How to Choose the Perfect Wedding Hair Stylist for Your Big Day
Imagine the sun is rising on your wedding day, and you’re slipping into your gown, surrounded by laughter and the scent of fresh flowers. All that’s missing is the artist who will transform your hair into a masterpiece worthy of the occasion. That’s where the right wedding hair stylist comes in—a magician who knows exactly how to make you shine.
But finding the right stylist can feel as daunting as picking the perfect wedding dress. Over the last 13 years at Bespoke Bride, we’ve interviewed hundreds of brides who’ve shared their journeys, tips, and sometimes hilarious mishaps. So, as part of our bridal beauty advice, let’s dive into the art of choosing your wedding hair stylist with stories, insights, and a little humor to keep things lively.
Know Your Style (and Stick to It!)
Before you even start scouting, ask yourself: what’s your dream wedding hair look? Are you envisioning elegant waves, a romantic updo, or a boho braid adorned with flowers? Knowing your style will help narrow down potential stylists.
Our Experience: One bride, Emma, told us she wanted a loose, beachy wave for her summer wedding. She didn’t communicate this clearly and ended up with a sleek chignon instead. It looked stunning—but it wasn’t her. The lesson? Be specific about your vision.
Check Their Portfolio
A picture is worth a thousand words, especially when it comes to hair. Scour portfolios and Instagram feeds of potential stylists to ensure their style aligns with yours. Look for variety and consistency in their work.
Our Experience: Samantha, a bride from Devon, shared her excitement about finding a stylist whose portfolio showcased intricate boho braids. She loved how her stylist had a knack for incorporating flowers into the designs. Samantha also shared a game-changer: she brought along her travel shampoo and conditioner to the trial, ensuring her hair was in perfect condition.
Schedule a Trial Run
A trial isn’t just a test for the stylist—it’s also a chance for you to experiment. You might think a classic French twist is your dream look until you see it in the mirror. Use the trial to tweak and perfect your style.
Our Experience: One of our favorite stories comes from Lucy, who discovered the magic of solid shampoo during her hair trial. Her stylist recommended it as an eco-friendly option that’s perfect for travel. Not only did it leave her hair silky smooth, but it also fit easily into her honeymoon packing.
Ask the Right Questions
When you meet potential stylists, don’t be shy about asking questions. What products do they use? How do they handle humidity or unpredictable weather? And, importantly, are they available for touch-ups throughout the day?
Our Experience: During our interview with Anna, a winter bride, she shared how her stylist came prepared with anti-frizz sprays and emergency bobby pins. Anna’s secret weapon? Using travel shampoo and conditioner in the weeks leading up to her wedding to ensure her hair stayed moisturized despite the cold weather.
Consider Your Wedding Theme
Your wedding theme can influence your hairstyle. A glamorous Hollywood wave might suit a black-tie affair, while a relaxed braid fits perfectly with a rustic barn wedding.
Our Experience: Maya, who had a whimsical garden wedding, chose a stylist who specialized in natural, effortless looks. Her stylist even incorporated petals from her bouquet into her hair. Maya swore by her stylist’s advice to stick with gentle, natural hair products like solid shampoo to maintain her hair’s health.
Watch this video for some more useful tips:
Read Reviews and Get Recommendations
Word of mouth is a powerful tool. Read reviews, ask friends for referrals, and even tap into online wedding communities for advice.
Our Experience: Charlotte shared her cautionary tale about skipping reviews. She hired a stylist who looked amazing on paper but turned out to be a no-show on the day. Don’t let this be you—do your homework!
Plan for the Unexpected
Even with the best planning, things can go awry. Pack an emergency kit with hairspray, bobby pins, and even a mini solid shampoo for touch-ups if needed.
Our Experience: Sarah, a destination bride, swore by her wedding day survival kit. Her stylist recommended packing travel shampoo and conditioner, which saved her hair from the effects of hard water at her tropical venue.
Trust Your Gut
Finally, trust your instincts. If a stylist doesn’t feel right, move on. This is your big day, and you deserve to feel confident in your choice.
Our Experience: Over the years, we’ve heard brides rave about the bond they built with their stylists. It’s not just about skill—it’s about trust. When you click with a stylist, the results show.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the perfect wedding hair stylist is about more than finding someone with talent—it’s about finding someone who gets you. From portfolios to solid shampoo recommendations, every detail matters. With these tips and a little bit of intuition, you’ll walk down the aisle with hair that makes you feel like the best version of yourself.
And remember: at the end of the day, it’s not just about the hair—it’s about the love, laughter, and memories you’re creating. Cheers to a beautiful wedding day and a flawless hairstyle to match!