Rhiannon Hendricks
Planning a wedding can be a stressful task, and it's important to allocate enough time for hair and makeup to ensure the day runs smoothly. On average, hair and makeup for each bridesmaid should take between 30 and 45 minutes, with a further 60 to 90 minutes for the bride. This can vary depending on the length and thickness of hair, the complexity of the desired style, and whether any hairpieces or extensions are involved. To ensure the process goes efficiently, it's recommended to have one hairstylist and one makeup artist for every six people.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Average time for each bridesmaid's hair | 30-45 minutes |
| Maximum time for each bridesmaid's hair | 1 hour |
| Minimum time for each bridesmaid's hair | 20 minutes |
What You'll Learn
Onsite vs. salon stylings
Deciding whether to have your hair styled at a salon or onsite is a tricky decision to make. There are pros and cons to both options, and it ultimately depends on your personal preference and the logistics of your wedding.
If you opt for a salon, you can expect to have access to a wider range of stylists and be guaranteed a scalp massage as part of your experience. However, this option may require more coordination in terms of transportation and timing, especially if you have a large bridal party. It can also be stressful to corral your squad to the salon for their time slot, and you'll need to adhere to the salon's business hours, which may not align with your desired schedule for the day.
On the other hand, choosing to have your hair styled onsite can provide a more relaxed and convenient experience. You won't have to worry about transportation or sticking to the salon's hours, and you can enjoy getting ready with your bridal party in a comfortable setting. However, if you have a large group, the styling process may take longer, and you may need to ensure that there are enough outlets and space for the stylists to work.
Some other factors to consider include the weather and the theme of your wedding. If you're concerned about rain or wind affecting your hair, onsite styling may be a better option. Additionally, if you're having a bohemian-themed wedding, for example, onsite styling can help you achieve a more relaxed look that aligns with the theme.
Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal preferences and the logistics of your wedding day. Weigh the pros and cons of each option and choose what will make you and your bridal party feel the most comfortable and pampered.
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Hairstyling duration
The duration of hairstyling for bridesmaids depends on several factors, including the complexity of the hairstyle, hair type, and length.
On average, hairstyling for bridesmaids can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour or more. Some sources suggest that day-of hairstyling takes approximately 40 to 45 minutes per person, while others recommend allowing for 35 to 45 minutes per person. This longer time frame accounts for different hair types, styles, and any last-minute changes.
For simple hairstyles, such as a primping, it may only take a few minutes. However, more intricate updos or styles with curls can take significantly longer. If curls are involved, it is important to factor in setting time. Additionally, if hair extensions are required, this will also add to the overall duration.
It is worth noting that the number of hairstylists can impact the duration. Having multiple stylists working simultaneously can reduce the total time, especially for larger bridal parties. Conversely, a single hairstylist may need more time to accommodate everyone's needs.
To ensure a stress-free experience, it is advisable to overestimate the time required and build some flexibility into the schedule. This allows for any unexpected delays or last-minute adjustments, ensuring that the bridal party remains on track and the bridesmaids can enjoy the process without feeling rushed.
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Makeup applications
When it comes to makeup applications, it's important to allow plenty of time to ensure a stress-free wedding day. The last thing you want is for hair and makeup to run late and throw your entire schedule off-kilter.
On average, makeup applications for bridesmaids take around 30-45 minutes per person. For the bride, it's recommended to allow 60-90 minutes. This gives the makeup artist ample time to create a flawless look and make any necessary adjustments.
If you have a large bridal party, consider hiring multiple makeup artists to speed up the process. This will ensure that everyone is ready on time and reduce the risk of delays.
To create a detailed timeline for the big day, it's crucial to factor in various elements. Firstly, decide on the order of applications. Some suggest scheduling the bride's makeup towards the middle of the day. This allows for any necessary touch-ups and ensures the bride looks fresh for the ceremony. Others recommend having the bride's makeup done second to last, right before the flower girls, to ensure the bride's look remains intact throughout the day.
