Bridesmaids' Hair: Who Pays And Why?

Being a bridesmaid is an honour, but it can also be a financial burden. There are many costs involved, from the dress to travel, and hair and makeup. So, who should pay for the bridesmaids' hair? There is no definitive answer, but it often depends on the bride's budget and the size of the bridal party. If the bride can afford it and wants everyone to have the same look, she may choose to cover the costs. However, if there are many bridesmaids, the bride may opt to split the costs with her bridesmaids or let them pay for their own hair. It's also common for the bride to cover the cost of the maid of honour's hair as a special gesture. Ultimately, there is no right or wrong way, and each wedding is unique.

Bride paying for hair and makeup

There are varying opinions on whether the bride should pay for her bridesmaids' hair and makeup. While it is not required, it is a thoughtful gesture and a great way to thank the bridal party for their support. It is also a practical option if the bride has a specific vision for how she wants her bridesmaids to look.

If the bride can afford it, it is customary and considerate for her to cover all or part of the glam costs for her bridesmaids, especially if she is requesting their hair and makeup to be done professionally. This can help ensure the bridesmaids feel and look their best and afford them the convenience of not having to worry about finding and paying for a stylist themselves. It also allows the bride more control over the beauty agenda and ensures the bridesmaids' looks are cohesive and align with her vision for the wedding.

However, covering hair and makeup services for multiple bridesmaids can be expensive, and it can be challenging to coordinate everyone's schedules. In such cases, the bride may opt to cover only the hair or makeup services, or she may choose to split the costs with her bridesmaids. This approach can be more cost-effective and give bridesmaids the freedom to choose their preferred stylists.

Ultimately, there is no single right or wrong way to handle glam costs. The bride should consider her budget, the size of her bridal party, and the preferences and financial situations of her bridesmaids when making her decision. Open communication is essential to ensuring everyone is on the same page and happy with the arrangement.

Bridesmaids paying for their own hair and makeup

There are many expenses to consider when planning a wedding, and one of the biggest questions is often who pays for the bridesmaids' hair and makeup. While etiquette rules vary, many experts say the bride should pay if she requests that her bridesmaids' makeup and hair be done professionally. However, this is not a requirement, and there are several options to consider.

Option 1: Bridesmaids Pay for Their Own Hair and Makeup

If the bride is unable to pay for her bridesmaids' hair and makeup, it is a good idea to make getting it done professionally optional. This way, it is more like an invitation, and the bride can simply provide the details of the hair and makeup artists and let her bridesmaids know the cost. This option gives bridesmaids the freedom to choose their preferred beauty professionals and allows them to save money if they opt to do their own hair and makeup.

Option 2: Bride and Bridesmaids Split the Cost

Another option is for the bride and bridesmaids to split the cost of hair and makeup services. The bride may choose to pay for one service, such as hair or makeup, while the bridesmaids cover the cost of the other. This can be a practical approach, especially for large bridal parties or when the bride has a limited budget.

Option 3: Bride Pays for Hair and Makeup

The most traditional arrangement is for the bride to cover all beauty costs for her bridal party. This option gives the bride more control over the beauty agenda for her big day and ensures a uniform look for her bridesmaids. However, it can be expensive and challenging to coordinate everyone's schedules.

Ultimately, there is no single right way to handle the costs of bridesmaids' hair and makeup, and the decision should be based on factors such as the wedding budget, bridal party size, and the bride's preferences.

Splitting the costs

There are several ways to split the costs of bridesmaids' hair and makeup. Here are some options to consider:

Bride and Bridesmaids Split the Cost

An option for brides who want to contribute to their bridal squad's glam expenses but cannot cover the full cost is to pay for a portion of the services. This can be an ideal middle ground, especially if the bride wants to treat her bridesmaids but has a limited budget. The bride can choose to pay for either hair or makeup services, whichever they think is the best option for their bridesmaids. This allows the bridal squad to feel pampered without breaking the bank.

Bride Pays for the Maid of Honour

It is fairly common for the bride to foot the bill for the Maid of Honour's hair and makeup as a special gesture to thank her for her support and to make her feel included in the group. This option can be a more affordable way to show appreciation to the bride's number one gal without breaking the bank.

Bridesmaids Pay for Their Own Hair and Makeup

Another option is to let bridesmaids pay for their own hair and makeup services. This approach gives them the freedom to choose their preferred stylist and can be more cost-effective for the bride, especially if she has a large bridal party. However, if the bride requests specific hairstyles or makeup looks, it is only fair that she covers the costs.

Compromise and Split the Costs

Brides and bridesmaids can also come to a compromise and split the costs. For example, the bride may agree to pay for makeup, while the bridesmaid pays for their hair to be done. This option provides flexibility and allows both parties to contribute without bearing the full expense.

