If you’re wondering if the bride pays for bridesmaid hair and makeup, you’ve come to the right place. We’ll tell you! Be sure to subscribe for the latest to your inbox.
Does the bride pay for hair and makeup for bridesmaids? If not, who pays for hair and makeup for the bridal party on the wedding day? Today we’re tackling this question that came in from bride-to-be, Renee. She writes,
“Hi Emmaline! Is the bride expected to pay for bridesmaid hair and makeup the day of the wedding?”
Great question, Renee! I wondered the same thing on my own wedding day, and I’m sure other brides are curious about the answer to this one. Does the bride pay for bridesmaids hair and makeup? Let’s discuss it. We’ll also cover how to ask bridesmaids to pay for hair and makeup in case you’re not covering it.
Who Pays for Bridesmaid Hair and Makeup?
As a rule of thumb, the bridesmaids pay for their own hair and makeup on the day of the wedding. The bride does NOT have to pay for bridal party hair and makeup.
► WATCH THE VIDEO here! :)
What if the bride is requiring professional hair and makeup for bridesmaids?
If the bride requires her bridesmaids to get hair and makeup done — which I don’t think you should mandate, but it’s up to you — then the bride should 100% cover the costs of bridal party hair and makeup. This is the only time the bride must cover it since she wants her bridesmaids to do it.
Your bridesmaids really don’t need to feel pressure to have professional services done if they’re not up for it; many like to do their own makeup, or style their own hair. You know your bridal party best, so if you think it would benefit them as a nice gesture to cover the cost, and you’re able to do it, go for it.
What if I want to pay for bridesmaid hair and makeup costs?
If your budget allows and you want to cover the cost of bridal party hair and makeup, you can! Absolutely! It is a nice gesture to do so. It is not a requirement, but many brides want to do it as a nice way to pamper their bridal party attendants. Some brides may do this in lieu of a tangible bridesmaid gift; instead of items (or, in place of a more expensive gift), they may tell bridesmaids ahead of time that they are covering the cost of hair and makeup for them.
Do most brides cover hair and makeup costs?
Not necessarily. Typically, brides who pay for bridesmaids to get hair and makeup done is when the bridal party is small in size, say, 2 or 3 people max. This cost is more affordable than, say, 6 or 7 bridesmaids. The cost of hair, makeup, and a nice tip for the stylist(s) can add up quickly and, as you might predict, that is not something the bride is expected to cover for everyone.
Can the bride pay for the Maid of Honor’s hair and makeup?
Yes! The bride can definitely cover the cost of her Maid of Honor’s hair and makeup solely, without feeling pressure to cover everyone else’s. That is one of the perks of being the MOH. If you’re doing it as a part of her gift, let her know ahead of time.
However YOU decide to do it, there’s no right or wrong decision that applies to everyone… since each situation is unique. If you want to cover the cost of hair and makeup for bridesmaids, go for it, but there is no rule that says the bride is expected to pay for it, so no worries there.
ON TO: 22 Best Getting Ready Outfits for Your Bridal Party (That Aren’t Robes!)
Hope it helps!
xo
Emma
