Feeling your best should go beyond just your wedding day. We spoke to three experts who gave us the inside scoop on how a little TLC and self-care can help brides and grooms feel their most confident selves on their honeymoon.
BY LUCY MAZZUCCO
While most brides and grooms get wrapped up in wanting to look their best in time for the wedding, the stress of planning can often take a toll on how they feel about themselves after the big day. It’s important to remember that wedding self-care should continue prior to the honeymoon so newlyweds can not only enjoy their getaways, but also begin their new chapters feeling their best, both inside and out.
Staying centred
When it comes to feeling your best, prioritizing mental and physical health is key. “Proper nutrition and movement aren’t just about looking good; they’re a crucial part of staying calm and clear-headed when everything around you feels like a whirlwind,” says Heather Lillico, wellness expert and founder of mental health app, Cultivating Calm. “Fuelling yourself with evidence-based nutrients that provide your body with the building blocks for calm, and moving your body in a way that soothes your nervous system, are two ways to help you stay grounded so you can enjoy this special season.
Brides don’t need more pressure; they need support systems that help them stay grounded and balanced.” Cultivating Calm works by combining meditation, movement and nutrition into a 30-minute daily practice to help slow down racing thoughts and reset the nervous system.
“It’ll help you quiet your overthinking brain, feel more grounded and get you back to feeling like yourself, so you can be genuinely excited for what’s ahead,” she says. “The app helps brides break that cycle by offering two simple things: calming movements that regulate the nervous system, like yoga or stretching classes, and anti-anxiety recipes that support brain health.
No calorie obsessions, no 90-minute bootcamps; just consistent, realistic habits that lower stress hormones and support moods to help brides feel more energized while avoiding extremes.”
Mani magic
“Exploring playful nail colours or art for a honeymoon manicure offers brides a delightful way to express their personality and commemorate their wedding journey,” says Rebecca Costanzo, manager of brand development and education of Bio Sculpture Canada Inc.
“Drawing inspiration from wedding elements, such as incorporating the ceremony’s accent colour or motifs from the bouquet, lace or table settings, can create a cohesive and personalized look. This creative approach allows brides to carry a piece of their special day into their honeymoon, adding a touch of joy and individuality to their overall experience.”
“Proper nutrition and movement aren’t just about looking good; they’re a crucial part of staying calm and clear-headed when everything around you feels like a whirlwind.”
Costanzo also says that a honeymoon can present the perfect opportunity for brides to step outside their usual style and experiment with bolder nail choices. “Opting for vibrant colours or intricate designs can enhance the vacation experience, adding an element of fun and adventure,” she says. “This temporary shift not only complements the celebratory mood but may also inspire brides to embrace more diverse styles in the future, boosting confidence and self-expression.”
Feel empowered
“Consistency is everything. Scars and stretch marks are complex and involve changes at multiple layers of the skin. Supporting your skin barrier daily and nourishing it with the right biochemical tools gives your skin the best chance to heal and renew itself naturally,” says Dr. Cole. “For the face, I recommend layering a peptide-rich serum daily. On the body, a combination of hydration, barrier support and firming actives is key.”
Dr. Cole cautions against using harsh surfactants and over-exfoliation, and recommends ingredients such as Damask Rose Extract, Hexapeptide-9, and Caprooyl Tetrapeptide-3, which can be found in products from Cole, her eponymous skincare line.
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