Mid-Valley Voice

Engagement and Wedding Rings

If you were to wear one thing for the rest of your life, what would it be? Would you go for what is trendy and hip? Or would you be more conservative and traditional with your choice?

These are the kinds of intensely personal decisions that you will face as you prepare to purchase your engagement and wedding rings.

In today's world, it is rare for a man to choose an engagement ring for his fiancè-to-be or a wedding ring for his bride-to-be without asking for her input.

Before you and your fiancè head into a jewelry store, become familiar with the "four C's," different stone shapes, the various setting options, wedding bands, and what's available for men beyond the traditional band.

The four C's: When you look at a diamond, you can judge its quality based on the four C's - carat, color, clarity and cut.

- Carat is the unit of weight used for diamonds. Carats are subdivided into points - there are 100 points to a carat. So a 130-point diamond weighs 1.3 carats.

- A diamond can actually be any color in the spectrum. Completely colorless, icy-white diamonds are rare, and therefore, more valuable. The best way to see the true color of a diamond is to look at it against a white surface.

- A diamond's clarity is determined by taking into account the number, size, placement, color and nature of any internal "inclusions" - external surface irregularities. Almost all diamonds have inclusions to some extent. The fewer or less noticeable the inclusions, the more valuable the diamond.

- Diamonds are cut into facets - the small, flat, polished planes cut into a diamond so that the maximum amount of light is reflected. The amount of this reflection is called "brilliance" and is extremely important in evaluating the quality of a diamond. A round, full-cut diamond has 58 facets.

Diamonds have a rating for each of the four Cs. Once you start looking at diamonds, you'll figure out which of them is most important to you. When considering size versus quality, keep in mind - a bigger diamond that doesn't have a high quality will just show more irregularities.

If you want to be a bit more daring, use a gemstone, such as a sapphire, emerald or ruby, for your engagement stone. You can always use smaller diamonds as accent stones or on your wedding band.

Shape: Stones are cut into different shapes, many of which can appear traditional and modern at the same time.

One of the most popular stone shapes is round because it shows incredible brilliance and is very traditional. Also popular right now are the square princess and the long and slender emerald. Other shapes include marquis, oval and pear.

Setting: The metal setting displays a stone to its best advantage. When it comes to setting, you will need to make two decisions: metal and setting style. For metal, you will choose between two basic colors:

- Yellow gold is considered the "traditional" wedding band metal, and it is said to symbolize the warmth and love of marriage.

- White metal is one of the hottest trends in jewelry. Platinum is the strongest metal and is very rare, a perfect metaphor for couples looking for that eternal symbol of devotion. White gold offers a similar look for less money. However, the difference is evident when you place the warmer-toned white gold next to the icy platinum.

- Do you want the best of both worlds? Choose a two-toned design that features both yellow and white metals. It offers great versatility for individuals who like to wear both colors.

There are many settings available, many of which are best suited for certain stone shapes and metal colors:

- A prong setting is the most common type. Prongs hold a stone firmly in a metal basket. Prong setting lets the light hit the diamond from all angles, maximizing a diamond's brilliance. Four prongs show more of the diamond. Six prongs hold the diamond more securely but can overwhelm a stone.

- A bezel setting is more contemporary. It consists of a metal rim with straight or scalloped edges that fully or partially surround the perimeter of the stone. It is usually a good choice for a round stone.

- A diamond in a white metal bezel setting usually appears larger, and a red or green gemstone in a yellow gold bezel setting often makes the stone appear redder or greener. However, a yellow gold bezel setting can sometimes make a diamond appear less white because the yellow tint of the setting is reflected in the stone.

- A channel setting places a row of stones with no metal separating them between two horizontal channels for part of the ring, or the entire ring. It has a smooth and unobtrusive surface and provides better security for small stones than some other settings. This setting is especially popular for wedding bands.

