Do test your hairstyle before your wedding day. You don’t want your stylist’s vision to be your nightmare. Schedule a pre-wedding appointment so you’ll know what your hair will look like and you’ll be comfortable with the look. This gives you a chance to work out any kinks at a more leisurely pace.

Do show your stylist photos of preferred hairstyles, your dress and your veil. You want to have a total look instead of a series of separate elements. Your hairstyle needs to be incorporated with the veil.

Do think about wearing an updo style if you want to show off any details on your dress. The popular style is a smooth, elegant look, but not too “perfect.” Make it soft and pretty with some texture.

Do consider wearing a weave or extensions if you want a look that cannot be achieved with your own hair.

Do stash an emergency kit of travel-size hair products and hairpins to keep your hairstyle lasting for the duration of the ceremony and the reception.

Don’t schedule your hair appointment on the same day as your wedding. Get your hair done the day before and select a style that can be “freshened up” on your wedding day.

Don’t get any chemical processes close to your wedding day. Instead, schedule them at least a week beforehand.

Don’t get a haircut less than two weeks before your wedding. Sometimes a new haircut takes a while to get used to.

Don’t go for something overly elaborate if you’ll be more comfortable in a simple style. Choose a style you love, but keep in mind that your wedding pictures will be around long after trends have come and gone. You want your grandchildren to ooh and ahh over your photo albums, not laugh and giggle.

Don’t be too concerned about whether your hairstyle falls at the reception. If there are curls hanging down, it will make you look more relaxed and playful.