Planning your wedding day involves many details, and finding the right timeline for bridal hair and makeup is one of them. Getting the perfect look is more than just showing up on your wedding day. This guide walks you through a step-by-step bridal hair timeline for when to start thinking about your hair, from the first steps to booking your stylist, trial runs, and the final touch-ups leading to the big day.
12 Months Before: Research & Inspiration
The beginning of wedding planning is also the perfect time to explore wedding hair ideas. Take a look at bridal magazines, browse Pinterest, and save images of any styles that catch your eye. Think about your style, wedding theme, and, of course, your dress, as each of these can influence your final choice.
When you’re gathering ideas, think about:
- Updo vs. Down: Do you want your hair up or down? Updos are often classic, while loose waves feel soft and romantic.
- Hair Accessories: Do you dream of a veil, floral crown, or jeweled clip? These elements can also affect which styles suit you best.
- Stylist Research: Start looking up local bridal stylists or even a blow dry bar for pre-wedding touch-ups. Check out their social media for examples of their work. Reviews from other brides can also give you a feel for their style, skills, and reliability.
8-10 Months Before: Book Your Hairstylist
Once you’ve found a wedding stylist you’re excited about, it’s time to book! Experienced wedding hairstylists tend to get booked quickly, so the sooner you secure your date, the better. You’ll have locked down your venue and wedding date by eight to ten months out, so it’s the perfect time to get your bridal hair booking on the calendar. Book a stylist who specializes in bridal hair and understands the unique demands of wedding days. Check out luxury blow dry bar services at Primp and Blow.
When booking, clarify:
- Wedding Day Services: Does the stylist come to you, or do you need to go to the salon?
- Bridal Party: If your bridesmaids or family members also want their hair done, discuss whether the stylist can accommodate them.
- Policies and Pricing: Confirm the cost, deposit requirements, and cancellation policies.
6 Months Before: Schedule a Hair Consultation
Now it’s time for a consultation 6 months before the wedding. Meeting with your wedding stylist in person (or through a video call) is important to discuss your style preferences and finalize the overall look. Check out the benefits of your regular visits to the blow dry bar here.
During your consultation:
- Bring Photos: Show your stylist your saved images and discuss your vision.
- Discuss Hair Goals: If you need to grow out your hair or are considering color changes, now’s the time to make a plan. If your hair needs more volume or length, your stylist may also recommend hair extensions.
- Plan for Hair Health: Ask your stylist for advice on keeping your hair healthy and shiny leading up to the wedding, from deep conditioning treatments to trims.
3-4 Months Before: The Hair Trial
The hair trial is where things get exciting because you’ll finally see your dream hairstyle come to life. A good time for this trial is three to four months before the wedding. This time, test hair accessories or a veil if you plan to use them.
Here’s what to do at your trial:
- Come Prepared: Wear a white shirt or top with a neckline similar to your dress, so you can get a better sense of how the style will look.
- Wear Makeup: Even a little bit of bridal hair and makeup can help you better visualize the finished look.
- Take Photos: Capture pictures from every angle to ensure you’re happy with how the style photographs.
And remember, it’s okay to speak up if something doesn’t feel right! This is your chance to get a preview of your bridal look, so make sure it’s exactly what you envision. The breakdown of bridal hair and makeup guidelines is here as well.
1-2 Months Before: Finalize Any Adjustments
Now is the time to finalize any details or adjustments to your bridal hairstyle. If there were small tweaks you wanted after the trial, communicate these with your stylist now. Some brides also choose this time for a final hair trim or color touch-up.
Things to finalize:
- Confirm Timeline: Double-check the time your stylist will arrive and how long they’ll need on the wedding day.
- Share Your Day-Of Schedule: Let your stylist know your wedding timeline, especially if other people in your bridal party will be getting their hair done.
- Confirm Products or Accessories: If your stylist needs you to bring anything specific, like hairpins or special products, make sure you have these ready.
2 Weeks Before: Final Touches and Relax
With just two weeks to go, it’s time to do some final pampering. Book a trim or color appointment if necessary, and ensure your hair is in its best possible condition. Avoid any drastic changes—this isn’t the time to try a totally new color or cut!
Consider a few last-minute hair care tips:
- Avoid Harmful Products: Stick to your routine and avoid products that may dry out or damage your hair.
- Final Conditioning Treatment: Consider a deep conditioning treatment to add extra shine.
- Prep Accessories: Ensure all hair accessories are clean and ready for the big day.
The Day Before: Wash and Prep Your Hair
The day before the wedding, wash your hair using a shampoo and conditioner. Avoid heavy products like oils or leave-in conditioners since they can weigh down your hair. Make sure your hair is completely dry before you go to bed.
Here’s a helpful reminder for the day before:
- Avoid Heat Styling: Skip the flat iron, curling iron, or any heavy styling.
- Get a Good Night’s Sleep: Wedding day prep starts with feeling well-rested, so try to get a full night’s sleep.
Wedding Day: The Big Moment
Finally, your wedding day is here! To make things run smoothly, aim to relax and enjoy the process. Have a designated space for your bridal hair and makeup artist to set up and all accessories ready to go. Once your stylist arrives, trust them to work their magic and enjoy every moment.
Pro tip: Make sure you’re dressed in a robe or button-down shirt, so you won’t mess up your hair when changing into your gown.
Final Thoughts
Your bridal hair timeline is an exciting part of the wedding planning process, and a timeline helps to make sure it all goes smoothly. From finding wedding hair ideas to the final touch-ups, each step is important in creating the look you’ve always dreamed of. By working closely with your wedding stylist and planning, you’ll be sure to walk down the aisle with confidence and style. Book your appointment at Primp and Blow today.
