Schedule a visit with your derm: If you have skin concerns like acne or pigmentation, get a consultation as early as possible in case he or she prescribes you a topical treatment that takes time to reap its benefits.

Book your wedding hair and makeup team: Be sure to figure out if you'll also use the pros for your bridal party, the mother of the bride/groom, and any other people you'd like to pamper on the day of the wedding.

Start exfoliating regularly: Unearth that coveted bridal glow with a luxe coconut oil exfoliator like Herbivore Botanicals Coco Rose Body Polish for your body and a gentle physical exfoliator like Clarins One-Step Gentle Exfoliating Cleanser with Orange Extract for your face. When your skin's not wet, dry brushing your body with the Birchbox Dry Brush is a great, no-mess option when you're on the go. Not only will exfoliating slough off dead skin cells, it'll help your skincare products absorb easier.

Consider your brows: A professional brow groomer can help you figure out the best shape for your brows and give them time to grow out if needed.

Strengthen your hair: Using a blend of omegas, silica, and vitamin E, the OUAI hair supplements for dry, thinning, or oily strands revive your hair with the help of vital nutrients so it looks shinier and feels smoother. The formula, which takes 90 days for you to start seeing results, even helps promote growth and prevents breakage so strands are healthier too.

Pick your wedding day fragrance: Smell fresh throughout the day (even as you tear up the dance floor) with something unique for the occasion that'll remind you of all the fun times long after your wedding day. We love Etat Libre d'Orange Yes I Do Eau de Parfum not just for the appropriate name, but it'll also make for total Instagram bait in pre-wedding photos.

Get a spray tan trial: A trial run gives yourself a chance to see what shade works best for your skin tone.

Do hair damage control: Your hair goes through a lot (from color treatments to heat styling to product buildup). Use a weekly hair mask like Oribe Gold Lust Transformative Masque in the shower to reverse damage and rejuvenate dry strands.

Select your own lip color: If you're having your makeup professionally done, you'll want your own tube or gloss for touch-ups throughout the day.

Have your hair and makeup trial: You still want to look like yourself on your wedding day. Bring a photo of yourself in makeup where you felt most comfortable and liked how you photographed. Bring the lip color you plan on wearing that day. Make sure to have a photo of your dress so your hairstylist can tailor the style to your neckline.

Get a trim and color touch-up: Check this off your list before your final hair trial so that your stylist knows exactly what she's working with and to give your hair some time to grow into its look. If you color your hair, take care of your hue with a protective cleanser like Davines MINU Illuminating Shampoo and its complementary conditioner.

Book a facial: Consult with your aesthetician to make sure your facial is customized to your skin type. If you need extractions, this timeline will allow your skin to recuperate. Keep up the glow post-facial with an at-home face mask that works with every skin type like Sand & Sky Brilliant Skin Purifying Pink Clay Mask.

Begin any at-home teeth whitening treatments: Either at home or DIY, it typically takes a couple of weeks to see results.

Have your final hair and makeup trial: Try to also book your final dress fitting the same day so you can see the whole look together.

Get eyelash extensions: While mascara works wonders to lengthen and volumize your lashes, extensions provide an extra eye-opening effect. Plus, they'll last way into your honeymoon, too.

Pack an emergency beauty kit: Include the lip color you plan to use, translucent powder, concealer, a small can of hairspray, Q-tips, safety pins, perfume, bobby pins, bandages, a to-go stain remover, mints, toothpicks, and (of course) tissues to discreetly tuck into your bouquet.

Consider a wax: Whether you get hair removal for your legs, bikini line, or face, waiting a few days before your big day allows time for bumps and irritation to calm down.

Pamper your eyes: Last-minute details have you stressedand you probably have the eye bags to show for it. Store the Wilma Schumann Skin Care Hydrating Collagen Eye Pads in the fridge for at least 15 minutes before using them to make the most out of their magical, depuffing powers.

Get a spray tan: Safely glow (sans sun) with a spray tan. Remember to exfoliate beforehand and visit the same specialist you went to for your trial.

Get a final brow shaping: Make sure any strays are in check.

Do your mani/pedi: Whether you get it done at a salon or DIY, make it a bonding event by inviting your maid of honor and bridesmaids. Stuck on the perfect shade? Try Smith & Cult Nailed Lacquer in Powder Posse. It's a classic neutral with a slightly lavender twist that works perfectly for all your honeymoon outfits, too. Plus, if you bring your own color, it'll make it easier to fix any last-minute nicks the day of.

