If wedding make-up is supposed to be plain and simple, then wedding hair is where you can go to town. As ever with Afro hair, the hardest thing is finding a hairdresser who knows what they are doing. Once you have found one, ask for a trial session to experiment with several styles. After that, what you do is down to whether your hair is relaxed or natural.

"If you have relaxed hair, you should have your relaxer done approximately two weeks before your wedding to allow the hair to settle down," says Johnnie Sapong, whose client list is as impressive as it is multiracial. "I recommend having regular treatments, whether the hair is relaxed or natural, leading up to the big day. This is key to keeping your hair looking healthy and shiny."

Wedding hair doesn't have to be an "up" do. "Waves and curls are prominent this season," says Errol Douglas, one of this year's nominees for Hairdresser Of The Year. "Try tonging to achieve cascading curls.

Or set, then separate, the hair with your fingers, creating loose waves. You can even create curls using ceramic straighteners. Whatever method you choose, make sure your hair has volume and shine."

If you have natural hair, don't think you have fewer options, but don't go for anything too "fashion" - zigzag braids might look great now, but they'll date quicker than you can say, "I do". That goes for men as well as women. It's fine to take inspiration from the catwalk, just don't go over the top, especially if you're going for a traditional dress.

"Twisting and setting the hair with gel will be prominent this season," says Douglas. "This can be extremely versatile; you can pin up sections of the hair, securing with various accessories. If your hair has a loose curl, try scrunching to create definition and bouncy curls." If you are going for an "up" do, "the hair should be kept simple, but still have a touch of glamour - like a classic bun, french twist or french braid," says Sapong. Whatever you go for, it should be soft, flattering to your face shape and complement the style of your dress.