Wedding preparations should include certain beauty treatments, some undertaken well in advance of the ceremony. The significance of a life-altering event such as one’s wedding can wreak havoc on everything from one’s skin to one’s weight, so it is important that the bride dedicate sufficient time to prepare both mentally and physically for this enormous rite of passage. While many brides devote inordinate time and attention to their hair and makeup, nothing should take precedence over personal grooming. A polished appearance is the best complement to any wedding gown.
THREE TO SIX MONTHS PRIOR
• Get a clean bill of health from your general physician or any specialists, plus all vaccinations necessary for the honeymoon.
• As nothing is more attractive than a healthy smile, take care of all dental-related issues well in advance. Leave extra time if needed.
A MONTH PRIOR
• Conclude potentially irritating treatments such as facial peels and electrolysis.
• Have your hair trimmed, not cut.
• From here on in, cease to experiment with any new beauty products.
ONE OR TWO WEEKS PRIOR
• Attend final dress fittings.
• Schedule dress rehearsals for hair, makeup and veil.
• Purchase extra accessories like stockings and bras.
• Assemble your trousseau.
• Pack for your honeymoon.
• Have all necessary prescriptions filled
• Start moisturizing.
• Get some sleep.
THE DAY BEFORE
• Lay out all clothing, including rehearsal dinner attire.
• Get a manicure and a pedicure. I prefer short nails in a pale shade of nude polish or a French manicure. This is not the time to make a nail statement.
• Apply a hypoallergenic moisturizing mask. Then moisturize again. Makeup looks best on smooth, hydrated skin. Use a product that will not cause an allergic reaction.
• If possible, get a massage.- Spend a bit of time alone.
BEFORE THE WEDDING
• If you are not getting dressed at the ceremony venue, it is necessary to devise a strategy for the arrival, particularly for a voluminous gown.
• Have a steamer on hand in case of last-minute wrinkles.
• Eat small, high-protein snacks all day, such as cheese, nuts, yogurt and peanut butter.
• For your complexion and your general state of health, be sure to drink enough water to stay hydrated.
• Allow extra time for everything, from hair and makeup to the wedding portraits.
• Once hair and makeup are done, put on the undergarments, unzip the gown and step into it.
• Drape a towel over the dress before any hair or makeup touch-ups.
• Dress in a separate room from everyone else. – Once dressed, remain standing to avoid wrinkling.
• Once dressed, sip clear liquids through a straw to avoid stains.
• The headpiece, veil, blusher, jewelry and lip color should be put on last.
• Anchor the veil securely.
• Have the photographer on hand to document everything.