When it comes to your wedding day, your hair takes centre stage. But with so many options out there, how do you find “the one” who’ll bring your bridal hair dreams to life? Choosing your wedding hair stylist is about more than just skills and bobby pins. Here are nine essential steps to help you find the perfect match!

1/ Start with a Vision

Before you even begin your search, take a moment to consider the kind of hairstyle you’d love to wear on your big day. Your dress, veil, venue, and overall vibe will all influence this decision. Pinterest boards, Instagram saves, and bridal magazines are a great place to start gathering inspiration. Knowing your desired look will help you identify stylists whose portfolio aligns with your style.

2/ Ask for Recommendations

Some of the best referrals come from those who’ve walked down the aisle before you. Ask recently married friends or family members whose bridal hair you admired. Your makeup artist (if booked) or wedding planner might also have hairstylists they regularly collaborate with. Personal recommendations can lead you to trustworthy and experienced pros, often before they get booked up by others. This country is teeming with artists like Shauna Lawlor HairIrma Butkus, Nicola Keenan, and so many more, just waiting to perfect your special day.

3/ Stalk Their Socials

Once you have a shortlist, dive into their social media feeds. Instagram is a hairstylist’s living portfolio. Look for a variety of bridal looks, consistency in quality, and styles that match your vision. Don’t just focus on the glam shots; check for behind-the-scenes photos, client testimonials, and whether their work holds up in real wedding photos. It can also help to spot how they interact with clients.

4/ Read Reviews

Google, Facebook, and wedding platforms like yours truly can be goldmines for real bride reviews. Look for consistent feedback, particularly regarding punctuality, flexibility, ability to remain calm under pressure, and the effectiveness of their listening skills to clients. If you spot a negative review, observe how the stylist handled it; gracious responses can reveal a great deal about their professionalism.

5/ Check Availability Early

Top wedding hairstylists are often booked 12–18 months in advance, especially for weekend or peak-season weddings. Once you've found someone you like, get in touch as soon as possible to check availability for your wedding date. A quick initial enquiry will also give you a sense of how responsive and organised they are.

6/ Request a Quote (and Read the Fine Print)

Prices can vary widely depending on the stylist’s experience, location, the size of your bridal party, and whether they offer extras like touch-ups or second looks. Be clear on what’s included: Is travel included? Will they stay until you're in your dress? Is there a minimum booking requirement? Don’t be afraid to ask for a breakdown to avoid any surprises later on.

7/ Book a Trial

This is a crucial step, and not just for perfecting the style. A hair trial is your chance to see how a stylist works, communicate your vision clearly, and assess how you feel with them. Bring inspiration photos, a picture of your dress, and any accessories you plan to wear (such as a veil, combs, or earrings). Your stylist should offer expert advice on what will suit your face shape, hair type, and wedding day logistics.

8/ Consider the Experience

Your wedding morning should feel joyful, relaxed, and full of anticipation, not rushed or stressful. A seasoned bridal hairstylist will help set the tone. Consider how well your stylist communicates, whether they’re punctual, and how they made you feel during the trial. Did they listen? Offer helpful suggestions? Create a calm atmosphere? These softer skills are just as important as technical talent.

9/ Lock It In with a Contract

Once you've made your choice, get everything in writing. A professional stylist will provide a clear contract outlining services, timings, cancellation policies, and payment terms. This protects both you and them, ensuring everyone is on the same page. Don’t forget to confirm the date, start time, number of people getting styled, and when final payment is due.

- Gráinne