Beauty Professionals

If you believe the dress is the most important thing you’ll wear on your wedding day, think again. Your groom-and your guests-will forever remember your radiant face, sparkling eyes and elegant coif. The dress catches their attention only because it enhances the bride’s natural beauty.

Nearly every woman wishes a team of professionals would arrive on the scene first thing every morning to make her look perfect and camera ready.

"No more bad hair days or runny mascara," we sigh longingly. Such pampering is usually reserved for Oprah and her peers.

But this luxury is actually a necessity for brides, according to wedding experts. Professional assistance is beauty insurance that will save your sanity. Be pampered and perfect on your wedding day with expert advice. It’s a small price to pay-especially compared to the dollars you’ll spend on the wedding gown and photography.

MakeupBy definition, a makeup artist specializes in making women look beautiful and natural. Their expertise ensures you’ll be picture perfect for the camera. A makeup artist can add contour and color to your face, creating a natural look that won’t be washed out by the photographer’s flash or intense video lighting.

Beautiful HairHead pieces, hats and veils present a unique hair styling challenge. A professional stylist can help you choose a flattering coif that suits and secures your headpiece. Expect the hairstylist to make suggestions based on your hair type, the shape of your face and the neckline of your dress.

Practice makes perfect. Schedule a ’trial run’ with your hair and makeup professionals a month before your wedding. Bring your head piece and experiment with styles and updos. Test new makeup colors, take some instant photos and check the results. By spending a little extra time now, you’ll feel confident knowing that everyone is ready for the real test.

Where to prepare. Brides can choose "at home" or "in salon" pampering on their big day. There are advantages to each, but the best choice for you will likely depend on timing and your temperament.

Going to the salon can put some peaceful time into this hectic day. Make it an event and bring friends or family along for the experience. For some, getting away from ground zero is a necessity. A salon trip guarantees you enough time and attention to look and feel confident-especially if you expect lots of well-wishers before the ceremony.

If your schedule is tight, or you’d like to sleep late and relax on your wedding day, consider having the professionals come to you. Many will work their magic in your home or at the location of the ceremony. This option is a great way to stay near friends and family on your special day.

Regardless of where you get gorgeous, relax knowing that professional pampering will guarantee fabulous photos.