Bridesmaids' Hair And Makeup: What's The Cost?

Bridesmaids' hair and makeup can cost anywhere from $50 to $300 per service, depending on the location, the complexity of the style, and the products used. On average, bridesmaids' hair and makeup cost around $150 per person, with hair costing around $50-$75 and makeup costing around $75. The bride typically covers this cost if she requires her bridesmaids to have their hair and makeup done professionally. However, if it is optional, the bridesmaids usually pay for their own services.

Bridesmaids' hair and makeup costs around $185 in total

The cost of hair and makeup for bridesmaids can vary depending on several factors, such as the location, complexity of the style, and the number of people in the bridal party. On average, bridesmaids can expect to pay around $185 in total for both hair and makeup services. This includes about $95 for hair and $90 for makeup. However, it is not always mandatory for bridesmaids to have their hair and makeup done professionally, and the decision to offer this as an option may depend on the bride's budget.

If the bride requires her bridesmaids to have their hair and makeup done professionally, it is generally expected that she covers the cost as a gift to her bridesmaids. This can be a significant expense, especially for larger bridal parties, but it is a thoughtful way to thank them for their support and contribution to the wedding.

In some cases, the bride and bridesmaids may agree to split the costs or find ways to save money. For example, bridesmaids could choose to do their own hair or makeup to save on costs, or the bride may offer to cover only the hair or makeup services for her bridesmaids. Ultimately, the decision on who pays for bridesmaids' hair and makeup should be communicated clearly and in advance to ensure a smooth and joyful experience for everyone involved.

Additionally, it is important to consider other factors that may impact the total cost, such as travel fees for the hair and makeup artists, trial runs, and gratuity for their services. These extra charges can quickly add up, so it is essential to factor them into the budget when planning for the wedding.

The bride pays if hair and makeup are required; bridesmaids pay if it's optional

The bride traditionally pays for her bridesmaids' hair and makeup, but this is usually only the case if she requires them to have it done professionally. If hair and makeup are simply being offered as an option, it's usually expected that the bridesmaids will pay for the service themselves.

The bride's budget will often determine who pays for the bridesmaids' hair and makeup. For example, at destination weddings, the bride often pays for beauty services, as her bridesmaids will have already paid for flights and hotels.

There are other options, too. The bride may agree to pay for makeup, while the bridesmaids pay for their own hair styling, or vice versa. The bride may also choose to subsidise the cost of hair and makeup, or offer to pay for one or the other.

If the bride is requiring her bridesmaids to have their hair and makeup done professionally, it's a good idea for her to give them a rough price estimate in advance, so they can budget accordingly.

Bridesmaids' hair and makeup can be a gift from the bride

Bridesmaids' Hair and Makeup as a Gift from the Bride

Bridesmaids' hair and makeup can be a wonderful gift from the bride, and it's a great way to thank your bridesmaids for their support and contribution to your special day. It is a thoughtful gesture that can make your bridesmaids feel appreciated and valued. Here are some reasons why bridesmaids' hair and makeup can be an excellent gift from the bride:

A Memorable Experience

The morning of the wedding is a special time for the bride and her bridesmaids to bond, share stories, and create lasting memories. By gifting hair and makeup services, the bride can enhance this experience and ensure that her bridesmaids feel pampered and relaxed. It adds to the joy and celebration of the day and creates a fun and glamorous atmosphere.

Professional Services

Hiring professional hair and makeup artists can make a significant difference in the overall look of the bridal party. These experts have the skills and knowledge to enhance everyone's beauty and ensure long-lasting results. With their curated kits and salon-quality products, they can create intricate hairstyles and flawless makeup looks that complement the wedding theme and attire. This can be especially beneficial for destination weddings or outdoor ceremonies where weather conditions may be a factor.

Budget Considerations

The cost of hair and makeup for bridesmaids can vary depending on various factors, such as location, complexity of styles, and the number of people in the bridal party. On average, bridesmaids' hair and makeup can range from $75 to $185 or more per person. If the bride chooses to cover these expenses, it can be a generous gift that relieves financial burden from the bridesmaids, especially if they have already incurred other costs such as travel or attire.

Convenience and Consistency

Organising hair and makeup services for the bridal party can be a logistical challenge. By taking on this responsibility and covering the costs, the bride can ensure a seamless and stress-free experience for her bridesmaids. It also allows for better coordination and timing on the wedding day, as the entire bridal party can get ready together and maintain a consistent look.

Enhancing the Wedding Aesthetic

The bride has a vision for her wedding day, and having professionally styled bridesmaids can elevate the overall aesthetic. Well-executed hair and makeup can complement the bridesmaids' attire, colour palette, and theme of the wedding. It adds to the visual appeal of the event and creates a cohesive and elegant look that will be captured in photographs and cherished for years to come.

In conclusion, offering hair and makeup as a gift to your bridesmaids is a thoughtful and practical gesture. It not only enhances their experience on your special day but also ensures that they feel confident, beautiful, and valued. By covering these costs, the bride can create a memorable and joyful morning for her bridal party, resulting in stunning visuals that will forever remind them of this extraordinary occasion.

The bride may subsidise hair and makeup costs

If the bride is working with a tight budget, she could consider subsidising part of the costs. For example, she could pay for the hair, and the bridesmaids can pay for their own makeup, or vice versa. This can be a great way to reduce costs for everyone involved.

Another option is for the bride to subsidise a set amount, say $30, and the bridesmaids can pay the rest. This can be a good way to save the bride some money, while also reducing the financial burden on the bridesmaids.

If the bride is unable to pay for any of the costs, she can still help by providing prices from hair and makeup stylists and offering to book the services for her bridesmaids. This way, the bridesmaids can pay the stylists directly, and the bride can ensure that everyone is happy with the services provided.

Ultimately, the bride should communicate clearly with her bridesmaids about what she is able to pay for, and any optional or mandatory services. This will ensure that everyone is on the same page and there are no surprises on the wedding day.

Travel fees may be added if the hair and makeup artist needs to travel

When it comes to bridal hair and makeup, travel fees are an important consideration, especially if your wedding location is outside the artist's usual radius. This additional cost covers the artist's time and transport expenses when travelling to your venue or getting-ready location.

Travel fees for hair and makeup artists can vary depending on several factors, including the distance they need to travel and their individual pricing policies. Some artists may charge a flat rate for any location beyond a certain radius, while others may charge per mile or even include travel fees in their overall service cost if you are within a specific distance. It is essential to clarify these details when booking to avoid surprises.

For example, one artist charges a flat rate travel fee of $99 per artist for any event outside a 20-mile radius of their operating hubs. In contrast, another artist charges $1 per mile for travel, resulting in a $120 round trip fee for a 60-mile journey. Some artists may also require accommodation, especially for more distant locations, which can significantly increase the travel fee, as seen in one case where the artist requested a hotel room for a 2.5-hour drive, adding $330 to the total cost.

To minimise travel fees, consider choosing a hair and makeup artist local to your wedding venue. This way, you can avoid hefty travel expenses and ensure the artist's convenience and timely arrival.

Remember, travel fees are an essential part of compensating your hair and makeup artist for their time and effort, especially if they have to travel long distances to provide their services.

Frequently asked questions