Your Go-To Guide from the Pros at Updos For I Dos
As a bridal hair and makeup company, we’ve seen it all - from last-minute bangs to drastic chops just weeks before a wedding. We get it: you want to look your absolute best on your big day! But when it comes to haircuts before your wedding, timing (and a little strategy) is everything. Let us walk you through exactly how to plan your pre-wedding haircut so your hair looks healthy, polished, and photo-ready on the day you say "I do."
Should I Cut My Hair Before My Wedding?
Yes - but with some planning! A well-timed haircut can refresh your ends, shape your style, and help your bridal look feel polished and intentional. But a last-minute chop? That can throw a wrench in your glam plans! So, let’s break down the best timing and tips for your pre-wedding haircut.
First Things First: Know Your Hair Goals
Before making any snips, think about how you envision your wedding day hairstyle. Do you want soft waves cascading down your back? A voluminous updo? A sleek ponytail or chic chignon? Your dream hairstyle will help determine the best haircut timeline! Share your vision with your stylist and your bridal hair team (hi, that’s us!) so we can help guide you to the right decision.
When to Get a Haircut Before Your Wedding
If you love your current hairstyle and you're not planning on changing things up too much, a simple trim is the way to go. This will remove any split ends, refresh your shape, and allow a little time for the ends to soften naturally. Healthy hair always styles better, so don’t skip this step!
Here’s our recommended haircut timeline:
6-8 Weeks Before Your Wedding
This is the sweet spot for most brides! A trim two-ish months before your big day keeps your ends healthy without changing your overall length or style too close to your big event. If you’re growing your hair out, this also helps avoid split ends while still maintaining your length!
Thinking about adding layers or changing your shape? Do it now! This gives your hair time to settle and gives you time to fall in love with the new shape, or make tweaks if needed.
2–4 Weeks Before Your Wedding
This window is great for minor touch-ups. Think: dusting off split ends or cleaning up bangs and face-framing layers. This cut should be very subtle, no big changes! At this point, your Updos For I Dos stylist has most likely already done your trial run, so you don’t want to alter your hair shape drastically.
Avoid: The Week of Your Wedding
We repeat: Do not cut your hair the week of your wedding! If any last minute trimming is needed, let your Updos For I Dos stylist handle that on the morning of your wedding!
Thinking About a Big Change? Read This First
While we’re all for bold new beginnings, a major cut right before your wedding is probably not the best idea. If you’re considering a dramatic change, like bangs, a bob, or heavy layering, we suggest doing this 6+ months before the big day. (or even better, after your wedding day!) This gives your hair time to settle, grow slightly if needed, and gives you time to test out your new look!
If you’re unsure whether a change will work with your chosen bridal hairstyle, our team is more than happy to advise. We've styled every kind of cut you can imagine and know what works best for various looks!
Bridal Hair Trials: When to Cut?
If you're thinking about cutting, layering, or changing up your style - wait until after your trial. It’s so important to go into your bridal trial with your current haircut and style intact. Why? Because your Updos For I Dos hairstylist will want to see exactly what he or she is working with!
During your trial, we’ll talk through your wedding day vision, look at inspiration photos, and assess your current hair length, texture, and shape. Together, we can map out a personalized pre-wedding hair plan that may include a subtle trim, added layers, or treatments to enhance your desired style. By collaborating at the trial, we’ll make sure your cut and styling plan support the final bridal look you're going for, no surprises, just gorgeous results!
What If I’m Growing Out My Hair For My Wedding?
If your dream bridal style involves long, romantic waves or an intricate braid, you might be tempted to skip the salon altogether. But skipping trims altogether can actually hurt your chances of achieving that goal. Regular dustings every 8–10 weeks will keep split ends at bay and help your hair grow healthier and stronger.
Don’t forget, volume, texture, and shape are just as important as length when it comes to bridal hairstyles!
Tips for Perfect Pre-Wedding Hair:
Stick with what you know! The months before your wedding are not the best time to experiment with drastic cuts. Wait until after your big day to test out that lob you’ve been eyeing!
Schedule regular trims every 8-10 weeks leading up to your big day to maintain healthy, full ends.
Talk to your hair and makeup team (hi!) about your hairstyle goals before heading to the salon.
Let’s Make Your Hair Dreams Come True
Whether you’re keeping things long and loose or opting for a romantic updo, our Updos For I Dos team is here to help make every strand shine on your wedding day! With thoughtful planning, prep, and a well-timed cut, your hair will be in perfect shape to compliment your bridal beauty look.
Not sure when to schedule your trim or wondering if that new style you’re eyeing will work with your bridal look? We're here to help! Our expert team at Updos For I Dos is ready to guide you through every decision, from the timing of your haircut to deciding what best compliments your overall bridal style! Contact us today to chat about your vision, ask questions, and book your wedding date or bridal hair trial. We’re with you every step of the way to ensure your hair is picture-perfect for the big day!
Cover Photo Credit: Franzi Lee Photography
