Mother-of-the-Bride Essentials: everything you need for the big day!

Mother-of-the-Bride Essentials: beauty prep tips

Get Ready in Advance...

These beauty essentials will help you prep and pamper yourself so you are looking and feeling your absolute best on the big day!

• Sunless Tanner: Achieve a sun-kissed glow without the harmful UV rays. St. Tropez Self Tan Express mousse is a great option. Apply this global best-seller a few days before the wedding. Remember to exfoliate first for an even application!

• Teeth Whitening: A bright smile is essential for all those photos. Use a teeth whitening kit like Crest 3D Whitestrips a few weeks before the wedding for pearly whites.

• Toning Body Lotion: While there’s no magic cure for cellulite, Allure Best of Beauty winner, Sol de Janeiro Brazilian Bum Bum Cream, can help improve skin texture. Apply it daily to problem areas to see a subtle difference over time.

• Backne Prevention: Prevent back acne by using a gentle exfoliating scrub and a salicylic acid body wash. Follow up with an oil-free moisturizer to keep your skin clear and smooth. I like ClearProof Oil-Free Moisturizer for Acne Prone Skin.

• Decolletage Care: your chest and neck need special attention! Try a Decollette Pad by Silc Skin - a reusable self-adhesive overnight chest patch made with silicone that adds moisture

• Hydrating Face Mask: Keep your skin glowing with a hydrating face mask. The Timewise Repair Lifting Bio-Cellulose Mask is excellent for a quick hydration boost before the big day.

• Foot Cream: Pamper your feet with a rich, hydrating foot cream like O'Keeffe's Healthy Feet Cream. It contains shea butter and allantoin to soften and smooth your skin. Start using it a few weeks before the wedding to ensure your feet are sandal-ready.

The day before the wedding, consider having a mani & pedi so you have some time to relax while making sure you'll look your very best!

Hair and Makeup...

Find photos of hair styles and makeup that you like. If possible, have your stylist practice on your hair ahead of time. However, if you are having someone new style your hair that day, be sure to bring the pics along and be very specific about what you do and do not like! Same things goes for your makeup. If you will be applying your own makeup, try a few looks in advance until you find something you love. And if you are having a makeup artist apply your cosmetics, consider bringing some of your favorite products along with photos of application ideas so you know you'll love what you see when she's done.

BTW... did you know that I am a beauty consultant as well as a blogger? If you. need any suggestions for your makeup or skincare, message me at [email protected].

Packing Essentials for the Mother-of-the-Bride

These are some of my suggestions for important items to have on hand for the wedding day itself. My daughter's wedding is a destination wedding in Wyoming taking place over four days so I've included a few things that I'm bringing with me for the activities leading up to the big day as well.

• Supportive Undergarments: A well-fitted bra and shapewear can make all the difference in how your dress fits and feels. Opt for something comfortable yet supportive to enhance your silhouette without compromising comfort. HoneyLove has lots of amazing options!

• Comfortable but Flattering Shoes: You’ll be on your feet a lot, so choose shoes that are both stylish and comfortable. Consider low heels or dressy flats that you can dance in all night. I went with a pair of wedges by Corky's Footwear with some "bling".

• Appropriate Jewelry: Less is more. Select a few elegant pieces that complement your outfit without overwhelming it. A pair of statement earrings or a delicate necklace can add the perfect finishing touch.

For Exploring the Destination

• Walking Shoes: A good pair of walking shoes is essential for exploring the wedding destination. Look for shoes with good arch support and cushioning to keep your feet happy during sightseeing. My favorite brands are Naot and Alegria.

• Hiking Apparel: If the destination offers hiking opportunities, pack lightweight and breathable hiking gear. Moisture-wicking fabrics and a comfortable hat are must-haves for outdoor activities. I love shopping at Lands End for these types of things!

• Belt-Bag: The trendy way of saying "fanny pack", the belt-bag is very popular with young people for good reason! It's a convenient and comfortable way to carry essentials like ID and cash. My fave is from LuluLemon.

Important Extras

Wrap Up

Being the mother-of-the-bride is a beautiful and memorable experience. With a bit of preparation and the right essentials, you'll not only look stunning but also feel confident and comfortable throughout the wedding festivities. Enjoy every moment of this special time, from the pre-wedding events to the magical day itself. And if you have more essentials to suggest to this Mother-of-the-Bride, let me know in the comments!