How Long Does Bridal Hair & Makeup Take? Morning Timeline

One of the most common questions I hear is, “How long will it take?” The honest answer is that it depends on the look, the hair and the number of people. Here are typical estimates, and a sample morning you can adapt.

How long does bridal makeup and hair take?

As a typical estimate, allow about 60 to 75 minutes for bridal makeup and 45 to 75 minutes for bridal hair. Together that is around two hours for the bride, before time for breaks and dressing.

These are general estimates, not promises, because every bride and every style is different. Sleek buns and simple waves can be quicker, while detailed braids, a full updo or an elaborate accessory placement take longer. A natural Nordic glow can be faster than a full-glam look with lashes and contouring. The trial session is where we get a more precise idea for your hair and your look; see what happens at a bridal makeup trial.

• Bridal makeup: about 60 to 75 minutes.
• Bridal hair: about 45 to 75 minutes.
• Bridal makeup and hair together: about 2 hours, plus a short break.
• Veil, pins, flowers and accessories: about 10 to 15 minutes at the end.

How long do guests need?

As typical estimates, a guest needs about 40 to 45 minutes for makeup and 30 to 40 minutes for hair. Makeup and hair together is about 75 to 85 minutes per person.

Bridesmaids and mothers often want a polished but natural look, which is quicker than a full bridal finish. Mature skin may need a little more care with base and eyes, and long, thick hair takes longer to curl and set than shoulder-length hair. Prices for guests are simple: Makeup & Hair €200, Makeup €120 and Hairstyling €120. There is more about this in my post on makeup for bridesmaids, mothers and guests.

What does a sample wedding morning look like?

Here is a sample for a bride plus three guests, with the ceremony at 16:00. Times are typical estimates, and the real plan depends on your look and the venue.

The idea is to take the guests first and the bride last, so the bride’s hair and makeup are as fresh as possible and she is relaxed rather than waiting.

1. 08:00 to 09:20: Guest 1, makeup and hair (about 80 minutes).
2. 09:20 to 10:40: Guest 2, makeup and hair (about 80 minutes).
3. 10:40 to 11:00: Break for coffee, water and something to eat.
4. 11:00 to 12:20: Guest 3, makeup and hair (about 80 minutes).
5. 12:20 to 13:00: Lunch break and setting up for the bride.
6. 13:00 to 14:05: Bridal makeup (about 65 minutes).
7. 14:05 to 14:15: Short break.
8. 14:15 to 15:15: Bridal hair (about 60 minutes).
9. 15:15 to 15:30: Veil, pins, flowers and accessories.
10. 15:30 to 15:50: Dress, final checks and photographs, then leave.

That is roughly seven and a half hours from first brush to the last pin, including breaks. A common alternative is to do the bride’s makeup first and her hair while the guests’ makeup is being done, but with one artist the work happens one person at a time, so the total time adds up. Larger groups or a ceremony earlier in the day may need an earlier start; early-morning starts are available on request.

How can I shorten the timeline?

You can save time by choosing fewer services per person, arriving with clean, dry hair and a clean face, and booking a clear start time. Each of these reduces the time needed without rushing the result.

• Ask guests to arrive with moisturised skin and hair that has been washed and dried, but not styled.
• Choose makeup only or hairstyling only for some guests (€120 each) instead of both.
• Choose a simple bridal hairstyle, or a half-up style, if the morning is tight.
• Keep phones, breakfast and the photographer’s arrival in mind, so the room is not too busy.

The better approach is to start earlier. Preparation starts a few hours before the ceremony, with time for breaks. Rushing is the one thing I would never plan for.

What should I prepare the night before?

Decide the order, lay out the dress and accessories, and prepare skin and hair. A smooth morning begins the night before.

1. Do your usual gentle skincare (see the bridal skincare timeline).
2. Follow the wedding hair prep advice: wash and dry the hair as agreed.
3. Find a room with a window, a table and a mirror, plus a couple of chairs.
4. Put your veil, pins, flowers and jewellery in one place.
5. Have a button-up or loose top ready, so nothing is pulled over the hair.
6. Prepare snacks, water and music.

What if the bride’s party is larger?

For larger parties, add time for each extra person, or start earlier. Each additional guest adds roughly 75 to 85 minutes if both makeup and hair are needed, as a typical estimate.

This is a good moment to decide who really needs both services. A mother of the bride might want both, while a bridesmaid might only need hair because she does her own makeup. We can build the schedule around the plan at the consultation. Photographers often arrive for getting-ready shots about halfway through, which is lovely if the room is tidy and the light is good. I am a wedding photographer too, so I know the moments worth planning around.

Plan your morning with me

I come to your home, hotel or venue across Copenhagen, Greater Copenhagen and Zealand, and to destinations in Europe on request. Bridal Makeup & Hair is €300; guest prices are shown in the packages section. Send me your date, ceremony time and number of guests through the contact page, and I will propose a timeline. Beauty that lasts as beautifully as the memories.