
Planning a wedding can be a stressful task, and creating a timeline for hair and makeup is essential for a smooth and enjoyable wedding day. Wedding hair and makeup can take up to 2-2.5 hours to complete, so it is important to plan accordingly. Many factors can influence the timing of hair and makeup services, such as the number of people in the bridal party, the complexity of the styles, and the number of artists and assistants. In addition, certain beauty services, such as lash extensions, nails, and spray tans, should be done well in advance of the wedding day.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| How long before the wedding should you do your makeup? | 45 minutes to 2.5 hours before the ceremony. |
| Who should go first? | The bride should go last, but not too close to the ceremony. |
| How long does makeup take? | 45 minutes on average. |
| What else should you consider? | Travel time, photos, and the number of people in your bridal party. |
| What about lashes and other beauty treatments? | Lash extensions should be done 2-3 months in advance. Nails and other treatments can be done earlier in the day. |
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What You'll Learn

Wedding makeup takes 45 minutes to 2.5 hours
Wedding makeup can take anywhere from 45 minutes to 2.5 hours, depending on various factors. The time taken for wedding makeup can vary depending on the complexity of the look, the number of people in the bridal party, and the experience of the makeup artist.
For example, if you are planning to have a detailed and intricate makeup look for your wedding, it will likely take longer to apply and perfect than a more natural or simple look. Additionally, if you have a large bridal party, with multiple bridesmaids and family members wanting their makeup done, the process can take significantly longer. It is also important to consider the experience and skill level of the makeup artist. A seasoned professional may be able to work more quickly while still achieving a flawless look, whereas an artist who is less experienced may take longer to create the desired look.
To ensure a smooth and timely process on your wedding day, it is essential to establish a clear timeline for hair and makeup services. This should include a realistic estimate of how long each person's makeup will take, as well as any additional time that may be needed for touch-ups or adjustments. It is also a good idea to build in some buffer time to your schedule to account for any unexpected delays.
Some brides choose to have their makeup done last, just before putting on their gown, to ensure that their makeup looks fresh for the ceremony. However, others prefer to schedule their makeup application towards the middle of the getting-ready process, allowing time for touch-ups before the first look or photos. Ultimately, the timing of your wedding makeup will depend on your specific preferences, the size of your bridal party, and the logistics of your wedding day.
To make the most of your wedding makeup experience, it is recommended to start planning and preparing well in advance. This includes scheduling consultations and trials with your makeup artist, as well as taking care of any beauty treatments, such as lash extensions or spray tans, in the months leading up to your big day.
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Brides should go last for fresh makeup
Wedding days can be hectic, and it's essential to plan the schedule carefully to ensure the bride's hair and makeup are fresh and flawless for her walk down the aisle. While there are differing opinions on whether the bride should go last for hair and makeup, here are some reasons why brides may want to consider being the final one:
Fresh and Flawless Makeup:
The primary concern for brides is often having their makeup look pristine and long-lasting for the ceremony and reception. Going last ensures that the makeup is freshly applied, reducing the chances of it melting or fading due to factors like heat or time. This way, the bride can confidently walk down the aisle with a radiant and flawless complexion.
Photography Considerations:
Many wedding photographers recommend capturing the bride's "finishing touches," such as lipstick application or a quick brush of highlighter, as these moments make for beautiful photographs. If the bride goes last, photographers can also take pictures of her getting ready while the bridesmaids are getting into their dresses, creating a well-rounded visual narrative of the day.
Relaxation and Downtime:
Scheduling some downtime after the bride's hair and makeup are completed can help her relax and recharge before putting on her gown. This buffer time allows her to eat, drink, and take a breather, knowing that her hair and makeup are done and won't be affected by these activities.
Timeline Management:
While there is a concern that going last might cause delays and stress if the styling runs over time, a good stylist will build in a buffer to prevent this. Additionally, if the bride goes second to last, there is still a risk of her look being rushed if the stylist runs out of time.
Crying Considerations:
Emotions often run high on wedding days, and it's not uncommon for brides to shed a few tears during the preparations. Going last for makeup means any tears of joy or stress will happen before the makeup application, ensuring the bride's makeup stays intact.
In conclusion, while there are valid concerns about timing and potential delays, the benefits of the bride going last for fresh and flawless hair and makeup often outweigh the risks. Proper planning, including building a buffer into the timeline, can ensure that the bride looks and feels her best as she embarks on her special day.
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Lash extensions are recommended 2-3 months before
After your first appointment, you can schedule your hair and makeup consultations. It is recommended that you do this after your lash appointment so that you can see the full picture with your new lashes. You can even schedule your hair and makeup trial for the same day.
To keep your lashes looking their best, you should schedule lash refill appointments every two weeks. This will ensure your lashes are wedding-day ready. Lash extensions are a great way to feel beautiful and confident on your wedding day, and they eliminate the chance of lash strip mishaps or misplaced glue.
