There are one hundred things to do when planning your wedding. Maybe more. There’s the guest list, food, music, guest transportation, who to choose for your maid of honor, and approving your future husband’s choice of best man. Then of course there is the beauty regime to plan out for your special day. But don’t let this stress you out! With a little planning and preparation, this will be one of the fun things to cross off your wedding “to do” list!
Thinking Ahead
Perfect hair and glowing skin doesn’t happen overnight. For example, if you’re looking for an elaborate up-do, you’re going to want to grow your hair out to be sure you have the length to support the style you are going for. Additionally, your perfectly moisturized and acne-free skin is something that will take time. Beauty experts suggest creating a plan and a timeline for your beauty needs. Starting at six months before your wedding, you will want to perfect your hair color and cut so that you are not making any drastic changes too close to your big day. This is also a great time to begin your skin care routine and schedule a facial with a dermatologist or a licensed esthetician. Two weeks before your wedding you can plan for any color touch ups, indulge in a massage, and get any facial waxing taken care of.
Practice Makes Perfect
The day of your wedding isn’t the time to decide what to do with your makeup. You’ll want to do what it takes to get to Carnegie Hall: practice, practice, practice! Whether you plan to DIY your glam on the big day or work with a makeup artist, try doing a few trial runs so you can decide on the look you are most comfortable with.
A makeup artist can work with you on the perfect color palette, seasonal trends and photo-ready looks. Brides will be happy to know that many make-up artists offer these trial-runs as part of your wedding day package, so don’t be afraid to ask to schedule yours. During your trial run be sure to bring along your veil or hair accessories if you plan to wear one so that your stylist can practice and get your approval on the final look. This is the ideal time to perfect your nail plan as well. Try out your color scheme and schedule your manicure and pedicure.
Tip: Many brides plan their trial-run for the morning of their engagement photography session. Not only is this an added bonus for the bride to have professional makeup before their photo session but it also helps to make sure that you like the way the makeup looks in photographs. You may want to do this trial run with a top the same color as your dress.
If you plan to DIY your wedding day makeup and hair, it is still best to practice. Plan to make a day of it and invite your bridesmaids over so that you have trusted friends in which to bounce ideas. Have your bridesmaids or friends take photos in natural lighting so that you can look back at the different options when it comes time to make your decision. Your trial run is also a great time to put together your hair and makeup kit with makeup, brushes, and hair accessories so that you’re sure to have it all together on the big day.
Your Wedding Week
Something that is unique to Outer Banks brides is that they often get to have a few days of fun in the sun before they say “I do.” While getting a little bit of color before their wedding is probably something that most brides look forward to, you want to make sure that you don’t over do it. Applying sunscreen every 60 to 90 minutes will help to keep new tan lines from forming as they may not be able to be covered depending on the style of your wedding dress.
You want to make sure that you are also staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water while you’re enjoying your time in the sun. Dehydration can change your skin and hair in a short period of time so keeping a water bottle with you will remind you to drink up. Additionally, wearing a trusted sunscreen brand that is oil-free and unscented will keep you from having any breakouts or allergic reactions to a new brand.
Tip: Get a cute reusable water bottle that says “Bride” to keep near you so that you don’t forget to drink plenty of water.
Beauty Isn’t Just Skin Deep
Planning a wedding is stressful enough so taking some time to relax and unwind is key to feeling your best. Many Outer Banks weddings lend themselves to staying in large houses filled with family and friends. While this is a great way to enjoy your wedding guests for an extended period of time, it doesn’t allow much time for you to relax. Instead of feeling like the host for an extended period of time, try to set aside some time just for yourself. By taking a little bit of time to exhale, meditate, practice yoga, or soak in a bathtub, you will have time to collect your thoughts, relax, and unwind.
Tip: Have your own little retreat set up in advance so you won’t feel the need to host and entertain your family and friends leading up to your ceremony.
Outer Banks Elements
A few final tips to keep you looking and feeling your best on your wedding day have been collected from former Outer Banks brides.
- If you are planning for an outdoor ceremony, try not to wear heavy perfume or scented products on your wedding day. Scented products can attract bugs and you certainly don’t want mosquitos on your guest list!
- Heavy lotion can cause the sand to stick to you so be careful that you don’t apply too much right before your ceremony begins. You won’t want to be a magnet for sand in the breeze.
- Lipgloss is sticky so if you have a loose hairstyle you might want to opt for a lipstick or cream color instead.
There are so many things to remember and plan for when it comes to getting married but by creating a simplified plan and following these tried and true tips, your wedding day will be as beautiful as can be! ♥
Top feature photo by Katiedid Photography