Cover image by Elizabeth in Love for Simkova Studios. Beauty by Eryn Shannon Bridal.
An Estimated Timeline is Imperative FOR Success
We've already covered creating a wedding day timeline but we can't stress its importance enough. It's essential to know your estimated timeline and share it with your team as soon as possible. The most common mistake we see is that clients have not properly thought through what time everyone needs to be ready. This results in scrambling to add more artists (which may not even be possible due to artist availability in a busy wedding season) and/or ending up with a ridiculously early start time, both of which carry additional costs.
We suggest planning for up to 6.5 hours of hair and makeup time for around 6 people. It may not take that long, but it's a safety precaution and saves a lot of headaches on both sides.
Artists usually want around 45 mins each for hair and makeup for bridal party/family members.
For the bride, it's usually 1 - 1.5 hours each. Don't forget about adding a bit of buffer time, too, just in case of delays.
Keep in mind that the earlier you need to be ready (ie. a church ceremony at 12p), the earlier you need to start. A noon ceremony can mean being ready for 10.30 am. If we work backward, would be a 4a start, resulting in early start fees and depending on location, may require accommodation for the artists the night before.
BEFORE YOU REACH OUT
Determine what services everyone wants (ie. both hair and makeup, lashes, and airbrushing).
Again, know your important times. Brides should be done no less than 45 mins prior to getting dressed. Add another 45 mins to dress and do some portraits before prepping for departure.
Ask your photographer for input here, too.
Decide who should be done when getting into your dress. Is it the dream to have a cute shot of your group in full hair and makeup by the time you are getting dressed? Or is it just your VIP helping you and then you'll do a reveal with the rest of your party once they are ready? This all impacts your timing.
WHAT TO ASK
How should you be preparing your hair and skin for the day?
Do they have a ratio for the number of artists vs. people getting services done?
What amount of time do you need to allot for each service for each person?
What should you have ready? (ie. hair flowers, veil, power needs, etc.)
When you should schedule a trial and where does this happen?
EXTRA NOTES
While gratuities are not expected, they are welcomed. Generally, 15% is a good rule of thumb.
Whoever is paying for services will want to have this ready.
Ready for other helpful wedding planning tips? Click the button below!