Bridesmaids Hair & Makeup Costs?!

You do not have to pay for their hair or makeup as long as you are not requiring either to look a certain way. If you want a certain style, you should pay. Otherwise just say " I have someone coming to do my hair and make up for the wedding. They can do yours also if you would like. The cost for hair is___ the cost for make up is ___. If you would like either service let me know so we can schedule time appropriately. "

I used to be a makeup artist and worked for Estee Lauder and Lancome myself: Here are a few pointers if you want them to do their own makeup; 1) make appointments for trial makeup 2-4 weeks before the wedding at Macy's, Dillard 's, etc. The appointments themselves are free, unless you go to a MAC counter, which is $50 applied towards your purchase.

2) Most department stores do not allow for tipping. These girls make commission so they really want you to take something home.

3) They teach you how to recreate the look for the wedding. Just make sure the foundation color will match after tanning or spray tan.

4) The bridesmaids can keep their products after the wedding.

5) I recommend primers and waterproof everything

Hope that helps!

**Also, at any of the counters they can offer you a free 10 day supply of foundation in their matched shade. It does not cost anything and it will get the girls (and you) through the wedding

I'm paying for make up for each of my girls, however they have a choice for hair.

I've been in a few weddings and although I was required to get hair and makeup done......I paid for myself. My girls are also paying for themselves.

I have 6 girls as well, for hair and makeup it would cost then $110.00, the total for hair and makeup would have been $135.00 but im paying $25 towards there gift so total of $110.00, I told then this is optional and the services are there if you want them and all of them but one girl are getting hair and makeup done. The cost of hair and make are about $75 a piece. remember its a option that you are providing the services for them if they want it or not.

Thanks everyone for the advice and help. The way I decided to handle the situation is by offering to pay for one or the other but making it clear that Neither are a requirement. If they wanted both services I would pay for the more expensive of the two (hair). The bridesmaids all took it well and were happy that they got to choose! I just thought I would let everyone know how it turned out and help anyone that was following this thread. Again thank you all for the feedback!!!