When it comes to getting ready for the big day, it’s not just the brides who will take several trips to the salon months before, but the grooms too. On the big day men will be wearing the most suave outfit of their life and they will want their hair, along with any facial hair, to compliment this, says Jim Shaw, owner of Toni&Guy, Billericay
With that in mind, in order for their hair and beard to look its very best for the day, men should book in for a few appointments in the months prior to the day to ensure they can discuss and practice the cut and style they would like to have with their hairdresser and ensure they are happy with it. They will also be able to see how the cut looks grown out and see if they like the cut worn best fresh or with it slightly grown in. From this, they will be able to have an idea if they would like their hair cut just before the wedding or if they would like to get it cut a few days-a week before to allow the style to settle.
The same goes for if the clients has any facial hair – they may want to experiment with different cuts/beard styling in the months before the big day to see what look they like best, and what works in harmony with their hair cut and compliments their facial features.
Some men may want to opt for a more natural, effortless look on their wedding day, which enhances their natural hair texture, whereas others may want a more sleek and polished appearance. Discuss with your client what they will be looking for, try some styles on them a couple of months before the day and show them the products you are using. Let them get a feel for the products in their hair and see if they prefer a shiny or matte finish. Spend a good amount of consultation time with your client to ensure you know what they want before you start creating some styles for them.
Polished, precise hairstyles are a firm favourite amongst grooms and for this look, I love to apply a pomade into the hair and then use a blow-dryer to slick the hair back off the face or to one side, giving a sleek and smooth but dramatic finish with height. If a groom does want a lot of height on their big day, they will want to avoid getting too much of their hair cut in the lead up to it and will instead want to opt for trims that will allow their hair to grow whilst still looking healthy.
For those with curlier hair types, who may want to embrace their style on their big day, it’s a great idea to help define the curls and allow them to really look their best. I love to use a curl defining cream or a mousse in the hair, which not only helps define the curls but also gives them body and bounce. Regular trims are a must for those with curly hair to keep the curls looking pristine and free from damage and flyaways.
It’s a good idea to suggest to your male clients getting hair treatments in the lead up to the day in order for their hair to look and feel in the best condition possible. This is particularly important for gents with longer hair who will be more prone to damage and split ends and will want to keep their hair free from frizz.
To keep hair and facial hair looking its best in the lead up to the big day, clients should also ensure they are using the correct products. A scalp treatment is great for ensuring the hair is free from any dead skin cells and a good quality professional shampoo and conditioner are a must to keep hair looking healthy, nourished, smooth and shiny. Men may also want to avoid using heated styling tools where possible to give their hair a break and try to restore the condition as much as possible for a few months in the lead up to the wedding. Instead, experimenting with texturising sprays, pomades and gels is a great choice, and many of these also work to condition the hair at the same time.
For beards, men should always wash their beard with a beard shampoo/wash to keep the hair looking smooth and slick and free from dead skin cells. A beard serum is also beneficial to keep the beard moisturised, soft and to tame any unruly hairs, whilst also nourishing the skin underneath.
For grooms it’s important that they have a fabulous experience in the salon and feel special in the lead up to their wedding. On the day of their appointment for their wedding cut and style and grooming services, offer them additional treatments to give them the complete pamper experience, such as a manicure or a facial that will have them leaving the salon looking and feeling their best. Ensure their face is free from any unwanted hairs (nose, ears) and that the client is 100% happy with their finished look upon leaving the salon.