Two weeks before the wedding:
Try to get 8 hours of sleep a night. Getting regular good night’s sleep can help improve your skin tone and also help you to de-stress so that you can totally glow on your big day. If you have trouble sleeping, avoid sweets or caffeine before bed and try relaxation exercises such as yoga or meditation. Aromatherapy can also help, so try a few drops of lavender on your pillow and it should help you sleep like a baby. Consider establishing a calming bedtime routine, such as reading a book or taking a warm bath, to signal to your body that it’s time to wind down. Keep your bedroom cool, dark and quiet for optimal sleep conditions.
Drink 2 litres of water every day. Drinking lots of water is an easy way of helping to achieve a radiant complexion, bright clear eyes and also gives you that added burst of energy. If you find it difficult to drink so much water, try carrying a bottle with you wherever you go. Or if you find water tasteless to drink, then simply add a few splashes of fresh lemon or lime into it. Set reminders on your phone to ensure you’re staying hydrated throughout the day. Herbal teas can also count towards your daily water intake, and they offer additional benefits like antioxidants and calming properties.
Full body exfoliation 3 times a week. This is a sure fire way of reducing lines and wrinkles as well as helping your skin look and feel radiant. Use gentle, circular motions when exfoliating, and always follow with a nourishing moisturiser to lock in hydration. Pay special attention to rough areas like elbows, knees and feet. Consider using both physical and chemical exfoliants for optimal results, but be sure to patch test new products first.
15 minutes of stretches every day. Keep limbered and stress-free for your wedding day with 15 minutes of stretches. Stretching regularly will help reduce any build-up of tension, as well as your posture. You don’t need much space and you can even do some at work (www.glo-wellbeing.co.uk/deskercises.html). Focus on areas that tend to hold tension, such as your neck, shoulders and lower back. Consider incorporating some gentle yoga poses into your routine for added flexibility and mindfulness benefits.
Have a make-up test run. Whether you are employing a professional make-up artist or doing it yourself, make sure that you have a trial run just to make sure that you get the look that you really want and that you are not allergic to any of the make-up being used. Take photos in different lighting conditions to ensure the make-up photographs well. Consider how the make-up will last throughout the day and discuss touch-up strategies with your make-up artist. Remember to bring reference photos to your trial to clearly communicate your desired look.
Pamper yourself. Treat yourself to a facial, manicure or massage, so that you feel relaxed and look gorgeous. Hen pamper parties are a great way of you and your girlfriends enjoying some beauty and health treatments before the big day. Consider booking a package that includes multiple treatments for a full day of relaxation. Look for spas that offer bridal packages specifically designed for wedding preparation. This can be a wonderful opportunity to bond with your bridesmaids while getting beautified for the big day.
On the wedding day:
Use concealer one tone lighter than your skin tone. This lightens dark circles, brightens your face and helps you look rested. For optimal results, apply the concealer in a triangle shape beneath your eyes, blending outwards with a damp beauty sponge or your ring finger using gentle patting motions. This technique ensures seamless coverage and prevents product from settling into fine lines. Lock it in with loose powder applied over the top, focusing particularly on areas where makeup tends to crease or fade throughout the day.
Use waterproof mascara. Most brides cry on their wedding day, so make sure you are wearing waterproof mascara – even if you don’t think you are the crying type – why take the chance? Choose a high-quality formula that won’t smudge or flake, and consider applying a waterproof primer beforehand for extra staying power. Apply multiple thin coats rather than one thick layer to prevent clumping and ensure your lashes stay perfectly defined from ceremony to reception.
Have an emergency health/beauty kit. Make sure that you or your chief bridesmaid has an essential stash of emergency items: hair spray, clear nail varnish (if your tights ladder), powder and concealer for any blemishes, lipstick, hair grips, hairbrush, and a sewing kit, as well as anything else you think you may need. Consider including blotting papers for oil control, a mini deodorant, breath mints, tissues, safety pins, plasters, and a small pair of scissors. Pack everything in a compact yet organised bag that’s easily accessible throughout the day.
- Relax. You have planned so long for this day, so make sure you enjoy it and are totally relaxed. Make sure that you set aside some YOU time on the day, whether it’s by taking a long relaxing bath, lighting some scented candles, or simply reading a favourite book. Consider practicing some deep breathing exercises or gentle meditation to centre yourself and calm any pre-wedding jitters. Remember that this is your special day to cherish.