You’re over the moon, you’ve booked your gorgeous venue, written a guest list, browsed Pinterest for days, but how on earth do you know who to book for this biggest of days?! 

It’s a minefield out there and we’re totally surrounded by social media images, where do I start? 

Step one

Check out local suppliers, do a Google search, pore over Instagram, ask friends, brides to be or recently married colleagues. You could also speak to your venue, many have recommended suppliers who are used to working in the venue and will know where to find the best lighting, plugs, mirrors etc. Try visiting local wedding fayres where you’ll get a chance to chat in person. 

Step two

Refine your list down to two or three suppliers you love the look of, email or better still ring them for an informal chat (I highly recommend this), check their availability for your date. Many brides are really surprised to find that, despite magazines and planners recommending booking six months beforehand, a year to 18 months is far more realistic for a popular hair or make up artist. If you’re looking for an eco, cruelty free wedding then put this in your search also. On just one date in July 2020 which was booked some months ago, I’ve had seven more enquiries - it’s so hard to turn people away but of course I do my best to pass you on to other fabulous local hair or make up artists. 

IF you really know who you want, arrange to pay a small ‘hold the date’ fee, this gets your name in the diary and finer details can be sorted later. I suggest a consultation and trial run 6-8 weeks before the wedding to play around with hairstyles and make up looks, many brides like an early trial and then another shorter trial just before the wedding, its really personal, all down to you and of course your budget. 

I LOVE it when brides bring a mood board, photos of styles they love and a picture of their dress - its essential to get a ‘feel’ for the whole wedding. Will it be formal, boho, outdoorsy, vintage, couture or something else. I want to create a really ‘bespoke’ look which is unique to you and your style, reflecting and pulling together the whole look and feel of the wedding. 

I’m a huge fan of fresh flowers and love working with unusual and individual flowers, with the trend towards hand grown, but equally a beautiful intricate hair piece or vine or a couple of perfectly placed pins can complete the picture. 

What are the hair trends for 2020?

Bridal ponytails, big statement hairbands, a slightly sleeker look, centre partings, a more couture look, but of course the soft, romantic bohemian look continues and the classic half up style is timeless. 

By Sam
@bathbridalhair