Brides On A Budget: Money Saving Tips For Hair, Makeup & Hair Extensions

Planning a wedding is one of the most exciting times in life, but it can also be one of the most expensive. If you're a bride-to-be in the UK working with a modest budget, you're definitely not alone. The good news? You don’t have to spend a small fortune to look and feel like a queen on your big day. With a few clever hacks and a little bit of DIY magic, it’s absolutely possible to get that dreamy bridal look without draining your bank account.

Here's some savvy ways to save money on your bridal beauty – specifically on hair, makeup, and hair extensions – without compromising on style, elegance, or confidence.

Hair Extensions on a Budget

When it comes to achieving that full, voluminous, “Pinterest-worthy” bridal hairstyle, hair extensions can be a total game-changer. But salon-fitted permanent extensions like tape-ins or micro-rings can come with a hefty price tag – not exactly ideal when you're counting every penny. That’s where DIY hair extensions step in to save the day.

Clip in hair extensions are the most affordable, flexible, and DIY-friendly option out there. They’re super easy to apply yourself and give you instant volume and length. Whether you're after dramatic cascading curls or a fuller updo, clip-ins will help you achieve that without a salon bill attached.

At Cliphair, brides can get premium quality at great prices. If you’re wondering how to do a cheap wedding, with purse-friendly hair included, our Double Weft Clip-In Hair Extensions are a fab choice – perfect for dramatic transformations in length as well as volume. If you're happy with your length but want extra oomph, the Classic Full Head Set gives just the right amount of volume to elevate your natural look. Planning to wear your hair down with a soft, romantic style? The One Piece Hair Extensions offer a quick and easy solution for fuller-looking locks without the hassle. Our clip ins are our most budget-friendly options, particularly our one-piece collections for those who want cheap hair extensions that offer quick and easy volume!

To sweeten the deal even more, we also offer our very own Bridal Bundles, which pair extensions with must-have tools and styling products, ideal for getting everything you need at a discounted price. These bundles make planning easier and stretching your budget further.

The best part? You don’t have to be a professional stylist to use them. There are tons of easy tutorials and styles on Cliphair’s blog to walk you through creating your dream look at home. Whether you’re doing a glam Hollywood wave or a simple boho braid, do it yourself hair extensions give you that bridal wow-factor without salon prices.

Explore our 2025 Bridal Campaign for bridal hair inspo, hair tutorials, and the chance to fill out our Bridal Quiz to find out which hair extensions are right for you on yours or your loved one’s big day!

Budget-Friendly Makeup Tips

Hiring a professional makeup artist can be amazing, but it can also cost hundreds. If you’re looking to cut costs, doing your own makeup is one of the most effective ways to save money. And no, it doesn’t mean you’ll end up looking any less fabulous.

Start by booking a makeup lesson or watching a few reliable YouTube tutorials. Then practice, practice, and practice some more. Doing a few trial runs in different lighting can help you build confidence, learn what works for your face, and make sure you avoid any last-minute stress on the big day.

There are also plenty of high-performance budget brands out there that deliver stunning results without luxury price tags. UK favourites like Revolution Beauty and e.l.f. Cosmetics have fantastic bridal-worthy products – from glowing highlighters to long-lasting foundations. Plus, many of them are vegan and cruelty-free.

Look out for multi-use products to get more bang for your buck. A lip and cheek tint, for example, can double up for a cohesive and fresh look. Cream products also tend to be more forgiving and easier to blend, making them ideal for DIY bridal beauty.

And don’t skip your trial run. Whether it’s a full face or just trying out a lip colour, test everything ahead of time. That way, you’ll know exactly what products last the longest, look best on camera, and make you feel the most confident.

Hair Styling for Less

You don’t need a top-tier stylist to pull off gorgeous do it yourself bridal hair, unless it’s professional hair extensions of course. With a few affordable tools and a bit of practice, you can easily create a beautiful style that holds all day.

Start by investing in rollers or a budget curling wand for long-lasting volume. Even heatless overnight curls can give you that big, bouncy bridal look without spending a thing. Pair them with your clip in extensions for ultimate volume and glamour.

Need some help deciding on a style? The How to Plan Wedding Hair & Makeup Like a Pro is packed with hair inspiration and tutorials tailored to real brides. From classic chignons to romantic half-up looks, there’s something for every vibe.

Another underrated trick? Phone a friend. Chances are one of your bridesmaids or friends is a pro at using a curling iron. Practising together beforehand turns prep time into a mini pampering session and can save you from spending on a pro stylist.

However, if you’re looking to have permanent hair extensions like tape ins or nano rings installed, it’s always best to consult and book an appointment with a hairstylist.

Finally, don’t underestimate the power of affordable accessories. Think pearl clips, bridal headbands, and dainty pins. Sites like Etsy or high-street favourites like H&M and Accessorise offer beautiful options that look luxe without the luxury markup. To browse some top picks, check out guide to Top Bridal Hair Accessories.

A Few Extra Tips to Stretch Your Budget Further

Saving money on your look is one part of the puzzle, but the bigger wedding picture can also offer room to cut costs in creative ways. For example, consider booking your wedding during off-peak times like weekdays or outside of summer. Venues and suppliers often offer lower rates, giving you more flexibility for other splurges.

Speaking of splurges – decide where it really matters to spend. Many brides choose to save on hair and makeup and instead invest in high-quality photography to capture those once-in-a-lifetime moments. A clever tip for cutting photo costs? Set up a QR code station at your reception where guests can upload their snaps to a shared album. It’s fun, interactive, and a cost-effective way to capture the day from every angle – especially once the official photographer clocks out.

Conclusion:

Whatever your priorities, remember this: your wedding is about celebrating love. With a little DIY spirit, the right tools, Remy hair extensions, and a touch of creativity, you’ll not only save money but feel empowered and proud of your big-day glow-up.

For more inspiration, step-by-step guides, and the best cheap, high quality hair extensions around, explore our entire hair blog and get ready to plan the most beautiful, budget-savvy day of your dreams!