Perfect Wedding Hair - Tips for the Bride

1. Six months before the wedding is a good time to start thinking about your hair. Start looking around at styles and getting ideas. Take into account your dress, tiara and veil, if using, and also the type of wedding your having. If it's all quite formal you may want to go for a sleek updo or other classic style. Dont be afraid to try something different, you wont be dressing like you normally do so you can try out a whole different look. However dont stray too far from your normal look, he doesnt want to see a stranger walking down the aisle! If you are thinking about changing your hair colour now is a good time to experiment, dont leave it any later in case you dont like it and need to change it back.

2. As a general rule of thumb the longer your hair the better (within reason), especially if you are planning to have it curled or wear it up. However dont compromise on condition for the sake of length, keep those ends trimmed and start using deep conditioning treatments, you want georgeous glossy locks on the day.

3. It's best if you choose a hairdresser with plenty of experience and preferably one who specialises in bridal hair as it is more complex than regular hairdressing and you want it to stay looking perfect on your special day. Book a trial two to three months before the wedding (longer if you wish) it's best to wait until you have your tiara, veil etc. as this will help to determine the eventual style. If you are growing your hair wait until it's reached your desired length before having the trial, however dont wait to book it as you may be disappointed.
A good hairdresser will ask you lots of questions about your wedding, i.e. the dress, tiara, veil, venue and also your bridesmaids. Give them as much information as possible, this all helps to create the perfect look. If you have a theme let them know and offer to e-mail them any useful pictures. If you see any styles you like send them these before the trial along with recent pictures of your bridesmaids and dress.

4. If you are thinking about getting your make up done too, see if the stylist can recommend anyone. You really want another specialist in their field, with equal experience. Even better if they have worked together before as this will all help to make your day run smoothly. If you have a big wedding party then it helps with the timing as they can work simultaneously.

5. Wash your hair the day before your trial, and the same goes for your wedding day as this makes it less fly away and easier to manage. Leave it to dry in its natural state with no products on. It's VITAL that you dont straighten it as it wont take a curl properly, even if you arent planning to wear it curly.
The hairdresser will have shine spray etc, to ensure it looks glossy. Take your tiara, veil and any hair accessories along with you also all the pictures etc, just in case there is a problem with the e-mail. Wear a light coloured strapless or strappy top, or if your wedding dress isn't strapless try to wear something with a similar neckline. Allow at least two to three hours for your trial.
You can usually take bridesmaids with you if you wish to let the stylist see their hair, if not take recent photos. It's a good idea to take someone (apart from the groom!) to give you a second opinion. If bridesmaids are unavailable then perhaps your mother (depending on the mother!). The stylist should take photos but its also a good idea to take your own camera too. Don't be afraid to ask to try more than one look, a good stylist should have no problem with this, it really helps you to decide if you are a bit stuck on the whole up or down dilemma! Book the hair and make-up trial together so you can see the complete look.
If you are having your hair curled or put up its often a good idea to book it early in the day so you can see how well it lasts, bear in mind that curls will always drop a certain extent. Once your trial is complete your stylist will be able to tell you exactly how long it will take on the day, for the entire party, aim to be ready at least 30 minutes to 1 hour before the car arrives.

6. On the day RELAX, sit back and sip your champers, you are in expert hands.

7. PS. Extra tip for the day. Make sure everyone having their hair done on the day wears a robe or something that doesnt need to be pulled over their head (even the little ones!) No one wants to have their clothes cut off!