to achieve an updo on the day. Don’t worry about an ‘in-between’ look - it will be worth it for the day!

To wash or not to wash?

This all depends on what style you are having. Up dos make work better if your hair is washed the night before but again your hairdresser is the best person to guide you on this.

The most important thing is that you feel happy, confident and yourself.