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60 Romantic Hairstyles to Wear on Your Wedding Day

From soft waves to messy updos, these hairstyles are perfect for the romantic bride.

bride with romantic loose waves, crystal earrings, and off-the-shoulder beaded wedding dress

Photo by Jenny Quicksall

From your personalized, heartfelt vows to that emotional first dance, there will be no shortage of romantic moments on your big day—in fact, it just might be one of the most love-centric days of your life. That's why brides often incorporate romantic elements into everything from the wedding décor (think overflowing floral centerpieces and lush fabrics) to their dresses (ruffles, anyone?), accessories (like sentimental heirlooms passed down through generations), and big-day glam. When it comes to the latter, we think brides should pay particular attention to their hair: After all, romantic wedding hairstyles are an easy way to achieve that effortless bridal charm so many women of the hour strive for.

Whether it's tousled, touchable waves that get better as the night goes on, a swoon-worthy, wispy updo, or a low bun with dainty floral or pearl embellishments, romantic wedding hairstyles can be created in a myriad of ways. Want to show off your shoulders? Try a romantic style with your strapless wedding dress by opting for a messy updo with face-framing tendrils. Throwing a boho bash? Tuck bits of floral and foliage into your lush curls for some more romantic vibes. With a ton of ways to incorporate some romantic elements into a wedding hairstyle, there's a look out there for every personal style, theme, and wedding dress.

Need some inspiration? Scroll down to see our picks for the most romantic wedding hairstyles, courtesy of real brides.

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Side-Swept Waves With Bangs

Bride Getting Makeup Done

Photo by Hana Gonzalez

Looking to make your half-up, half-down hairstyle more alluring? Model this bride, who pushed half of her curls over to the side and finished off the look with a swooping side bang. The classic, but intentional hairstyle kept the focus on her wedding dress' intricate sleeves, complete with floral appliqués.

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Barely-There Waves

Close Up of Brides White Gown

Photo by Abby Jiu Photography

Romantic wedding hairstyles are oftentimes also effortless—there's something particularly alluring about a natural option, when you look like yourself (just subtly enhanced). This bride's easy-breezy waves, arranged by IGK Salon, looked so romantic tumbling down her back—and also matched the organic setting of her wedding: a working farm in New York.

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Wispy and Loose

Portrait of Wedding Couple in Front of Curtain

Photo by Ryan Ray

A romantic wedding hairstyle never feels too "done," as this wispy, loose updo, executed by Brian Bueventura, proves. The bride left plenty of blonde tendrils out of her low bun to frame her face; the feminine hairstyle only enhanced her ruffled, frilly ball gown.

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A Royal-Inspired Headband

Black and White Image of Bride Being Fitted in Her Wedding Gown

Photo by Brittany Painter

A wedding at a historic English estate calls for a look that is decidedly Bridgerton inspired—which is exactly what this woman of the hour went for as she planned her big-day beauty look. With the help of Lizz Davies, she crowned her soft, bouncy curls, which she wore tucked behind her ears, with a gold headband studded with pearls and crystals. The tiara-like headpiece contributed to her romantic ensemble, but didn't take away from her dress' statement billowing sleeves.

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A Pop of Pink

bride with pink hair in floral wedding dress

Photo by Jose Villa

Is colorful, vibrant hair your thing? Embrace it as you prepare for your nuptials. This bride's rosy strands were pure romance (pink is one of love's signature shades, after all!)—plus, they matched the colors in her multi-hued Monique Lhullier gown, complete with vibrant flower and butterfly appliqués. Danielle Peters helped her reach that perfect hair shade—and Laura Rocha stepped in so the color was on full display, keeping a few strands free to really show off the romantic tone.

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Contemporary Romance

Black bride and groom pose for a newlywed portrait in Greece

Photo by Elias Kordelakos

Searching for a look that's both sleek and modern, but also sweet? Consider this bride's wedding hairstyle, which combines that trending slicked-back bun aesthetic with romantic curls. The look, complete with a center part, felt fresh and timely in the front, but effortless and organic in the back—and we love how the curly low updo enhances the voluminous ruffles seen throughout her Pronovias dress, which she wore to her Greece nuptials.