- Another setting popular for a band is pavè. A pavè setting involves three or more rows of several small stones fitted into holes that set them level with the surface of the ring. The surrounding metal is then raised into beams that secure the gems. This setting gives the illusion of more and bigger stones than are actually there, but is not recommended for more fragile stones.

- Other settings you may be interested in include tension (in which the stone appears to be floating), bar (in which thin vertical bars of metal are placed between stones to hold them secure) and gypsy (in which the stone sets flush into a hole in the ring so that it doesn't protrude at all). The latter is very popular for men's rings.

Wedding bands: When looking at wedding bands, you can either purchase a band that matches your engagement ring or you can select one that complements it. You can also choose to solder your wedding band and engagement ring together, so that they are one ring, or keep them separate. Keep in mind, you'll have more flexibility if you keep them separate.

For instance, you can wear just your band(s) when you want to be casual and include your engagement ring for dressier occasions. Once you solder them, there's no separating them without potential damage.

For the groom: For most men, a wedding ring may be the only piece of jewelry they ever wear. They need to have a ring that's both comfortable and flattering.

Many men's rings today have a curved - not flat - interior leading to a more comfortable fit. Men can also look for rings that have a plain, tapered bottom designed to bear the brunt of abuse.

Diamond wedding rings for men are coming back. These diamonds aren't necessarily flashy, but they have subtle sparkle that makes them interesting. They also can coordinate with the bride's wedding band and be set the same way, or in a gypsy setting which is both functional and flattering for men.

The metal of a man's wedding ring should match his wife's whether she has a yellow gold, platinum or a two-toned setting.

It's all in the details: Whether you are the bride or groom, when trying on rings, be sure to select a style that flatters your hands.

Individuals with small hands and fingers look better with a proportionately - sized ring. Vertically set stones make hands seem longer, while an oversized ring makes hands seem shorter. If you have big hands, stay away from small rings - they'll make your hands look larger.

Make sure you ask your jeweler about caring for your rings. Have them cleaned regularly. And have the stones inspected for looseness. A diamond can last forever, but not if you lose your stone down a sink drain or in the yard because it was loose.

Bare-Faced Beauty - Your Wedding Day Complexion

It is true when they say that beauty is skin deep. So you should do your best to take care of your complexion to ensure radiant skin. Following are some steps to make sure your complexion is in the best shape possible on your wedding day.

Six months before your wedding, consult a skin care specialist or dermatologist for a good cleansing program. An expert can help you determine what kinds of products will work best with your skin type. He or she also can help you figure out how to take care of any problem areas.

Take a serious look at your nutrition. If you don't already do so, start drinking at least eight glasses of water a day. Water not only hydrates you, but also leads to clear skin.

Stay away from caffeine. Avoid items such as tea, coffee and soda, as well as greasy foods. Start paying attention to what you eat. Veggies and fruits are better for your skin than fast food.

Approximately three to four months before your wedding make an appointment for a facial. Make sure the spa you select has licensed clinicians working on your skin.

Let the person performing your service know what the skin care expert or dermatologist said about your skin and what products you use. He or she can tailor the facial so it doesn't aggravate your skin.

If you enjoy the experience and have good results (clear, smooth skin), consider scheduling regular facial appointments before your wedding.

Now is a good time to experiment with self-tanners if you think you'll want a little color for your wedding. Test several brands to see which shows the best color and how they otherwise react to your skin. Obviously, you won't want to use any product that causes break outs, splotches or other irritations. Find out the method of application that best works for you.

Six weeks before your wedding is a good time to do a trial run of any professional waxing services you may need from eyebrows, to upper lip, to bikini waxes - especially if you're planning on wearing swimsuits on your honeymoon.

Determine how your skin reacts to the waxing. Some people have no reaction at all. Others experience extreme redness, bumps and irritation. Find out now how you can best take care of your skin's reaction so you'll know what to do for your next appointment.

Nothing looks better against clear skin that a bright, white smile. Try whitening toothpaste or professional bleaching to make your smile brighter than it's been in years.

