Wedding hair and makeup costs typically range from $150 to $600 for the bride alone in 2024.
Quick Cost Breakdown
- Bridal Hair Only: $75-150
- Bridal Makeup Only: $75-150
- Combined Package: $150-600
- Bridesmaid Hair: $50-100 per person
- Bridesmaid Makeup: $50-100 per person
- Trial Sessions: $50-150 each
What’s Included in Professional Wedding Beauty Services
- Consultation and style planning
- Trial run for both hair and makeup
- Day-of styling and application
- Touch-up kit (sometimes extra)
- Travel to venue (may include fee)
Money-Saving Tips
Book your beauty services during off-peak season (November-March) for potential discounts.
Consider booking a package deal that includes both hair and makeup for better value.
Schedule morning appointments, as many artists charge premium rates for very early or late times.
| Service Type | Budget | Standard | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hair Only | $50-75 | $75-150 | $150-300 |
| Makeup Only | $50-75 | $75-150 | $150-300 |
Additional Costs to Consider
- Travel Fee: $0.50-$1 per mile or flat rate $50-100
- Early Morning Fee: $50-100 extra before 7am
- Touch-up Kit: $25-75
- False Lashes: $15-30
- Hair Extensions: $50-200
Book your trial session 3-6 months before the wedding date to ensure availability.
Questions to Ask Your Beauty Provider
- What’s included in the base price?
- How long will the services take?
- Do you provide touch-ups throughout the day?
- What happens if I need to reschedule?
- Can I see your wedding portfolio?
Schedule at least 2-3 quotes from different artists to compare prices and services.
Recommended Timeline
- 6-8 months before: Research and book artist
- 3-6 months before: Schedule trial
- 1 month before: Confirm timeline
- 1 week before: Final check-in
Request a detailed contract that outlines all costs, services, and policies.
Factors Affecting Wedding Beauty Costs
- Location and local market rates
- Artist’s experience level
- Number of people requiring services
- Complexity of chosen styles
- Products used (drugstore vs. luxury)
Hidden Costs to Watch For
- Parking fees at venue
- Minimum booking requirements
- Additional assistants needed
- Product upgrades
- Overtime charges
Insurance and Liability
Verify your beauty provider has proper liability insurance and uses sanitized tools and products. Request documentation if needed.
Common Coverage Areas
- Professional liability
- Product reactions
- Service guarantees
- Cancellation policies
Emergency Preparation
- Have backup contacts for your beauty team
- Keep essential touch-up products nearby
- Schedule buffer time for unexpected delays
- Consider booking a backup artist during peak season
Conclusion
Budget appropriately for wedding beauty services by considering all potential costs and booking early. Research thoroughly, schedule trials, and get everything in writing. Remember that investing in professional services can provide peace of mind on your wedding day and ensure you look your best in photos that will last a lifetime.
Create a detailed beauty timeline and budget worksheet to track all expenses and appointments. Consider both the essential services and optional add-ons when planning your final beauty budget.
FAQs
1. What is the average cost of professional wedding hair and makeup services?
The average cost ranges from $250 to $600 for the bride’s hair and makeup combined. Bridal party members typically cost $150-300 per person.
2. Should I book a trial session before the wedding day, and how much does it cost?
Yes, a trial session is highly recommended and typically costs between $50-150, though some artists include it in the total package price.
3. How far in advance should I book my hair and makeup artist?
Book 6-8 months in advance, especially during peak wedding season (May-October), as top artists get booked quickly.
4. What’s included in a standard bridal hair and makeup package?
Standard packages usually include facial preparation, full makeup application, false lashes, setting spray, and complete hairstyling with styling products.
5. Do makeup artists provide their own products, or should I supply them?
Professional artists typically bring their own kit with high-end products, but you may need to provide specific items you want used, like your lipstick for touch-ups.
6. How long does wedding hair and makeup typically take?
Expect 60-90 minutes for bridal makeup and 60-90 minutes for hair. Bridesmaids usually require 45-60 minutes each for both services.
7. Should I pay extra for airbrush makeup?
Airbrush makeup costs an additional $50-100 but typically lasts longer and photographs better than traditional makeup.
8. What additional costs should I consider in my beauty budget?
Factor in travel fees ($50-100), early morning fees ($50-150), false lashes ($15-30), and touch-up kits ($25-75).
9. Is it worth paying for both hair and makeup artists to stay for touch-ups?
Touch-up services cost $50-100 per hour but can be worth it for long celebrations or outdoor weddings in humid conditions.
10. What’s the customary gratuity for wedding hair and makeup services?
The standard gratuity is 15-25% of the total service cost, typically given directly to each artist at the end of their service.