Get a massage: Clear your mind and make the most of its stress-reducing benefits.

Soften your lips: Get your pout ready for your first kiss with Sara Happ Sweet Clay Lip Mask, which soothes, moisturizes, and lightly exfoliates dry skin.

Use a sheet mask: Need some extra insurance for your glow? Take advantage of the calm before your busy, celebratory day with a soothing, brightening 10 minute face mask like Dr. Jart+ Dermask Brightening Solution Ultra-Fine Microfiber Sheet Mask.

Have fun! Whether you checked off all, one, or none of these recommendations, the most important thing to remember is that you're marrying the love of your lifesoak in every second!

Brides, you have enough to juggle pre-wedding day. That's why we thought of everything you should consider to look and feel your best before your walk down the aisle.

You can count on your hair and makeup team to think of almost everything when it comes to your actual wedding day (waterproof mascara that won't budge through tearful vows; strong-hold hairspray that leaves no flyaway or frizz behind). But there are a few things to keep in mind leading up to the big day that will make sure you feel like the best version of yourself. Whether you're three months or three days away from your walk down the aisle, this beauty to-do list has you covered for a stress-free occasion.

Concealer can work wonders, but what if you could magically make blemishes disappear all together? The discreet PETER THOMAS ROTH Acne-Clear Invisible Dots do the trickeach fast-acting treatment contains 0.5% salicylic acid (an acne buster), tea tree oil (a natural astringent), and hyaluronic acid (to keep skin hydrated). The best part: The tiny, no-mess stickers take up zero room in your bag.

Not only does a perfume help you instantly smell fresh throughout the day (especially as you tear up the dance floor), your fragrance will act as a nostalgic trigger every time you spritz it afterwards. So pick something unique for the occasion, like the TOCCA Stella Eau de Parfum, which features a bright blend of freesia and sandalwood that complements any type of summer wedding. Plus, the rollerball style makes it perfect on the go.

Even the most budge-proof makeup could use a little extra insurance. Each spritz of the COOLA Organic Makeup Setting Spray SPF 30 ensures your makeup doesn't melt off while also soothing skin with cucumber and aloe extracts. Spray it to refresh your complexion after the outdoor nuptials or to perk up your look for the after party.

No filter, no problem. Being reunited with friends and family during a wedding calls for impromptu selfies, and the cream-to-powder Benefit Cosmetics Hoola Quickie Contour Stick subtly sculpts your features before you can even say cheese.

Got a second? That's all it takes to glide on the Jouer Cosmetics Lip Enhancer, which not only coats lips in a soft, sheer tint of pink, but also moisturizes and smooths fine lines with every swipe. You'll love the glossy (yet non-sticky!) sheen it leaves behind.

Need something to have and to hold...your hairstyle? The Oribe Superfine Purse Hair Spray keeps your 'do in place without the crunchy, flaky feeling of hairsprays past. Wheat proteins add body and shine while the innovative "dry" finish won't dampen your style.

Who says that lit-from-within bridal glow should be limited to the bride? The two-in-one Wander Beauty On-The-Glow Blush and Illuminator adds a buildable pop of color with one side of the stick and soft-focus luminosity on the other. Each of the color combos are specially paired, so no guesswork required.

Whether you need to sweep away your bangs or your updo needs extra security, keep a few bobby pins from the L. Erickson Deluxe Clip & Go Hair Clip Set handy. We love how the metallic finishes add an unexpected shine, too.

Keep these eight beauty essentials in your clutch to avoid everything from melty makeup to flat hair.

It looks like the warmer weather is sticking around for a while, and for all its scenic and stylish benefits during a summer weddingal fresco rehearsal dinners, beachside ceremonies, strappy cocktail dresseshumid, hot weather can also prompt a host of issues from melty makeup to flat hair. Whether you're part of the bridal party or attending the wedding as a guest, here's what to keep in your clutch to refresh in a flash. Plus, chances are, you'll use them way beyond the big day, too.

Don't Sweat It: What to Pack When Attending a Summer Wedding

Keep in mind as soon as you get your invitation:

Even though you aren't the bride, it's important to remember you'll still be photographed (and photographed a lot, if you're a bridesmaid) throughout the day. Stick to a solid skincare regimen to keep any breakouts at bay and even out your skin texture. If you highlight or color your hair, considering having it touched up a week or two before the wedding. A fresh mani/pedi is another (relatively inexpensive way) to freshen up your look. If you get spray tans routinely, you should schedule a touch up before the wedding, so your skin tone is even. Also, avoid experimenting with any new, more invasive beauty treatments with unpredictable recovery times (think: chemical peels, injectables and microblading) right before the big day.

