5 Common Mistakes Brides Make When Preparing for Their Wedding Day (And How to Avoid Them)

5 Common Mistakes Brides Make When Preparing for Their Wedding Day (And How to Avoid Them)

When it comes to your wedding day, every bride wants to look their absolute best — radiant, confident, and utterly themselves. But in the rush to try everything just because it’s your wedding, it's easy to fall into the trap of making changes that don’t actually reflect you.

At Arena Creative Hair, we believe your bridal look should be a polished version of who you truly are — not a character you barely recognise. So here are five of the most common mistakes we see brides make before their big day, along with advice to help you avoid them.

1. Trying Fake Tan for the First Time

Fake tan is often seen as a quick way to get that bridal glow — but if it’s not part of your usual routine, tread carefully.

Here’s why:

  • If the shade doesn’t match your undertone (whether you’re cool, warm, or neutral), it can look unnatural — or worse, make you appear older.

  • Many fake tans transfer onto your dress, especially in warm weather or when you're feeling nervous.

  • Patchiness can occur, particularly if you’re wearing a backless dress or something that exposes your shoulders.

Top Tip: A light glow is beautiful, but be mindful of tan lines from sunbathing or wearing different tops outdoors in the lead-up. If you're desperate for a little colour, a couple of sunbed sessions (used sparingly and responsibly) may feel more natural — but speak to a professional before making any decisions

2. Last-Minute Eyelash Experiments

Lash lifts, extensions, tints — we’ve heard all the questions.

If you've never had a lash treatment before, your wedding day is not the time to start experimenting.

  • Lash lifts can leave lashes looking uneven if your lashes aren’t suited to the treatment.

  • Individual lashes can irritate sensitive eyes, especially if you're emotional on the day.

  • Strip lashes applied by your stylist on the morning of your wedding are a much safer option — they look gorgeous and can be removed easily if needed.

Top Tip: Always chat with your hairdresser or makeup artist first before booking any lash appointments. We’re here to advise on what will enhance your features while still keeping things bridal and beautiful.

 

3. Skipping Colour Analysis Before Choosing Your Dress

This is a big one. So many brides choose their dress before understanding which shades truly suit them. And yes — white isn’t just white!

At Arena, we offer a Skin Tone & Seasonal Colour Analysis service, and it’s a game-changer.

  • We’ll determine whether you suit white, ivory, cream, peach , pink , or even gold toned shades.

  • This can influence not just your dress but also your make up , jewellery  bridesmaids colours  , and overall styling.

  • It’s also incredibly helpful when choosing hair colour and deciding on a makeup palette that enhances your natural beauty.

Top Tip: Book this service before you shop for your dress — ideally a year in advance. It takes the guesswork out of everything and helps you shine with confidence from every angle.

4. Neglecting Diet and Hydration

Your skin is a direct reflection of what’s happening on the inside.

In the months leading up to your wedding, consider cutting back on processed foods and increasing your intake of:

  • Fresh fruit and veg

  • Plenty of water

This isn’t about weight loss. It’s about feeling vibrant and energised. Clean eating can dramatically improve your complexion and help reduce stress-related breakouts.

Top Tip: Try adding gentle exercise, yoga or meditation into your weekly routine. Wedding planning can be full-on, and this kind of self-care will not only help you look great — it’ll keep your stress levels in check too.

5. Skipping a Wedding Hair & Makeup Trial

You wouldn’t wear your wedding dress for the first time on the morning of your big day — so why do the same with your hair and makeup?

Your trial is essential for:

  • Checking your stylist understands your vision

  • Testing how long products last

  • Making tweaks to your look (such as trying a softer curl, adjusting your parting, or switching lip colours)

Top Tip: Treat your trial like a full rehearsal. Wear white or light-coloured clothing, take photos in daylight, and check how the look wears throughout the day. Give honest feedback so your stylist can adjust accordingly — we’re not offended; we’re aiming for perfection!

Ready to Start Planning Your Bridal Look?

 At Arena Creative Hair, we’re all about creating a look that’s uniquely you. If you’re curious about how to prepare your bridal hair and makeup, explore our wedding services, colour analysis, and styling guides.

👉 Visit our Wedding Services Page
📩 Complete our Bridal Enquiry Form to start your journey
📖 Or read our blogs:

Let’s create your dream bridal look — with no surprises, no regrets, and plenty of magic.

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