What to ask the hair & beauty professionals

•  Does your regular hairdresser do wedding hair? (If not, don't persuade them to do yours, ask for a recommendation)

• At the salon can they also do your make-up and nails? Can they offer a price package for this?

• What does the cost include? Will there be a trial run and how much will they charge for each additional head?

• What are the payment terms?

• When can you secure the wedding day booking and how long will the appointment last? (Many salons will not take bookings more than six months ahead because of staffing changes and holidays.)

• Can you see photographs of real brides? (Does the make-up photograph well? Check especially for shiny faces.)

• If your hairdresser and/or make-up artist are coming to you on the day, does the price include travel costs and expenses? How long will they stay? What facilities and make-up do you need to provide?

• What do your hairdresser and make-up artist recommend? (You don't have to take this advice, but they may have ideas you have not thought of.)

• Who is delivering hair pieces, to where and when?

• Ask for everything in writing and receipts for deposits.