Wedding hair should feel beautiful, secure, and like you—without stress. The easiest way to get there is a simple plan: book early, do a smart trial, and prep your hair the right way.

I’m Erin Dowling, a hairstylist at Salon MINK in San Marcos, and this is a clear, easy timeline to help you plan bridal hair in Central Texas (San Marcos, Kyle, Buda, New Braunfels, South Austin).

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Quick Take

• Book wedding hair 6–9 months out (earlier for peak spring/fall dates).
• Schedule your bridal trial 6–10 weeks before the wedding.
• Pick your dress/neckline and accessories before the trial.
• Hair prep matters more than people think—healthy hair holds styles better.
• Texas heat + humidity = choose styles built to last.

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6–9 months before: book your wedding hairstylist

This is when most brides should lock in hair—especially if your wedding is:

• spring (March–May)
• fall (September–November)
• a Saturday
• in a popular Central Texas venue area

When you reach out, include:

• wedding date + start time
• getting-ready location (hotel/venue/city)
• number of people needing hair (bride + bridal party)
• style vibe (updo, waves, half-up, sleek, boho, etc.)
• inspiration photos (2–3 max—choose your favorites)

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3–6 months before: make your hair plan (color + cut included)

If you color your hair (blonde, brunette gloss, vivids, etc.), this is the window to map out what you want so nothing feels last-minute.

Helpful timing:

• Major color changes: plan months ahead
• Routine color maintenance: keep consistent
• Trim schedule: stay steady so ends look healthy in photos

If you’re growing your hair out or adding extensions, start planning early so everything blends seamlessly.

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6–10 weeks before: schedule your bridal hair trial

Your trial is where we turn Pinterest into a style that works for:

• your hair density + texture
• your length
• your face shape
• your dress neckline
• your wedding day conditions (heat, wind, veil, dancing)

What to bring to your trial

• 2–3 inspiration photos (front/back preferred)
• a photo of your dress (or neckline)
• your veil/hairpiece (or something similar)
• how you’ll wear your makeup (a reference photo helps)
• honest notes: what you love, what you don’t

What we decide at the trial

• updo vs half-up vs down
• part placement
• volume level (soft vs glam)
• face-framing pieces (what stays out vs pinned)
• how it will hold for hours

Pro tip: If you’re between two looks, we can pick the one that will hold best for your hair and your day.

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2–4 weeks before: final adjustments

Now is the time for:

• a trim (if needed)
• final color refresh planning
• confirming hair accessory placement
• deciding bridesmaids styles (coordinated, not identical)

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7–10 days before: color (best timing for most brides)

For many brides, the “sweet spot” is refreshing color about 1–1.5 weeks before the wedding. It looks fresh but still natural in photos.

(Exact timing depends on your service—your plan may be different.)

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2–3 days before: wash schedule + prep

Most wedding styles hold best when hair isn’t overly silky-clean.

General guidance (I’ll personalize this for you):

• wash the day before or the night before
• skip heavy masks/oils right before (they can make pinning harder)
• arrive dry unless told otherwise

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Wedding day: what makes hair last in Texas

Central Texas can bring heat, humidity, and wind. To make hair last:

• choose a style that matches conditions (updos usually last longest)
• use the right foundation prep + hold strategy
• plan veil/accessory placement early
• allow enough time—rushing is the enemy of longevity

Styles that typically hold best

• classic updos and textured buns
• secure low buns
• half-up with strong anchoring
• glam waves with proper pin set + hold

Down styles are absolutely possible—just plan for weather and touch-up options.

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Bridesmaids: keep it cohesive without feeling “same same”

The easiest formula:

• pick one vibe (soft waves, low buns, half-up)
• let each person choose a variation that suits them
• keep one shared detail (matching pins, similar texture, similar part)

This looks polished in photos and keeps everyone comfortable.

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FAQ

Do I need a trial?
If you want a stress-free morning and a style that truly feels like you—yes. It’s where we remove uncertainty.

What if my hair doesn’t hold curl?
We plan a style that works for your hair type (and prep it properly). Some looks need a different foundation than others.

Should I get extensions for wedding hair?
Not always. But if you want extra fullness or length, extensions can help. Plan early so we match and blend.

What if it’s going to be humid or windy?
We choose a style and hold strategy designed for the conditions—especially important in Texas.

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Ready to plan wedding hair in San Marcos (Central Texas)?

If you’re getting married in San Marcos or nearby Kyle, Buda, New Braunfels, or South Austin and want wedding hair that lasts and feels like you, I’d love to help.

DM me “WEDDING” with:

1. your wedding date
2. getting-ready location
3. number of people needing hair
4. your top 2 inspiration photos

Or book through Salon MINK and we’ll get your timeline locked in.