Should You Invite A Masseuse To Your Wedding?

Getting a massage before a wedding can be a great way to relax and calm down. However, it's important to be mindful of the timing and type of massage to avoid feeling sore or weird on your big day. Some people recommend getting a massage a few days before the wedding, while others suggest getting one the day before or even the morning of the wedding. It's also important to communicate your preferences to the masseuse and ask them to be gentle. If you're part of the bridal party, consider surprising your fellow bridesmaids or groomsmen with a massage as a token of appreciation for their efforts and support.

Pre-wedding massages for the happy couple

Planning a wedding can be stressful. From seating charts to catering contracts, there are a lot of details to manage. That's why many couples choose to treat themselves to a pre-wedding massage. It's a great way to relax and de-stress before the big day.

Benefits of pre-wedding massages

Massages have been shown to have numerous benefits for both physical and mental health. They can help to:

• Reduce stress and anxiety: Massages have been proven to reduce physical and psychological stress and promote relaxation. This can be especially beneficial for couples who are feeling nervous or overwhelmed in the lead-up to their wedding.
• Improve sleep: Massages increase delta brain waves, which are linked to deep sleep. This can help improve concentration and energy levels, ensuring you feel rested and refreshed for your wedding day.
• Boost immunity: Regular massages can increase the immune system's cytotoxic capacity and improve white blood cell activity, helping to fight off any pre-wedding colds or illnesses.
• Enhance mood: Massages can reduce cortisol (the stress hormone) and increase serotonin, the neurohormone responsible for regulating anxiety and maintaining a good mood.
• Aid digestion: Certain massage techniques can release enzymes and increase the metabolism of nutrients and antioxidants, helping to reduce bloating and digestive discomfort.
• Improve skin: Massage aids the lymphatic system and improves circulation, resulting in healthier, more radiant skin.

Types of massages to consider

There are several types of massages to choose from, depending on your preferences and needs:

• Swedish massage: This is the most widely used technique, involving long gliding strokes to relax the entire body.
• Hot stone massage: Smooth, heated stones are placed on the body to ease and relax the muscles.
• Aromatherapy massage: This involves light, gentle strokes and uses essential oils to help heal the body and mind.
• Sports massage: Developed for athletes, this type of massage focuses on specific areas of the body that are overworked and stressed.
• Deep tissue massage: Similar to Swedish massage but with deeper pressure, this is effective for releasing chronic muscle tension.

Tips for pre-wedding massages

To ensure you get the most out of your pre-wedding massage:

• Book in advance: Massage therapy is a popular pre-wedding treatment, so be sure to plan and book your appointment(s) ahead of time.
• Communicate your needs: Let your therapist know that you're preparing for your wedding and ask them to be gentle. If you have any specific areas of concern or simply prefer a lighter or deeper touch, don't be afraid to speak up.
• Allow enough time: While a massage the day before your wedding can be beneficial, some people may experience muscle soreness or a release of toxins, leaving you feeling groggy. Consider booking a few treatments in the weeks leading up to your wedding rather than just one, so you can truly enjoy the benefits.
• Make it a bonding experience: Consider booking couples' massages or enjoying a spa day with your wedding party. It's a great way to relax and spend quality time with your partner, family, and friends.

Pre-wedding massages for the wedding party

A wedding is a momentous occasion, and as such, it can be a stressful experience for all involved. A massage is a great way to chill out and relax before the big day.

Benefits

Massage has been proven to reduce physical and psychological stress, as well as promote relaxation. It can also help with sleep, which is often disturbed when people are anxious. Massage increases delta brain waves, which are linked to deep sleep, improving concentration and energy levels. It can also help to reduce bloating and digestive discomfort, so you can feel 100% on your wedding day.

When to get a massage

Some people suggest getting a massage a week before the wedding to be on the safe side, as some people have reported feeling sore or experiencing adverse skin reactions after a massage. However, many people have reported having a massage the day before their wedding, or even on the morning of the wedding, and feeling great as a result. It is recommended that you don't try anything new and to ask the masseuse to be gentle to avoid any soreness.

Who to invite

You can go for a massage by yourself, or you can make it a group activity and bring your partner, your mom, or your wedding party. It's a great way to bond and spend some quality time with your loved ones before the chaos of the wedding day.

So, if you're feeling a bit frazzled in the lead-up to your wedding, why not treat yourself and your wedding party to a relaxing massage? It's a great way to de-stress and ensure you're feeling your best when you walk down the aisle.

Avoiding deep tissue massages

Deep tissue massages are not for everyone. While they can be beneficial for people who engage in highly physical activities or those with injuries or chronic pain, they can also be unsafe for some.