A great rule of thumb for wedding day hair and makeup is: Don't overdo it. Pinterest has a lot of really pretty options and is a great place for pre-wedding beauty research, but it's easy to get "pin happy" and end up with a super over-the-top look that doesn't necessarily reflect your personal style or feels out of place. No matter the hair or makeup you choose, you should aim to look like the best version of yourself.

The light is harsher and the air is more humid in summer, so I'd avoid any super thick serums or creams that will make your makeup crease faster and make your skin appear greasy. In that same vein, it's a good idea to opt for a more natural makeup look in general for summer weddingsespecially if you're attending outdoor or beachside nuptials. Intense smoky eyes, heavy contouring and lots of highlighter just seem out of place in those settings. Though it's counterintuitive, I'd also skip foundation and moisturizer with SPF, since they can wash your complexion out in photos.

Blush, a compact, oil blotting sheets, face mist, dry shampoo, lipstick, and tissues (for any runny makeup due to happy tears).

Dry shampoo is a fast way to perk up any limp locks after a night of dancing or sweating. Oil blotting sheets are also a must if you have oily or combination skinthey're a much better alternative than just adding more powder to your face to tamp down shine, which can start to look caked on after a couple of touchups. No matter your skin type, a few spritzes of a good face mist (I love Caudalie's Beauty Elixir) can instantly refresh your skin, especially if you're in a very humid climate. If you start to look tired or washed out at the end of the night, dust a little blush over the apples of your cheeks and reapply your lip colorit's an instant pick me up.

All your summer wedding beauty questions answered.

Have all your summer weekends been taken over by weddings? Were right there with youand while we love celebrating our friends and families, weddings often require a bit more beauty prep than our day-to-day. Thats doubly true during 90-degree weather or windy beach ceremonies. To help us navigate the special beauty conundrums of summer weddings, we tapped [Shelley Brown](https://www.instagram.com/shelley_brown_/), Fashion & Beauty Editor at [The Knot](https://www.theknot.com/). Read on for her pro tips.

Sometimes just doing my makeup before work in the morning can feel overwhelming, let alone the pressure of getting my makeup right for a wedding! There are so many factors to consider: the long day, the heat, the kissing and drinkingplus, you know youre going to be in lots of photos and videos! So, whether youre a bride, bridesmaid or a serial wedding guest, its worth taking some time to find makeup ideas before the big day. My favorite way to get wedding makeup ideas and inspiration? Watching real wedding videos on Love Stories TV! Here are a few bride and bridesmaid makeup looks we loved, plus tutorials for how to get the look.

WATCH: Shrena + Harshil | Vadodara, India | Suncity Club Resort by Yogi Trivedi

Shrena is proof you CAN wear a bright lip! You just have to pick one that that wont rub off on your partner/grandmother/champagne glass. My recommendation? stila Stay All Day Liquid Lipstick. It comes in gorgeous shades and really stays put. Here are some tips and tricks for wearing liquid lipstick.

WATCH: Gloria + Joseph | Rivervale, New Jersey | The Estate at Florentine Gardens by NST Pictures

Not totally sold on the bright lip? I hear youits not for everyone. Some brides, like Gloria and myself, opt for a more neutral lip to wear on their wedding day. Here are some of my favorite neutrals and some tips and tricks for keeping your look fresh throughout the night.

WATCH: Alesha + Vini | Antigua, Guatemala | Convento Santa Clara by Rodrigo Zadro

L-A-S-H-E-S are your wedding BFF. Especially if youre the bride (can we all say WOW Alesha is beautiful!). You want to look beautiful but you want to look like yourself. So too much eye makeupif you dont normally wear itmight not be the right move. However,  a little shimmer + mega lashes = a winning combo. Heres a glowing summer makeup look that is bright, fresh, and beautiful.

Visit lovestoriestv.com to watch thousands of real wedding videos to get even more ideas and inspiration for your wedding makeup (or venue, or vendors, or dress, etc). Have a wedding video of your own? Share it on lovestoriestv.com to inspire other brides-to-be!

