Why is a "bridal" updo always more expensive?

Question

I'm fairly certain I already know the answer to this, but why is it that every time I get pricing information from salons about bridal updos, they're always at least $40 more than a regular updo? I mean, what is really the difference? I understand that the stylist has to work with the veil and any headpieces that the bride has, but honestly, is it REALLY that much more work?

This ticks me off because my updo will be a regular updo (side bun) with no veil and one little hair clip as an accessory, and they still quote me at the bridal rate. There's no way I could lie and just say it's for a special event because I want to have the bridal party and myself get their nails done at the same salon to save time, so the salon would know anyway just from hearing us all talk. But I'm wondering if anyone has ever done that, or if this annoys anyone else?

I'm assuming they charge more because everything in the wedding world is jacked up at least 20 percent from regular stuff.

Stories? Comments? Much appreciated!

Answer 1

The difference is that its for the bride, and a bride is willing to spend much more on her wedding day than on a regular day. Its economics, plain and simple. The demand curve for brides is a different curve than bridesmaids or other styles. Econ 101.

Answer 2

I think miss_nikki gave a good answer, but I'd like to add that, as a hairstylist, doing an updo isn't as simple as it looks. It takes a lot to make sure that it looks balanced and elegant, without being overbearing (although I've occasionally gotten the request for something overbearing and off-the-wall, but that's when you have to bite your lip and say nothing lol)

Anyway, there is working in the veil and/or tiara as well, which also isn't as easy as it looks. So I can see charging a little bit more for a bridal style rather than for just a "regular" updo. However at my salon, it's not the type of style or kind of occasion that it's for, but rather the time that it takes. We charge a starting price of $25 for anything up to a half-hour, then it's $30 for 45 mins, $35 for 60 mins, etc... you get the idea... So this is what we quote people. And for a trial run, I would charge maybe only $5-10 off of the regular price (if anything) cuz you're still taking time out of your day and a stylist and/or salon has to make money too!!!

Just a side note... updos are my most favorite thing to do at work... I could do them all day! LOL :)

Answer 3

It takes talent to make sure it all stays up

Answer 4

Wow... I got married in a small town in Indiana.

I got my hair done at an upscale Aveda salon, as well as my bridal party.

We each were charged $45 for updo's and make up!!

You may be able to work out a better deal!!  

Answer 5

I recently asked my stylist about this.  She said that most brides that come in are super stressed and they want perfection.  So many of them turn into Bridezillas and don't want to pay or make the stylist do it over and over again even though it looks just like the photo that they brought in.  I think brides are just so on edge, that it is a pain for a stylist.  They'd rather do someones hair that doesn't care as much.  

My stylist said that there are only a few stylists in her shop that will even do bridal hair.  So, it seems that it's just not worth it to them.

Answer 6

I would ask to talk to the salon manager for two reasons:

1. You're right about about charging more because of having to work around a veil. This takes a lot more time than you think. There is also more of a charge because brides tend to be a little pickier than just your average updo customer and again, this takes time.

2. Also, a lot of places charge the extra because they're planning on providing a "run through" before the day either at a lower cost or as included in the price. If you don't plan on doing this, that gives you even more leverage.

It might be helpful if you say, "if you give me the updo rate I promise not to go over the time alloted for an updo." Since your bridal party has booked the salon for multiple services I have a feeling they're going to try to accommodate you and would willing to negotiate. :)

Answer 7

Mostly because of the time involved. When it is for a bride the stylist will make sure that every curl is in place and nothing is left where it shouldn't be. THey also know that if it's an entire party coming in there will be more time spent because everyone is talking or giggling, taking up 'work' time. A 'simple' updo for a 'normal' non bride may only take 30 minutes, but given all the other commotion it usually takes 50-60. There is usually more products used on the hair as well.  

Answer 8

Yea it's really stupid I have to pay more too. It 's a rip off

Answer 9

Because they know its for their wedding and they jack up the prices.

That is the ONLY reason.  

I had an updo for my wedding with the tiara and veil, and there really wasn't much difference besides making it easy to insert the tiara.

Answer 10

I have known several stylists and asked them this same question. They say that technically there is no difference. The salon sets the price because brides are gullible and willing to pay extra without questioning why they are being charged extra. But there is no extra work involved. Honestly, unless you wear your wedding dress to the salon to get your hair done, no one needs to know that it's for a wedding, nor will they unless you volunteer that information.

Answer 11

You don't have to lie, just omit the information. You're not looking for a bridal style. Just say that you and your friends want updos. They'll figure it out, but if they quoted you a given price they're not likely to change it, as long as you don't show any of the bridezilla behaviour mentioned by the first respondent.

Answer 12

I was in a friends wedding.  We all had the same picture of an updo.  We all went to different salons and just showed the pic and said we were going out to a romantic dinner with our husband.  Worked like a charm.