A Guide to a Smooth & Stress free wedding morning

As a bridal hairstylist, I've been part of numerous wedding mornings-and if there's one thing i know for sure, it's that a calm, well-planned start sets the tone for the entire day. Your wedding morning should feel exciting, joyful, and relaxed-not rushed or chaotic.

Here are my best professional tips to help your wedding day run smoothly from the moment glam begins.

1. Start With a Realistic Timeline

• Allow 45-60 minutes per person for hair

• Add a buffer of 15-30 minutes at the end for touch-ups, photos, or unexpected delays

• Make sure your photographer/content creator knows when hair will be finished, not just when it starts

A well-built timeline keeps everyone relaxed and prevents last-minute rushing.

2. Prep Your Hair Before the Big Day

   
   

Great bridal hair starts before the wedding morning

What I recommend:

• Wash your hair the night before, not the morning of

• Avoid heavy masks, oils, or silicone-based products beforehand

• Make sure all trims and color services are done at least 1-2 weeks prior

• Arrive with completely dry hair unless directed otherwise

Clean, product-free hair holds styles better and saves valuable time

3. Choose Styles That Match Your Hair Reality

Pinterest and Instagram are wonderful for inspiration-but your hair texture, length, and density matter.

During your trial, trust your stylist's feedback. If adjustments are suggested, it's not to limit your vision- it's to ensure your style lasts, photographs beautifully, and feels comfortbale all day.

A style that works for you will always look better than forcing one that doesn't.

4. Create a Calm Getting-Ready Environment

Energy is contagious. A peaceful space makes a huge difference.

Helpful tips:

• Choose a bright, clutter-free room with plenty of outlets

• Limit foot traffic during glam time

• Assign one point person (planner, MOH,) to handle questions **this is huge, you'll thank me

The calmer the room, the smoother the morning flows.

5. Limit Children in the Getting-Ready Area (When Possible)

While children are wonderful and an important part of many families, the getting-ready space is often the busiest, most crowded, and time-sensitive part of the day.

For a smoother and calmer morning, I strongly recommend keeping children out of the hair and makeup area unless absolutely necessary

Why this helps:

• Styling tools are hot and cords are everywhere, which can pose safety concerns

• Noise and movement can make it harder to stay on schedule

• A calmer environment allows everyone to relax and enjoy the moment

If children are involved in the ceremony or photos, consider having them brought in once hair and makeup are complete.

This small adjustment makes a big difference in keeping the morning peaceful, on-time, and stress-free for everyone involved-especially the bride.

5. Have Everyone Fully Ready When It's Their Turn

When someone isn't prepared, it throws off the entire schedule. Everyone should be present at the getting-ready location at the same time.

Make sure everyone scheduled for hair:

• Has clean and fully dry hair

• Is dressed in a robe or button-down shirt

• Has inspiration photos ready (if applicable)

• Is present and on time when called

  
  

This keeps the timline intact and prevents delays for the bride.

6. Trust the Process (and Your Stylist)

   You hired your stylist for a reason. On the wedding morning, allow yourself to relax and enjoy being taken care of.

   Small adjustments are normal, touch-ups are expected, and perfection happens through collaboration. The more trust there is, the more seamless-and enjoyable-the experience becomes.

~Remember What the Morning is Really About~

At the end of the day, this morning is about you- celebrating love, soaking in the moment, and beginning one of the most meaningful days of your life.

When the hair is planned properly, the timeline is realistic, and the energy is calm, everything else falls into place beautifully.