Two weeks before your wedding keep up the good work. Even though things are probably getting hectic, make sure you follow your skin care regime and continue drinking plenty of water. And no matter how rushed you are, try to limit your fast food intake. Grease is a complexion destroyer!

One week before your wedding, have your final waxing appointments and facial before the wedding. Make sure this last facial is gentle and relaxing. You won't want to have any extractions or do anything that may irritate your skin so close to the big day.

Bridal Gowns

Most women have dreamed about their wedding dress since they were little girls.

Your bridal gown is probably the biggest fashion purchase you will ever make. When you close your eyes and picture yourself in your wedding gown, what do you see? How do you make that vision a reality? Your goal should be to find the perfect dress - the one that turns you into the bride of your dreams. Don't settle for anything less.

Your Attitude and Style: As you go about planning your wedding, you are sure to have picked themes and styles that represent your personal tastes and preferences. That is what should drive your choice in a wedding gown.

The look and feel of the gown should reflect who you are and what you enjoy. Are you laid-back and casual? Do your wedding plans reflect that? Then so should your dress.

Or are you more conservative, a traditionalist? Then a more formal gown will naturally appeal to you.

The Best Gown for Different Shapes: Casual or formal, romantic or modern, the dress you pick should flatter your physical attributes. Take a moment to review the accompanying list of body types and the gown styles that best suit them.

- If you have an hourglass figure, with a full bust and hips and a thin waist, you have curves in all the right places. Consider an A-line gown with a sweetheart neckline to display your attributes to their best advantage.

- If you are short waisted, an A-line gown will elongate your figure. If you have toned arms and shoulders, consider a halter neckline. It will draw attention to that area.

- If you have a thick, undefined waist, try an empire-waist gown, which will give you a long, trim look.

- If you're full-figured, a ball gown will de-emphasize the body areas you want to hide. An A-line gown will create a slimming silhouette.

- If you're pear-shaped, with a small chest and heavier bottom, a strapless ball gown will cover the bottom and draw attention up. An off-the-shoulder neckline will give the illusion of balance between your top and bottom.

- If you are thin, a ball gown will emphasize your trim size and make you look like an elegant ballerina. A sheath always hangs beautifully on a slim body.

- If you are petite, go for a simple A-line gown or sheath. An elaborate ballgown style may appear to be wearing you.

Color (or Lack Thereof) and Embellishments: Believe it or not, bridal gowns come in many colors, although white remains the first choice of the modern bride. Colors such as soft pink, blue or green are new options. Metallics, like silver, gold and copper, are also becoming prominent.

For those brides who want to shine, some dresses come uniquely embellished. From rhinestones to pearl flowers, today's gowns shine with elegance. Or go glitzy with beading and embellishments in gold, silver, bronze and color overlays as dress accents.

Heading for the Stores: Once you have a firm idea of what you may see in the stores and what best suits you, it's time to start shopping. Bridal shops vary in policy, but keep in mind the following list of questions you should ask on the phone before you arrive in person.

- Will I need an appointment? Some shops require an appointment to even view bridal gowns.

- What are the hours? Some bridal shops are only open certain days during the week. Others keep evening hours only on specified days.

- Which designers does the store carry? If you've been pouring over wedding magazines and of course you have, you may have your heart set on a Vera Wang or a Scaasi.

- What range of prices and sizes are carried? At higher-end shops, you may not be able to find a bridal gown under $1,000. There are shops that specialize in plus-size dresses.

- Ask If you can look through the gowns yourself or will you have to look with a salesperson? Some shops have such vast inventory, they simply ask you the types of gowns you'd like to try on and then bring you samples to preview.

Take the following items with you when you're shopping for gowns:

- A strapless bra or bustier

- Panty hose

- A pair of shoes with the same type of heel as the ones you plan to wear for your wedding

- Your mom, sister(s), honor attendant and/or bridesmaids. Try to limit your group to three people. And do remember that the one person who really wants to be there is your mom!

