When it comes to getting your skin, nails, and hair ready for the wedding day, a one-time visit is not going to cut it. You should be preparing your skin and face at least 6-8 months in advance. Start by checking out local salons and spas for a professional aesthetician who can help get you on the right track. If you can’t afford the costly expense of a facial every month until you say “I do,” inquire as to what products you can buy that would be the best for your skin. You can begin an at-home regimen right after the proposal and rest easy knowing that your face will be clear and radiant when you walk down the aisle.

When it comes to face products, the most expensive isn’t always the safest bet. There hundreds of different skin types, and what works for one type won’t necessarily work for you. Do you have oily, dry, or combination skin? Do you have any allergies? What products have you used in the past that seem to work best for you? These are all important things that you should know about your skin so that you can prepare it in the right way. Don’t be afraid to share your concerns with your aesthetician – this is the only way that you will be able to ensure that you receive the most ideal treatment possible.

Every bride wants the sun-kissed look on their wedding day. While this is all well and good, sun exposure comes at a high price. If you must have a bronzed complexion, consider trying self-tanner that you can apply at home. Otherwise, you should be applying moisturizer everyday that has a built-in SPF. Tan your body, but keep your face out of the sunlight by wearing wide-brimmed hats. Although sun can help hide unwanted scar tissue, it has a tendency to induce break-outs. The long-term effects are also fairly unpleasant and can lead to cancer. Take care of yourself and your skin by drinking lots of water and staying away from harsh rays.

Wedding make-up is supposed to be subtle and elegant. This is not the time to break out the MAC make-up colors and go crazy. If you must use blues and greens, make sure that it’s applied lightly. If the wedding is at night, make sure that the make-up that is applied to your face is a little bit darker than usual so that you don’t appear washed out in your wedding photos.

Another great idea is to get your teeth whitened prior to the big event. The contrast of your new white smile will make your skin look more tan and will look fantastic in the pictures. You can see your dentist for the treatment, or buy a do-it-yourself pack. Nowadays you can find these at some grocery stores and Costco. A few months prior to the wedding, have your eyebrows and if necessary, top lip, waxed. Plan on making a visit every few weeks so that by the time the big day arrives, your eyebrows are the exact shape you want them to be.