Additionally, consider any external factors that could impact the timeline. For instance, if a bridesmaid has young children, coordinate the babysitter's arrival time so she can be ready while someone else is watching her little ones.
It's also essential to communicate your expectations to your bridal party. Let them know if they need to arrive with day-old hair or any other specific requirements.
Finally, don't forget to enjoy the process! It's a celebration, so serve some light snacks, play some music, and capture some memorable photos while you get ready for your special day.
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Working backward
So, if you need to be ready to leave by 3 pm, and you have six bridesmaids, you should work backward in 30-45 minute increments to determine the arrival time for your hair and makeup team. This means starting hair at 11 am and makeup at 12 pm, allowing an hour for each bridesmaid, and longer for the bride.
If you have a large group, an early ceremony time, or a complex hairstyle, consider asking your hair and makeup team to bring assistants to save time. It is also worth being flexible with the order of hair and makeup—while many people prefer to have hair done first, it is not always necessary and can be done simultaneously if you are short on time.
To help the day run smoothly, it is a good idea to ask your bridesmaids to arrive 5-10 minutes before their assigned time slot, so that you can keep things moving if you are running ahead of schedule. It is also important to be clear with your hair stylists about what type of hairstyle you want, and how much time they will need per person. On average, an updo will take 45 minutes, but this can vary depending on hair length and thickness, and the complexity of the desired style.
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Order of services
To ensure the wedding day runs smoothly, it is important to allow ample time for the bridal party to get ready. If hair and makeup run late, everything else will be behind schedule.
Order of Service
Schedule a Trial
It is recommended to schedule a consultation and trial session with your makeup artist and hairstylist 3-6 months prior to your wedding. This will help you feel relaxed and ensure you are not making last-minute decisions under pressure.
Work Backwards from the Ceremony
Once you have determined the time you need to be ready by, work backward in 30-40 minute increments to decide on an arrival time for your hair and makeup team. For example, if you need to be ready by 3 pm and have six applications/styles in total, the start time for hair could be 11 am, and 12 pm for makeup.
Be Mindful of the Bride's Schedule
It is best for the bride to have her hair and makeup done toward the beginning or middle of the timeline. This ensures that, if things are running behind, the stylists are not rushing to complete the bride's hair and makeup. It is also beneficial for the bride's hair and makeup to be completed before the photographer arrives, so they can capture the bridal preparations.
Decide on an Order
Generally, it is suggested to have hair done first, followed by makeup. However, the order can be switched, or both can be done simultaneously if you are short on time. If you are opting for a hairstyle with curls, it is more efficient to get the process started before moving on to makeup. This way, your makeup can be applied while your hair is setting.
Allow Adequate Time for Each Bridesmaid
On average, hairstyling takes approximately 30-45 minutes per person, while makeup applications take around 30 minutes. Therefore, for a group of six bridesmaids, you should allow at least three hours for hair and makeup to be completed.
Consider the Size of Your Group and Available Stylists
If you have a large group, ask your hair and makeup team if they can bring assistants to save time. Alternatively, book additional stylists yourself. As a general rule of thumb, there should be one makeup artist for every six applications.
Be Prepared
Arrive with dry hair, washed the day before, as the natural oils will help your style hold better. Also, ensure your face is clean and free of moisturizer, as your makeup artist will apply a primer before your foundation.
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Frequently asked questions
On average, you should allocate 30-45 minutes for each bridesmaid's hair. However, if bridesmaids have long and/or thick hair, or are opting for a complex hairstyle, it could take up to an hour or more.
To speed things up, you could ask your stylist to bring an assistant. Alternatively, if you're travelling to a salon, consider doubling the travel time you anticipate to avoid delays.
It's recommended that the bride has their hair done towards the beginning or middle of the day, rather than at the end. This means that if things are running behind schedule, the stylists won't be rushed.
Your bridesmaids should wash their hair the day before, as the natural oils will help their style hold better.
The number of stylists you have and the types of hairstyles your bridesmaids choose will also impact timing. More stylists will help you get through the styling faster, while complex updos or styles with curls will take longer.