After you've found the dress - and you'll know it when you see it - find out the following information from your salesperson.

- How long will it take for the dress to arrive? Can it be rushed if necessary? Although you know you should start shopping early, it may take you awhile to find the right gown.

- Will the dress you order look exactly like the one you try on? Make sure you're getting exactly what you want.

- Does the dress have a matching headpiece? While you might not want a headpiece that exactly matches your dress and may instead choose a complementary one, it's good to know whether you have the option.

- Does the store carry headpieces, or can they suggest a store with a good selection of headpieces? Your salesperson can either help you pick out a headpiece and veil, or direct you to a quality shop.

- What alterations will need to be done? How much will they cost and can you get a written estimate? Get everything in writing.

- If your bridesmaids order their dresses through this store, are there discounts available? Some stores offer a percentage off your gown or your bridesmaids' dresses if you order all from them.

- How much is the deposit? Some shops require a flat fee, others ask for a percentage of the overall price.

- What are the cancellation/refund policies? Check to see if there is a certain time period during which you can cancel your order and have your deposit refunded.

- When is the final balance due? Some stores require final payment before the dress comes in.

- Can the store list everything about the dress on the contract? As always - get everything in writing. For your gown, this means the designer's name, size, price, color, fabric, manufacturer, style number and delivery date.

Will you work with the same salesperson when you come in for fittings? Some salespeople are there to sell only. In that case, you'll deal with a different staffer for fittings.

Bridal Headpieces and Accessories

Now that you've chosen your bridal gown, it's time to put the icing on the cake!

Shopping for a headpiece, veil and other accessories gives you a chance to put your personal stamp on your wedding day appearance. Keep in mind that your personality can most come through with accessories that complement, not exactly match, your gown.

The following information on headpieces, veils and other accessories can help you appear exactly as you want on your wedding day.

Headpieces: When you meet with your hairstylist for your wedding hair consultation, the two of you can determine what hairstyle suits your face shape: updo, loose and flowing, or somewhere in between. Then you can consider what headpiece would best complement your gown and your hairstyle. Here are a few of the most popular:

- A bunwrap is a decorative circular band that gets wrapped around a chignon or updo. Bunwraps look best with traditional, simple gowns.

- A crown is a full, high circular piece that circles a bun or updo and is adorned with gems or beads. If your dress has some embellishment, a crown can tie the look together.

- A headband is a half-circle band of either plain fabric or fabric embellished with gems and beads. Headbands also are available in styles that have a wider middle, and tapered ends.

- A tiara is a jeweled or beaded semi-circle that sits on top of the head and can give a bride a regal look.

- A wreath may be a good match for a flowing ethereal gown. It features a full circle of flowers and ribbon that rests on the crown of the head. A wreath looks best with a loose, flowing hairstyle.

Veils: A veil, once a must-have for all weddings, is now more of an optional accessory. Whether or not you want to wear a veil depends on your personality, the style of gown you are wearing and the overall feel of your wedding. Veils are seen most often at more formal, elegant weddings.

When you're considering veils, first look in the mirror. The shape of your face - whether soft and curved or more angular - will help determine what kind of veil you should have.

- A round-faced bride should consider a veil that falls along the sides of the face, helping it to appear more narrow. This effect is further complemented by hair worn down in loose curls or a bob.

- A square jawline can be softened by a longer veil and loose tendrils surrounding the face.

- An oblong face - or longer oval - looks good with a veil that adds width. A "waterfall" veil paired with a simple updo and elegant headpiece looks wonderful. However, stay away from high-piled hairstyles that accentuate the face length.

- For a heart-shaped or triangular face, consider a veil that attaches behind the neckline - best with a chignon.

- A bride with a diamond or oval face has limitless options, since those shapes are symmetrical.

Accessories: There are more accessories that you can use to further personalize your wedding day look.

- A shawl or wrap can accentuate your dress and keep you warm.