Rachel Jo Silver is the founder of Love Stories TV: the place to watch and share wedding videos.

Love Stories TV's Rachel Jo Silver shares wedding makeup inspiration that works whether you're a bride, bridesmaid, or guestplus how to get the looks!

Whether youre a bride, a bridesmaid, or you have your fair share of weddings to attend, how you wear your hair is an important decision. Between videographers, photographers, and hundreds of Instagramming guests, your wedding style is going to be seen. My favorite way to get wedding hair ideas and inspiration? Watching real wedding videos on Love Stories TV! Here are a few bride and bridesmaid hairstyles we love, plus tutorials for how to get the look.

WATCH: Tyra + Davis | Kaysville, Utah | Ogden Temple by Kailee Cristina Film

Tyras soft half side braid is an easy style for any bride/bridesmaid/guest to try. To elevate your braided look, why not try a waterfall braid? Here, Lorelei demonstrates how to get the look on short hair. What's more, you can use the same steps for any hair length.

WATCH: Jai + Bernard | Nashville, Tennessee | BB Kings Blues Club by Big Hill Productions

Outdoor summer weddings are the perfect occasion to let your curls be free. Humidity + dance parties are not a great recipe for trying to force your curls to stay sleek. Instead, embrace them! Here are some tips on how to style your natural curls with a diffuser so you get defined ringlets without the frizz.

WATCH: Priya + Nick | Middletown, Rhode Island | Newport Beach House by NST Pictures

Up-dos can get a bad rap, but they shouldnt! Sometimes wearing your hair up is the right way to complement your gown, plus, its actually the most fuss-free option for wedding hair! To get a style similar to Priyas low up-do, try this tutorial (its modeled by yours trulywink).

Visit lovestoriestv.com to watch thousands of real wedding videos to get even more ideas and inspiration for your wedding hair (or venue, or vendors, or dress, etc). Have a wedding video of your own? Share it on lovestoriestv.com to inspire other brides-to-be!

Love Stories TV's Rachel Jo Silver shares some of her favorite summer wedding hair looks (plus how to get them!) that work whether you're a bride, bridesmaid, or guest.

Summer Wedding Hairstyles Inspired By Real Brides

"Really looking forward to marrying this guy in a MONTH. Here's to a lifetime of making funny faces together!"

"Packing for wedding weekend (oh don't worry, there's a separate honeymoon pile). Got all my skin and hair essentials (plus extras like melatonin to help me sleep). A few highlights: Sunday Riley Juno Body, which is the most decadent thing ever; Living Proof Perfect Hair Day Styling Treatment for pre-blow drying; and oodles of eye products to help me look awake (Skyn Iceland gels, Estee Lauder Night Eye Serum, Balance Me Beauty's brightening Eye Cream)."

"Auditioning this OPI polish for my wedding mani. Not only does the rose gold match my ring but the name ("Worth a Pretty Penne") combines two amazing things: puns and pasta."

"Makeup genius @NamVo is evangelistic about skincare (her daily regimen is 7+ steps). Judging by her glow, it's working. So when I asked her to do my wedding makeup, I also got her advice on the skincare products I should be using. Her Rx: Sunday Riley Juno face oil at night and Shiseido Ultimune Concentrate during the day. Splurged on them but when she says something is worth the money, I believe her 100 percent... plus now i've got some serious Birchbox points to spend."

"Just finished my wedding trial with the brilliant @NamVo and she set my makeup with Tatcha's mist: smells gorgeous and gives your skin the prettiest glow."

"Sunset aperitivo with an unexpected side of [emoji for engagement ring]. Here's to many years of cocktails and vistas."

Follow @molliechen and #MollieandRob on Instagram to watch the wedding unfold, and check back next week for updates from the ceremony!

Follow along as Birchbox's VP of Brand Experience makes her way down the aisle. 

Our VP of Brand Experience (and Birchbox's very first hire!), Mollie Chen, is getting hitched this weekend. While we're usually stalking her [Instagram](https://instagram.com/molliechen/) for the best product recs and self-inflicted cases of [serious food envy](https://instagram.com/p/1lVp81SsDe/?taken-by=molliechen), we've been checking in extra often to follow along as she prepares to say "I do". Here are some of our favorite pre-wedding shots along with Mollie's always-entertaining commentary: 

Best man speeches should reflect on what the groom means to you, which is sometimes best summed up in a roast-like manner. This is a great approach to keep the mood light and reflect over a wide array of memories, without losing everyone at the when we were five line. This guys roast of his brother, as well as his flow of jokes throughout the speech, allows him the perfect balance between funny anecdotes and meaningful moments.

