Beauty countdown

Three, two, one... gorgeous! Get ready for perfect bridal beauty

Two weeks to go

Book into your salon for the works. A typical session might include:

• Eyebrow shaping -- there's a load of different ways to do this, including threading, tweezing or waxing. Find out what suits you best (and make sure that any wax isn't too hot, as burnt eyes are not what a blushing bride needs).
• Eyelash dyes -- a great alternative to mascara. You can still use clear mascara to enlarge and lengthen your lashes, and no one will notice it if it runs.
• One last facial -- as with any detoxification process, spots can emerge, so don't have a facial too near to your big day.
• Waxing -- if you’re on the beach for a couple of weeks for your honeymoon, long-lasting hair removal is a must. Legs, underarms and bikini line all need tackling.
• Pedicure -- smooth feet look better in those delicate open-toed wedding shoes and on the beach. Plus, hardened skin actually makes it more uncomfortable to walk and you'll be on your feet all day, so a pedicure is a must for most of us. Some salons offer a long-lasting pedicure created with gels that will last all the way through your honeymoon.
• Eyelash tinting -- a great alternative to mascara. After all, you are going to cry!

One week to go

• Have your hair and make-up dress rehearsal. If you can't have a make-up artist on the day take digital photos so you can recreate the look. This is the time to finalise plans and make sure you write down the colours that worked for future reference.
• Confirm the bridesmaids' look. Don't depend on them turning up in the right make-up -- now's the time to have that “chat” with your goth cousin...

The day before

• Have a massage, and ask your massage practitioner to focus on your tense face but not to use any essential oils that might create a break-out. Relax and enjoy.
• Get your manicure. This will give you time to sit and chill out and there's less chance of smudging it than on the big day when you're feeling frantic.
• Check your eyebrows -- do you need any last-minute plucking?
• Don't wear any make-up so that you can let your skin breathe.

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