Getting Married? Start Planning Now
Key Takeaways:
Start bridal hair planning earlier than you think
A bridal hair trial removes wedding day stress
Dana Quinlan offers beautiful bridal hairstyles
We can visit your chosen venue or you can be pampered in salon
Congratulations! If you’ve just said yes, you’re probably feeling a mix of excitement, joy… and a tiny bit overwhelmed. From venues and dresses to flowers and final fittings, wedding planning has a habit of creeping up faster than expected. One thing that often gets left until the last minute (and really shouldn’t) is your wedding hair.
The wedding hair experts at Dana Quinlan Salon in Poole create bridal hair that feels effortless and looks fabulous. The secret? Starting planning early! To help you stay calm and organised, here’s a simple wedding countdown covering the most important beauty and hair milestones, including when to book your wedding hair consultation and bridal hair trial.
If you are getting married this year, why not book in for a wedding hair consultation with our wedding hair experts in Poole?
Call Dana Quinlan on 01202 666373. Find out more about our Wedding Hair Services.

Your Wedding Hair & Beauty Countdown
12 Months Before – Start the Big Picture Planning
This is the time to secure your venue, photographer and key suppliers and it’s also a great moment to start thinking about your hair goals.
Begin growing your hair if you’re dreaming of length or fullness
Think about whether you’d like a classic updo, relaxed waves, sleek ponytail or something more boho
Start saving inspiration images, but stay open-minded — the right style will depend on your hair type, dress and wedding vibe
If you’re considering any colour changes, now is the perfect time to start that journey gradually.
9 Months Before – Book Your Wedding Hair Consultation
This is a crucial (and often overlooked) step.
A wedding hair consultation at Dana Quinlan Salon allows us to:
Talk through your wedding theme, dress neckline and veil or accessories
Assess your hair condition, length and colour
Create a personalised hair plan leading up to the big day
We’ll also discuss styles for bridesmaids, the mother of the bride, and any key members of the bridal party, ensuring everyone feels coordinated but still individual.
6 Months Before – Hair Colour & Condition Check
By now, your colour and cut should be well on track.
Finalise your wedding hair colour direction
Book regular glosses, conditioning treatments or trims
Avoid drastic changes - consistency is key for bridal hair
At Dana Quinlan Salon, we use Aveda products, meaning your hair stays healthy, shiny and beautifully conditioned throughout the planning process.
3–4 Months Before – Your Bridal Hair Trial
This is one of the most exciting appointments of the entire wedding journey.
Your bridal hair trial allows you to:
Try your chosen style in real life
Test how your hair holds and moves
Decide on finishing touches like accessories or veils
We recommend wearing a light top similar to your dress neckline and bringing any accessories you plan to wear. This trial gives you total confidence that everything will look perfect on the day... no surprises, no stress.
6–8 Weeks Before – Final Touches
Now it’s all about polishing.
Book your final colour refresh or gloss
Schedule a trim if needed
Confirm timings and numbers for the bridal party
We’ll finalise your wedding morning schedule to ensure everything runs smoothly and feels relaxed.
1 Week Before – Relax & Enjoy
Your hair plan is in place - now it’s time to breathe.
Avoid experimenting with new products
Keep hair hydrated and well cared for
Get plenty of rest (as much as wedding nerves allow!)
