Dos and don’ts for perfect hair

Top tips for fabulous wedding hair

We all know part of the reason for visits to the salon is for a good gossip, but your hairdresser's wedding day advice will be priceless. The countdown should begin as soon as the date is set.

When you book a consultation, come loaded with ideas. Bring a picture of your gown and hairstyles that you'd like. Don't buy your headpiece until you've spoken with your hairdresser --their input can be invaluable. Before you get started, here are some general guidelines to ensure you look fabulous!

Do

• Start thinking about your big day hairstyle as soon as you've set a wedding date. This will give you time to grow your hair, experiment with shorter styles or get used to subtle colouring before your big day.
• Book a consultation at a couple of local salons until you a find a stylist you feel comfortable with and who understands your hair type.
• Book your appointment in advance. It's not uncommon for a good hairdresser to be booked up to six months in advance
• Get your hair in tip-top shape. Plan weekly regular visits to the salon for trims and conditioning treatments two months before the wedding.
• If you've given nature a little hand with the hue of your locks (okay, you're a bottle blonde), colour your hair three weeks before the ceremony to avoid roots and give the colour time to settle.
• Have at least one style rehearsal a month before the wedding. This will give you time to make alternative arrangements should you be less than thrilled.
• Remember to take along as much info about your special day to the hairdressers as possible -- for example, a photo of your dress, a fabric sample and your tiara and veil to give the stylist a good impression of the look you're hoping to create.
• Ask your stylist to take a picture of the finished look -- it'll be useful to show your make-up artist (and your mum and bridesmaids will love to see pics of your wedding day hairstyle, too).
• Be honest with your stylist. You should feel comfortable expressing what you do and don't like.
• Leave plenty of time for your appointment -- this is not a day to rush...

Don’t

• Expect too much from your hair. If you've got Kiera Knightly’s elfin crop, asking for Gwyneth's golden mane is just plain unrealistic. Keep in mind that your style has to last the entire day.
• Experiment on your wedding day -- do we have to say this? Think, ‘I've always wanted pink hair’ and it'll all end in tears.
• Looking for a hairdresser? Try our supplier directory.