How to Prep for a Wedding or Event Updo
By Bella Garcia · · 4 min read
A wedding updo has a big job. It has to look polished in photos, survive hugs and dancing, and still feel comfortable hours later. Most of what makes an event style last happens before you sit in the chair. Here's how we suggest preparing, whether you're the bride, in the wedding party, or heading to a gala, quinceañera, or graduation.
What our updo styling includes
Our updo styling ($100) includes a wash and takes about 1 hr 20 mins. It covers any full updo or half updo style you like, and accessory installation is included, so bows, clips, tiaras, and similar pieces are built into the style rather than stuck in at the end.
If you only want a blowdry with some shape for the event, that's a different service. Hollywood waves and updo styling are an additional charge on top of our regular blowdry services.
Start planning a few weeks ahead
Updos look best on healthy hair with fresh color and tidy ends. That means thinking about your hair two to four weeks out, not the night before.
- Color: Book color one to two weeks before. That gives it time to settle and gives you a buffer if you want an adjustment. A root touch-up covers root to mid-shaft. A gloss is a clear shine treatment that doesn't add color. A toner adds low-commitment color and shine if your tone needs correcting.
- Trim: A light trim a week or two before helps ends tuck in cleanly. Avoid a dramatic new cut right before the day.
- Scalp and moisture: A conditioning routine in the weeks before makes hair softer and easier to shape. Here's how a scalp treatment works and who it suits.
Bring inspiration photos (and be honest about them)
Photos are the fastest way to get on the same page. Save three to five styles you love and one or two you don't. Notice what you actually like in each: height at the crown, soft face-framing pieces, a sleek low bun, a loose textured twist, or a half-up style that shows your length.
Hair in photos often has a different length, density, or texture than yours, and some shots use extensions or padding. We'll talk through what's realistic for your hair and how to get close to the look.
How to prep your hair for a wedding updo
The right prep depends on your hair type, but these guidelines work for most clients.
Washing
Since the wash is part of our updo styling, you don't need to show up freshly shampooed. Come as you are, and we'll start from clean hair at the bowl.
Skip the heavy products
Arrive without oils, leave-in creams, or a lot of hairspray. Buildup weighs hair down and makes pins slide. Let us choose what goes in.
Extensions
If you wear extensions, mention it when you book so we can plan the style around them and set aside the right amount of time. If you're new to them, our guide to keeping extensions in good shape covers the basics.
Accessories
Bring every piece you plan to wear: veil, comb, tiara, bows, clips, or fresh flowers. Since installation is included, it's much better to have them at the appointment than to add them yourself later.
What to wear and bring
- A button-up or zip-front top, so you can change without pulling anything over your finished hair
- Your accessories, veil, or headpiece
- Inspiration photos saved on your phone
- A small kit: a few bobby pins, a mini hairspray, and a soft brush
If you're doing your own makeup, many people find it easier to do it after the hair is finished. If you've hired a makeup artist, ask what order they prefer.
Timing on the day
Give yourself more time than you think you need. A relaxed appointment almost always turns out better than a rushed one. Plan to finish with a cushion before photos or travel, and factor in weekend traffic.
If several people in your group need styling, plan it early. We're appointment-only and not open every day of the week, so check available days before you lock in a schedule. Get in touch about group styling and we'll work out timing with you.
How to make your updo last all day
- Hands off: Every touch adds oil and loosens the hold. Resist adjusting pins.
- Mist, don't soak: If a piece falls, a light mist of hairspray and a single pin usually fixes it.
- Watch the heat: Outdoor events around El Monte can get warm, especially in summer. Stay in the shade and blot your hairline with a tissue.
- Plan for the veil: If you'll remove a veil or headpiece partway through, ask how to take it out without disturbing the rest of the style.
Taking it down
At the end of the night, remove pins slowly, working from the outside in. Don't brush through tangled sections. Loosen them with your fingers, then use a wide-tooth comb from the ends up. A gentle shampoo and a good conditioner the next day clear out leftover product. To see everything else you might book before the event, browse our color, cut, and styling options.
FAQ
Should I wash my hair before an updo appointment?
You don't need to. A wash is included in our updo styling, so arrive without heavy oils or products and we'll start from clean hair.
Can I get a half updo instead of a full updo?
Yes. Our updo styling covers any full or half updo you like, and accessory installation like bows, clips, or a tiara is included.
Can I get an updo with hair extensions?
Usually, yes. Tell us about your extensions when you book so we can plan the style and timing around them.
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