Beauty before the big day

SIX MONTHS BEFORE: Whether you want to shift a few pounds before the big day or just want to feel healthier, start your new diet and exercise routine between six and four months before your big day – depending on how much weight you want to lose. This will help you establish a balanced routine and will stop you crash dieting a week before your wedding.

You don’t want to be unwell on your wedding day, so ditch the meal replacements and detox regimes for a healthy eating and workout plan. Snacking can be a great way to keep you on track and focused on your weight loss goals. Healthy snacking provides your body with a steady flow of energy throughout the day, keeps cravings at bay and reduces over-eating when it comes to dinner time. Stick to 100 calorie snacks, such as a small bag of popcorn or a bunch of grapes. If you’re looking to lose weight but struggle with hunger pangs, include more protein in your diet. A higher intake of protein can help you feel fuller for longer.

THREE MONTHS BEFORE: Start your skin prep no later than eight weeks before your big day. The later you leave it, the less time you will have to treat any skin issues on top of other wedding responsibilities. Avoid introducing new products as this may cause red, irritated skin. A weekly intense hydration mask will help you achieve plump, youthful and healthy skin and will reduce fine lines and wrinkles. Make sure you either apply sunscreen at the end of your skincare routine in the morning or incorporate make-up with a high SPF to protect your skin, especially if you are celebrating during the summer months or hosting an outdoor ceremony.

TWO MONTHS BEFORE: Book your hair and make-up trial. Talk openly and honestly to your make-up and hair stylist about the look you want for your wedding. Why not save pictures or make a Pinterest board to showcase your vision. By booking your trial at least six weeks before your big day, this will give you loads of time to experiment with different looks and styles and make any necessary changes to your final look. A great tip is to wear a top which is the same colour and neckline of your dress to your final trial, that way to can see how the hair and make-up will look like against your dress style.

ONE MONTH BEFORE: It’s time to start feeling refreshed and energised on the lead up to your wedding, and that means getting your sleep pattern in order. No bride wants to feel drowsy or look puffy-eyed on their wedding day, and it usually takes a week to establish a new sleep routine, so start ahead with plenty of time. Firstly, avoid excessive alcohol consumption. While you may fall asleep faster after a couple of drinks, you’ll spend less time in your restorative stage of the sleep cycle, meaning you’re more likely to wake up feeling un-rested. Swap out your showers for baths. When you soak in a hot bath, your temperature rises by a few degrees and the rapid cool-down immediately after the bath induces tiredness and increases your chances of a deeper sleep. If your mind is racing – which is understandable ahead of your big day – keep a pen and paper by your bed and write down your concerns and to-dos. Studies have found that by making a list of all your tasks or worries, it helps to remove those thoughts from your head, helping you to relax and drift off.

TWO WEEKS BEFORE: Remember to take some time out to relax your body and mind. Two weeks before your big day is the ideal time to fit in some yoga classes, meditation or a massage when everything has been booked. Why not make it a couple’s massage and spend some quality time with your fiancé before the big day, whether is a walk together or a romantic dinner.

ONE WEEK BEFORE: The week before the wedding is the best time to book touch ups. From manicures, to highlights, a fresh haircut or a top-up of your tan, this will keep you looking fresh ready for your big day without having to squeeze all appointments in a few days before.

ONE DAY BEFORE: If you are painting your own nails, do this the day before and use a high quality top coat to avoid chipping. Wash your hair the night before instead of the morning of your wedding to avoid your hair being too smooth to hold your clips and veil. Lastly, use an all over body moisturiser so your skin looks healthy and soft.