bride beautiful
Every bride wants to look and feel fabulous on her wedding day. All eyes will be on you, so it's understandable that you should want to be at your absolute best. And, with a little effort and some planning, you can be.

the skin you're in

Your skin will thrive on a little tender loving care. If you don't already have a skincare program, now is the time to start - and where better than with your face. Your program should include a daily routine of morning and evening cleansing, toning and moisturising. A skincare specialist will be able to advise you on the products appropriate for your skin type.

facing facts

Regular facials will cleanse your skin, leaving it beautifully soft and refreshed. You can purchase any of the excellent products available for home use, or indulge in salon treatments. If your skin has problem areas, this is the perfect time to enlist the help of a beauty therapist. You should do this at least four to six months before your wedding. A professional facial is always a must before any speciai event. Allow two weeks between your appointment and the big day to give any post-facial breakouts or redness time to disappear.

natural glow

To enhance your skin's natural glow, consider using an exfoliating cream once or twice a week. This will remove dead skin cells and let the real you shine through. Again, it's a good idea to consult an expert for advice on how frequently you should exfoliate, and which product is best suited to your skin. Now might also be a good time to reduce your intake of coffee and other caffeinated beverages, as they can leave your skin looking terribly dehydrated. And if you smoke, cut back or quit for the sake of both your overall health and your skin. Your health dramatically affects your appearance. So never underestimate what a nourishing diet, plenty of water, exercise, and ample sleep can do.

the finishing touch

A professional makeup artist can work wonders. Using subtle shading and highlighting techniques, they can accentuate your natural beauty while minimising any flaws. And remember, a professional will know how to make you look your best for your wedding photographs. Even if you usually wear little or no makeup, as your wedding day approaches, find a makeup artist whom you like and who understands the look you want to achieve. Your makeup professional will probabiy trial your makeup before the day. This is an excellent idea, as both of you will have the opportunity to check that your makeup looks perfect.

brows and lashes

Prior to your wedding, make an appointment to have your brows professionally shaped. This will add an important final touch to your wedding day look. You may also want to have your eyelashes tinted. This creates the illusion of thicker lashes without the risk of using mascara that might run if you shed a few tears.

body beauty

Your skin care program does not end at your chin! Once or twice a week, exfoliate your entire body, concentrating on areas such as elbows, knees and feet. Follow this up with a deep all over moisturising treatment. Regular exfoliation is particularly important to prepare your skin if you have decided on a golden glow for your wedding day. Many fake tanning options are available. However, whether you are having the tan professionally applied, or you are using a tanning product at home, be sure to trial it quite some time before your wedding. Check that your tan looks natural and is the right colour for you, that you are not allergic to the product. and that it will wear well on the day. Some tanning products can stain your clothes, a disaster for your wedding gown.

hands and feet

Your hands and feet should receive the same amount of attention as the rest of your body. Your hands will be on show throughout your wedding day: when the ring is slipped on your finger, signing the marriage register, cutting the cake, raising your glass. Pamper yourself and have a manicure and pedicure in the days leading up to your wedding.