Over the last 20 years working in the bridal hair and makeup industry, we've seen every possible arrangement when it comes to who foots the bill for these essential services! Understanding the different ways this can be handled can help you and your bridal party plan and budget more effectively for your big day. Continue reading to learn more about the most common scenarios!
The Bride Treats Her Tribe
One of the most generous gestures we see is when brides choose to treat their bridal party to hair and makeup services. This can be a delightful surprise and a memorable gift, often appreciated more than traditional bridesmaid gifts like monogrammed coffee mugs or matching hair scrunchies! It’s a way to pamper your bridal party and ensure everyone looks and feels their absolute best!
Split the Cost
Another popular payment option is for the bride to cover one service, such as makeup, while asking her bridesmaids to pay for the other, like hair! This compromise can help alleviate some of the financial burdens on both sides. It's a thoughtful way to contribute without one member taking on the entire cost!
Hair and Makeup Gifts
In some weddings, the father and mother of the bride or groom steps in to cover the cost of hair and makeup for the entire bridal party! This incredibly generous gesture can be a huge help in easing financial concerns and adds a special touch of support from the family. Sometimes, they may opt to pay for just one service, either hair or makeup, depending on their budget and preference. Sometimes we see parents or other family members gift hair and makeup services as a bridal shower gift! This is a great option for family members looking to go off-registry while also giving a meaningful and useful gift.
Bridal Party Pays Their Way
In situations where brides do not require their bridal party to receive professional hair and makeup services, it’s common for bridesmaids to cover the cost themselves if they choose to partake. This approach allows for flexibility and personal choice among your bridal party members! We typically see this happen in more casual or budget-conscious weddings.
Required Styling Services
There are also instances where brides require their bridal party to receive professional hair and makeup services. In such cases, the responsibility of payment can either fall on the bridesmaids or bride. Though we will say, when brides are requiring styling services, we typically see them cover the cost for their crew! We, of course, prefer all bridal party members (including mothers and grandmothers!) receive hair and makeup services; this creates a uniform look for your wedding photos and a cohesive style for the event! More on that below.
Why We Recommend Everyone Receive Hair and Makeup Services
Investing in professional hair and makeup services for your entire bridal party can significantly enhance the overall experience and the final look of your wedding day! Here’s why we recommend it:
A Fun and Memorable Experience
Receiving hair and makeup services together is a fun experience to share with your bridal party members, mothers, grandmothers, and other loved ones! It’s reminiscent of getting ready for dances with your girlfriends in high school and college, but way more special. The laughter, excitement, and shared anticipation create lasting memories for you and your bridal party!
Worth the Investment for Photos
You’re investing a significant amount of money in your wedding photos, and trust us, investing in top-notch hair and makeup artists will absolutely be worth it. Professional hair and makeup styling ensures that everyone looks their best and are cohesive in your wedding photos. Without this invaluable investment, it will probably be apparent in the wedding photos that you’re paying so much money for! Again, trust us when we tell you that the difference in quality and appearance between professional and DIY hair and makeup is noticeable, especially under professional photography lighting!
Consistency in Appearance
When eight out of nine bridal party members are receiving styling services, it’ll be pretty obvious in your photos which one person didn’t receive professional hair and makeup. This can create an inconsistency in the look of your bridal party, detracting from your overall aesthetic! Ensuring that everyone receives professional services helps maintain a uniform and polished appearance, contributing to the seamless and beautiful look of your wedding day!
So, Who Pays For Wedding Hair and Makeup Services?
Ultimately, there’s no right or wrong way to handle who pays for wedding hair and makeup services. The best approach depends on your budget, the expectations of your bridal party, and your personal preferences. At Updos For I Dos, we're here to accommodate any arrangement and ensure everyone looks and feels completely stunning for your special day! Whether you’re treating your bridal party or they’re covering their own costs, we’ll make sure it’s a seamless and enjoyable experience for all. Investing in professional hair and makeup services for everyone can enhance both the experience and the final result, ensuring your wedding day is as beautiful and memorable as possible.
If you haven’t reserved your Updos For I Dos hair and makeup artists yet, we highly recommend you inquire with us today! We would love to be included in your most special day.
