The Average Cost of Wedding Hair and Makeup in 2022

Trust us, hiring a professional hair and makeup team on your wedding day is a must! 

Everyone wants to look and feel her best on her wedding day. After all, it’s one of the few days where you’ll be surrounded by nearly all of your closest family and friends––not to mention documented by professional photo and video teams from beginning to end! Are you working on your budget and wondering how much your glam squad will cost? Read on! 

How much do couples typically spend on wedding hair and makeup?

According to The Knot 2021 Real Weddings Study, the average cost of wedding makeup in 2021 was $115 and the average cost of wedding hair was $130. However, these numbers can vary depending on many different factors and according to wedding industry professionals, the costs of these can even trend upwards of $2,500. As with everything in weddings, many factors can influence the costs (from where you’re getting married, to the type of business you’re looking to work with, and more). 

How are hair and makeup costs calculated?

When it comes to the cost of wedding hair and makeup, there are several factors that play into the final price tag.

First, hairstyles can vary in price depending on whether you go for an updo or a blowout style. Updos tend to be more intricate and time-consuming, while blowouts can be done relatively quickly in comparison and don't require as much time.

Makeup style is another factor that can affect price. Airbrush makeup is applied with a special machine that gives you a very smooth, natural-looking finish. Many professionals think it’s ideal for weddings because it lasts all day and doesn't require touch-ups. However, it does require a bit more time to apply, so it usually costs more than traditional makeup.

Location matters too. If you’re having a destination event, you’ll also have to cover their travel and accommodations. The cost will vary depending on whether you decide to go into the salon the morning-of your wedding, or you’re having your hair and makeup artists meet you at your getting-ready location. Beyond that, destination events often require flights, gas stipends, hotel accomodations and per diems! 

Finally, your stylist and makeup artists' hourly rate has a significant impact on cost. More senior professionals with experience under their belt also come with a higher price tag.

What's included in a bridal hair and makeup package?

Many salons offer package deals that typically include both hair and makeup services, as well as trial runs before your wedding day. If you opt for one of these, they can offer a significant discount compared to booking each service separately.

Additionally, most salons will offer a discount if you book hair and makeup services for your entire bridal party. This is a great way to save money if you want your bridesmaids to have their hair and makeup professionally done.

Add-on costs to consider

Hair and makeup packages vary, so here's a rundown of extra services that may or may not be included in your packages.

• Wedding hair or makeup trial. If you're not opting for a package that includes a hair and makeup trial, remember to budget this into your estimates! 
• Bridesmaid hair and makeup. If you’re covering your bridesmaids’ hair and makeup, they will definitely appreciate it! Don’t forget to add additional artists and costs into your budgets. 
• Tanning. If you're hoping to get a natural-looking glow for your wedding day, some salons offer airbrush tanning services. We recommend working with your tanning artist in the months leading up to your event to find the perfect formula well before your wedding week.
• Manicure and pedicure. Although it's not technically part of your hair and makeup, you may want to consider getting a mani/pedi the day of or before your wedding. 
• Facials. If you want to make sure your skin is glowing on your big day, you might want to consider facials—or a series of them! We recommend working with your esthetician in the months leading up to your wedding day to get your skin wedding day ready! 
• Lashes. Many makeup artists will include false lashes in the cost of their services. However, some may charge an additional fee for them! 
• Additional hours and touch-ups. Some brides just want a hair and makeup session before the ceremony; others want their makeup artist to stay for touch-ups throughout the day. The choice is yours! Just expect to pay their hourly rate for however long they stick around.‍
• Gratuity. Don't forget to tip your artists!