Darling, wedding preparations can make even the most composed bride want to pull her hair out. Choosing a wedding hair style might seem like an impossible task, considering all the options available. It can be overwhelming — just look at Pinterest, Instagram and Google and you’ll see a huge number of options! 

But there’s no need to lose your head over the decision-making process — here are some tips that will help you to make a confident choice in no time.

Reflect your personality

Your wedding is a celebration of you and your love story, so why not let your hair reflect your unique personality? Whether you’re a romantic at heart, a boho babe, or a classic beauty, choose a style that captures the essence of who you are. If you adore soft, loose curls, go for it! If you’re a fan of sleek, elegant updos, own it!

Consider your dress

First step is to decide on your dress.  Your wedding dress will be the centerpiece of your look, so it’s important to choose a hairstyle that complements it. To make your hair harmonize with your gown, consider the neckline and overall style. If your dress has intricate details or a stunning back, an elegant updo can draw the eyes right where they should be. For a dress with a plunging neckline, why not opt for cascading waves or a chic half-up, half-down style? The possibilities are as endless as the number of tea flavours in my cupboard! I recommend booking your trial when you have bought your dress.

Meme Urbane Photography

Seek inspiration

The world of hair is vast and plentiful, with countless ideas waiting to be discovered. Pinterest, Instagram, and even the humble  wedding magazines can inspire you with an abundance of hairstyle ideas.  Collect snapshots of jaw-dropping hairdos that make your heart flutter. When looking at hair styles look at images with a dress similar to yours. How does the model wear her hair with the dress. This will help determine what hair style to go for. Share them with your stylist. Together, you’ll create a masterpiece that’s uniquely yours.

Think about the venue

Consider the weather and venue. Picture-perfect hair can sometimes be a fleeting fantasy. If you’re tying the knot in a tropical paradise or a stately garden, you’ll want a hairstyle that can stand up to the elements. Opt for a style that’s more secure, like an elegant updo or a braided creation that weaves your hair together like the threads of a fairytale.  If you’re getting married indoors, you have more flexibility with your hairstyle. Do you want something that will be easy to style and re-style as the day goes on? 

Consider your hair type

Your hair type will play a big role in what hairstyle you choose. If you have thin hair, you may want to add extensions to create volume. If you have curly hair, you may want to embrace your natural texture and go for a curly style.

Charlene Webb Photography

Schedule a trial

Once you’ve narrowed down your options, schedule a hair trial or what I prefer to call a preview, with your hairstylist. This will allow you to see how the hairstyle looks on you and make any necessary adjustments before the big day. Bring images of hair styles you want to try and photos of your dress. This can also be the opportunity to try your veil on with your hair style. Wearing a similar neckline and colour of your wedding dress is super helpful. Have several trials if needed. Your wedding day is not the day to try out the style.

Don’t be indecisive

Looking at too many images might make you indecisive - Once you have decided on a style stick with it.

Your wedding day is going to be one of the biggest events of your life. You will have many suggestions from friends and family. Suggestions are always welcome but remember to stay true to you. Seek advice from those close to you that have a similar stye to you.

 It’s completely normal to have a long list of options in mind, but once you’ve decided on a style, don’t keep changing your mind.

And remember…

The most crucial ingredient in this recipe is your happiness and comfort. Choose a hairstyle that makes you feel like the enchanting bridal goddess you truly are. Relax, take a sip of tea, Kombucha or whatever’s your jam  and trust that your hair will weave its own magical tale on your wedding day. Cheers to making memories, finding your perfect ‘do, and living happily ever after!

MBH Wedding Photography

For Chelsea and husband Mookie, celebrating their wedding in Italy with family and friends took place in September last year.

It all started from swiping right. The American couple met on the dating app Tinder and have been together ever since. The proposal was in early 2021 and the couple picked a venue in Tuscany, where they could marry the following summer.

The Venue

Friends and family flew to Italy to enjoy the festivities in a gorgeous Tuscan village Quercia al Poggio, complete with idyllic vineyards and olive groves.

When they started planning their big day, Chelsea and Mookie knew that they wanted everything to be as authentic as possible. Blending two cultures together. They wanted real Italian food and wine, an eclectic music playlist, and even real Italian sunsets! Whilst also keeping to African American traditions like Jumping the broom. They looked at several different venues before choosing Quercia al Poggio, but once they saw Quercia al Poggio with its beautiful grounds, beautiful architecture, and great location—they knew this was where they wanted their wedding to take place. The charming courtyard was dressed with chandeliers, candles with touches of  vibrant colour by planner Parade Wedding.

The Hair & Makeup

Chelsea flew my colleague Kelly and I to Italy the night before her wedding to do her hair and makeup.

Her long hair was styled into a braided crown and she wore minimal makeup to highlight her natural beauty. I made sure she looked as fresh at the end of the night as she did at the beginning! Kelly used Morroccan Oil hair products. We also did the hair and makeup for her maid of honour.

Makeup Application Tips

1.Great makeup starts with a great skin. Prep the skin with a good moisturiser that is light weight preferably oil free if you are getting married in a warmer climate. Use a primer before applying foundation.

2. For a flawless complexion I used Hourglass Vanish Seamless Finish Foundation Stick.

3. For her eyeshadow start by priming the eyes for crease free eyeshadow that lasts all day. I used the Mac paint pot in groundwork.  I opted for earthy tones from the Pat McGrath palette and finished it off with a bit of sparkle to finish.

4. Trace and fill in the lips with a lip pencil.  I customised a lipstick shade by using two colours to get the desired shade Chelsea wanted. I used NYX lipstick and Mac.

5. Finish by lightly dusting Mac blot powder in dark.

Hear Chelsea share the planning of her destination wedding on the Hue I do podcast.

Images curtesy of Meme Urbane

Emily treated herself to the timeless glamour of Claridge’s Hotel with a signature hair and beauty package to help her down the aisle.

The Hair & Makeup

I first met Emily at the newly launched Claridge’s Spa as she was inquiring on having her hair and makeup done for herself and her mother.  She had a consultation with me on her vision for her makeup and booked in immediately. Emily wanted a timeless classic bridal look which emphasised her eyes. The bride stayed in a beautiful terraced suite where we helped get her ready. Her hair was styled by Nicholas Hardwick at Josh Wood.

The Dress

Emily wore a Stewart Parvin couture gown matched with Monolo Blahnik heels. To compliment her gown she wore a sheer veil, whilst the mother of the bride wore Ellie Saab.

Emily also used the timeless glamour of Claridge’s for photos before she left with her parents and bridesmaids.

If you happen to be staying at Claridge’s and would like to have your makeup done call 0207 409 6565 and they will book you in at the salon spa or from the comfort of your own suite. Remember to request Melinda for your makeup so they can check my availability. 

Images: AGA TOMASZEK PHOTOGRAPHY