If you plan to do your own hair, you should know this: The morning of your wedding is NOT, I repeat, it is not like any other day! You will be stressed even if you don’t feel stressed. Stress for some makes them shut up, for some emotional and for others, well, you know, bridzilla. But a well planned and thought out morning will make all the difference.
1. Practice, practice! Schedule your practice session and make a list of all the tools and products you will need. If you’re not going to be home, you’ll need to plan ahead and pack well.
2. If you’re doing your hair at home, put everything in a basket and hide it away so it looks fresh and ready for your special day.
3. Schedule shower times if the house is full of family and guests. (You matter more, allow yourself this indulgence.)
4. Make sure there is a mirror and a counter or table to work on. (not a slippery, steamy sink) Note: If others need to shower, set up a drying station outside the bathroom to keep the timeline on track.
5. Make sure there are adequate power outlets wherever you’re going to do your hair, if not bring a power bar and extension cord. Older inns and Bed & Breakfasts may not have as many electrical outlets or one near good lighting.
6. Put on all your nice underwear first and cover yourself with a button down shirt or robe. This way, after you’re done doing your hair and makeup, just put on your robe!
Does a stylist travel to you?
1. Give accurate and proper addresses and telephone numbers. Many times brides give the instructions they follow and forget that the stylist may be coming from the opposite side of the road. Or make sure she has GPS.
2. Have a place prepared and set up for the stylist to work. It can be a large bathroom, a well-lit dining room or a kitchen. Place heating pads or heavy towels to protect surfaces from hot tools.
3. The stylist doesn’t need a mirror to mimic her work environment but she will want one. But she needs good lighting.
4. Don’t assume the stylist can do more people at the last minute. Make sure everyone getting their hair done is mentioned ahead of time and arrives on time. If and only if all assignees have finished, ask if someone can be added.
5. Be prepared yourself. The worst for me was when the brides were not ready for me upon my arrival as some stylist may have another wedding planned after yours. When planning your morning, allow extra time for interruptions. They will happen.
Are you going to a salon?
1. Schedule your wedding day hair appointment at least eight weeks in advance or as soon as your date is open in the computer system.
2. Hold a trial practice session at least a month in advance and bring a photo of your dress and headdress to the salon. Bring a trusted friend to take photos of your hairstyles in stages and from all sides once you’re done. It’s well worth the added cost to your bottom line, trust me.
3. Record your travel time from the salon to where you are going to get dressed. Consider the day of the week and whether the church will let out or a holiday parade will get in the way of your wedding.
4. Add extra time for dressing and makeup if not enforced by the salon.
5. Request more than one stylist to help with the wedding party. Three stylists for a group of six is the best bet to stay on schedule.
6. Schedule all nail appointments for the day before, this also saves time.
7. Don’t expect your favorite stylist to do your wedding hair if you want an intricate updo. This is a specialized service and is best left to the expert or salon team.
8. Don’t forget your veil. I can’t tell you how many girlfriends she has. Put it in the car the night before or on the door from which you will leave. Ask the stylist to show someone in the wedding party how to remove it for later in the day.
However you choose to start your wedding morning, start off well-rested, well-planned, and beautiful!