How much to pay my friend to do my hair?

My stylist is also a friend of mine. It happens with stylist. As her gift to me she is just waving her normal travel fee, but I am paying book rate for everything else. It is the polite thing to do.

OG Kathryn, excellent point. I just assumed that OP did and the stylist didn't give her a quote.

OP, just ask her. If she won't give you a rate, then follow through with calling the salon she used to work at and go from there.

I would ask her what she charges and be prepared to do your own hair if something does happen. People on here tend to make a big deal about hiring professionals for everything, but if you're fine doing your own hair in a pinch and it won't stress you out, I don't see a problem using a friendor (professionals should be used in many other parts of a wedding though!). You just have to be prepared for that possibility is all. It sounds like you want a simple style.

I did ask, she told me to come up with a price. Hence, my post. Also, she hasn't worked at a salon for 10 years, don't think calling her old salon would help and I wouldn't even know what it was if I wanted to.

You need a contract. It outlines the obligations of both parties. It says her responsibility is to show up at X location at Y time and perform hairdos for Z number of people. In exchange for the above, you are required to pay her $W amount of money. If she does not perform, she needs to responsible for finding you a replacement stylist of equal skill at the same price. And if she cannot perform, you are not obligated to pay her said money.

Even if you name a price and your acquaintance agrees to it, you need a written contract outlining the above.