cover photo credit Laura Barisonzi
*makeup Zann Parker | *hair Styles on B
You said yes…now what? Yes, there’s the venue, menu, guest list, invitations, photographer, and band to choose among a long list of other tasks, but there’s a whole other set of to-do’s to tackle before you say “I do.”
We’re talking bridal prep.
Starting a beauty regimen in advance is the perfect way to practice self-care during a high stress time. Plus, it will help you feel beautiful and confident on your wedding day! We’ve compiled a list to help you get started:
Hair
The best thing you can do for your hair is give it some love as early in the planning process as possible. If your hair reacts negatively to stress or you just want to make sure you have long, strong locks for your dream bridal ‘do, consider starting a daily multivitamin regimine with biotin and iron. Many of us are slightly iron deficient without realizing it, leaving nails and hair strands brittle.
If you find that stress tends to increase hair fall, keep your strands at bay by going at least one day between washes and use dry shampoo in between. When you do wash your hair, use a clarifying shampoo and spend some time massaging your scalp to stimulate blood flow and increase growth. Also, avoid using elastics and tight hairstyles. If putting your hair up is a necessity, use a soft scrunchy instead to avoid breakage.
Face
Eyebrows
A good pair of brows will take any look to the next level. If you’re new to eyebrow shaping, let your eyebrows grow out as much as possible before your first appointment so that your stylist has enough to work with when finding the perfect shape for your face.
Eyelash options
Eyelash extensions are becoming increasingly popular these days, but there are plenty of things you can do to have long, luscious lashes on your wedding day for half the cost and without damaging the lashes you already have.
Castor oil has been known to play a role in the promotion of hair growth. Use a q-tip to apply castor oil to your lash line every night before bed in the months leading up to your wedding. Additionally, false lashes can be applied by your makeup artist to complete any bridal look!
Skin
Moisturize, moisturize, moisturize! One of the best things you can do for your skin is moisturize with a lotion that contains SPF and minimal chemicals. Drinking the recommended daily eight glasses (or more) of water per day will also help keep that skin clear and glowing. Incorporate flaxseed oil into your daily diet for extra clarity!
We understand that everyone’s skin is different and getting clear, blemish free-skin isn’t that simple for some. When at-home remedies aren’t enough, consider using a high quality skin cream in conjunction.
Lips
Create a DIY sugar scrub to prevent dead skin from building up on your lips. All you need is some granulated sugar, lemon juice, and petroleum jelly. Put all of the ingredients in a sealable container and mix it together until evenly blended. Scrub a dime-sized amount over your lips and wash off with water.
Hands
There’s a good chance you can expect a few up-close hand shots with your new bling! Make a large batch of the sugar scrub mentioned above and use it the morning of your wedding. Finish by moisturizing with your favorite lotion before walking down the aisle (take your engagement ring off before you lather to keep it clean).
One of the most exciting parts of wedding prep is getting a mani and pedi, especially if you go with your squad! If you can, it’s best to go the day before the wedding so they remain clean and fresh looking. Plus, it leaves less time for chipping.
Be mindful of any nervous tendencies that involve nail-biting or picking at the skin around your nails!
Legs
Your wedding dress will most likely cover up your legs, but it’s still important to feel good, and there’s nothing that feels better than freshly shaved, soft, moisturized legs. Take your time and shave your legs with a new razor and your favorite shaving cream the morning of your wedding. After shaving, use the same sugar scrub on your legs followed by your favorite moisturizer.
Feet
Starting bridal prep for your feet in advance may seem weird, but you’ll be so glad you did! Find a good foot scrubber and use on the heels of your feet before you get out of the shower to smoothen dry, cracked heels. Once you’re out of the shower, use your favorite moisturizer on your feet and put on socks immediately after for extra healing.
Overall body
Your spouse-to-be loves you exactly as you are and so should you! But there is absolutely no shame in wanting to get your sweat on to tone up and feel good before your walk down the aisle! Search Groupon for discounts on group fitness classes in your area. Group classes will keep you accountable AND the discounts are perfect for any bride on a wedding budget. You may also contact Michelle Elaine for fitness tips!
There are plenty of other self-care factors that will help you feel happy and confident on your wedding day. One of the overall best things you can do for yourself is get enough sleep and reduce stress during the planning process. Use lavender oil and melatonin as a natural sleep aid, drink plenty of water, and schedule time to exercise 2-3 times per week. Meditation apps are great for stress relief, too! There’s a lot to consider when it comes to planning a wedding. No matter how long the to-do list gets, you’ll never regret making self-care a priority!
