Your To-Do Before “I Do” List: 10 Tips for Brides-to-Be

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For blushing brides-to-be, a beauty and wellness routine is a must – not only for the day of the wedding, but in the months leading up to it. Get started early to look and feel like your best self for the big day.

Not sure where to begin? Here are a few boxes you should check off on your “I do” to-do list.

Photo credit: Febian Shah Photography

Don’t forget your face. Skincare preparations should begin three to six months before the wedding to avoid problems or breakouts for the big day. See a licensed esthetician at G2O Spa + Salon; they can recommend a regimen for professional treatments and home care, including customized Skinceuticals treatments, Hydrafacials, LED light and lift, and more. Needs will vary for every bride, but a G2O Signature Facial is a popular option prior to the wedding day. The personalized aromatherapy facial includes a complete skin analysis, an exfoliation customized for skin type, lymphatic drainage, extractions to remove impurities, a facial massage, and a mask targeted specifically for your skin’s needs.

Waxing can’t wait. Regular waxers know what’s best for them, but newbies should start three to six months before the wedding. Give yourself enough time to see how skin reacts, since hormonal levels can determine degrees of tolerance. From eyebrow and underarm to legs and Brazilian, you want your skin to get used to treatments to avoid breakouts or irritation. (Traveling to a sun-soaked spot for your honeymoon? Avoid sunbathing for a minimum of 48 hours post-wax!)

Photo credit: Febian Shah Photography

Handle your hair. While growing your hair out for an up-do isn’t absolutely necessary, most styles require your hair to be at least shoulder-length. Take off the dead ends to promote healthy hair growth with a trim every six to eight weeks, or consider hair pieces or extensions for the desired look. Schedule a bridal hair trial at least two months before the wedding (sooner is always better!) and bring along your headpiece and a picture of the dress. If you’re thinking about a dramatic color change or want a plan to deal with damaged hair, schedule a consultation ASAP; a G2O stylist can prescribe a treatment regimen for the salon and home, and help you achieve the hair of your dreams.

Schedule massages. Planning a wedding is one of the most stressful things you’ll ever do, so make sure you’re setting aside time to relax and unwind. Make time for monthly or bi-monthly massages if you’re not doing so already. G2O offers a wide menu of options, from Swedish to deep tissue, aromatherapy, Himalayan salt stone, and more. Spend some time with your soon-to-be spouse in a couples’ massage or request a 30-minute targeted massage to alleviate tired or sore muscles and untie some knots before you tie the knot.

Be kind to your body. Along with massages, try to incorporate a body treatment into your routine. A Rasul purifying ritual uses mud, light therapy, and an herbal steam treatment to detoxify and replenish skin, followed by a cooling mist and tropical rain for total relaxation. A smoothing body polish or hydrating body treatment will leave you feeling refreshed, energized, and glowing, while a body contour slimming wrap helps improve overall appearance by increasing metabolism and reducing fluid retention. Some body treatments at G2O can accommodate up to eight guests, perfect for bridal party bonding.

Photo credit: Febian Shah Photography

Make a makeup plan. Whether you’re going for a full contour and smoky eye look or you want to stay fresh-faced and natural, a professional makeup artist is essential. G2O’s Trish McEvoy makeup artists can take care of all your wedding day glam needs. Book a makeup trial at G2O on the same day as your hair and wear a white top to appreciate the full effect of your bridal beauty.

Treat yourself to a tan. Looking for a bridal bronze or glamorous glow? Opt for Just Tan, a G2O sunless tanning treatment that uses a customized mist application and air blow dry technology to leave you streak- and splatter-free. Give it a try in advance to figure out which level of G2O’s three colors you prefer and what works best on your skin. Arrive exfoliated, showered, and shaved with no lotions, oils, perfumes, or deodorant, and avoid showering or hitting the gym for eight hours after the session. Plan to tan two days before the wedding for maximum results.

Photo credit: Febian Shah Photography

Make time for a mani/pedi. G2O offers a day-before-wedding package for bridal parties of five or more with an OPI gel manicure, classic pedicure, and Bali Revitalizing Ritual for up to eight people. It’s an amazing way to relax and regroup during those pre-wedding jitters, and—best of all—the whole squad will have nails on point for your inevitable group bouquet pics.

It’s your time to shine. On your wedding day, take advantage of G2O’s package for both bride and bridal party, which includes updo, makeup application, lip liner, and lipstick or lip gloss, and an emergency hair kit. If you can’t come to the salon, let the salon come to you with on-location wedding services.

Just breathe. You’re doing great! Take a deep breath, have fun, and remember: you’ve got this all under control, thanks in part to the professionals at G2O.

Photo credit: Rachel G. Photography

For more information on spa and salon services, wedding packages, and professional consultations, visit g2ospasalon.com. Sneak a peek behind the scenes of Jenny Johnson’s wedding wellness and beauty routine at G2O’s former location in the video below! You can take advantage of the same package at a different address; just head to the new and improved 17,000 square-foot facility at 33 Exeter Street.