Hi friends!
So, here we are. Knee deep into wedding season and all the planning that goes with it! Such a fun, fun time full of all types of emotions. Feeling excited, stressed, a little overwhelmed, all of the above? Understandable! You’re juggling countless new details on top of the regularly scheduled programming of your daily life. It’s a lot.
So today, I want to help settle some of your anxiety surrounding your overall wedding look. For some brides, perfectly coordinating every aesthetic is a job they were born to do and they live for every single second of it. And some brides would rather crawl into bed, pull the covers over their heads, and have it all magically appear complete when the big day arrives. This little list is mainly for the latter group — a handful of pro hair tips that will make your bridal style come alive with as little stress as possible.
1. Consider the overall vibe of your wedding dress.
Your gown leads the way for your bridal look. If you haven’t purchased your wedding dress yet or shopped around enough to know what kind of style you’re probably going to choose, stop right here. 😂 Say yes to the dress, and then explore hairstyles.
But if you do have your dress, think about the silhouette and what hairstyle would compliment it most (and not overwhelm it). If there are pretty details near your neckline, a classy updo is likely better suited to show them off. And if you’re wearing a veil, think about how your hairstyle can support it.
2. Now think about the environmental details.
In what season are you getting married? What kind of venue did you choose? These details can speak to how casual or formal your bridal style should be to match the rest of your event. For example, a garden party lends itself to natural and slightly wild curls more than a formal ballroom event. And a windy wedding on a hilltop is probably better suited to a tasteful low bun that won’t throw wisps in your face as you’re saying your vows.
3. Next, envision your reception, AKA the big party.
Do you plan to spend most of your reception chatting with all your guests and enjoying the delicious treats you picked out for everyone? Or will you be the first one on the dance floor and the last one to leave it, busting out all your best moves? The latter bride will likely benefit from a more secure updo that can handle lots of movement (and probably some sweat). Long, flowing waves will look lovely as you start the party, but probably not so much during your big exit.
4. Schedule a hair (and makeup) trial.
In the months leading up to your big day, meet with your professional team for a practice run of both your hair and makeup. This trial is your chance to get into the nitty-gritty details and speak your mind about what you love and what you don’t, tailoring your look ahead of time so you don’t end up disappointed or panicked before walking down the aisle. You usually have to pay an additional fee for these trials, but trust me when I say it is 100 percent worth the extra time to plan and peace of mind it provides.
5. Remember the powers of water and balanced nutrition.
Staying well hydrated and eating a diet rich in whole, nutrient-packed foods makes for happy hair and skin. And if you give your stylist a healthy canvas on which to begin, you will look gorgeous and glowing no matter what. So, once you’ve picked out a couple of design notes for your team, focus on what you can control: a quality skin and hair care regimen and nourishing your body. The rest will work out beautifully!
Happy Wedding Planning!
Sarah Keenan, Photographer
Knoxville, Nashville, Asheville
Tri-Cities, Chattanooga
Travel + Destination Wedding Photographer
