The do's and don'ts of a wedding tan
It’s one of the biggest, most beautiful days of your life, and you want everything to be perfect. Here are my do’s and don’ts for your wedding tan. Make sure to read my FAQ too.
Do: book a trial
Trials are required for all first-time bridal clients. Just like your hair and makeup, your tan deserves a trial, and unlike makeup, tan doesn’t simply rinse off, so it’s important you’re happy before the big day.
A trial is effectively two separate sessions. Book it at least 2 weeks before your wedding, ideally much earlier. All tan must be fully removed before your next appointment so the application is even. My books open 50 days in advance, but once you’ve completed a trial I can book your wedding tan personally, even outside that window. I book out every wedding season, so plan ahead.
If you’re a new client and come in for your wedding tan without a trial, I won’t be able to spray you.
Do: book 2 days before
This gives your tan time to reach full glow mode. Tan starts developing straight away but can keep developing for 24–48 hours.
Do: your research
Not all artists are the same, and the beauty industry isn’t regulated in Canada. Look at Google reviews and word of mouth, and find someone who specialises in tanning and is trained in colour theory.
Do: follow your prep
I send full prep instructions with every booking. A few simple steps make sure your skin is in the best condition to absorb the tan evenly. A spray tan relies on you as much as on me.
Don’t: skip your aftercare
Once your tan is on, it’s up to you to keep it perfect for the big day. Follow the aftercare advice I give you.
Don’t: get sunburnt within 6 weeks
I can’t spray over sun-damaged skin. Even if it looks healed, the tan will peel off with the damaged skin, and you won’t be able to conceal it. If you arrive sunburnt you’ll need to reschedule and will still be charged. Spray, don’t lay, and wear broad-spectrum SPF every day.
Which service should I book?
As a bridal tan specialist, I created The Bridal for weddings, bachelorettes and bridal showers: a custom-mixed tan for your skin tone, mini contouring on the arms, collarbones and back, finished with a hydrating mist infused with aloe vera to extend your tan. The Hydra is also very popular.
Will it rub off on my dress?
Absolutely not. There are lots of tans to choose from, including a clear tan, and we’ll go through your options at your trial.
Timing around other treatments
Manicures, pedicures, waxing, tinting, facials, lashes, Botox and similar treatments should be done at least 24 hours before your spray tan.
Can you cover my tan lines?
The harsher the line, the harder it is to cover. Tan isn’t camouflage makeup; it tints the skin. If you want to soften more noticeable lines, book The Spray + Contour for your trial: it’s a longer, specialised appointment where I use a contouring pen on the lighter areas first.
See my wedding portfolio in my Instagram highlights.