This best man came and conquered. He was emotional, heartfelt, and still managed to sneak a few jokes between the tears. Show your groom how much he means to you and also remind everyone what a happy and emotional occasion this is. Get the tissues ready because this guy is opening the floodgates and remember its ok to cry.

Not everyone is entirely comfortable performing a standup routine or crying in front of 200 people. This isnt a competition to be the best public speaker, though. If you are worried about impressing the groom or suffer from stage fright, simply opt for a more creative route. This guy pre-recorded his best man speech and then acted out his reactions, making his approach entertaining, relaxed, and memorable.

If you've got the honor of toasting your brother or buddy on his wedding day, there are a few routes you can take with that best man speech.

If you've got the honor of toasting your brother or buddy on his wedding day, there are a few routes you can take with that best man speech: sentimental, silly, or even abstract. (Whatever you do, don't pull a [Steve Buscemi in *The Wedding Singer*](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lt9IJX0qI6o).) Here are three heartfelt, upbeat odes we love that will help make yours memorable, and for the right reasons. You've only got one chanceunless he re-marries, of course, but that's not today's focusso make it count.

These 3 Heartfelt Best Man Speeches Will Help You Write Your Own

Glowing skin, rosy cheeks, and a bright eye are perfect for summer weddings, whether youre the bride, a bridesmaid, or a wedding guest. Birchboxs social media manager Juliette shows us how to create this look using Cynthia Rowley Beauty products.

Find Juliettes dress at www.cynthiarowley.com

Face:

Step 1: Prep skin with foundation and concealer

Step 2: Apply bronzer stick in a c shape across your cheeks and forehead. Blend with a BeautyBlender

Step 3: Apply highlighter everywhere the sun naturally hits your face: your cheekbones, the bridge of your nose, cupids bow, and chin.

Step 4: Apply blush stick to the apples of your cheeks.

Eyes:

Step 1: Use brightening illuminator all over eyelid up to the brow bone and blend with your fingers.

Step 2: Apply champagne shadow to your crease with a fluffy shadow brush.

Step 3: Use a flat shadow brush to apply bronzer stick in the crease, smoking it out in the outer corner.

Step 4: Apply deep bronze shade in a sideways v shape in the outer corner and blend.

Step 5: Use a powder highlighter on the inner corner of your eyes.

Step 6: Apply shimmery brown eyeliner along the upper lash line and half way along the lower lash line.

Step 7: Apply a sky blue eyeliner to your waterline. 

Step 8: Finish eyes with a volumizing mascara.

Lips:

Step 1: Apply light pink creamy lip stain.

Step 2: Apply brightening illuminator to the center of top and bottom lips.

Learn how to get this glowing, lit-from-within makeup look, just in time for your next wedding, whether you're the bride, a bridesmaid, or a wedding guest.

How To: Glowing Summer Wedding Makeup Look

Few things are effortless when it comes to planning a wedding, but your lipstick can to be one of them! In this video, Rachel shares her picks for the best wedding-day lipsticks for brides. These lipsticks are perfect for keeping a natural, flawless look throughout all the festivities, without worrying about leaving any color behind on your spouse or champagne flute.

Looking for more wedding inspiration before the big day? Here are the 5 beauty products every bride needs on her wedding day.

Rachel shares her favorite lipsticks to keep brides mess-free and stress-free on their wedding day.

How to Measure Someones Ring Size (Secretly!)

There are a few ways to measure ring size, but this is our favorite: Borrow one of the rings that your significant other already wears (you can grab it when he or she takes it off before going to bed) and gently press it into a bar of soap. Then, just match the imprint to a ring size chart. Or, even easier, bring the bar of soap right to the jeweler. Just make sure to wash and return the ring when youre done.

Theres a lot to consider here. If you're looking for a diamond, most jewelers will speak in terms of the "four C's" (cut, color, clarity, and carat), but you should also address details like her hair color and personal style. If your bride-to-be is fashion-forward and loves to stand out from the crowd, she might love a colored gemstone. Even if shes a little more on the traditional side, adding a colored gemstone as a secondary stone in a traditional diamond engagement ring is becoming a popular option among many brides.

