Let’s be honest: wedding planning comes with a lot of timelines. But in between venue visits, seating charts, and dress fittings, there’s one schedule that deserves just as much attention—your beauty prep. That means knowing what to book, when to book it, and how to build a routine that enhances your natural glow without overwhelming your final look. This streamlined beauty timeline is sleek, practical, and perfectly paced. From subtle skincare prep to polished hair and makeup planning, consider this your curated countdown to “I do”—broken down by what to book 12, 6, and 1 month before the big day.
12 Months Before
Skincare & Wellness
Your skin will need some time to respond to any new products or treatments, especially if you're addressing concerns like acne, dryness, or skin texture. Starting 12 months out gives you space to consult a dermatologist, create a personalized skincare routine, and see results gradually. If you're taking a more holistic approach, now is also the time to build healthy habits around hydration, sleep, and nutrition that support your glow from inside. Also a perfect time to begin or adjust you fitness routines if desired.
Haircare & Color
Hair grows and changes slowly, so it's wise to start your haircare strategy early. Whether you're looking to grow your hair longer, repair damage or try a new color, giving yourself a year will allow you to make trims, treatments and adjustments without the stress. It's also the perfect time to build a relationship with your hairstylist and work out your perfect color plan before the big day.
Hair & Makeup Research
Booking top makeup and hair artists often means competing with others for limited availability, so the earlier you start looking, the better. Take your time to gather inspiration, read reviews and follow portfolios that match your style – especially if you're going for a clean, modern bridal look. Starting early will also give you the flexibility to schedule trials and make changes without the pressure or limitations.
Alexandra Tshiteya, Anya Holdstock
6 Months Before
Hair & Makeup Artists
By 6 months out, you should have your dream beauty team secured – both your makeup artist and hairstylist. Booking early ensures you’re not competing for availability, especially during peak wedding season. Now is also the perfect time to schedule your first trial, where you can explore looks that align with your personal style. Giving yourself this much time allows for thoughtful adjustments and helps your artists fully understand your vision well before the big day.
Tatyana Kochnova, Maria Shevchenko
Teeth Whitening
If you are considering professional teeth whitening, the ideal time to start is 6 months. This ensures long-lasting results and allows for multiple sessions if needed – especially for sensitivity-safe options. Starting well in advance will help you avoid last-minute procedures that can cause discomfort just before your big day.
Brow & Lash Treatments
Your brows and lashes have a subtle yet powerful impact on your overall look, framing your face and enhancing your natural features. Starting 6 months in advance gives you the opportunity to gradually shape, tint, or grow them out with intention. Whether you're restoring over-plucked brows, testing out lash treatments, or exploring tinting options, this timeline allows for safe experimentation. Regular appointments with a trusted professional will also help maintain a soft, polished look that elevates your natural bridal beauty without ever feeling overdone.
The Beauty Kollective, Labay Viktoria
1 Month Before
Hair & Makeup Trial
One month before the wedding is the perfect time for your final hair and makeup trial. By now you've refined your vision, confirmed your dress and can see the whole picture coming together. This trial is your opportunity to finalize every detail – from lip color to hairstyle – to ensure your look feels cohesive and effortless. It also gives your artists a chance to adjust any products or techniques so that everything wears comfortably and beautifully on the day.
Sasha Nesterova, Matilda Nailshop
Manicure & Pedicure
While your final manicure appointment should be closer to your wedding day, a month before is a good time to decide on the shape, color and style of your nails. Having a trial manicure or pedicure now will help you see what will look good and complement your dress, bouquet and ring. This is also a good time to book your favorite nail artist for your pre-wedding appointments so you don't have to stress out about availability later.
Final Touch-Ups
This is the time to schedule any final trims, color refreshes or teeth whitening appointments. Avoid any drastic changes – this is a time to refine, not reinvent. A gentle facial, a touch-up wax or even brow adjustments should be done by trusted professionals you've worked with before. These subtle touches will ensure you look polished and photogenic, while still feeling like the most authentic version of yourself.