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Curly Wrapped Ponytail

bride wearing curly ponytail with her groom

Photo by Elizabeth Austin Photography

There are so many things we love about this bride's bouncy ponytail: the thick barrel curls, chic center part, and curly bangs, to name a few. Her look also employs one of our favorite updo tricks: Her hairstylist took a piece of her ponytail and wrapped it around the elastic, which added even more polish to the look.

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Effortless Sophistication

A bride smiling on her wedding day with romantic hairstyle

Getty Images

To add an effortless touch to a sleek and sophisticated updo, leave a few face-framing pieces of hair cascading down. What's more romantic than that?

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A Low Chignon

Newlyweds embracing with bride with a low bun

Photo by Sara Lobla

When model Shanina Shaik wed Gregory “DJ Ruckus” Andrews in the Bahamas, she chose a chignon with loose tendrils for her romantic wedding hairstyle. Elegant yet understated, you can't go wrong with a timeless look like this.

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A Tender Display

Bridal portrait with beaded cape

Photo by Stephania Campos; Event Planning by Daryl Wilson of D Concierge Events; Hair by Nikki Garcia; Makeup by Stacy Kent

This ethereal look included a combed-back 'do that let the bride's gorgeous face be the shining star. The hair flowed in gentle waves that played up the softness of the style.

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Ribbon Romance

Bridal hair with a pretty posy and ribbon in hair

Photo by Tom Leung Photography

A gauzy ribbon and a pretty posy make for a romantic combination. You can really play around with different hues and fabrics to create a look that aligns with your own bridal style.

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A Full Ponytail

Bride with ponytail getting veil put on

Photo by Robin Harper; Event Planning by Tara Cathcart of TMC PR; Hair by Matilde Campos

Ponytails can be oh-so-flirty and super romantic. Gathered at the base of the head, this bride's pony erupts in a full show of curls without detracting from her intricate lace dress.

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Pulled-Back Bun

bride and groom posing for portrait with groom kissing bride's forehead

Photo by Dani Toscano

Sure, you've seen plenty of bridal buns with a center part, but we're partial to this woman of the hour's pulled back, part-free style. A traditional low bun was the perfect touch for her classic look (and her country club wedding!); small hoops and a simple veil completed her ensemble.

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A Messy Alternative

Bridal hair with flower crown

Photo by Volvoreta

Undone messy buns are trending among brides everywhere—and we're certainly not complaining. This tousled style exudes effortless elegance in the most breathtaking way.

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A Floral Tuck

Bride and bridesmaids getting ready

Photo by Kerry Jeanne Photography 

Dotting a classic chignon with dainty pink roses is an easy way to amp up the romance in your look. Pair it with a simple (but sparkly) earring, and you're ready for that walk down the aisle.

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A Feminine Tie

Bridal hair fastened with a pink velvet ribbon

Photo by Red Aspen Photography 

For her romantic ranch nuptials, this bride opted for a chic low ponytail tied with a pink velvet ribbon. Both feminine and unexpected, this is a pretty look we're obsessed with.

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A Delicate Gather

Bride with partially pulled back hairstyle

Photo by BFA Weddings 

New York–based accessories designer Arden Wohl wore her long locks in a simple, partially pulled-back hairstyle. Giving you the best of both worlds, this look allows a bride to achieve the romance of soft waves while also keeping her hair tucked away.

18 of 60

A Little Glitz

Bride with a romantic wedding hairstyle

Photo by Treebird Photography

This bride went for a romantic wedding hairstyle that was effortlessly feminine. Thanks to the face-framing soft strands and a sparkly hairpiece, her beautiful face instantly became the focal point.

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A Classic Case

Elegant bridal half-up, half-down 'do

Photo by Ryon Lockhart Photography

Nothing beats a classic: This half-up, half-down 'do is a surefire style. You'll never question an elegant look like this.

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A Regal Finish

Gorgeous bride with tousled curls

Photo by Juanlu Real 

For her nuptials, this bride let her tousled locks cascade down onto her shoulders and added an incredible headpiece. "My headdress was made with more than 800 natural tiny pearls intertwined to make the whole tiara," she said of her romantic hair accessory.