- Your shoes, no matter what style you choose, should be comfortable.

- Gloves can add that extra touch of elegance to any gown.

- Your engagement ring and wedding band(s) will be slipped on your finger during the ceremony.

- A necklace can accentuate certain necklines.

- Earrings should be ornate with a simple gown, or simple when worn with an embellished gown or other extravagant jewelry.

- Bracelets can add subtle sparkle but shouldn't take away from your rings.

- A watch is only appropriate if it has sentimental value.

Little Tykes - Ringbearer Fashion

Little boys can be hard to keep up with, especially at a wedding. It is often said that no one has a better time at the reception than the ringbearer. With adorable antics, he could steal the show. And he should be wearing attire that is scene-stealing appropriate.

The ringbearer can wear the same style attire as the groomsmen if a tuxedo is available in children's sizes. They reflect a 'younger version' of the groom.

If you don't want to put the little guy in a tuxedo, for a fall or winter wedding, he can wear a satin or velvet suit in a color that complements the bridesmaids' gowns. In spring and summer, consider a seersucker or sailor suit.

Whatever your ringbearer wears, make sure that the outfit fits him and that he is comfortable. You don't want his tuxedo jacket to mysteriously disappear, never to be seen again. Or find he has decided to strip off the offending clothing article during the ceremony - now that's a scene stealer!

Bridesmaid Beauty - Picking the Perfect Gowns

Everyone has heard the dreaded stories about all the ugly bridesmaids' dresses sitting in the back of women's closets. Not only are they never to be worn again, but they also cost an exorbitant amount of money.

To help ensure that your name will not be added to the list of "good friend, bad bride," there are many factors to take into account when selecting bridesmaids' gowns:

- Decide how you want the bridesmaid dresses to complement your bridal gown. If the bridal gown is simple, you don't want to select ornate bridesmaids' gowns.

- Consider the complexions and hair colors of your bridesmaids before choosing a color. Choose colors you think will look good on all of your bridesmaids.

- Choose a style that flatters the different sizes and shapes of your bridesmaids. Sure, that strapless tube dress may look wonderful on the model in your wedding magazine. But if you were a bridesmaid, would you feel comfortable in it? Keep in mind that simple, elegant styles can make all your bridesmaids happy.

- Ask your maid or matron of honor to be in charge of helping the other bridesmaids with their gowns.

- Keep cost in the front of your mind. You shouldn't ask your bridesmaids to pay more than $100 to $300 for the entire ensemble.

- Take your honor attendant and/or some other bridesmaids with you to look. You may get some insight into what they're looking for when you see the styles they gravitate toward.

Marriage Makeup

When thinking about the makeup you'll wear on your wedding day, there are many factors to take into account.

Do-It-Yourself or Hire an Expert? For some women, picking out and applying makeup comes naturally. For others it can be a challenge.

If you have a steady hand and a good eye for makeup trends and colors, hit the cosmetic counters yourself. There should be salespeople on hand who can give you tips on colors and application.

If the thought of visiting a makeup counter alone and then applying the makeup that will be seen by all your guests and in photographs makes you nervous, consider hiring a makeup artist. But first, do your research.

Ask your hairstylist or someone else at the salon that you frequent if they have any suggestions. Then schedule a consultation.

During the consultation, show your makeup artist a Polaroid of your dress, headpiece and veil. Discuss what you think you may be doing with your hair. Then see if he or she suggests suitable makeup.

Deciding What to Emphasize: The feature you decide to emphasize depends upon the facial feature you think is most flattering and the style of your wedding. When you emphasize one feature, the rest of your makeup must be toned down.

For instance, don't combine strong cheeks, eyes and lips. You want to look like a better version of yourself, not someone that wears too much makeup.

- Emphasize your cheeks if you have high cheekbones and good "apples." A look with flushed cheeks could complement a flowing, airy gown and an outdoor wedding. Make sure you apply with a light hand, though. You don't want it to look like you have two red dots.

