Planning your wedding look goes far beyond just finding the dress; it’s about feeling confident and glowing from the inside out. To help you prepare, we asked two bridal beauty experts to share exactly when to book every appointment leading up to your big day. From facials to spray tans (and everything in between), here’s your ultimate bridal beauty timeline, straight from the pros.
Photo via Jamiee Morse
| The Experts Dani Wagener, Founder of Dani Wagener Beauty Kaitlin Rice-Malley, Founder of The Makeup Houdini |
12 Months Out – Book Your Team
Your wedding beauty prep begins long before the big day, and securing your team early is key.
“Please do not wait to lock in your favorite dream team,” says Kaitlin Rice-Malley.
The best artists, stylists, and estheticians tend to book up fast, especially during peak wedding season. Start doing your research and schedule your favorite pros as soon as you can. If you’re getting married in a busy month, aim to have your vendors booked 12 months out to ensure availability.
8-12 Months Out – Find Your Estitician
Healthy, glowing skin doesn’t happen overnight. Finding a trusted esthetician early allows you to develop a skincare plan tailored to your needs. This gives you plenty of time to address any concerns.
According to Dani Wagener, “Choose a trusted skincare provider for your facial treatments and plan to start visiting at least one year before your wedding for optimal results.”
Kailin adds, “One facial a month can help stabilize your skin and discuss targeted treatments for issues such as acne or scarring, fine lines, etc!”
Pro tip from Dani Wagener Beauty: Once you’re in a good routine, schedule your last treatment 30 days out from your wedding.
3 Months Out – Bridal Trial Run
Your makeup trial is one of the most exciting (and important) parts of your bridal prep. It’s your chance to experiment, ask questions, and find the look that feels most you. Use this time to communicate openly with your team and make sure you’re both on the same page.
“Though inspo pictures are not required, communication is! Not knowing exactly what you would like for your big day is completely okay!” says Kaitlin.
She continues, “Be sure to tell your team how you wear your makeup on a regular basis, if you seldom wear it, are very minimal, or love all out glam!”
Dani Wagener recommends prepping your skin just like you would for your wedding day: “Avoid harsh, drying treatments and focus on nourishing and hydrating your skin.”
Pro tip from The Makeup Houdini: Wear white, bring your veil, and wear your hair how you envision it for your big day.
6 Weeks Out – Injections
Thinking about Botox, fillers, or other cosmetic treatments? Plan ahead! Six weeks gives your body enough time to heal, and ensures any swelling or adjustments have settled before your big day.
2 Weeks Out – Lashes
A lash lift or tint can add the perfect finishing touch, especially if you’re skipping false lashes. But timing matters! Too close to your wedding and you risk irritation, too early and the lift may start to fade.
If you choose to get a lash lift or tint, Dani Wagener recommends doing so 10-12 days before your “I-do’s.”
She adds, “We recommend skipping the lash lift if you plan to wear false lashes. False lashes can be tricky to apply and sit a bit too high on lifted lashes.”
1 Week Out – Brows
Brows frame your entire face, so don’t forget them in your beauty prep! Waxing or shaping a week before the wedding ensures any redness or sensitivity has time to calm before your ceremony.
“For impeccable brows, plan to book these services at least 7 days before your event,” says Dani.
5 Days Out – Mani-Pedi
You’re almost there! The week of your wedding is all about relaxation and self-care. Gather your bridesmaids for a little pampering and get your nails done around five days before the big day.
Kaitlin recommends “plan a girls’ day with your ‘I Do’ Crew and enjoy the day!”
2-3 Days Out – Spray Tan
A sun-kissed glow brings everything together, but the secret to a perfect spray tan is timing.
“Achieve a stunning glow by scheduling your spray tan appointment 2 to 3 days before your event,” says Dani.
She recommends requesting “a single light application on your face for a natural, flawless finish, and be sure to communicate this to your artist.”
Pro tip from Dani Wagener Beauty: “If you plan on spray tanning before your wedding, we recommend doing it before your makeup consultation as well!”
Day Of – The Finishing Touches
The big day is finally here, your bridal beauty timeline has been executed perfectly and it’s time for your “I do.” The key to your day of glam is preparation and hydration. Wake up early enough to enjoy a slow, relaxed morning and stick to your trusted routine. Avoid trying anything new (no last-minute masks or products) and focus on feeling good from the inside out.
Photo via Jamiee Morse
Every step of your bridal beauty timeline is designed to help you feel confident and radiant walking down the aisle. With expert guidance from Dani Wagener and Kaitlin Rice-Malley, you can focus on what truly matters: enjoying every beautiful moment of your wedding day.
