Nail Appointments: Wedding Day Prep Timeline

Getting your nails done is an important part of wedding prep, and timing is everything. Most brides opt for a special pre-wedding manicure to ensure their nails are in perfect condition for their big day. So, when is the best time to book a nail appointment?

It's recommended that you book your nail appointment for one to two days before your wedding. This gives you enough time to avoid any last-minute chips or breaks while still ensuring your nails look fresh. If you're getting a regular polish, you may even want to get your manicure on the day of your wedding to prevent any chipping.

If you're part of a large wedding party, it's a good idea to call your nail salon in advance to ensure they can accommodate your group. You should also consider the type of manicure you want, as this will impact the time required. For example, a gel manicure may take longer than a basic manicure.

Some brides also choose to do a trial run with their nail technician a few months before the wedding to ensure they get the desired result on their big day. This is a great opportunity to test out different styles and colours and build a relationship with your nail artist.

So, if you're wondering when to book your nail appointment for your wedding, aim for one to two days before the event, and don't be afraid to reach out to your nail salon to discuss your specific needs!

Book an appointment 2-3 weeks in advance

Booking your nail appointment for your wedding 2-3 weeks in advance is a great way to ensure you get the time and treatment you want. It's also a good idea if you're planning on having a group appointment with your bridesmaids or family members, as this will require more organisation and coordination.

If you're the bride, you'll likely have a lot on your plate in the days leading up to your wedding, so booking your nail appointment in advance can give you one less thing to worry about. It's recommended that brides get their nails done one to two days before the wedding to prevent chipping and breakage, so planning ahead will help you secure your desired time slot.

Booking in advance is especially important if you're visiting a popular salon or if you're particular about the technician you want to work with. It also gives you the opportunity to discuss any specific requirements or requests with the salon, such as the type of manicure you want and any colours or designs you have in mind.

Additionally, if you're planning to have multiple beauty treatments before your wedding, such as hair and makeup trials, booking your nail appointment 2-3 weeks in advance will allow you to coordinate your schedule more effectively. This way, you can ensure that your nail appointment fits in seamlessly with the rest of your pre-wedding preparations.

By booking your nail appointment 2-3 weeks in advance, you can also take advantage of any group discounts or packages that the salon may offer. This is often the case if you're bringing a group of bridesmaids or family members along.

Overall, booking your nail appointment 2-3 weeks in advance is a thoughtful and practical approach to your wedding preparations. It gives you peace of mind, ensures availability, and allows you to focus on other important aspects of your special day.

Opt for gel or acrylic nails

As a bride, you want your hands to look as good as you do, and that includes your nails. Wedding nails are a big deal—they're part of your bridal look and will be in many photos, not to mention the fact that all eyes will be on your hands as you exchange rings. So, what type of manicure should you go for? Well, that depends on your personal preference, time, and budget. Here's a breakdown of gel versus acrylic nails to help you decide.

Gel Nails

Gel nails are created using a three-step process that uses a gel-based polish. First, a base coat is applied, followed by nail polish, and then a top coat. After each coat, the nails are cured under a UV or LED light, resulting in a hard, yet natural-looking manicure that won't smudge. Gel nails tend to look more natural and are less likely to yellow compared to acrylics. They are also more flexible and, therefore, less prone to chipping or breaking. Additionally, gel nails are easier to remove than acrylics; they can be dissolved using acetone in just a few minutes. However, gel nails are more expensive and time-consuming to apply than acrylics due to the curing process.

Acrylic Nails

Acrylic nails are a popular choice for brides who want longer and thicker nails. They are created by applying a mixture of liquid and powder to the natural nail and then shaping it into the desired length and shape. Acrylic nails provide a sturdy base for long-lasting manicures and can be customized with various shapes, lengths, and nail art. They offer a glossy and flawless finish and are flexible and lightweight. Acrylic nails are generally more affordable than gel nails and can be applied faster. However, they are more brittle and inflexible, making them more prone to chipping or breaking. Acrylic nails are also more difficult to remove and require regular fills to maintain their pristine look.

So, which one should you choose? If you're looking for a more natural look and don't mind the extra time and cost, gel nails might be the better option. On the other hand, if you want longer and thicker nails and prefer a faster and more affordable option, acrylic nails could be the way to go. Ultimately, the decision is yours, and you can always do a trial run to see which style suits you best.

