We don’t have to tell you that your wedding day is one of the most important days of your life. You have spent a lot of time, energy, sleepless night and money. But, how much time have you really thought about yourself: taking care of yourself and making sure that you enjoy your day as much as those who attend your wedding? Relax, have fun and enjoy yourself. You have planned for this day. Your happiness will show in your pictures. You are the number one priority. We have made a little list (yet, another list!) that will help you take care of yourself. 1. Try to stay away from the sun or tanning beds for a week before the wedding. The first reason is that sunburn hurts! The second is, of course, the quality of your pictures will be better. 2. Create a “Stress Relief” Kit There will be times when you need small items that simply are nowhere to be found. Accidents happen and little things go wrong. Take the stress off yourself by collecting little helpers and putting them in a bag: A small sewing kit, extra safety pins (every bride needs safety pins), clear nail polish, aspirin, tissues, hand lotion, tampons, band-aids, baby wipes, mints, an ink pen or pencil, a small notebook, a few power snacks and lastly, a deck of playing cards. 3. Make your own CD Take the time to make a CD of all your favorite songs. You will be surprised how soothing even hip-hop can be if it makes you happy. 4. Remember to eat! This is so important. You will be moving from the moment you open your eyes. One thing will flow into another and before you know it, the reception will be over and you will realize that you haven’t eaten all day. 5. Practice, practice and more practice Practice walking in those gorgeous strappy shoes that you spent so much money on. You may be able to get through the entire reception in them, but odds are good that your feet will be asking for a time-out earlier than you had planned. You might consider purchasing a comfortable and cute pair of shoes to slip into after all the photos are finished and you can begin kicking up your heels. 6. Create a “Touch Up” bag This is an important accessory. Fill this bag with touch-up makeup. You will need: lipstick, blush, powder, mascara, rice or blotting paper and any makeup must-haves. Also, you might add a bottle of eye drops. Those will help clear red eyes after crying. Designate someone in the wedding party as the “Keeper of the Bag”. They can stash it under the table until you need it. 7. Write it down and pass it out! Keeping track of time is important on your day. Appoint someone as your official timekeeper. This will allow you to enjoy your day while not worrying about schedules. 8. Makeup tips Wear waterproof mascara Outline your lips with a lip pencil before applying lipstick After applying lipstick insert your index finger into your mouth, close your mouth around it and slide your finger back out. This may sound silly, but it will insure that no lipstick will stick to your teeth. Blend, blend and blend! Make sure that your foundation is properly blended and that any and all makeup lines are blended together well. 9. Wear a button down shirt or halter top while doing your makeup and having your hair done. Remember, this shirt will be in all of the “getting ready” photos. So choose something that you like to look at. The shirt will also be easier to remove without touching your face or hair when it is time to put on that beautiful gown. 10. Keep a clean, plastic grocery bag or towel close by You will need these to make sure your hair and makeup survive while putting on your dress. 11. Finally, have fun! Enjoy every minute of your day. And don’t forget to smile :)