Quick Answer
There is no definitive rule on whether the mother of the groom should get her hair done with the bridal party. Some factors to consider are budget, logistics, and relationships. Many mothers of the groom do opt to get their hair styled with the bride and bridal party to ensure cohesion and bonding. However, it is also perfectly acceptable for the mother of the groom to get ready separately. The most important thing is that the mother of the groom feels comfortable, confident, and beautiful on her son’s big day.
Should the Mother of the Groom Get Ready with the Bridal Party?
Here are some pros and cons to consider when deciding if the mother of the groom should get ready with the bridal party:
Pros:
- It can be a nice way to bond with the bride and her family.
- It ensures a cohesive look between the bridal party and groom’s family in wedding photos.
- The mother of the groom may enjoy feeling included in the excitement of the bridal party preparations.
- It’s often more budget-friendly to book hairstyling for everyone together rather than separately.
Cons:
- The mother of the groom may want privacy and quiet as she gets ready.
- Bridal party preparations can be hectic – not every mother wants to deal with the bustle.
- It takes coordination to schedule everyone’s hair at the same time.
- The mother may prefer to get ready at her own pace and with her own stylist.
As you can see, there are good arguments on both sides. It’s usually a matter of personal preference and logistics.
Who Typically Pays for the Mother of the Groom’s Hair Styling?
Traditionally, the mother of the groom pays for her own hair styling and makeup on the wedding day. However, some brides choose to cover this cost as a gift to their future mother-in-law.
Here are a few common scenarios:
- The mother of the groom pays for her own hair.
- The bride pays for the mother of the groom’s styling as a gift.
- The groom pays for his mother’s styling as a gift to her.
- The groom’s family splits the cost of the mother’s styling.
- The bride covers hair styling for all members of the bridal party and groom’s family.
Regardless of who pays, it’s a nice gesture for the bride and groom to offer to cover the mother of the groom’s styling costs if they have room in their wedding budget. However, the groom’s mother should never expect or demand that the couple pay for her hair and makeup.
Tips for the Mother of the Groom’s Hair
Here are some tips to help the mother of the groom look and feel fabulous on the big day:
- Choose a hairstyle that is elegant yet age-appropriate. Avoid anything too over-the-top or youthful.
- Select a stylist who specializes in styling mature hair textures and has experience with special occasion hair.
- Have a trial run before the wedding day to perfect the hairstyle.
- Bring inspiration photos of hairstyles you like to your trial and on the wedding day.
- Opt for a hairstyle you can maintain yourself for events like the rehearsal dinner.
- Make sure the hairstyle complements the style of your dress and accessories.
- Consider adding hairpieces or accessories if desired – ask your stylist for recommendations.
- Use conditioning treatments in the weeks before the wedding to ensure hair is healthy and shiny.
- Get a trim to freshen ends and remove split ends a few weeks before the wedding.
The most important thing is that the mother of the groom’s hairstyle makes her feel confident, elegant, and happy as she celebrates with her son and new family.
Hairstyle Inspiration for the Mother of the Groom
Here are some elegant yet age-appropriate hairstyles perfect for the mother of the groom on the wedding day:
Short Hair Inspiration:
- Pixie cut with a sparkling headband or jeweled pins
- Sleek bob with face-framing front pieces
- Textured short crop with pretty barrette
- Sharp angled bob with flipped ends
Medium Length Hair Inspiration:
- Shoulder-length blowout with loose waves
- Medium length set in sculpted vintage curls
- Soft side-swept look with a low bun in back
- Half up/half down style with sparkling comb
Long Hair Inspiration:
- Formal updo with braided detail
- Half up style with flower or jeweled pins
- Low chignon bun with face-framing pieces
- Loose romantic curls with headband or barrette
No matter her hair length or texture, focus on helping the mother of the groom accentuate her best features with a polished, elegant, and age-appropriate style.
How Should the Mother of the GroomAccessorize Her Hair?
When it comes to accessories, the mother of the groom should coordinate with her dress, shoes, jewelry, and personal style. Here are some chic hair accessory ideas:
- Sparkling pins, combs, or barrettes
- Elegant floral or jewel-encrusted headbands
- Designers scarves or wraps
- Hat veils or feathered fascinators
- Classic pearls or vintage-style brooches
- Metallic or crystal hair clips
Aim for hair accessories that provide a polished finishing touch. Stay away from anything too overpowering or whimsical. The mother of the groom’s accessories should complement, not distract from her overall style. When in doubt, keep it simple and elegant.
How Far in Advance Should Hair Styling be Scheduled?
It’s best for the mother of the groom to book her hair appointment well in advance of the wedding day. Here is a recommended timeline:
- 3-4 months out: Book your wedding day hairstylist
- 1-2 months out: Have a hair trial to perfect your style
- 2 weeks before: Get a haircut or trim if needed
- 1 week before: Confirm appointment time with stylist
- Day before: Shampoo and condition hair
Booking early ensures you get your desired stylist and appointment time. Having a trial run gives you and the stylist time to tweak the style before the big day. Aim to book hair at least a few hours before the ceremony for a stress-free experience.
Should the Mother of the Groom’s Hairstyle Match the Bridal Party?
When it comes to coordination, the mother of the groom’s hairstyle does not need to perfectly match the bridal party. However, some cohesion is recommended for aesthetic purposes in wedding photos.
Consider these tips:
- Aim for a similar overall style and level of formality.
- Coordinate colors – opt for similar hair accessory hues.
- Use the same stylist for a cohesive look.
- Loosen rules if you have vastly different hair lengths or textures.
- Make sure your look suits your personal style.
The goal is for the mother of the groom to complement the bridal party’s style while still looking like the best version of herself. With planning and communication, you can achieve wedding photo perfection!
Conclusion
While there are no hard rules about the mother of the groom’s hair styling, aiming to get ready with the bridal party allows for bonding, coordination, and gorgeous wedding photos. From paying for hair services to finding an age-appropriate look, this special mother can work with the couple to ensure she looks and feels fabulous as she supports her son on his wedding day. With the right stylist, elegant accessories, and advanced planning, the mother of the groom will be radiant from the ceremony to the reception.