If you are considering a spray tan for your wedding, it is recommended that you schedule a trial run in advance. You should also ask your lash technician for advice on spray tanning with lash extensions to ensure your lash line is protected.
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Prep hair and skin the day before
Preparing your hair and skin for your wedding day is important to ensure that your makeup looks its best. Here are some tips to help you prep the day before the big day:
Hair
It is recommended to wash and blow-dry your hair the day before the wedding. This will give your hair a smooth and sleek look for your wedding day. If you plan to use hair extensions, ensure that they match your natural hair colour and style. You can also get them cut and blended into your natural hair if needed. Additionally, if you want to add some extra shine and health to your hair, consider using a hair mask treatment.
Skin
The key to achieving radiant and glowing skin for your wedding day is to focus on hydration and exfoliation. Firstly, it is important to note that you should avoid trying any new skincare products or treatments right before the wedding, as this can lead to unexpected reactions or sensitivities. Instead, opt for products that provide deep hydration, such as those containing hyaluronic acid, which helps to lock in moisture. Water-based formulas are also recommended as they provide a lightweight and non-greasy feel while still deeply hydrating the skin.
Exfoliation is another crucial step in your skin preparation routine. Aim to exfoliate at least two days before the wedding to remove any dead skin cells and create a smooth base for your makeup. If you have sensitive skin, you may want to consider a professional exfoliating treatment, such as dermaplaning, which can be done a couple of weeks before the wedding.
In the days leading up to the wedding, it is essential to maintain a consistent skincare regimen. This includes washing your face with a gentle cleanser and lukewarm water, followed by toning and moisturising. If you usually use serums, apply them sparingly, as they can sometimes create a peeling look under makeup. Instead, opt for a lightweight moisturiser to ensure your skin is not too greasy before makeup application.
Lastly, don't forget the importance of a good night's sleep and staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water. This will help your skin look refreshed and plump, creating the perfect canvas for your wedding-day makeup.
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Consider travel and touch-up time
Wedding days can be hectic, so it's important to consider travel and touch-up time when planning your wedding makeup schedule. Here are some tips to ensure a smooth and stress-free process:
Choose a Convenient "Getting Ready" Location
Select a location that is easily accessible and minimizes travel time. If you're getting ready at the venue, ensure there's an elevator or choose a ground-floor space to avoid lugging multiple bags, chairs, and lighting equipment up the stairs. This will save time and reduce the risk of accidents.
Start Early and Allow for Touch-ups
It's recommended to finish hair and makeup 1.5 to 2 hours before the ceremony to accommodate any last-minute touch-ups. For a 4:00 pm ceremony, consider starting hair and makeup as early as 10:00 am, especially if you have a large bridal party. This allows for adjustments and ensures you're photo-ready for pre-ceremony snapshots.
Schedule Touch-ups Strategically
If you're doing a "first look" or taking photos before the ceremony, your timeline should include hair, makeup, and photo prep at least 1 hour beforehand. For a 4:00 pm ceremony, this means allocating time for touch-ups and photos around 3:00 pm.
Plan for Delays and Adjustments
Include a buffer of at least 30 minutes at the end of your schedule to address any unexpected delays or final touch-ups. This extra time ensures that you're not rushed and can handle any last-minute surprises calmly.
Prioritize the Bride's Schedule
While there is a belief that the bride should go last, scheduling her towards the middle is often more practical. This allows the bride to relax, knowing her hair and makeup are complete, and provides time for any necessary adjustments.
Manage Lip Color Timing
Consider having the makeup artist apply the bride's lip color just before she leaves. This allows her to eat and drink freely before the ceremony, ensuring she feels comfortable and relaxed.
Prepare for a Long Day
Bring snacks or opt for a catered lunch to keep your energy up throughout the day. This is especially important for your artists, who may be with you for 7+ hours. Don't forget to include them in your food plans!
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Frequently asked questions
Hair and makeup services take an average of 45 minutes per person, not including the bride, which can take up to 2.5 hours. The number of people in the bridal party and the complexity of the styles will also impact the time needed.
There are differing opinions on this. Some believe the bride should go last so her makeup is fresh for walking down the aisle. Others suggest the bride should go in the middle of the time block to allow for adjustments and to be ready for pre-ceremony photos.
It's important to factor in travel and touch-up time. Hair and makeup should be finished 1.5-2 hours before the ceremony. If you're doing a first look, you'll need to allow for hair, makeup, and photo prep at least 1 hour before. You should also consider the location for getting ready, as stairs can be difficult for artists to navigate with all their equipment. Additionally, it's recommended to get lash extensions 2-3 months in advance and to wash and dry your hair the day before the wedding.







































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