Optional Professional Services

If the bride is not able to cover the costs, she can make getting professional hair and makeup done optional. This way, it is more like an invitation, and the bride can simply provide the option for bridesmaids to join her in the bridal suite for hair and makeup services at their own expense. It is essential to give advance notice so that the bridal squad can plan and budget accordingly.

Ultimately, there is no one-size-fits-all approach to splitting the costs of bridesmaids' hair and makeup. The bride can choose the option that best suits her budget and preferences, keeping in mind the financial situation of her bridal squad.

Paying for the maid of honour's hair and makeup

The maid of honour plays a significant role in a wedding, and there are various expenses and expectations associated with this role. One common question that arises is whether the bride should pay for the maid of honour's hair and makeup. Ultimately, the decision depends on the bride's budget and preferences, as well as the dynamics within the bridal party. Here are some considerations and options to explore:

Traditional Arrangement

The most traditional approach is for the bride to cover all beauty-related costs for the entire bridal party, including the maid of honour. This option allows the bride to have more control over the beauty agenda for the wedding and ensures a unified look for the bridal party. However, it can be expensive and challenging to coordinate, especially with a large bridal party.

Bridesmaid's Choice

Another option is to let the maid of honour decide whether to opt in and pay for her own hair and makeup services. This approach gives the maid of honour freedom to choose their preferred stylist and look. It is also more cost-effective for the bride, especially if there are multiple bridesmaids. However, it requires the bride to be flexible regarding the outcome, as each bridesmaid may have different ideas and preferences.

Cost-Sharing

A middle ground between the two options is for the bride to pay for a portion of the hair and makeup services. For example, the bride could offer to pay for the maid of honour's hair or makeup, whichever they prefer. This option can be especially considerate if the maid of honour is already incurring significant expenses for the wedding, such as travel costs or bridal party gifts.

Destination Weddings

If the wedding is a destination wedding, it is generally expected that the bride will cover the cost of hair and makeup services for the maid of honour and other bridesmaids. This is because destination weddings already entail significant expenses for flights and accommodations, and covering beauty services can help alleviate some of the financial burden on the bridal party.

Communication is Key

Regardless of the option chosen, clear and timely communication is essential. The bride should discuss expectations and preferences with the maid of honour and ensure that any financial responsibilities are understood and agreed upon by both parties. This open dialogue will help prevent misunderstandings and ensure that everyone is on the same page.

Making it optional

Making hair and makeup optional for bridesmaids is a great way to reduce costs for the bridal party and give them more freedom to choose their desired look. Here are some tips to make it work:

• Communicate clearly: Let your bridesmaids know that having their hair and makeup done professionally is completely optional. Explain that you want them to feel comfortable and within their budget.
• Provide alternatives: Offer a few suggestions for local salons or stylists who offer a range of prices. This gives your bridesmaids options and helps them find services that fit their budget. You can also recommend salons or stylists that are less expensive, such as the hotel's spa or a nearby salon.
• Be understanding of different preferences: Recognize that not all bridesmaids may want or need professional hair and makeup services. Some may prefer to do their own hair and makeup, especially if they are confident in their skills or have specific preferences. Respect their choices and include them in the getting-ready activities, even if they are doing their own glam.
• Offer a "beauty credit": If you want to contribute financially but cannot cover the full cost, consider offering a "beauty credit" to each bridesmaid. For example, you can chip in a certain amount towards their hair or makeup services as a way to show your appreciation. Just ensure you communicate the exact amount and any associated costs, like tipping, in advance so they can plan their budget accordingly.
• Consider covering costs for specific bridesmaids: If you have a Maid of Honor or a bridesmaid who may not be able to afford professional services, consider covering the cost for them as a special gesture. It is a thoughtful way to ensure everyone feels included and valued.
• Provide a getting-ready space: Even if your bridesmaids are doing their own hair and makeup, offer a designated space for them to get ready together. This could be a bridal suite or a room at the wedding venue. It creates a fun and relaxed atmosphere for everyone to hang out and get ready, regardless of whether they are using professional services or not.
• Plan ahead: Whether your bridesmaids opt for professional services or DIY, encourage them to make appointments or book the space well in advance. This helps ensure that everyone's schedule aligns, especially if they want to get ready together.
• Share guidelines and inspiration: If you have a specific vision for the overall look, share guidelines or create a mood board with hair and makeup inspiration. This can ensure some consistency in their looks without taking away their freedom to choose.
• Be mindful of other expenses: Remember that being a bridesmaid can be financially demanding, with costs for dresses, shoes, accessories, travel, and other wedding-related events. If you are unable to cover hair and makeup costs, be understanding of their budget constraints and try to keep other expenses reasonable.
• Focus on the experience: Ultimately, the morning of the wedding should be a joyful and memorable experience for you and your bridesmaids. Prioritize having fun, celebrating your friendship, and creating special memories together, regardless of who pays for hair and makeup.

By making hair and makeup optional, you empower your bridesmaids to make choices that suit their preferences and budgets while still ensuring they feel valued and included in your special day.

Frequently asked questions