Get your nails done 1-2 days before the wedding

Getting your nails done 1–2 days before the wedding is ideal for several reasons. Firstly, it gives you enough time to ensure your nails are in perfect condition for your big day. If you get your nails done too early, you risk chipping your polish or breaking a nail, so leaving it until the last minute is not advisable.

Secondly, this timing allows your nails to be one of the last beauty appointments you make before your wedding. This means your nails will look fresh and well-maintained for your wedding day. If you are having a rehearsal dinner the day before your wedding, getting your nails done the morning of your wedding might be a good option.

Additionally, the type of nail product you use can influence the timing of your manicure. If you are using regular lacquer, it is best to get your nails done on the day of your wedding since this type of polish is prone to chipping. However, if you are using other products like gel, dip powder, or acrylics, you can get your nails done a day or two in advance without worrying about chipping.

Finally, if you are a nail biter, getting your nails done 1–2 days before the wedding can help ensure they look their best for the big day. This timing gives you enough opportunity to grow out your natural nails, and the application of a strong and durable product like dip powder can make your nails harder to bite through.

In summary, getting your nails done 1–2 days before your wedding is a sweet spot that allows for fresh and well-maintained nails while minimising the risk of chipping or breaking. It also gives you the flexibility to choose the type of nail product that suits your needs and preferences.

Choose a classic style

Choosing a classic style for your wedding nails is a timeless option. Opting for a traditional manicure, such as a French manicure, is always a good idea, as it is elegant and will coordinate with your wedding dress. Here are some tips to achieve a classic nail style for your wedding:

Stick to Classic Shapes: Go for almond, rounded, oval, or square-shaped nails. These shapes are timeless and will complement your bridal look. If you want something a little more daring, you can try a stiletto shape.

Choose Natural Colours: Neutral shades, such as nude, beige, and light pink, are often associated with bridal nails. These colours are subtle and elegant, and they will enhance your wedding ring. You can also add a hint of colour with a splashy peach or chic taupe.

Opt for Minimal Designs: Keep the design simple and understated. You can add a touch of glamour with pearl or gold embellishments, but avoid anything too flashy or over-the-top. A single gem or a few tiny gold rosebuds on a soft pink nude nail are perfect examples of less-is-more.

Get Your Nails Done Close to the Wedding: Aim to get your nails done one to two days before the wedding to prevent any chipping, scratches, or breaks. This will ensure your manicure looks fresh and flawless on your big day.

Take Care of Your Hands and Nails: In the weeks leading up to your wedding, focus on moisturising and caring for your hands and nails. This will ensure your hands and nails are in tip-top shape, and it will enhance the overall appearance and longevity of your manicure.

Moisturise your hands and nails in the weeks leading up to the wedding

Moisturising your hands and nails in the weeks leading up to your wedding is a great way to ensure your hands and nails are in tip-top shape for your big day.

Start by investing in a good hand cream. Look for ingredients such as cocoa butter, shea butter, and plant oils, which will help to deeply hydrate your skin. Apply the cream to your hands and nails several times a day, especially after washing your hands, as soaps can be drying. If you have very dry skin, avoid products with high levels of fragrances or acids, as these can irritate the skin.

In addition to hand cream, you may also want to use a cuticle oil to ensure your nails are getting the hydration they need. Cuticle oils are able to penetrate deeper into the skin than hand creams, so they're great if your nails are particularly dry or brittle. Look for oils containing Vitamin E, coconut oil, almond oil, or jojoba oil.

You can also try incorporating a handcare ritual into your evening routine. Celebrity manicurist Mazz Hanna suggests massaging your hands and fingers with a high-quality hand cream before bed, paying special attention to the cuticles. This will help to keep your skin in optimal condition.

In the weeks leading up to your wedding, be sure to avoid any household cleaning products and acetone or toluene-based nail polish removers, as these can dehydrate your skin and nails. If you must do any cleaning, be sure to wear rubber gloves and moisturise afterward.

By following these tips, you'll be well on your way to having soft, supple skin and strong, healthy nails for your wedding day.

Frequently asked questions