Bridesmaid Makeup: Cost, Tips, And Tricks

There are many factors that determine the cost of hair and makeup for bridesmaids, including the experience of the hair and makeup artists, the location of the wedding, the size of the bridal party, and the complexity of the hair and makeup styles. On average, bridesmaids should expect to pay between $125 and $250 per person for hair and makeup, with hair costing between $50 and $75 and makeup costing around $75. However, the bride may choose to cover these costs for her bridesmaids, especially if she is requiring them to have their hair and makeup done professionally.

Average cost of bridesmaid hair and makeup

There are a few different factors that can affect the cost of hair and makeup for bridesmaids. The first is location—the cost of living in the area will be reflected in the price of beauty services. For example, you can expect to pay more for makeup in Los Angeles than in Cleveland. The size of the bridal party will also affect the cost, as the larger the group, the more time the makeup artist and hairstylist will need to spend.

The average cost of bridesmaid hair and makeup is around $185 total for both services. This breaks down to about $95 for hair and $90 for makeup. However, the cost can be as low as $125 per person for both services, or as high as $300.

If bridesmaids are given the option to have their hair and makeup done by a professional or to do it themselves, then they can be expected to pay for it themselves. However, if the bride requires her bridesmaids to have their hair and makeup done professionally, it is expected that the bride (or her parents) will cover the cost.

Who pays for bridesmaid hair and makeup?

There is no single answer to the question of who pays for bridesmaids' hair and makeup. It depends on the preferences of the bride and her bridesmaids, as well as the budget. Here are some options:

Option 1: Bride Pays for Hair and Makeup

The most traditional arrangement is for the bride to cover all beauty costs for the bridal party. This gives the bride more control over the beauty agenda for the wedding and allows her to spend more time with her bridesmaids on the day. However, this option can be expensive and difficult to coordinate, especially with a large bridal party.

Option 2: Bridesmaids Pay for Hair and Makeup

Another option is to let bridesmaids pay for their own hair and makeup. This approach is more cost-effective and gives bridesmaids the freedom to choose their preferred beauty professionals. However, it requires the bride to be flexible about the outcome, as not all bridesmaids may choose to have their hair and makeup done professionally.

Option 3: Bride and Bridesmaids Split the Cost

The bride may also choose to pay for a portion of the hair and makeup services as a way to thank her bridesmaids for their support. This option can be a great alternative to a traditional bridesmaid gift. The bride can set a budget that she is comfortable with and offer it as a "beauty credit" to each bridesmaid.

Other Considerations

If the bride expects her bridesmaids to cover their own hair and makeup, it is important to communicate this clearly and give them enough time to budget accordingly. It is also a thoughtful gesture to provide suggestions for local salons or stylists and encourage them to make appointments in advance.

Additionally, if any bridesmaids are unable to afford the cost of professional hair and makeup, the bride may offer to pay for one or both services to ensure that everyone feels included.

Cost of hair and makeup trials

The cost of hair and makeup trials for bridesmaids can vary depending on several factors, including location, complexity of the styles, and the specific vendor. Here is a detailed breakdown of the costs associated with hair and makeup trials:

On average, bridesmaid hair and makeup trials can range from $50 to $150 per service. This means that if you opt for both hair and makeup trials, the total cost could be between $100 to $300. However, it's important to note that some vendors may offer package deals or discounts for booking both services together. Additionally, the location of the trial can impact the price. Trials conducted in high-cost cities like Los Angeles or destination weddings may result in higher fees.

Additional Costs:

There may be additional costs associated with hair and makeup trials beyond the initial fee. Here are some potential extra charges to keep in mind:

• Travel Fees: If the hair and makeup artists need to travel to your location, there may be a travel fee, especially for long distances or destination weddings.
• Product Costs: Certain products or applications, such as airbrush makeup or premium hair care lines, may incur extra charges.
• Complexity of Styles: More intricate or time-consuming styles, such as elaborate updos or complex braids, will likely result in higher costs.
• False Eyelashes: False eyelash application is usually considered an add-on service and will increase the total cost.
• Nail Services: Manicures and pedicures are often not included in the hair and makeup trial package and will need to be booked and paid for separately.
• Skin Treatments: Pre-wedding skin treatments like facials, tanning, or special skin care products to achieve a "wedding glow" are typically not included and will incur additional charges.
• Hair Extensions: If you or any of your bridesmaids want to add hair extensions for volume or length, this will be an extra cost.

Who Pays for the Trials?

Traditionally, if the bride requires her bridesmaids to have their hair and makeup professionally done, she (or her parents) is expected to cover these costs. However, if professional hair and makeup are offered as an option, bridesmaids are usually expected to pay for their own services. Alternatively, the bride may choose to pay for the trials as a gift to her bridesmaids.

Booking Recommendations:

It is recommended to book your hair and makeup artists at least three months before the wedding date. This will give you ample time to find vendors that match your style and vision, as well as schedule trials and make any necessary adjustments.

In summary, the cost of hair and makeup trials for bridesmaids can vary significantly depending on location, style complexity, and vendor pricing. It is important to consider the additional costs associated with trials and discuss payment expectations with the bride and bridesmaids to ensure a clear understanding of financial responsibilities.

Additional costs

There are several additional costs to consider when it comes to makeup for bridesmaids. These can include:

Travel fees

If your makeup artist isn't located near your venue or getting-ready location, you may have to pay a travel fee. This could be even higher if the distance is significant and mileage is taken into account.

Trial runs

It is recommended to have a trial run of your wedding makeup before the big day to ensure you get the look you want. However, this usually comes at an additional cost, typically ranging from $50 to $150 per trial.

False eyelashes

False eyelashes are usually an optional extra and will add to the overall cost. Strip lashes take additional time to apply, and individual lash application is more complex and time-consuming, so expect to pay a premium for this.

Airbrush makeup

Airbrush makeup is often considered an upgrade and comes at an additional cost. This type of makeup is applied with a special machine that gives a smooth and long-lasting finish. The average cost of airbrush makeup is $155, compared to $100 for traditional makeup.

Extra people

If you want your makeup artist to provide services to additional people, such as the mother of the bride or other members of the bridal party, this will add to the cost. The makeup artist may also need to bring an assistant to help manage the extra people, which will incur an extra charge.

Extra hours

If you want your makeup artist to be on hand throughout your wedding day for touch-ups or to create a new look for the reception, you will need to pay an additional hourly rate.

Saving money on hair and makeup

Being a bridesmaid is expensive, and the costs of hair and makeup can be a significant part of that. However, there are several ways to save money in this area.

Firstly, if you are a bride, you could cover some of the costs of hair and makeup for your bridesmaids to thank them for their support and make it more affordable for them. You could pay for all of it, or just a portion, such as hair or makeup, or a set amount as a "beauty credit". Alternatively, you could offer to pay for one or the other, or both, for any bridesmaid who can't afford it, to ensure everyone feels included.

If you are a bridesmaid and you are covering your own costs, there are still ways to save money. You could do your own hair or makeup, or both, particularly if you are confident in your abilities and happy to follow online tutorials. You could also opt for a "half service" such as an blowout instead of an updo.

Another way to save money is to use a stylist's assistant, as their rates are generally lower than the main artist's. You could also suggest that the bride pay for your hair and makeup as a gift, instead of something you might only use once, like matching robes.

If you are the bride or a bridesmaid, shop around for local salons and stylists on the less expensive end of the spectrum. You could also ask a family member or friend to do your hair and makeup, or someone who is just starting out in the industry, as they will likely price themselves lower.

Frequently asked questions