As you plan for your wedding day, one of the decisions you'll need to make is whether you'll hire a professional to do your wedding make up and hair or attempt to do it on your own. We strongly recommend hiring an experienced beauty professional to handle your hair and makeup (and maybe your bridesmaids', too!)—and for good reasons—but should you decide to go the DIY route, we've got some important stress-saving tips and considerations worth keeping in mind as well.
              Photo by: Katie Slater Photography Hair by: Alicia and Makeup by: Kyle

"Pros" of Hiring a Pro

You've already got enough to worry about on your wedding day, so why add more to the list by doing your own hair and makeup? By hiring a professional for your wedding day hair & makeup, you can enjoy a little bit of time to relax and be pampered before you walk down the aisle. This could just be the time you need to collect your thoughts and let the worries of the day fall away, rather than adding to your stress by trying to perfect that curl or that winged eyeliner.

Furthermore, as the bride, you're going to have a lot of cameras (and lots of eyes!) on you throughout the day. Of course you want to be able to look back on those wedding photos and admire the way you look! By having a professional do your hair and makeup, you can ensure that your hair and makeup photographs beautifully. That's because these professionals know how to apply your makeup and style your hair in a way that makes your best and most flattering features stand out in photos. Exaggerated curls, false eyelashes, and bold lip colors are just a few examples of tricks a beauty professional may use to really wow your guests and make your best features pop!

Photo by: Lilie Fortino Photography | Hair by: Ali and Makeup by: Britt

Finally, hair and makeup artists are happy to schedule a trial in the weeks or months leading up to your wedding so you can see how your look will come together and make sure you're happy with it. This is also a great way to make sure your style will hold all day long, giving you the added peace of mind any bride needs before the big day!

Important Considerations for DIY Hair and Makeup

Many brides who consider DIYing their hair and/or makeup do so out of budgetary concerns. However, while it may be cheaper to handle your own hair and makeup, most brides agree that the cost savings simply isn't worth the added stress on your special day. Even if you take the time to practice and perfect your DIY look in the months and weeks leading up to the wedding, it may be difficult to duplicate your results on your wedding day, when you're buzzing with nerves and excitement. Not to mention, while you may spend a pretty penny on having your hair and makeup done professionally, you'll also have some of the highest quality beauty and styling products being used on your hair and face.

Photo by: Airen Miller Photography | Hair by: Stephanie and Makeup by: Beth

These products will help your look last all day long so you don't have to worry about touching up your hair or makeup before the reception! Ask around to some of the past brides you know who had their hair and makeup professionally done; we bet you'll have a hard time finding a single one of them who regrets this decision.

Photo by: Katie Slater Photography | Hair by: Rachel & Carly and Makeup by: Elena & Rachel

Now that you've taken the time to consider your options for your wedding-day hair and makeup, what are you leaning towards? If you're thinking about hiring a pro, don't forget to inquire about hiring additional stylists for your bridesmaids, as well!

Still want to DIY? Here is a past beauty tips and  Hair & Make Up Tutorial that will help you for the big day!