The do's and don'ts of getting a bridal spray tan

By now, we've all heard that the sun isn't something that we should expose ourselves to constantly.  Getting a fake tan via a tanning bed is a one way ticket to leathery skin, so what's a bride to do when she wants that perfect glow for her wedding?  Getting a spray tan at a salon can be the perfect way to get a sun kissed glow.  Here are the do's and don'ts of getting a bridal spray tan. 1.  Do Research local salons before going in.   Look through their instagram photos to see if their tans look natural.  Photos are a good way to judge someone's work.  If they have a sloppy instagram, they may not be your best bet for a perfectly applied tan.2.  Don't get a spray tan without exfoliating your skin properly.  Our skin is constantly shedding, and if you spray tan without a thorough exfoliation you won't have even or long lasting results.  I exfoliate the morning of my spray tan.3.  Do apply unscented oil free lotion daily after having a spray tan.  Dry skin is the enemy of a long lasting spray tan.  Using lotion daily (and after each shower) will prolong the life of your tan, and avoid an awkward spray tan exodus.4.  Don't plan to get a tan before your wedding without also planning a trial.  You may need to work out some details to get your tan just the way that you like it.  The person doing your tan will be much more relaxed if you've given them time to get your tan just the way you like it.5.  Do get your tan two days before your wedding so you don't have to worry about it rubbing off on your dress.  If you must, you can get your tan the day before you're married.  Be careful to get any excess bronzing solution off of your underarms, shoulders and chest...anywhere that could easily rub off or bleed through your dress.6.  Don't schedule your manicure and pedicure for after your spray tan.  Any exfoliation they do could wreak havoc on your spray tan.  You can wear protective cream on your nails to be sure that they don't become discolored from the spray tan solution itself.7.  Do keep the solution on for a minimum of 8 hours before showering, getting wet, or working out.  I have found that if I can keep the tan on for 12 hours before showering it lasts even longer.8.  Don't wear anything too tight that will rub off your spray tan.  Normally if a bit is rubbed off here and there it isn't a big deal, but right before the wedding it is.  White marks where your spray tan has rubbed off will not look good as an accessory to your strapless wedding dress in your professional photos.9.  Do Shave and do your prep before your tan.  Every time you shave you are (sob) exfoliating off a little bit of your precious spray tan.  Get as much of your hair removal done before as you possible can.10.  Don't be afraid to try several tanning salons to determine which one is your favorite.  Give yourself the luxury of time to make sure that you find the perfect place for you.I hope these tips make planning your flawless tan for your wedding day so much easier for you.  The more glowing and perfect your tan, the better you'll look and feel on your big day.  Stay healthy and beautiful!  xoxo,   Megan