A loving same-sex couple at sunset on their wedding day by JoLynn Photography

Wedding Spray Tans

A Guide to Preparing for Wedding Day Spray Tans for Natural Wedding Images

Your wedding day is one of the most important and memorable days of your life. As a wedding photographer specializing in capturing timeless and natural outdoor wedding images, I understand the significance of details that contribute to the overall aesthetic of your special day. One aspect that can significantly enhance your bridal look is a spray tan. However, achieving a natural, radiant glow on your wedding day requires some preparation and careful consideration. In this guide, we’ll explore how to prepare for wedding spray tans to ensure that your wedding images are timeless and natural, and not orange or a color that does not match your skin tone.

Hi, I am Coby the owner of JoLynn Photography, a wedding photographer in Raleigh. Delivering natural and true-to-color wedding images to couples is my top priority, and glowing radiant skin is an important detail to consider while planning the details of your wedding.

1. Plan Ahead

The key to a flawless wedding day spray tan is planning well in advance. Don’t leave this crucial step to the last minute. Start thinking about your tan at least a month before the wedding. This timeline allows for trial tans, adjustments, and any necessary fixes. Wedding spray tans are for all skin types and colors and can be utilized by both the bride and groom.

2. Research and Choose a Reputable Tanning Salon

Not all tanning salons are created equal. Take your time to research local salons and read reviews to find one that specializes in bridal spray tans. They will be more experienced in providing the natural, even, and long-lasting results you desire. Many locations offer all-in-one spray machine options in limited colors, which can affect the final outcome of your tan. While an all-in-one approach may work for everyday situations, the final outcome of your tan will carry more weight on your wedding day, and it is an important factor to remember when picking tanning salons. Learn about customizable spray tan salons that will create the perfect bridal glow in the Triad here.

3. Scheduling

A trial spray tan is essential to gauge the results and determine the right shade for your skin tone. Schedule this appointment a few weeks before your wedding. During the trial, discuss your wedding day plans, including your wedding gown, makeup, and hairstyle, with the technician. This information will help them recommend the perfect shade and contouring techniques to enhance your overall look.

For the big day, schedule your final spray tan 2-3 days before your wedding date to allow time for the tan to fully develop, as most spray tan solutions will take 24-48 hours to develop. Discuss the specifics of your spray tan solution with your salon to understand the best course of action. It is not recommended to get a spray tan the day of your wedding.

4. Exfoliate and Moisturize

For a spray tan to look its best, your skin should be smooth and well-hydrated. In the weeks leading up to your wedding, exfoliate your skin to remove dead cells. Use a gentle scrub or exfoliating glove to ensure an even tan. Moisturize your skin regularly, especially in the days leading up to your spray tan appointment. Well-hydrated skin will absorb the tanning solution more evenly, helping you achieve a natural and radiant glow.

5. Hair Removal and Nails

If you plan to wax, shave, or get any other hair removal treatments, do so at least 24 hours before your spray tan appointment. This will allow your pores to close and minimize the risk of irritation or uneven tanning in the areas of treatment.

Don’t forget about your nails. Chipped or peeling nail polish can distract from your overall look, but so can orange fingers or nail color. To ensure the spray tan color does not affect your fingernail polish color, complete your spray tan before your nails are completed. Please keep in mind that your wedding photographer will obtain very close detailed shots of you and your partner’s hands, along with your wedding rings in your wedding images. It is important to listen to the recommended guidelines from the tanning salon regarding how to avoid getting orange hands after a spray tan.

Apply baby oil if you need to fix a dark area. Leave it on for 10 minutes to allow the exfoliation to be more effective. Then, scrub the dark part, then buff out the skin with a hot damp washcloth.

6. Aftercare

Apply your favorite moisturizer throughout your tanning process and the day of the wedding to ensure proper hydration on your skin. It is not recommended to use a moisturizer that contains self-tanner or a bronzing agent. If you desire extra glow the day of your wedding, be sure to consult your professional hair and makeup artist instead of adding self-tanner yourself.

A loving couple kissing at sunset on their wedding day who invested in a wedding spray tan

Wedding Spray Tans | What to Avoid

Now that you know what to do, it’s time to understand what mistakes you absolutely don’t want to make below.

Don’t Skip Trials

Whether you’re a spray tan veteran or giving it a try for the first time, a pre-wedding trial is an absolute must. It is important to invest in a spray tan artist who specializes in bridal and wedding spray tan services and understands the specifics of wedding day spray tans, as it is very important when it comes to natural wedding images.

Don’t Settle for the Wrong Shade

You never need to go with just one flat shade. Ask your spray-tan salon if they can customize the color by mixing light and dark solutions for your desired glow. Most spray-tan artists can contour and add more color where your body needs it. By using additional shades, your skin will have more depth and definition.

Don’t DIY Your Wedding Spray Tan

Your wedding day deserves professional services. Professional services or lack thereof will show in your wedding images, and important to keep this in mind while planning the details of your wedding.

Don’t Exfoliate or Use Harsh Products After the Tan Is Applied

To maintain your glow, avoid exfoliating and using any harsh soaps, shampoos, or conditioners. Instead, reach for a soft washcloth and sulfate-free products that will be gentler on your skin. Keeping your skin moisturized after will be key. An oil-free, paraben-free, and fragrance-free moisturizer formulated with ingredients like cocoa butter will keep your skin moisturized to ensure glowing and natural skin for timeless wedding images.