But which gemstone will look best on her? A good rule of thumb is to go by skin tone. Gemstones like sapphire, garnets, and rubies look beautiful on "cool" skin, which usually features rosy undertones and bluish colored veins. Earthy-hued gemstones in coral, peach, green, and turquoise flatter "warmer" skin, which has greenish colored veins and yellow undertones.

How to Choose the Perfect Gift for Your Bride

One of the most romantic wedding traditions is to surprise your fiance on the wedding day with a small gift. We love the idea of commemorating the big day with jewelry engraved with the date or a love knot ring that symbolizes your commitment. The number one thing to remember is to stick to timeless, sentimental pieces.

For more tips, check out Buzzfeed's roundup of handy diagrams. When you're ready to shop for any occasionnot just weddings and engagementscheck out Heirlume for a personalized jewelry shopping experience.

We ask the jewelry experts at Heirlume for some tips on getting your engagement rightall the way from proposal to ceremony. 

If youre planning to pop the question soon, youve probably realized how much thought goes into the hardware surrounding the occasion; the last thing you want to do is go to the jeweler without a clue of what you need. To ensure that you nail each moment of your engagementfrom proposal to ceremonywe asked the jewelry experts at [Heirlume](http://www.heirlume.co/) for tips on picking a properly sized ring, a gemstone fitting of her personality, and the most memorable wedding day gift.

How To: Pick an Engagement Ring and Gemstone

If youre like me, the news of a friends engagement results in a wave of mixed feelings: First, obviously a flurry of joy and excitement, followed by the inevitable stress-induced vision of my ever-depleting bank account. Even if youre not in the wedding party (which can run you close to $2,000), attending more than a couple weddings in one season (and shelling out for the requisite travel, hotel room, dress, and gift) can really do a number on your wallet. But witnessing all those I dos doesnt have to end in debtmy advice for surviving wedding season without going broke:

If theres one thing Ive learned after a few wedding-stuffed summers its this: Sometimes, its okay to say no. While youd obviously never skip your sisters or BFFs wedding, there is a way to politely decline an old coworker or loose acquaintances nuptialsespecially if you know attending will put you in a stressful financial situation. Just be sure to send a nice gift and personal note of congratulations in your placeyour friend will understand.

In an ideal world, youd budget months in advance so that by the time you book accommodations, your balance will barely budge. Also make an effort to book flights and hotels as early as possible to get affordable rateswaiting until the last minute is the difference between a $250 and $350 flightand having to stay at a different hotel from everyone else. I unfortunately know this from experience.

Split your costs in half by synching up with fellow wedding guests to share a hotel room, or, if you have a big group, an Airbnb rental. Not only will your digs be less expensive, but most rentals come with kitchens and living rooms so you can cook your own meals and hang out long after the reception ends. Last winter I shared a cheap, no-frills hotel room with three of my best friends for a wedding. Sharing a bed with someone who hogs the covers doesnt result in the most comfortable nights sleep, but you that you will not regret blasting top 40 hits and getting ready together with your favorite ladies.

Repeat after me: I do not need to buy a new dress. Instead, recycle an outfit you wore to a wedding with different guests last summer or something new to you from a friend I always shop my stylish pals closets for dresses, bags, and shoes before I even think about shopping. If its a black tie affair, dont feel pressure to buy an expensive get-up. Pay a fraction of the regular price for a high-end frock from our friends at Rent the Runway.

Be Your Own Makeup Artist/ Manicurist/ Hairstylist

If youre great at fishtail braids but cant paint your non-dominant hand to save your life, only book a nail appointment to save some cash. As a bridesmaid last winter, I painted my own nails and had a friend help me style my hair, then had the pro makeup artist help me touch up my look by filling out my brows and concealing the dark circles I got from waking up at 6am to get ready.

Cut expenses this summer by renting a dress, sharing a hotel room, and booking your travel ASAP.

How I Learned to Not Go Broke During Wedding Season


To keep your makeup looking flawless in the first look photos and those after party Instagrams, Larsen recommends using a primer that preps skin and sets your final look. Spritz Smashbox Cosmetics' Photo Finish Primer Water before your foundation to smooth out any blemishes or fine lines, and then after to ensure that your makeup doesnt budge between countless selfies.


We know youve heard this from everyone and their mother-in-law, but waterproof mascara is a must on your big day. Larsen says to prepare yourself for the tears of joy and tears of laughter with a stay-put, water-resistant formula. Pack Cargos Better-Than-Waterproof Mascara for volumized lashes that wont runeven while hearing your partners vows for the first time.


