Are you in wedding planning mode? Along with the venue, cake, and dress, you also need to choose a hair salon for you and your wedding party. If you're not sure where to start your search or which salon services you will need, take a look at the questions to ask before you book your wedding-day appointment.

What Are the Salon's Hours?

This question can help you to take the first step in the salon selection process. You need a salon that can provide styling services on the day of your wedding—and at a time that will fit into your big day's schedule. Talk to the salon manager or owner about the normal business hours and whether they will open early to accommodate everyone in your wedding party if needed.

How Far In Advance Can You Book An Appointment?

You want a stress-free, well-organized wedding day. This means you need to have every aspect of the schedule planned well in advance. The sooner you can book salon appointments for yourself and everyone else in your wedding party, the better. 

How Many People Can the Salon Accommodate At One Time?

Will you only need to schedule an appointment for yourself and your maid of honor—or will you need to schedule hair salon services for three, four, five, or more of your family members and best friends? Make sure the salon can accommodate more than just the bride. You need to know how many chairs the salon has available and whether they will have enough stylists to meet your wedding party's needs.

What Types of Wedding Looks Can You Create?

Now that you know more about the logistics (the salon's hours, when you can schedule an appointment, and how many stylists are available), it's time to turn your attention to the specifics. You need to know if the salon and the stylists can create the look you want for yourself, your bridesmaids, your soon-to-be mother-in-law, and anyone else in your party who needs a day-of 'do.

A stylist's portfolio is an easy way to get a feel for the aesthetic and services the salon offers. Ask to see photos of past wedding clients and compare the looks to what you want. Keep in mind that some wedding styles aren't possible or advised for every bride. If your face shape, overall look, or hair won't easily match something that you've seen, the stylist should tell you before you book an appointment. This gives you time to review realistic options and ask the salon pro for their expert opinion.