When Should You Book Hair and Makeup for Your Nashville Wedding?
You've said yes, posted the ring photo, and now you're staring at a wedding planning checklist that feels longer than your college reading list. Between securing your dream venue and finding a photographer who gets your vision, wedding beauty might feel like something you can tackle later.
Here's the reality check: you can't.
Quality wedding hair and makeup teams in Nashville book out faster than you think, especially for those coveted fall dates at Cheekwood or spring celebrations at Southall. We're going to break down exactly when you need to book, what happens if you wait, and how to secure the beauty team that'll make you feel like the best version of yourself on your wedding day.
The Honest Truth About Nashville Wedding Beauty Booking
Most brides are shocked to learn we're typically booked 8-12 months out for peak wedding season in Nashville. That's April through October, when Tennessee weather cooperates and every venue looks like a Pinterest board come to life.
If you're planning a wedding at popular venues like Graystone Quarry, The Hermitage Hotel, or any of the stunning private estates around Franklin, your beauty team should be one of your first bookings—right after your venue and photographer.
Here's why: Nashville's wedding market has exploded. More couples are choosing our city for destination weddings, local venues are booking faster, and experienced beauty professionals are in high demand. The math is simple—there are more brides than there are quality beauty teams.
Our Booking Timeline Breakdown
12 Months Out: Book Now or Panic Later
Prime weekend dates in October: These disappear first, especially for outdoor venues Holiday weekend dates: Memorial Day, Labor Day, and Fourth of July weekends Popular venue dates: If you're getting married at Cheekwood during peak blooming season, don't wait
8-12 Months Out: Most Weekend Dates
April through June weddings: Spring weather brings booking rushes September and early October: Perfect temperatures, gorgeous light Saturday dates: Still the most popular choice for Nashville weddings
6-8 Months Out: Off-Season and Weekday Options
November through March: Fewer bookings, but indoor venues still fill up Friday and Sunday weddings: Increasingly popular as couples seek better vendor availability Smaller wedding parties: If you only need services for 2-3 people, you have more flexibility
3-6 Months Out: Limited Availability
Weekday dates: Tuesday through Thursday options Last-minute cancellations: Rare but possible Off-season dates: January through March typically have the most availability
What Actually Happens When You Wait Too Long
We wish this was just scare tactics, but we see it constantly. A bride calls in panic mode because her wedding is two months away and every quality beauty team is booked. Here's what typically happens:
You settle for whoever's available. Not ideal when you're spending thousands on photography to capture these looks.
Your options become extremely limited. No preview sessions due to limited timing and availability, just "take it or leave it."
Your stress level skyrockets. Wedding planning is stressful enough without scrambling for basic vendors.
The Venue Factor: Location Affects Timing
Downtown Nashville Weddings
Hotels like The Hermitage or urban venues typically have more vendor flexibility, but popular beauty teams still book early for prime dates.
Outdoor Venues (Cheekwood, Graystone, Private Estates)
These locations require teams experienced with outdoor lighting, weather considerations, and timeline logistics. Fewer teams specialize in this, so they book faster.
Destination-Style Venues (Southall Inn)
Venues that attract out-of-town guests often book beauty teams 12+ months out because couples plan everything early for guest coordination.
How Peak Wedding Season Affects Your Timeline
April-May: Spring weather creates a booking rush starting in January June-August: Summer heat means fewer outdoor ceremonies, but indoor venues stay busy September-October: Peak season—book 12+ months out minimum November-December: Holiday weddings require early booking due to fewer available dates
The Smart Booking Strategy
Step 1: Book Your Must-Haves First
After your planner, venue, and photographer, prioritize beauty. These four vendors work most closely together on your timeline.
Step 2: Have Your Vision Conversation
Before you book anyone, have a clear conversation about your style preferences, venue logistics, and budget expectations.
Step 3: Understand What You're Booking
What's included in your package?
When do you schedule your preview?
How is their communication?
How do they handle timeline changes?
Budget Reality Check
Nashville wedding beauty ranges significantly:
$400-800: Experienced local artists
$800-1500: Premium teams with extensive portfolios
$1500+: Luxury experience with multiple artists
Why We're Different
At Canvas + Coif, we work with couples 12 months out not because we're trying to pressure you, but because we want your wedding morning to be seamless. Early booking means:
Comprehensive planning: We coordinate with your planner on logistics and timeline
Preview date options: No rushing to figure out your look
Timeline perfection: We've worked at your venue before and know exactly how long everything takes
Stress-free morning: You'll feel confident because we've planned every detail
Ready to Lock in Your Date?
If you're reading this and your wedding is more than six months away, you're in good shape. If it's less than that, don't panic—email us anyway. We occasionally have last-minute availability.
The best wedding beauty investment isn't just about looking stunning (though you absolutely will). It's about buying peace of mind. When you book early with the right team, you get to focus on enjoying your engagement instead of scrambling to fill vendor gaps.
Your wedding day will go by faster than you expect. Make sure your beauty is handled by a team that's been planning for this day as long as you have.
Ready to check our availability? Contact Canvas + Coif to secure your wedding date.