You need a formula that will last from you may kiss the bride to your last sip of champagne, like stilas stay all day liquid lipstick (shown in Bellisima). Larson recommends pairing it with a creamy blush (we like RMS Beautys sheer, organic Lip2Cheek formula), because ever-so-slightly-flushed is the new sexy, she says.





Flashing lights and day-of jitters can lead to an unfortunate amount of shine on your forehead, nose, and chin. To make sure the only glow you emit comes from within, eliminate oily spots with Tatchas Aburatoragami portable Blotting Papers, which absorb grease and sweat to leave you with a matte, photo-ready finish.


Whether youre racing from table to table to greet relatives or breaking it down to your favorite song with your new hubby, hairsprayand lots of itis your savior. Larsen recommends using a strong-hold formula that still allows your style to move with you and look effortless, like Oribe's Superfine Hairspray.

From waterproof mascara to an emergency supply of hairspray, heres what to have on hand when you walk down the aisle.

By the time the big day arrives, most brides have already figured out the something old and something new rigmarole. But what about the *something* that will keep your braided updo in place while youre doing the robot in the middle of a dance circle? We turned to [Style Me Pretty](http://www.stylemepretty.com/)s founder and editor Abby Larson to recommend makeup, skin, and hair must-haves for the ceremony, final dance, and beyond.

The 5 Beauty Products Every Bride Needs on Her Wedding Day

Buns have a reputation for being traditional, but theyre also the best way to avoid fussing with your hair throughout the big day. Go with an unexpected messy top knot to offset a classically elegant dress, or a sleek ballerina bun to dress up a more casual frock.

Its been four years since the royal wedding, but Kate Middleton is still our go-to inspiration for balancing modern and classic style. Her half-up look was glamorous-yet-accessible (she saved the drama for her 9-foot train). If you're a fan of that easy-going glamour, try an updo alternative like this partial updo. It combines sleek lines, sexy volume, and loose romantic waves.

Braids are classic, yet carefreeperfect for an outdoor wedding. Try a braid crown if a real tiara is too girly for you, or a side braid if you want a casual, feminine way to keep your hair out of your face. Both looks are so simple, you can do them yourself.

From Frida Kahlo to Marie Antoinette, fresh blooms have a long history of decorating the heads of style icons. While classics like babys breath and roses are stunning choices, there are plenty of alternatives for the nontraditional bride. Check out the succulents, berries, and vines that adorn the heads of these bohemian beauties.

Style Me Pretty serves up the best in unexpected bridal updos, braids, and loose waves. 


From Alison Pills [canary yellow dress](http://www.refinery29.com/2015/05/88006/alison-pill-married-yellow-wedding-dress) to Solanges [white jumpsuit](http://nymag.com/thecut/2014/11/solange-had-an-aesthetically-superior-wedding.html), 2015 is shaping up to be the year of anything-goes wedding style. While throwing out conventions can be liberatingno more last minute scrambling to find something borrowed and blue it can also make every decision that much more daunting. This is especially true when it comes to bridal hairstyles, so weve rounded up four examples from the wedding gurus at [Style Me Pretty](http://www.stylemepretty.com/) that give classic styles a modern twist. 

Say I Do to These Unconventional Wedding Hairstyles

Our resident wedding party veteran offers her advice for handling all those tricky situations like a pro. 

The matching coral dress? You got it. A clear understanding of your role leading up to the Big Day? Not so much. In the months before the wedding, youll likely find yourself with some tricky questions (do you automatically get a plus one?!) Instead of asking the already-stressed-out bride or trolling Internet chat rooms, weve enlisted the help of our senior editor Cristina Tudino. With eight tours of wedding party duty to her name, shes giving you her pro bridesmaid advice:   

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With white gowns and pristine snowy backdrops, winter weddings were made for exciting little pops of colorspecifically statement-making lips. Here are five stunning shades to try if you're looking to warm up your cold-weather celebration:


##Ruby Red
This classic hue will never go out of style, and works best for vintage-loving brides trying to emulate an old-timey film star or a modern bride trying to achieve a simple-yet-glamorous makeup look.

Photo by Alicia Swedenborg on The Brides Cafe via Lover.ly


##Nude 
A barely-there lip color is a bold move in itself, and when done right, it can really add a fresh, dewiness to your look. Balance out a toned-down lip with a dramatic smoky eye for a formal affair.

