Nashville Wedding Hair and Makeup: What You Actually Need (And What You Don’t)
Let’s start with a little truth bomb: just because you saw it on Instagram doesn’t mean you need it.
Pinterest boards, bridal TikToks, and wedding blogs are fun—but they also feed you a steady stream of “must-haves” that are more about trends than actual value. And when you're planning a Southern wedding—think Southall Farm & Inn, a classic country club, or your childhood church with a hotel ballroom reception—you want timeless beauty, not trend overload.
We’re Canvas + Coif, a Nashville-based wedding hair and makeup team serving brides across the Southeast. We've been behind the scenes at enough weddings to know what really matters on the morning of—and what ends up being a waste of money or energy.
Here’s your no-fluff guide to what’s worth it, and what’s not, when it comes to wedding day beauty.
What You Actually Need
1. A Beauty Team Who Gets It
You don’t need a celebrity-style entourage. What you do need is a beauty team that’s calm under pressure, shows up early, and knows how to keep the mood light while staying on schedule. We understand the subtle balance between polished and personal—no one-size-fits-all looks here.
We also know how to navigate the unexpected: your mom who says “just a little mascara” but really wants a full eye look, your maid of honor’s sensitive skin, or a last-minute schedule shift. We've got you.
2. A Thoughtful, Padded Timeline
Hair and makeup should never feel rushed. A well-planned beauty schedule is key to keeping the whole day on track. We help you map it out based on how many people are getting services, how long each look takes, and when your photographer needs everyone ready. And yes, we build in extra time—because something always comes up.
3. A Preview Appointment (When You Can)
A preview is more than a “test run.” It’s where we collaborate, try out your look, adjust what’s not working, and make sure your beauty vision actually fits your face, your dress, and your wedding vibe. It takes the guesswork out of wedding morning and gives you space to speak up, tweak, and trust us completely.
4. Comfortable Getting-Ready Outfits
Skip the cheap satin robes and stiff matching PJ sets. They're uncomfortable, rarely fit everyone well, and often end up in a drawer post-wedding.
Here’s a better idea: head to your local Goodwill or favorite thrift shop and buy oversized men’s button-downs in flattering colors. Add embroidered names if you want something personal. They photograph beautifully, they’re easy to take off without messing up hair and makeup, and everyone will actually wear them again.
5. Good Lighting + One Large Mirror (and a Few Handhelds)
Many getting-ready spaces look gorgeous in photos but aren’t designed for actual getting ready. We bring professional lighting with us, but nothing beats natural light by a big window. Choose a space that’s bright, calm, and clutter-free.
You’ll also want one large mirror (ideally full-length or at least big enough for multiple people to use). And don’t forget a few handheld mirrors—especially helpful for checking the back of hairstyles before heading out. Bridesmaids and moms love this detail, and it’s a small touch that makes a big difference.
What You Don’t Need
1. A Massive Glam Squad
You don’t need to bring in an army. We’ll determine exactly how many hair and makeup artists are needed based on how many services you’ve booked and how much time you’re willing to spend getting ready. More artists doesn’t always mean faster—it’s about working efficiently and ensuring the right energy and flow to your morning. Our teams are built for calm, collaborative wedding prep, and we make sure everything runs on time without the chaos.
2. Face Masks, Eye Patches, or New Skincare the Morning Of
Wedding morning is not the time to test a new product. Even if it’s a viral under-eye patch or a sheet mask promising miracles. Stick to what you know works for your skin. Drink water, use your trusted moisturizer, and let us handle the glow.
3. Expired or Mismatched Personal Makeup
If you’re bringing your own touch-up items, please make sure they’re current, clean, and usable. That lipstick from college? Probably not the best bet. We’re stocked with professional-grade products that look great in photos and last through the last dance. Trust the kit.
4. Pinterest Overwhelm
A few inspiration images are great. Forty-two screenshots of celebrities with wildly different hair types? Not so much. Narrow your vision to 1–2 images that actually reflect your hair texture, dress neckline, and personal style. We’ll customize from there and make sure the final look feels like you.
5. DIY Touch-Up Kits for Every Bridesmaid
Instead of buying a dozen tiny hairsprays, blotting sheets, and lipsticks your bridal party will probably forget to use—book your artist to stay for touch-ups. It’s the simplest way to keep everyone looking fresh and photo-ready. We’ll be there to fix flyaways, refresh lipstick, powder shine, and handle anything the Southern humidity throws your way. One less thing for you (or your planner) to stress about.
Final Word: Prioritize What Actually Matters
The morning of your wedding should feel calm, comfortable, and beautiful—not like a production set. Focus on the things that make your day feel like your day: a team you trust, a look that reflects your style, and a process that doesn’t stress you out.
You don’t need everything Instagram told you to buy. You just need the right people, the right prep, and a beauty plan that works for you.
We’ll handle the rest.
Looking for a wedding hair and makeup team in Nashville or the Southeast that actually gets it?
Contact Canvas + Coif to check availability—we book a limited number of weddings each year and would love to be part of yours.