bubble & lo

I met Virginia Meyers and Laura Nadeau of Bubble & Lo at The Wedding Party event this January when they were on hand to answer questions and demo their sparkling talent. I was so impressed with their work, I asked Laura to share some insider advise with Perfect Bound readers. For more tips and treats, check out the website where you can also enter to win a free makeup lesson valued at$275! That's a lot of sparkle ladies.

The Down-Lo on Getting Ready
Getting ready can be half the fun of your wedding or a big night out. Whether you get ready with one friend or a suite filled with bridesmaids and family members, here are some things to keep in mind.

Set the Mood
Don't forget music. You'd be surprised by how many nice hotels only have a crappy clock radio, so check ahead of time. Music can help you relax or help to get the party started. Ask for a room with good natural lighting, it will be much better for hair, makeup and photography.

Snacks
Plan for food that will give you energy on your long day. Bite size, easy to eat food is great when you are beautifying. A mimosa or two can be fine as long as you match each drink with a glass of water. It easy to become dehydrated during the stress of your wedding day.

Timing
Don't underestimate the time it takes to get ready. To ease your stress, create a schedule for the day. Decide what time you want to walk out the door and count back from that. I recommend allowing at least 30 minutes to get dressed. Have your accessories organized, your shoes broken in and padded (if necessary) and your bag ready to go and your veil or wrap wrinkle free. Your bag should include a pressed powder to keep your t-zone matte and your lip color.

Must-Haves
Sunglasses (think white or a pair that will complement your look) breath mints, double-sided tape, scissors, pressed powder, shoe pads, tissue, body lotion, SHOUT wipes, deodorant, safety pins, medications, list of vendor phone numbers, and payment for vendors in envelopes and ready to go.

Bridesmaids
Ask bridesmaids to bring a choice of lip colors if you have an artist doing their makeup. They may have their makeup done, but they need to have something to touch up with. Confirm timing with them and if they are notoriously late, pad the timing a little. Have bridesmaids get dressed before the bride – takes a while for a group of woman to get dressed and then they will be ready to help the bride dress and get out the door on time.

Most Important!
SMILE, SMILE, SMILE, and laugh. Everywhere you turn there will be a camera and everyone (I mean everyone) looks beautiful when they are smiling and laughing. Also, smiling and laughing will relax you.

Photo credits: Laura applying makeup, Lauren Slusher and close up of bride, Angelica Glass.