Wedding Day Timeline for Photography: When Should Hair & Makeup Start?

Wedding Photography at Ford Piquette Plant_bride and makeup artist

Wedding Day Timeline for Photography: When Should Hair & Makeup Start?

Planning Your Wedding Morning Timeline

One of the most common questions we hear from brides is: “When should hair and makeup start on my wedding day?”

Your wedding day timeline is crucial to ensuring a stress-free morning, especially when it comes to wedding photography. A well-planned schedule allows enough time for pre-ceremony portraits, bridal party photos, and getting-ready moments without feeling rushed.

The short answer? Hair and makeup should be nearly complete when your wedding photographer arrives.

In this guide, we’ll break down:

  • The best time to start hair and makeup
  • Why the bride should never go last for beauty services
  • How it all ties into your wedding photography timeline
  • The best places to get ready in Detroit for amazing photos

When Should Hair & Makeup Start on Your Wedding Day?

The key to a seamless wedding morning is buffer time. Hair and makeup typically take 60-90 minutes per person, so your wedding day schedule needs to allow for:

  • Hair & makeup for the bride, bridesmaids, and moms
  • Time for touch-ups before heading to the ceremony
  • A buffer in case things run late

Pro Tip: The Bride Should Never Go Last!

  • If you’re the last in the chair, you’ll be rushed—and so will your photos.
  • Instead, schedule yourself earlier so there’s extra time for final touch-ups.
  • Once the bride is ready, the real photography coverage begins.

Recommended Timeline for Hair & Makeup:

Number of PeopleStart Time (for 2 stylists)
Bride + 34 hours before photos start
Bride + 65-6 hours before photos start
Bride + 96-7 hours before photos start

Why Your Wedding Photography Timeline Depends on Hair & Makeup

Your pre-ceremony photography can’t begin until hair and makeup are done. A late start means:

  • Rushed or skipped getting-ready photos
  • No time for bridal portraits
  • First-look delays or ceremony running behind

When Should Wedding Photography Start?

Your photographer should arrive when hair and makeup are about 80-90% done—usually 30-45 minutes before finishing touches.

The Best Getting Ready Locations in Detroit

Where you get ready matters for your wedding photography. The right location ensures:

  • Great lighting for natural photos
  • A clutter-free, elegant space
  • A relaxed & enjoyable morning atmosphere

Top Getting Ready Locations for Detroit Weddings

  • Royal Park Hotel – A luxurious, light-filled space perfect for classic and elegant wedding photos.
  • Detroit Foundation Hotel – Modern and stylish, with an urban vibe and plenty of natural light.
  • The Siren Hotel – A chic boutique hotel with gorgeous vintage decor and unique backdrops.
  • Westin Book Cadillac – A classic hotel with spacious suites, ideal for bridal parties.
  • Shinola Hotel – A sleek, contemporary space perfect for modern wedding prep moments.
  • Luxury Airbnb Rentals – Choose a home with big windows and neutral decor for bright, natural-light images.

Tips for a Smooth Wedding Morning Timeline

  • Go second-to-last for hair & makeup
  • Eat something before getting dressed
  • Keep your space clean
  • Have your details ready for photos
  • Plan for extra time
  • Consider a First Look with bridesmaids

FAQ: Wedding Day Timeline & Photography

How long does wedding hair and makeup take?

Expect 60-90 minutes per person for hair and makeup. If you have a large bridal party, consider hiring additional stylists to keep the timeline on track.

When should the bride get her hair and makeup done?

The bride should go second-to-last for hair and makeup. This ensures you look fresh for photos while giving enough time for final touch-ups before portraits begin.

What time should my photographer arrive?

Your wedding photographer should arrive when hair and makeup are 80-90% complete, usually 30-45 minutes before finishing touches.

How much extra time should I build into my wedding morning?

Plan for at least 30 extra minutes to handle delays, last-minute touch-ups, and getting into your dress.

Should I get ready at my venue or a hotel?

If your venue has a beautiful bridal suite, it’s a great option. Otherwise, a hotel or luxury Airbnb with good lighting and plenty of space is ideal for photos.

Final Thoughts: The Key to a Perfect Wedding Day Timeline

Your wedding day timeline for photography starts with a well-planned morning. By scheduling hair and makeup correctly, choosing a great getting-ready location, and adding a buffer to your timeline, you’ll set yourself up for a stress-free, beautiful wedding day.

Need help planning your wedding photography timeline? Contact Mike Staff Productions to create a customized wedding day schedule.

Final Checklist: Wedding Morning Essentials

  • Hair & makeup nearly done before photography starts
  • Bride goes second-to-last for beauty services
  • Add extra time into your schedule
  • Eat something before getting into your dress
  • Choose a beautiful getting-ready location
  • Have all wedding details ready for photography

 

Pre-Ceremony Wedding Photography

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