How to Prep Your Hair for Your Wedding Day: From Now Until ‘I Do’
A haircare timeline with tips for trims, treatments, colour refreshes, and more
Your wedding day is one of the most photographed (and memorable) days of your life, so it’s no surprise that every bride wants her hair to look its absolute best. While the perfect style matters, the health, shine, and strength of your hair are what truly make any look glow.
Here’s your wedding hair prep timeline, with expert tips to help you grow, strengthen, and nourish your hair—starting now and counting down to “I do.”
6–12 Months Before the Wedding: Lay the Foundation
Book Schedule regular trims
Even if you're growing your hair, trimming every 8–10 weeks prevents split ends and helps your hair grow healthier and thicker.Start deep conditioning treatments
Weekly or biweekly masks will boost moisture and elasticity—key for glossy, manageable hair. Ask your stylist about professional treatments (like Aveda Botanical Repair™).Focus on scalp care
Healthy hair starts at the root. Begin using a scalp exfoliant or a gentle clarifying shampoo once a week to remove buildup and improve circulation.Eat (and drink) for your hair
A nutrient-rich diet with plenty of water, healthy fats, and proteins can support stronger strands and natural shine.
3–5 Months Before: Get Serious About Colour & Growth Goals
Book your colour plan
Whether you’re covering greys, brightening highlights, or going for a soft blend, now’s the time to commit to your wedding hair colour plan. You’ll likely need one or two refreshes before the big day.Consider adding supplements (if needed)
Biotin, collagen, or hair-specific vitamins may help boost growth and thickness. (Check with your healthcare provider first!)Reduce heat styling
Let your hair air dry when possible, or use a low-heat setting with heat protectant. The less damage, the better your wedding style will hold and shine.Talk about extensions (if you're considering them)
Want more volume or length? Now is the time to consult with your stylist about clip-ins, tape-ins, or custom pieces.
1–2 Months Before: Polish & Prep
Schedule your final colour appointment
Book it 2–3 weeks before your wedding. This gives your colour time to settle and ensures your roots are fresh but not too stark.Lock in your style and accessories
Finalize your bridal hair look (based on your trial), and purchase any accessories like pins, veils, or combs.Use the right at-home products
Hydrating shampoo and conditioner, a light oil or serum, and a weekly mask are must-haves. Ask your stylist to customize a product lineup based on your hair type.
1 Week Before: Keep It Simple
Avoid any drastic changes
No new products, no surprise cuts or bangs, and definitely no last-minute box dye!Wash your hair 1–2 days before the wedding
Unless your stylist advises otherwise, slightly lived-in hair often holds styling better than squeaky-clean strands.Stay hydrated and rested
Stress, dehydration, and lack of sleep can all show up in your hair. Treat yourself to a relaxing bath, drink lots of water, and get some beauty sleep.
Wedding Day: Let Your Hair Shine
Arrive with your hair in the condition your stylist requested
Some styles need clean hair, others need day-old hair. Follow the instructions you were given at your trial.Wear a robe or top that doesn’t go over your head
Button-downs or wrap robes are ideal—no tugging or messing up your hair once it’s styled!Trust the process and enjoy the moment
You’ve done the prep. Let your stylist work their magic while you sip your mimosa and take it all in.
Final Thoughts:
Beautiful bridal hair starts long before the morning of your wedding. With the right care and a little planning, your hair will be healthy, vibrant, and ready to shine from every angle. Your stylist is here to help every step of the way!
Need help planning your wedding hair prep journey? We’d love to work with you to create a customized schedule that supports your vision and keeps you feeling confident throughout the process. Book with us here.
