
Key points
Here are 3 key points about the average cost of bridal hair and makeup:
• Hair – The average cost for bridal hair services ranges from $50 to $150. It depends on the stylist’s experience and location.
• Makeup – Bridal makeup application costs an average of $75 – $200. An airbrush makeup is the higher-end service.
• Full Service – Brides can expect to pay $125 – $350 for a full hair and makeup service. It typically covers the trial run and wedding day styling.
Contents
Introduction to Bridal Hair and Makeup Costs
Getting your hair and makeup done is a big part of your wedding day experience. It is so important to know who’s behind the dollar figure. These costs are significant to a wedding day or the brides as it gives them an idea on which glam team to choose and at which cost.
This introduction will delve deeper into the expectations and ideas on the cost of hair and make-up for brides.
Definition and Importance of Bridal Hair and Makeup
Hair and makeup will surely amp up the bride’s overall look. This is a must-have in every wedding as this completes the look, outfit, hairstyle, tie, venue, and overall vision of the bride. Hence choosing a hair and makeup team is very important. Getting comes once; make it worthwhile and memorable for the bride.
Factors Influencing Costs
Many things impact the price of bridal beauty services. Here are some of the factors influencing the service cost:
- Location matters – big cities cost more than rural areas.
- Expertise of the stylist – a few long-standing salons in busy areas typically overcharge. A newly-opened salon or a newbie glam team offers a relatively low service charge or cost.
- Travel fees and train run – transportation costs add up to the total cost.
- Luxury hair extensions and airbrush makeup cost – these are add-ons to the normal service cost.
Breakdown of Costs
The stylist’s fee, trials, and travel fee are what the bridal hair and makeup costs mostly. The major part of the total costs will be the stylist’s fees of $70-$150 per service. Trials generally cost roughly $75-$125 to test styles and products for the big day. Travel charges may apply if the stylist will come on-site – normally between $25-$75 depending on location.
Average National Costs
Brides pay $100-$150 and grooms pay $70-$100 on average. The trial service parts are anywhere from $50 to $75 nationwide. Bridal packages containing hair, make-up, and trials cost $300 to $500 on average. The costs are usually higher in major metro areas.
Regional Variations in Pricing
Pricing varies by region. The cost and rates are dependent on the location or area. The rates are typically higher in major metro areas like New York and Los Angeles with an average of $150-$300+. Costs tend to be lower in less populated areas and average $70-$150 per service. The cost and rates are dependent on the location or area.
It is advisable to pencil in stylists in advance to get the best price or deal. The variations and pro-activeness in booking will either make or break the choice of styling and glam team per region.
Cost Components: Hair vs. Makeup
Hair costs more than makeup on average. Messy buns, complex styles, or an elegant updo usually take more time, product, and expertise than blowing hair out. The national average for bridal hair is $100-$150. Makeup costs around $70-$100 due to ease of application. However both are equally important for achieving that bridal look.
Factors Affecting Cost
The price of bridal hair and makeup can vary significantly depending on key factors. Here’s a quick rundown of what impacts the price:
Stylist Experience and Reputation
Highly reviewed stylists and makeup artists with years of experience can cost more, a starting one will likely have lower rates, and famous stylists can charge a premium. Experience and reputation do dictate the cost of bridal service.
Product Quality and Brand
Some salons use pro-quality hair and makeup products. These products are typically costly and are often branded or designed with labels like MAC, NARS, Oribe, etc. Do note that the brand affects the total costs of the service.
Do note that the brand affects the total costs of the service. Branded items are associated with luxury bridal packages.
Venue Location and Travel Expenses
Stylists who work in super costly cities like New York and L.A. will charge more due to high traffic and demand. A destination wedding or venues outside the city can also affect the charges. There’ll be an extra fee for these – transportation and venue affect the service cost.
Budgeting for Bridal Beauty
It’s important to have a budget for hair and makeup. This will dictate if the bride can afford the services of the glam team. The key areas of consideration for budgeting are the average cost or price range, the most important aspect to the bride (i.e., hair, make-up, or both), and the amount of service cost the stylist can work with.
Tips for Managing Costs
There are lots of ways to save money on bridal beauty. Here are some tips:
- Inquire about trial runs, discounts, or bundled packages.
- Schedule services for the morning. They are comparatively less expensive.
- Consider DIY for bridesmaids or simpler makeup.
- Use coupons and loyalty programs.
Prioritizing Services
Focus on the essentials when allocating the wedding budget. Stick to your budget and priorities. Affordability and proper allocation work best. A tight budget calls for simpler looks and own expense while a bigger budget means extra money to spend on specific requests.
DIY vs. Professional Services
Saving money is easier when doing DIY compared to availing of professional services. However a special event like a wedding calls for a more sophisticated and skilled hair and makeup styles. The professionals know how to make the bride look good and last all day. It’s less stressful too.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How early should a bride book hair and makeup artists?
Experts say brides should book their wedding hair and makeup artists at least 6-8 months in advance to get their top choices locked in.
What is the cost difference between airbrush and traditional makeup?
Airbrush makeup costs $75-$150 more than traditional makeup application.
Should bridesmaids pay for their own hair and makeup?
Bridesmaids typically pay for their own hair and makeup services for a wedding.
How much should a bride tip wedding hair and makeup artists?
15-20% of the total service cost is the standard tip amount for wedding hair and makeup artists.
Can a bride do her own wedding makeup to save money?
Brides can do their own makeup to save money but hiring a professionals ensures flawless photos and not having to stress on the wedding day.
What upcharges are common for wedding makeup services?
Common wedding makeup service upcharges include lashes ($25+), airbrush ($75+), and travel fees if not local.
Is it better to pay wedding vendors by service or package?
Packages typically offer bundled pricing discounts compared to paying per service hourly rates.
How much should grooms pay for wedding day grooming?
Grooms are expected to pay $75-$150+ for wedding day haircut/styling and professional shave services.
Should flower girls get professional hair styling?
Most professionals suggest simple flower girl hairstyles handled by the bridesmaids to save costs.
How much extra should be budgeted for trials?
It is recommended that brides have a budget of $100-200 extra for hair and makeup trials before the wedding.

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