Bridesmaids' Hair Trial: Should They Or Shouldn't They?

There are many opinions on whether bridesmaids should get a hair trial before the wedding. Some bridesmaids don't have a trial, especially if they live far away. However, it is not uncommon for bridesmaids to book a trial for themselves to ensure they look and feel their best on the day. If a bridesmaid wants a trial, it is usually at their own expense, unless the bride requests it. The cost of a hair trial varies depending on the stylist's level of expertise and location, ranging from $50 to $150 or more. It is recommended to book a hair trial about a month or two before the wedding to allow for adjustments if needed.

Who pays for bridesmaids' hair trials?

There is no definitive answer to the question of who pays for bridesmaids' hair trials. It is generally considered good etiquette for the bride to pay for hair trials if she requires her bridesmaids to have a certain hairstyle or to use specific hair stylists. However, if the bride is happy for her bridesmaids to choose whether or not they want to have their hair done professionally, it is acceptable for the bridesmaids to pay for their own hair trials.

Some brides may also offer to subsidise the cost of hair trials, or suggest that bridesmaids pay for one service (e.g. hair) and the bride will pay for the other (e.g. makeup). This can be a good way to ensure that bridesmaids feel comfortable with their wedding day look without incurring excessive costs.

Ultimately, the decision of who pays for bridesmaids' hair trials will depend on the individual circumstances of the bride and her bridesmaids, as well as the overall budget for the wedding. It is important for the bride to communicate her expectations clearly to her bridesmaids and to be mindful of their financial situation when making decisions about hair and makeup.

Should bridesmaids bring anything to their hair trial?

It is not uncommon for bridesmaids to have a hair trial before the wedding day, although it is not always necessary. If the bridesmaids are paying for their own hair, they may want to have a trial to ensure they are happy with the style. If the bride is covering the cost, she may prefer to skip the trial to save on expenses. Ultimately, the decision to have a hair trial is up to the individual bridesmaid and the bride.

If a bridesmaid decides to have a hair trial, there are a few things she should keep in mind. First, she should discuss the cost with the bride beforehand. The bride may be expecting the bridesmaid to pay for the trial herself, especially if it is not included in the wedding package. Second, the bridesmaid should arrive at the trial with clean, dry hair that has been washed the day before. This will ensure that the majority of the trial is spent on styling rather than blow-drying. Third, the bridesmaid should wear something similar in colour to the dress she will be wearing on the wedding day. This will help her to visualise how the hair will look with the dress. Finally, the bridesmaid should bring any hair accessories she plans to wear on the wedding day so that she can experiment with different styles.

In addition to these practical considerations, the bridesmaid should also be open-minded and honest during the trial. It is okay to change her initial plan and try out different options. If there is something she doesn't like, she should feel comfortable speaking up and expressing her opinion.

Overall, the decision to have a hair trial depends on the individual bridesmaid's preferences and budget. If she chooses to have a trial, keeping the above tips in mind will help ensure that she gets the most out of the experience and feels confident and happy with her wedding day hair.

How much do hair trials cost?

The cost of a hair trial can vary depending on the stylist's level of expertise and your location. On average, costs can range from $50 to $150 or more. Some stylists include the price of a trial in their bridal package, while others may charge extra. If you plan to cut or dye your hair, you should schedule a trial about six months before the wedding. This way, your stylist can plan and work with the colour and cut. Your final colouring should be done about two weeks before the wedding, and any final cuts or changes should be done about ten days prior.

The cost of a hair trial can also depend on the length of the appointment and the number of looks created. For example, one person was quoted $130 for one hour of a makeup trial, while another was quoted $100 for two hours with two looks for both hair and makeup. Another user was quoted $225 for hair and makeup, with the option to do several looks for up to four hours.

It's important to note that the cost of a hair trial is separate from the cost of the wedding day hair services, which can vary based on the style and amount of work needed. When considering the cost of a hair trial, it's essential to factor in additional costs such as travel fees or the cost of accessories.

When should bridesmaids book a hair trial?

Some bridesmaids may not have a hair trial at all, especially if they are happy to go with the flow on the day and take the risk. This is a personal preference, and some may be happy to skip the trial to save on costs. However, if a bridesmaid wants a trial, it is customary for them to pay for it themselves, unless the bride requests the trial and offers to cover the expense.

If a bridesmaid does opt for a hair trial, it is recommended to book it around a month or two before the wedding. This allows for any adjustments to be made and gives the stylist time to plan and work towards the end goal. If a bridesmaid is planning to cut or dye their hair, the trial should be scheduled earlier, around six months in advance, to ensure the stylist can plan the transition and work with the new hair.

It is also important to consider the practicalities of booking a hair trial. Bridesmaids should ensure they have the budget to cover the costs, especially if the bride is not contributing. The costs can vary depending on the stylist's expertise and location, ranging from $50 to $150 or more. Additionally, travel fees may be incurred if the stylist needs to travel to the bridesmaid's location.

When booking a hair trial, bridesmaids should also consider the timing in relation to other wedding preparations. It is recommended to have the wedding dress and accessories chosen before the trial, as this will influence the chosen hairstyle. It is also beneficial to have the makeup trial before or after the hair trial to get a complete vision of the overall wedding day look.

In summary, the decision of when to book a hair trial depends on various factors, including budget, timing, and personal preference. Bridesmaids should consider their own needs and preferences when making this decision, and effective communication with the bride and stylist is key to ensuring a smooth process.

What happens during a hair trial?

A hair trial is a preliminary run-through of a person's wedding-day hair look. It is meant to test and refine the hairstyle, so that there are no surprises on the big day. It is recommended to book a hair trial about a month or two before the wedding. This gives the stylist time to make adjustments if needed. If you plan to cut or dye your hair, it is recommended to schedule a trial about six months before the wedding.

To get the most out of your wedding hair trial, arrive with clean, dry hair that's ready to be styled. If you're also having a makeup trial, arrive with a fresh face. It is also a good idea to bring along any hair accessories you plan to wear, as well as inspirational photos of the hairstyles you like.

During the trial, the stylist will try out different hairstyles, usually about three options, and take photos of each from different angles. They may also suggest certain hair products or techniques to help your hair look its best on the big day. It is important to speak up during the trial and let the stylist know if there is something you would like to change or adjust.

After the trial, the stylist may suggest booking a follow-up appointment to perfect the hairstyle or make any necessary changes. It is also a good idea to ask the stylist about their availability for the wedding day itself, as it is ideal to have them on hand for any last-minute touch-ups.

Frequently asked questions