- Emphasize your eyes if you want a more modern look. Kohl-rimmed eyes are still fashionable but it can be a hard look to pull off on your own. Go to either a makeup consultant at a cosmetic counter or consult a makeup artist on how to layer pearly gray, charcoal and black shadow and liner to create dramatic eyes.

- Strong red lips are very fashionable if your look is traditional, like that of a 1950's bride. Try to find the right shade of red for you. There are many varieties - blue-based reds, pinkish reds, orange reds and brown reds - to pick from these days. Learn to layer lip products properly for maximum staying power and minimum feathering. Again, consult a makeup expert or makeup artist on how to pull off this look.

Pulling Off the Natural Look: If you don't often wear makeup, the natural look may be best for you. That doesn't mean going without makeup.

It does mean that your makeup is applied with a soft touch and a subtle hand. A slight flush to your cheeks, some accentuation to draw attention to the eyes, lips that are just a shade darker than your natural color with lots of shine.

Keep in mind that for photographs and video footage, you will want slightly stronger makeup than you're used to for greater visibility.

Do a Test Run: Whatever style you select, whether you apply it yourself or have the help of a professional makeup artist, schedule a test run with your makeup. Apply it exactly as you plan to wear it on your wedding day, then take some snapshots. Analyze whether the makeup is too subtle, too dramatic or just right.

A perfect time for a makeup practice session is when you do the test run for your wedding hair - including your headpiece and veil. That way, you'll have a better idea of your complete look.

Newlywed Nails

Beautiful Hands and Feet for Your Wedding Day: It's known as the ring shot - when your photographer takes a shot of your hand with a bright, shiny wedding ring on your ring finger, lovingly grasping the hand of your husband. The last thing anyone wants to see in the ring shot are discolored, jagged nails and ragged cuticles.

Not good with manicure tools? Here are some tips on nails that will make any ring look that much better.

Shape: Your fingernail beds - the nail area from your cuticle to the whites - have a distinct shape. Are they long, short or in between? When considering what shape to file your nails, look to your nail bed to guide you.

Pointed oval tips are best for those with long nail beds. Squared tips best suit short nail beds. And softly rounded tips complement any bed shape.

When it comes to your toes, the nails should be cut straight across. Then shape only the big toe slightly with a file.

Length: You don't want any snags on your wedding day, do you? With all of the handshaking, hugging, bouquet holding and cake slicing, you want fingernails you can work with. Keep nails fairly short or medium length. That way, you'll have less chance of having one break.

Color: Against a white wedding dress, soft neutral colors look best. Consider blush pink, pearl or opal. A French manicure looks very elegant and is perfect for a wedding.

For your toes, you could match your fingernails. French manicures look charming on toes. Or you could have your "something blue" on your feet - a bright blue nail polish could be fun if you're daring.

Fake It: If you're a closet nail biter, have weak nails or nails that just don't hold polish no matter what you do, fake it.

Two weeks before your wedding, get a full set of acrylic nails. They can be any length or shape you prefer. They're very durable, and polish never chips off them. You may need a little while to get used to them, but acrylic nails consistently look great. This will be especially nice when you're on your honeymoon and still have beautiful nails.

If you're concerned about harming your natural nail, just have the acrylic nails removed when you return from the honeymoon. Great looking nails at your wedding and on your honeymoon are well worth the price and effort.

Parental Pride - Fashions for Mom and Dad

They raised you, they helped you. Now they're seeing you through to an important phase in your life - marriage.

Parents deserve to look as great as they feel. Parents' fashions have changed to reflect more modern styles.

Mothers: The mother of the bride and mother of the groom have all eyes on them as they walk down the aisle. And they'll be in more pictures than they've been in since their own wedding days. So why look matronly?

Bridal professionals agree that mothers of the bride and groom are looking modern and fashionable these days. They should begin their shopping once the bride has chosen her gown and the bridesmaids' dresses.