Deep tissue massages involve applying sustained pressure using slow, deep strokes to target the inner layers of your muscles and connective tissues. This type of massage can help break up scar tissue, reduce tension, and promote faster healing by increasing blood flow and reducing inflammation. However, it is important to note that deep tissue massages can be intense and may cause lingering soreness for a few days afterward.

If you are considering a deep tissue massage, there are a few important factors to keep in mind to avoid any potential harm:

• Speak to your doctor first if you have a history of blood clots or a clotting disorder, are taking blood thinners, have a bleeding disorder, or have cancer or are undergoing cancer treatment. Deep tissue massages are not recommended for people with these conditions due to the risk of injury.
• Avoid deep tissue massages if you are pregnant. Opt for gentler types of massage, such as Swedish massage, instead.
• Do not get a deep tissue massage if you have an open wound or skin infection. This will help prevent developing a new infection or worsening an existing one.
• Ensure you work with a qualified massage therapist. Ask your doctor or physical therapist for a referral, or search for a certified therapist through databases like the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork or the America Massage Therapy Association.
• Communicate your preferences to the therapist. Let them know if the pressure is too intense or painful. A good massage therapist will respect your comfort level and make adjustments as needed.
• Consider having a trial run before committing to a deep tissue massage, especially if it is your first time. This will help you understand how your body responds to this type of massage and avoid any unexpected soreness right before your wedding.
• Opt for a gentler and more relaxing type of massage if you are looking to de-stress before your wedding. Deep tissue massages can be intense and may not be the best choice if you are seeking relaxation.

By following these guidelines, you can make an informed decision about whether a deep tissue massage is suitable for you and avoid any potential risks associated with this type of massage.

Plus-ones for the masseuse

While there are no hard and fast rules about plus-ones, it is customary to offer a plus-one to guests who are married, engaged, or living together. This also applies to those in serious, long-term relationships. It is also customary to offer a plus-one to members of the wedding party, as a show of appreciation for their support.

If you are working within a budget, it is worth noting that additional guests mean additional costs. You may want to consider only offering plus-ones to those who will benefit from having a date by their side, such as guests who are travelling far and won't know anyone else at the wedding, or single people who will only know a few other guests.

If you are inviting a masseuse who falls into one of the above categories, it would be customary to offer them a plus-one. If the masseuse is a vendor, it is not customary to offer them a plus-one, unless you have a personal relationship with them and they fall into one of the above categories.

Inviting the masseuse's parents

Inviting the parents of the masseuse to your wedding is a thoughtful gesture. It is a great way to honour the masseuse and show your appreciation for their work. Here are some tips to consider when inviting the masseuse's parents:

• Discuss with your partner: It is important to have a conversation with your partner about inviting the masseuse's parents. Ensure that you are both comfortable with the idea and that it aligns with your vision for the wedding.
• Consider the relationship: Evaluate the nature of your relationship with the masseuse and their parents. If you have a close bond and they have played a significant role in your life, inviting them can be a meaningful gesture.
• Guest list constraints: Keep in mind the size of your guest list and venue capacity. If you have limited space, you may need to make difficult decisions about who to invite. Be mindful of the masseuse's parents' presence in relation to other guests and whether their inclusion will enhance your special day.
• Communication is key: When extending the invitation, communicate your appreciation for the masseuse's work and explain why you would like their parents to be part of your celebration. This can help them understand the significance of their presence at your wedding.
• Address potential concerns: Be prepared to address any concerns or reservations the masseuse's parents may have about attending. They might feel uncertain about their role at the wedding or worry about intruding on family affairs. Reassure them that their presence is valued and welcomed.
• Involve the masseuse: If possible, involve the masseuse in the process. They might have insights into their parents' preferences and can help facilitate a smooth invitation process.
• Offer accommodation assistance: If the masseuse's parents are travelling from afar, consider offering assistance with accommodation or transportation. This gesture can alleviate some of their logistical concerns and make their attendance more feasible.
• Plan for their comfort: Think about ways to make the masseuse's parents feel comfortable and included during the wedding festivities. This could include seating arrangements, introducing them to other guests, or incorporating any cultural or traditional elements they may appreciate.
• Follow up: After extending the invitation, follow up with the masseuse's parents to confirm their attendance and answer any questions they may have. This demonstrates your thoughtfulness and ensures a smooth planning process.
• Respect their decision: Ultimately, respect the decision of the masseuse's parents regarding their attendance. If they choose not to attend, convey your understanding and gratitude for their consideration.

Frequently asked questions