Wedding day nails: what to book, and how far ahead

Ring shots, hand-holding photos during the ceremony, the cake-cutting moment, your hands appear in more wedding photos than most people plan for, which makes nails a small detail worth actually scheduling rather than squeezing in the morning of.

Book a trial if you're doing anything beyond a classic manicure

Nail art, an unusual color, or a design with any complexity is worth testing a few weeks ahead, the same logic as a hair or makeup trial. A shade that looks good on a color chart can read differently under wedding photography lighting.

Gel or dip lasts through the whole day and honeymoon

A standard polish is more likely to chip during a long day of dancing, hugging, and handling flowers or a bouquet. Gel or dip manicures hold up better and, as a bonus, will still look fresh for the first days of the honeymoon.

Timing

Book the appointment for one to two days before the wedding, not the morning of, when you'll want that time for hair and makeup instead.