Traditionally, the mother of the bride sets the tone. The mothers shouldn't match each other, either. The mothers should consult with each other as to the style and color of their dresses.

The mothers' dresses should complement their personal style and coloring but shouldn't clash with - or exactly match - the wedding colors. The formality of their dresses should be in the same tone as the bridal party.

Fathers: Whether you're daddy's little girl or his big boy, the fathers want to look their best.

Fathers can purchase the same tuxedos as the groomsmen. However, if that look is too modern for them, they can wear a more traditional tuxedo. They can also tone down the color.

If colored vests are worn by the groomsmen, the fathers will best be suited in black or gray. And traditionally, the fathers' tuxedos match each other and the groomsmen in formality and style.

Pretty as a Petal - Flower Girl Fashion

When a little flower girl floats down the aisle at a wedding, she reminds the guests of what the bride must have been like as a child. And while you want her dress to match the overall scheme of the wedding, you don't want to choose anything that detracts from her girlish charm.

Pretty, feminine dresses continue to define the flower girl's image, as her dress traditionally is similar to the bridesmaids in color and style. Some brides prefer the flower girl's ensemble to resemble her own, using similar elements such as pearl beading or lace. It's not uncommon today to see flower girls mini veils to complement the bride's attire.

Another fashion trend is the inclusion of faux flower petals in the tulle overlay of the flower girls' skirt - as a subtle way to tie in the colors of the bride's floral bouquet.

The Mane Event

On your wedding, there are three words you do not want to hear - Bad Hair Day!

How can you prevent a coif nightmare just when you want your hair to look the best? Preparation!

After you purchase your wedding gown, you should have an idea of which way you want to wear your hair.

Your hair style should compliment the style of your gown. And it has to work with the head piece and veil (if applicable) you've chosen. Look in magazines for hairstyles that appeal to you and start a file to show a stylist.

Approximately six months before your wedding, consult with a hairstylist to figure out what you need to do now to get the hair you want for your wedding. That may mean growing a short style out, straightening, coloring or cutting. This is your last chance to make any drastic hair changes - anything you do now must be repairable by your wedding date if you don't like it.

Three to four months before your wedding, pull out your "hairstyle file" and a Polaroid of your dress and head piece.

Ask your hairstylist to start thinking about what styles he or she thinks would complement your gown, head piece and face shape - based on the preferences you've given. At this time, you should also set up all the appointments you'll need from that day until the wedding day.

Don't forget to schedule an appointment for the rehearsal dinner day, if you'd like to have a special hairstyle for that occasion.

About six weeks before your wedding, do a trial run of your wedding day hair, complete with your headpiece and veil. If you don't like what you see, your hairstylist will have plenty of time to go back to the drawing board to come up with a style that better suits you. While you have your hair done and headpiece and veil in place, it is a good time to do a test-run with your makeup as well. Either do it yourself or consult a makeup artist. Be careful not to get any of the cosmetics on your wedding day gear.

Two weeks before your wedding get a final haircut or trim to clean up any dull, split ends you may have. Remind your groom to get a final trim as well. This is also an ideal time for a final trail run. Make sure your hair looks the way you always dreamed it would. You still have time to come up with something different if you're not happy. Don't settle for a hairstyle you don't love.

One to two days before the wedding go in for your rehearsal hair appointment. If your wedding day hair is more formal, try something fun and trendy for the rehearsal and rehearsal dinner. If your wedding hair is loose and romantic, try something sleek and modern. While your hair is being done, take time to go over all your wedding hair details to be certain you have everything organized and ready to go for your big day.

On your wedding day, after eating a healthy breakfast, wash your hair and thoroughly dry it. You may even want to put your hair in hot rollers before you go in for your appointment to save some time (hot rollers should create body, not tight curls - consult with your stylist). Make sure to wear a low-collared robe or button-front shirt so you won't ruin your hair changing into your dress.

Once you get to your salon, sit back in the chair and enjoy these few peaceful moments.