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A Twisted Take

Bride with a twisted ponytail

Photo by Cynthia Chung

Searching for a romantic wedding hairstyle that's out of your face? Try a twisted ponytail like this bride. You can even accessorize it with some sparkly hairpins.

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Stick to the Basics

Newlyweds Kissing

Photo by A Heart String

Sometimes, you just have to keep things simple. Case in point: This bride's romantic wedding hairstyle consists of just her gorgeous, voluminous spirals and a center part.

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Keep It Soft

Bride with romantic soft curls

Photo by Carmen Santorelli Photography

Use a big-barrel curling iron to create soft, romantic curls like this bride. Then, add a smattering of blooms.

For an undeniably romantic hairstyle, brides should aim to keep things soft and relaxed (think loose curls by using hot rollers or a curling iron and texturized, wispy updos). Feel free to accessorize with delicate bits of sparkle or ethereal blooms.

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Glam Factor

Vow exchange outside with bride in romantic hairstyle

Photo by Lauren Alexandra 

Voluminous curls and a crystal hairpiece are glamorous additions to a romantic wedding hairstyle. A look like this is both striking and memorable.

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Woven Wonder

Newlyweds with dog with bride in long, loose waves

Photo by Clayton Austin

Weave a braid into an otherwise down 'do for a romantic touch. With proof that it keeps your face free of any flyaways, it's ideal for any smooching you may be doing throughout the day!

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Crowning Glory

Bride rocking a bridal crown

Photo by Cinzia Bruschini

A romantic bride can still be a princess bride. This lovely lady accented her face-framing tendrils with a regal crown.

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Shine On

Newlyweds posing for photos with bride in long, wavy hair

Photo by Gianny Campos 

We're head over heels for this bride's soft, shiny curls and chic center part. She kept it polished and clean with a hint of drama by adding statement pearl earrings.

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A Rosy Disposition

Newlyweds embrace for photo wit bride with large flowers

Photo by Two Twenty by Chi Chi 

Two single rose blooms accented this bride's gorgeous natural curls. The substantial size of these blooms adds the most dramatically romantic touch.

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Dainty Details

Bride putting on shoes with romantic updo and headband

Photo by Sally Pinera

A delicate, modern tiara and a few wispy face-framing pieces soften this princess style. This updo is lovely for the bride seeking ultra-feminine features and delicate details.

30 of 60

Bring on the Bounce

Bride showing off veil and gown with shoulder length waves

Photo by Chi-Chi Ari; Event Planning by Tiffany Rivera of Simply Breathe Events; Hair by Hair by Fran 

This woman of the hour's strong, blunt lob was softened with brushed-out finger waves through the midsection to add bounce. How fun and flirty is that?!

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A Bevy of Curls

Bride with a bevy of gorgeous curls

Photo by Suzi Jacobs 

This bride paired her beaded blush dress with lush and loose half-up curls. The voluminous body of her hair instantly elevates this effortlessly dramatic look.

32 of 60

A Braided 'Do

Bride and groom dancing at wedding

Photo by KLC 

All about the relaxed romance? Make like this bride, who chose a braided updo. Her beaming smile is an accurate representation of how we feel about this gorgeous bridal style.

33 of 60

An Organic Crown

Bridal floral crown

Photo by Emilie White 

This London bride's wild waves and crown of rosebuds and olive leaves meld the romantic with a touch of boho. We picture this free-flowing look in a garden ceremony or for mountaintop nuptials.

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A Gilded Touch

Bride's hair accessorized with a gold hairpiece

Photo by Greg Finck

This bride topped off her tresses with a pair of chic golden hairpins. This reminds us why we love the asymmetrical placement of a pretty hairpiece.

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Touchable Tendrils

Bride with gorgeous soft waves

Photo by Becca Lea Photography 

Tousled, touch-me waves completed this bride's romantic wedding-day look. Uncomplicated and soft, this style screams romance.

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Face-Forward

Bride in long romantic hair at vow exchange

Photo by A Heart String 

You can never go wrong with a classic half-up, half-down look. This Miami bride twisted her locks away from her face for a look that was totally effortless.

