Every bride deserves to look flawless on her wedding day. So I say: indulge a little. Book a facial (or six!) and invest in a great waterproof mascara. Leave nothing to chance—with a bit of planning, getting ready for your big day can be less stressful.
To create "Your Perfect Look" for your wedding, you need a trial run or two, to be confident your ideas transform into the look you desire. During these trial runs, you can see if you like what hair and makeup styles and techniques you're considering or have selected.
6 Months Before: Hair & Makeup Trial Runs
Consider if you want a natural or dramatic look and select a hairstyle and makeup application that complements your features. You'll want to use high-def makeup since high-def cameras are frequently used in weddings. TIP: Use an airbrush application for foundation to last longer. (You want your makeup to hold up through every last photo, dance, toast, and selfie.)
DO:
Bring images of hairstyles, makeups, headpiece, hair jewelry, veil, and wedding gown to convene the look you are after.
DON’T:
Don’t let the stylist talk you into a hairstyle or makeup look that you are not comfortable with and don’t drastically change your look (unless drastic is your thing). Your special day is not a time to experiment—altering your look before such a big event can be a big mistake. Instead, aim to look like yourself—just enhanced.
8 Weeks Before: Skin Health
Healthy skin is your canvas to a flawless look on your wedding day. Professional facials and waxing will help smooth texture, correct imperfections and reduce puffiness, so you have the best base for your makeup. Schedule treatments that will illuminate and firm your complexion. To prevent any last-minute irritation, skip extractions and schedule your last facial one week before the wedding.
DO:
Daily skin-care routine cleansing, toning, and moisturizing is a must. Ensure that high-def makeup is used since high-def cameras are commonly used.
DON’T:
Don’t have any aggressive skin treatments within four weeks of your wedding.
4 Weeks Before: Nail Health
Healthy nails need a good clean cuticle, refresh skin and achieve desired nail shape especially for a French application. Stick with softer shades and make sure they're sheer, not chalky. Those whose skin has pink undertones should choose a sheer pink polish, while olive undertones look good in warm beiges.
DO:
It's a good idea to keep nails neutral or subtle, so as not to distract from you or your gown.
DON’T:
Don’t select dark colors that may distract from your overall look.
2 Weeks Before: Detoxing Bridal or Bachelorette Spa Party
Enjoy a relaxing and detoxing spa party with the significant people in your life. It's a good way to feel great the next day and bond with family and friends.
DO:
Select relaxation services to truly take a moment to breathe and allow you to enjoy the next few weeks.
DON’T:
Don’t select services that are going to be aggressive to the skin.
1 Week Before: Final Prep
Bring it all together with your final facial, waxing, and body scrub. This week is the time to get everything done.
DO:
Facial: Prepare for picture-perfect skin that glows.
Body Exfoliation: Smooth and polished skin is great for a sleeveless gown and the honeymoon bikini!
Massage: Enjoy a relaxing service and really allow yourself a moment of calm, to put you in the right frame of mind.
Release that you are READY!
DON’T:
Don’t schedule on a busy day when you'll be too rushed to enjoy.
1 Day Before: Finishing Touches
Manicures and pedicures for the bridal party.
DO:
It's a good idea to keep nails neutral or subtle, so as not to distract from you or your gown.
Wedding Day: ENJOY!
Add a few extra minutes to your prep time to save yourself from any last-minute rushing.
DO:
Make sure you eat before all of your prepping begins. Hair and makeup appointments should be done 3 hours before pictures so you can leisurely dress and bond with your wedding party. Carry a few touch-up products in your makeup bag, just in case you need them!
DON’T:
Don’t let yourself worry about the little things.
Lori Vargas, Spa Vargas Wellness founder, entrepreneur, spa consultant, mother, ironman triathlete
Lori Vargas founded Spa Vargas Wellness in 2001 and currently has 3 locations in the Chicagoland area. Since then, she founded Vargas Consulting with projects that include Hilton, Sheraton, Wyndham, and Key Lime Cove, and in 2009, the International Massage and Spa Academy. Based on her experience in the spa industry, the curriculum focuses on educating students to become business minded nurturing massage therapists. As a mother of two boys, Lori strives to create a balanced life and is always in the pursuit of living in the present. “My children have become my inspiration, and I am grateful to them for the happiness they have brought to my life. Of course, we have a dog, two cats, two parakeets and three fish, so our home is not a tranquil environment!