What You Need to Know About Stylists and Getting Great Hair for Your Big Day
Hiring a hairstylist for your wedding day is a wonderful idea if you want to try a look that’s more complicated than what you’re used to. It’s also a smart move if you’re not good at fixing your hair, don’t enjoy the process, or simply don’t think you’ll have the time -- or nerves -- to worry about your hair on the biggest day of your life. You can hire a stylist just for you, or go all out and hire for the girls in your party.
“Some women hire a hairstylist for themselves and separate one for the bridesmaids,” says hairstylist Hillary Bell, of 7 Salon in Miami. “This gives them a chance to be alone for a little while, and not have to worry about all of the stress.”
Start looking for your hairstylist about six months’ prior to your wedding, even earlier if you have the time. Like other types of vendors, most of the good ones get booked up in advance, and you don’t want your mom to get stuck with the duties at the last minute. Prices vary tremendously, depending on where you live, the venue, how complicated your look is, etc. Expect to pay anywhere from $300 to $500 for you, and from $500 to $1,500 for your whole party.
Many venues will offer an on-site stylist, and women often chose the recommended hairstylist for convenience and price. Often, too, they will make an appointment at the nearest spa. However, says Bell, “before you assume you’re getting a bargain, check the prices. Often, a local stylist is cheaper because he or she has no overhead.”
Once you pick your stylist, she’s going to do a trial run of your hair. The more you bring to the session the better. If you know your wedding colors, bring them, along with swatches of your dress, and any jewelry you’ll be wearing. On the day of your wedding, the stylist will probably spend about an hour on your hair, and perhaps 45 minutes on each bridesmaid.
When interviewing, make sure you click with the hairstylist’s personality. Also, look through several books of wedding styles, and check out her web site for more photos. For an extra charge, most hairstylists can be booked for the entire wedding, or part of it, to keep your hair in “top” form. If it’s in the budget, go for it.
The most important advice Bell gives to brides is to settle for a hairstyle you love, not that someone else is crazy about. “Don’t style your hair to please other people,” she says. “Go with what you like and what makes you feel happy.” She also recommends avoiding anything too trendy, as you’ll be looking at the pictures for years to come.
And remember, if you go to a friend’s wedding, and you love her hair, ask who her stylist is. Says Bell, “Word of mouth is the best possible way to get the stylist who’s perfect for you.”
-David Toussaint
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