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A Fishtail Flourish

Fishtail braid with flowers

Photo by Kaylee Chelsea Photography; Event Planning by Novelty Events; Hair by Tiara Evans & Janet Miranda 

This bride's playful fishtail braid takes on a romantic twist with the addition of a swag of eucalyptus, pale roses, succulents, and greenery that matched her bouquet. The floral piece molds to the side of her head as wispy tendrils fall around her face.

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An Ample Updo

Newlyweds on motorcycle

Photo by Jose Villa 

When wedding photographer Jen Huang walked down the aisle, she rocked a soft and romantic low updo. Simple and effortless, this style is just as low-maintenance as it is stunning.

39 of 60

A Lovely Lob

Newlyweds dancing with bride in shoulder length waves

Photo by Kelly Anne Berry

This bride's windblown waves make her stylish lob totally fitting for her backyard ceremony. She looks edgy, chic, and super romantic all at once.

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A Bridal Bun

Bride with an open back dress and wrapped low bun

Photo by Mariel Hannah Photography

We're swooning over this bride's wrapped low bun with face-framing locks and a gilded floral hairpiece. Seriously, what's not to love?

41 of 60

A Vintage Vibe

Bride with romantic curls holding a bouquet

Photo by Whitney Darling; Event Planning by RO & Co. Events; Hair by Dry Bar Del Mar 

Large barrel curls twisting away from the face are an oh-so-romantic touch to this bride's vintage style. Plus, the embellished hairpiece adds just the right amount of irresistible shimmer.

42 of 60

Subtle Waves

Bride kissing bride on the forehead

Photo by Luna de Mar; Event Planning by Gold Leaf Event Design; Hair & Makeup by Gambuti Robsin Hair & Makeup

Barely-there waves flow beautifully about this bride's face, accentuating her bridal glow. Two ivory rosettes secure a few tucked-back pieces in place.

43 of 60

Raked-Back Curls

Bride getting ready with loose updo

Photo by Rebecca Yale; Hair by Trine Juel 

Make like this bride, who embraced her naturally curly texture by simply finger-combing it back and securing it in a loose chignon. Her hair's natural shape adds so much volume and dimension at the crown but still maintains an effortless simplicity.

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A Beaded Braid

Bride with a whimsical loose braid

Photo by O'Malley Photographers; Event Planning by Valley and Co.; Hair by Misbehaven Spa & Salon

This bride's whimsical loose braid was dotted with beaded pins that resembled tiny floral buds for her vineyard wedding. This ultra-organic look is beyond dreamy for any outdoor nuptials.

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Tousled Texture

Bride with perfectly undone waves

Photo by Rachel Havel; Hair & Makeup by Kyrsten Bryant 

Disheveled, undone waves are relaxed in the sexiest way possible. This woman looked every bit the romantic bride for her mountainside Colorado nuptials.

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A Dreamy Bun

Bride in lace robe looking out window with updo

Photo by David Salim; Event Planning by Design Anarchy Studio; Hair & Makeup by Lala Barbie &  Marcela Bantea 

This bride's Lake Como nuptials were just as dreamy as the hairstyle she chose to wear. Her glossed-out bun was accented with a floral headpiece that hugged the style just above the veil.

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A Bridal Blowout

Bride with a fresh blowout

Photo by Roey Yohai; Event Planning by JZ Events; Hair by Hair by Halli

With a smooth, bouncy blowout that features gently sculpted waves and tons of volume, this bride's bright blonde mane created all the spotlight she needed for her wedding in the Hamptons.

Depending on the texture of your hair, be sure to consult your hairstylist prior to getting a blowout as there are different styles to consider. Whether the goal is to achieve extra bounce or you plan on rocking a sleek 'do, we recommend getting a blowout the day before or the morning of your wedding for the best results.

48 of 60

A Touch of Gold

Bride with a pretty 'do looking out over balcony

Photo by Nancy Ebert; Event Planning by Estelle Kouma; Hair by Makeup Riviera  

This bride donned an intricately woven chignon with a tiny gold bloom peeking out of the top for her dreamy French Riviera wedding. We love how her hair's highlights add dimension and texture to this pretty updo.

49 of 60

Flirty Finger Waves

Bride with picture-perfect curls

Photo by Erich McVey; Event Planning by Paper Diamonds; Hair by Alexandul 

Who wouldn't want to run their fingers through this waterfall of curls? This stunning style is ideal for brides with thick, luscious locks.