Photo by Anne Robert Photography on Bridal Musings via Lover.ly


##Chocolate
This is a rich and complex color guaranteed to wow your guests without being too overwhelming. When worn on an olive complexion it works to highlight and intensify your skin's golden tones. The result: A warm and inviting, no-fuss look.

Photo by Erich McVey Workshop on Simply Peachy via Lover.ly


##Burgundy
Burgundy lips are irresistibleespecially this Marsala shadeand perfect for the bride craving a little bit of drama. Wear a deep, sumptuous red to capture the spirit of a cold winter's night full of red wine and a crackling fireplace.

Photo by Sara K Byrne Photography on Bridal Musings via Lover.ly


##Dark Berry
Similarly, purple, berry, and plum tones magically flatter all skin tones and add a layer of mood to your big day beauty. You can't go wrong with this shade!

Photo by Michelle Girard Photography on Smitten Magazine via Lover.ly

What color are you planning to rock on your lips for the big day?

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From ruby red to deep berry, here are five stunning shades fit for walking down the aisle.

Weve been planning our dream weddings since we were five years old. So its no surprise that we cant get enough of [Lover.ly](http://lover.ly/), a wedding inspiration site that lets you search through pics of swoon-worthy gowns, bouquets, and everything else you need for the big day. Twice a month, the ladies behind Lover.ly will be sharing their best tips for getting through the craziness of the seasonwhether youre standing at the altar or enjoying a view of it from the audience.

Warm Up a Winter Wedding with these Romantic Lip Shades

Does it ever feel like there's just not enough time in the day to do everything you want to do? Yeah, we feel your pain. But we also believe in the power of multitasking. Stuck at your desk from 9 to 5? Put that time to good use! There are plenty of things you can do from the comfort of your cubicle/office/swivel chair to make sure you look your best by the time your wedding rolls around. Here are a few of our favorite tips to help you make the most of your work day.

The easiest way to trick yourself into standing up straight? Swap out your desk chair for a yoga ball. Not only is it a great way to improve your back's alignment, but you'll also engage your core more throughout the day. After all that practice, perfect posture will just feel like second nature.

We know you've heard it before, but a quick two-minute break every so often will do wonders for you both physically and mentally. Taking five to get up and walk around (even if it's just a couple of laps around your desk) will relieve stress in your joints, elongate your muscles, and get the blood pumping. You'll definitely be grateful you took those work day pauses as you're making the rounds at your reception.

Keep some sweet-smelling lotion at your desk (try lavender for a calming effect) and be sure to use it often. Regardless of whether you're snapping an engagement ring selfie, meeting your girls for a celebratory glass of bubbly, or walking down the aisle towards your husband-to-be, you'll want to make sure your hands are looking their best. They're going to be getting a lot of attention over the next few months, after all.

If you find yourself sitting at your desk for a few too many hours or making never-ending copies at the copy machine, take advantage of that downtime! These clever "deskercises" (desk squats and cubicle dips forever!) will help make sure you're looking healthy and toned on your wedding daywhether or not you ever make it to the gym.

We've all had those days where we endlessly respond to emails or just put our head down and plug through a project. Why not pull double duty by whitening while you work? Bring a box of teeth whitening strips the office and pull them out whenever you have 30 minutes to yourself (just warn your co-workers so they don't get too confused/worried).

Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate! Drinking eight glasses of water a day is not only essential to your general health and well-being, but it also helps your complexion. You might also want to consider what you're snacking on throughout the day...

We get it; sometimes nothing but a sweet treat will get you through that afternoon slump. But it's also true that we are what we eat. And to make sure you get that picture-perfect skin, you need to think about what you're putting into your body. Load up on blueberries to minimize oiliness, nosh on walnuts for lovely locks, and reduce redness with kale.

How are you prepping for the big day? Any at-work secrets you'd like to share?

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Photo: Ashley Ella Desgin on heart.love.always. via Lover.ly

The ladies from Lover.ly share their tips for 9-to-5 wedding prep, from midday "deskercises" to easy skin-improving hacks for your at-work snacking habits.

Weve been planning our dream weddings since we were five years old. So its no surprise that we cant get enough of [Lover.ly](http://lover.ly), a wedding inspiration site that lets you search through pics of swoon-worthy gowns, bouquets, and everything else you need for the big day. This week, the ladies at the site share their tips for taking wedding prep to the office.

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