When creating your wedding budget, you may forget all of the expenses that happen day-of. Venue, catering, florals, rentals, and entertainment usually top the list when creating a budget. But don’t forget to include a wedding beauty budget! Nails, hair, makeup, lashes, waxing, brows, facials–they can really add up to an unexpected amount. I know you’ll want to look your best and you definitely don’t want to skimp on a bad spray tan. That’s why I’m here with a wedding beauty budget guide to help you stay on top of your wedding finances without any last minute surprises. (With all of these services, it’s also customary to tip for a job well done. I recommend factoring in an additional 20% tip for each technician.)
Wedding Mani-Pedi
Brides usually get their nails done one or two days before the wedding to avoid rushing around in the final hours. A normal mani/pedi with traditional polish will cost around $75-$80. It’s important to note that lacquer polish won’t last as long and is more likely to chip before the actual wedding day. I personally recommend a gel or acrylic manicure since it will last longer, all the way through your honeymoon. This will cost around $100-$200, depending on the amount of details you’re looking for. Also, if you’d like to have a test mani/pedi a few weeks or months before to see if you like it, this will double the nail budget.
Wedding Beauty Budget: Hair
Your choice of wedding hairstyle will really compliment your gown. First, spend some time researching what you like before you book an appointment. You’ll need to think about what works well with your face shape, wedding headwear, and what type of neckline your gown has. I don’t recommend a drastic dye job or severe chop before the wedding day, since there won’t be time to fix it if you hate it. A wedding blowout, plus styling, will cost anywhere from $150-$500, depending on your location, hair length, desired style, and if the stylist will be on site. They’ll usually include a trial run in the price, though some hair stylists may charge extra. I recommend reviewing the costs for this one in advance to get a better sense of the budget. Also, factor in the costs for your bridal party if you’d like to pay for their hair.
Wedding Makeup Cost
Wedding makeup will also cost between $150-$400 per person. When choosing a wedding makeup artist, review their portfolio to ensure that their makeup style matches with your preferences. Choose a makeup artist who will come to the venue, since this is something that needs to be done right before the wedding ceremony. Ideally, they will stay until after the ceremony to touch up your face and get you picture perfect. Again, this will cost more if you’re also paying for a trial and including your bridesmaids.
Wedding Lashes and Brows
An eyebrow waxing will cost around $20-$40. This is something you’ll want to schedule a few days before the wedding to prevent any lingering redness. Brow lamination will cost $60-$120. The price will fluctuate depending on if you’d also like to tint. If you’re looking to enhance your lashes outside of makeup, a lash lift will cost $75-$150. Eyelash extensions run $100-$170. If you’re looking for a more affordable option and don’t usually go full glam with the face, ask your wedding makeup artist for false corner eyelashes. These will give your eyes a nice lift.
Wedding Beauty Budget: Hair Removal
Waxing unwanted body hair lasts a bit longer than shaving, ensuring that you can enjoy your honeymoon without worrying about razor bumps. A full body wax will cost $150-$250, with prices lowering as you choose only a few areas. I really recommend choosing a quality salon for this service. Incorrect practices can result in horrible burns and lasting skin pigmentation.
Spa Services
Your wedding is a great reason to treat yourself to a spa day! A facial will rejuvenate your skin, a detoxifying sauna will reduce puffiness, and a massage will relax all your muscles. Spa services vastly fluctuate, as there are endless options to add on to your experience. For a basic set of relaxing services, I recommend setting aside at least $300-$500. Check with the spa’s offerings, as you may be able to check off many of your other wedding beauty appointments in one place.
Wedding Beauty Budget
I hope this guide gives you a better idea of how to start budgeting for all your beauty appointments coming up! My higher maintenance brides will definitely take a larger financial hit in this arena, but it’s important to establish your priorities and non-negotiables from the very beginning! Ask around to figure out the best beauty treatments for you. With the proper scheduling and budgeting, you’ll look and feel stress free and radiant.
