June 2nd, 2014 • Posted by LeVonne de Spa • Permalink
Right up there with the your walk up
the aisle, the I dos, and the kiss, one of the big highlights of your wedding
ceremony will be the ring exchange. As the photographer and videographer take
position to get that close-up shot of the groom placing the ring on your
finger, one thing is certain, you will want beautiful nails to be a part of
that memory that's captured for eternity. There is no end to the list of manicure options available to you for your big
day, and you are guaranteed to find something that suits your tastes.
Pre-Wedding Hand & Nail Care
The quest for beautiful hands and nails to show off your "bling" on the big day
should begin weeks before your wedding. If you're not a regular at the
manicure station, there are a few things you can do at home to prepare.
Use a mild exfoliate, like an oatmeal scrub, to help slough off dead skin and ensure your hands are smooth. But remember the skin on your hands
is delicate, so be gentle. Moisturizing is also key to soft, smooth hands, and exfoliation will better
prepare them for your moisturizer, ensuring it is easily absorbed and better
able to do its job. Apply your favorite moisturizer during the day as needed,
and be sure to reapply before bed, along with a cuticle oil, cream or balm so
that they have time while you sleep to work their magic. Try wearing manicure
gloves to bed for a more intensive treatment.
Planning Your Bridal Manicure
If you have your nails done regularly that's half the work done. If this is your first visit however, be sure to come in and look at colors and designs. Knowing the type of manicure you want is vital, since this will determine
how close to your wedding day you should book your appointment. The application
process for acrylics, for example, is a lengthy one. So it may be best to book
this manicure a couple of days before the wedding.
Whatever your choice, book a trial run before your actual wedding day so you
know how the manicure will look, how long it will take to complete it, and even
its staying power once completed - you may want something that stands up to the
rigors of your honeymoon *wink*. Once you've settled on the shape and length you want your nails to be, it's
time for the artistry to begin.
French Mani
It's an unspoken truth, that the Rolls Royce of bridal nail couture is the
French Manicure. This quintessential wedding day mani is soft, understated and
classy, paving the way for the bride and her gown to be the showpieces of the
day.
For the more daring bride who may find the traditional pink or beige and white
stripe French a bit boring, there are modern takes on this age-old favorite
that incorporate bolder colors. Ask our manicurist what's on offer. You may
find one with a twist that suits your tastes.
Caviar Mani
If statement nails are your thing, forget about nail art and opt instead for
the absolute luxe manicure nail divas and gurus everywhere are raving about.
This 3D effect mani is not for the timid; it oozes movie star luxury and
glamour. It is called the Caviar Manicure after all.
It's is a two-step process. Nails are first painted in the color of your choice.
While the polish is still wet, tiny beads are sprinkled on the surface - a
simple process with amazing results. With a staying power of just 48 hours at best, this is definitely not a long
lasting mani, so it may be wise to have it done the
morning of your wedding, but no later than the day before.
Gel Mani
For the bride looking for a manicure with super staying power, invoke the name
that's on every nail diva's lips. When you're back from your honeymoon and
friends are in awe of the fact that your manicure still looks as fresh as the
day you got it, simply quip, "I had them Shellacked!" The trademarked Shellac formula by CND Nails kicked off the power polish trend,
but since then, several brands have launched their own versions of the gel
manicure that promises two week, chip free nails.
The process includes a special basecoat, followed by the gel nail color of your
choice and a special topcoat. A special UV lamp is used to cure the layers,
giving them a scratch-resistant, high-shine finish. Application time is usually
around 30-minutes, wear time, two weeks, perfect for the bride who wants her
manicure to be top notch for both her wedding and honeymoon.
Remember, your wedding day is exactly that, your day. So, don't be bound by
traditions that suggest your nails must be a particular color, shape or style.
Opt for a manicure that complements your personality, your style, and, of
course, your dress. Most of all, be sure of the quality of the manicure you opt
for, after all, the last thing you want is your perfectly lacquered nails
chipping on your big day and either ruining or being forced out of your photos.