50 of 60

A Beachy Bun

Bride with low, textured bun

Photo by Katie Ruther; Event Planning by Destination Weddings Tulum; Hair by Dahena Buhaya 

This low, textured bun with wispy flyaways framing the face was the perfect complement to this bride's beachside nuptials in Tulum, Mexico. And how stunning are those statement earrings finishing off the look?

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Simplicity Is Key

Bride with loose waves and a single blossom in hair

Photo by Henry + Mac; Event Planning by Unique Weddings by Alexis; Hair by Kacie Corbelle

Sometimes a single blossom is all you really need. This bride accented her loose, voluminous waves with a single white flower that blended magnificently with her modern, architectural gown.

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Center Stage

Bride with gentle waves and an off-the-shoulder dress

Photo by Kelly Brown; Hair by Sabrina Ranà 

True romance lies in a center part and gentle waves. But that ethereal Marchesa Notte dress doesn't hurt either.

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Deliberate Details

Bride with pearl-embellished straps

Photo by Abby Jiu; Event Planning by Strawberry Milk Events; Hair by Stephanie Harris 

A loose gathering can create a captivatingly undone look that's far more deliberate than messy. This bride's wedding hairstyle allowed for locks of curls to flow freely in the front while the longer lengths were tucked away in the back.

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Captivating Curls

Bride with captivating curls

Photo by Rebecca Yale; Event Planning by Matthew Oliver Weddings; Hair by Ava Belle 

This bride's elegant half-up, half-down style is made more enchanting with thick sheaths of hair framing her beautiful features. She looked every bit like the princess bride at her French château wedding.

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A Perfectly Imperfect Chignon

Newlyweds embracing with bride in messy bun

Photo by Katherine Ann Rose; Event Planning by Lynden Lane Co.; Hair by Simone

Rich, tousled tendrils were loosely pinned back into an easygoing, just-messy-enough chignon, with tons of rogue wisps falling around this bride's picture-perfect face.

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Au Naturel

Bride with all-natural waves

Photo by Rach Loves Troy; Event Planning by Tara Skinner Weddings & Events; Hair by Salon Aqua

This bride's natural curls were let loose to freely cascade about her shoulders in an unfussy style. The innocent and youthful appearance kept with the celebration's organic, whimsical theme.

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Tousled Waves

Couple dancing on their wedding day with one bride with tousled waves

Getty Images

Romantic and effortless, some tousled waves are an easy choice. Sweep back a section of your hair with some flowers or greenery for an organic touch.

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A Blooming Pony

Bride with a gorgeous blossoming ponytail

Photo by Kate Headley; Hair by The Village Parlor; Floral Design by Susan McLeary 

For her Detroit wedding, this bride gathered her ample spirals into a soft ponytail just at the nape of the neck. She then tucked a bouquet of freshly foraged, pastel flowers into the base.

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Bohemian Elegance

Bride holding bouquet by a window

Photo by Molly Peach; Hair by Leah Wilson

This bride's woven chignon sat low at the back of her head, just grazing the nape of her neck. A dainty floral topper was added for a hint of sparkle as delicate waves framed her lovely features for a look befitting the elegant and boho Tennessee wedding.

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A Curly Chignon

Bride with a curly chignon

Photo by Lauren Baker

This bride's traditional bun had lots of texture, thanks to her curls. The spirals provided the perfect anchor for those stunning Jennifer Behr barrettes.

FAQ
  • How much does wedding hair cost?

    Professional bridal hairstyling can cost anywhere from $100 to $350—in some cases higher—depending on the complexity of the style and your geographic location.

  • Should I get a professional to style my hair?

    Depending on how elaborate your hairstyle is, you may want to hire a qualified hairstylist that specializes in bridal hair. Simpler styles can be done on your own but may require extra wedding-day time, effort, and stress that could outweigh the savings.

  • How do I choose a wedding hairstyle?

    Your dress, makeup, and venue are a few factors that may impact your wedding hairstyle. Ultimately, it's best to gather inspiration to share with your hairstylist, family, and friends—doing so will help you make an informed decision.

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