Hairstylist Dilemma

Are you used to a weave? Or is she placing extensions (different process)? If unfamiliar, I'd let her finish the styling, plus she can check on your scalp health and answer any questions. You will be paying for photos afterall, might as well let the professional work her magic.

If you are friends, then you have to believe that if she is genuinely okay with not getting paid for doing this for you if that's what she says! One of my bridesmaids got married last year and paid $150 for her hair styling, which included straightening (very curly), styling, half updo. For reference, we live in Texas so things are usually a little more affordable here. If you want, you could make her a little gift basket for day-of? Mini champagne bottles, Starbucks cup...cash! You get the gist of it. I wouldn't sweat it too much, if she didn't want to do it for free or very little, I'm sure she wouldn't given you a rate!

She's an adult and able to set her own prices. You offered money and she still refused. At that point, I think you're fine. A small gift would be nice, but not necessary.

Since you've known her for 20+ years and are friends (and want to remain friends), I suggest offering her the amount that is on her price list for a weave installation and style. The $250 sounds pretty close to what I know. If she truly wants the service to be her gift to you (also, she might not want someone else styling the hair she prepped -- when you have a long relationship with a stylist, they say our hair is theirs LOL), put half of the styling cost in her thank you card on your wedding day.

Another idea is if she creates her own products, and you're doing welcome bags for out-of-town guests, ask if you can purchase a bulk order to put one bottle of her product in each welcome bag (or a gift set of her products as part of your t.y. gifts to your bridesmaids.) I did this with my stylist/friend for my welcome bags and she loved it. So did the guests who received her products!