Getting Hair Done the Day Before Your Wedding
It should be the happiest day of your life, it's certainly the one where you'll take centre stage. To minimise pre-wedding nerves it makes sense to get as much planned and nailed down in advance as possible. That goes for the ceremony itself, for your reception, and definitely for your bridal look.
The Importance of A Pre-Wedding Trial
Your make-up artist if you have one, and certainly your hair stylist will do a better job for you if they see you in your wedding dress well ahead of the big day. An expert stylist will create an effect that highlights your best features and one which co-ordinates with your gown. When it comes to your hair there are sleek, cute or sexy looks for short hair, lots that can be done to make long hair look dreamy and romantic, and a world of choice when it comes to wedding hairstyles for medium hair. At a trial, you'll get the chance to try out several different looks. Equally importantly your stylist will be able to assess your hair texture and condition and give you a few tips on how to best care for it in the days and weeks before the wedding.
Up or Down
Whether you want your hair to flow freely or to be worked into a sophisticated style is entirely up to you, Bridal updos with a veil are always fashionable and especially so at the moment. If you're planning an updo, one question to be answered is where within the style should the veil be fixed. This is something your stylist will work with you on but there are some general guidelines:
For low to mid updos, the veil goes above the bun. The material will frame your face and looks especially good if combined with a wedding comb or headpiece.
For higher updos, such as a ballet bun the veil is usually placed below the bun. The veil falls from your hair and works as an extension of the styling.
Half and half-dos - The veil might go above or below the updo section, depending on the size of the bun and the length of your hair.
Getting Your Hair into Perfect Condition
Getting your hair done should start days or even weeks before the wedding.
Four to six weeks ahead - Make sure you book regular trims to get rid of split ends and maintain the shape of your basic cut. This will make it much easier to style your hair on the day itself.
The Day Before
To wash or not - As a general rule, it's best not to wash your hair on the day when it's to be worked into an updo. You don't want to walk down the aisle with dirty hair of course, but a little natural oil will help hold an elaborate hairdo in place. Flyaway or static-filled hair is almost impossible to style into sleek or sophisticated looks.
Using products - Experts are split on this one. Some will tell you that using a little styling balm or a light mouse after the final wash before your wedding or trial will help prepare your hair to hold the style. Others say that it's best not to use any products as if you choose the wrong one your hairdresser will just have to wash it out. It's best to ask your own stylist about this as they're the only person who can give you individualised advice.