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April 25, 2017

How I Saved More Than $1,600 on My Wedding: Invitations

My fiancé, Ryan, and I are planning a wedding in Healdsburg, California, in the heart of wine country. Like so many couples, we’re learning that planning a wedding means lots of shopping. Whether it’s paper for invitations or ties for your groomsmen, spending becomes second nature. So, as a bride with a budget she’d like to stick to, I’m obsessed with getting the best deals when I can. Thankfully, Ebates helped me save on so many wedding essentials, such as invitations, decor, attire — even our honeymoon. In this series of posts, you’ll get a chance to see exactly how much I was able to save and how.

The Knot 2016 Real Wedding Study puts the average cost of wedding invitations at $462. (Is it just me or do these numbers seem to be going up every year?) Ryan and I budgeted $400 for our save-the-dates and invitations. I’m happy to report that, thanks to the great deals we found at our favorite Ebates stores, we came in comfortably under budget and well below the national average.

In the end, we saved $124 on save-the-dates and invitations, which was about a third of what we had budgeted.

So how did we do it?

Save-the-Dates

Since Ryan and I live in the Bay Area, our wine-country wedding is not technically a destination wedding. But because so many of our family and friends are traveling from around the U.S. and the world to be there, we decided that sending out save-the-date cards was in order.

We decided to go with Etsy to find a great PDF — created by a talented designer — that we could simply customize and download to send to a separate printing service. We chose a vibrant watercolor design for our save-the-dates. This design from Etsy shop RoseGoldandCopper almost had a feeling of spilled wine, which was lovely and on-theme for us. Cost: $25

After ordering the save-the-dates, I decided to also order a self-ink stamp with our return address, to make labeling our envelopes much easier. Cost: $9.90

Etsy didn’t have any coupons at the time of our purchases, but we were able to take advantage of 1% Cash Back at Ebates. It’s a pretty small return, but I knew I was saving by doing a little DIY.

Savings:

Ebates Cash Back savings: $0.10

Total saved at Etsy: $0.10

Once our Etsy design was ready, we were able to easily download the PDF and upload it to Vistaprint. The process was simple and completely painless. Vistaprint has a foolproof ordering process for save-the-date postcards (and other add-on goodies, such as thank-you cards and save-the-date magnets). We ordered a set of 90 cards, which came with 90 free envelopes.

At the time I ordered, there was a 40% off coupon for invitations and announcements. After that deal, I also qualified for a site-wide $5 off coupon. These deals, which I was able to access instantly with the help of my browser’s Ebates Cash Back button, brought the printing cost down from $51.30 to $25.77. On top of that, I saved even more with 4% Cash Back at Ebates.

Savings:

Coupon savings: $25.53

Ebates Cash Back: $1.03

Total saved at Vistaprint: $26.56

The save-the-dates from Vistaprint turned out gorgeous — just as they looked in the store. Now, our task was to stamp the back of all the envelopes and then print all the addresses on the front. We were counting on a hand-me-down printer to do the job, which we dusted off — and realized required some fresh ink.

We jumped back online and found InkCartridges.com. Not only were we able to score an awesome deal on two new cartridges that outlasted our save-the-dates, but InkCartridges also delivered the ink to our door that day, which meant I didn’t have to take time to run yet another wedding errand. That was impressive.

I was able to access a 10% off coupon for the ink cartridges. Plus, I got an incredible 11% Cash Back at Ebates. Yay, more savings!

Savings:

Coupon savings: $3.20

Ebates Cash Back: $3.16

Total saved at InkCartridges.com: $6.36

Invitations

When it came time to send the actual wedding invitations, we decided to eliminate any possible stress. At this point in the planning process, we had a lot more on our plates, including two full-time jobs and an energetic puppy!

We went with an all-inclusive, fully customizable invite package through Wedding Paper Divas, and we loved it. With some incredible coupons and Cash Back at Ebates, we were able to get some awesome savings.

Our favorite design was Heritage Vineyard, since it kept a consistent watercolor look but brought more of our wine theme into it. All we had to do was customize an existing template, and we had control over everything from the typeface to what the text said. We changed the font to something a bit more rustic and playful, and we changed the wording to fit our casual style.

Then we personalized our envelopes. All we had to do was upload a Google sheet with all our guests’ addresses on it, and our envelopes were created and sent to us. So simple.

Now to the savings. Ebates found us a Wedding Paper Divas coupon for new customers, and we automatically got $50 off our order! Plus, Ebates found another coupon for an additional 20% off wedding invitations. And then, of course, we saved even more with our 2% Cash Back at Ebates. Once Ebates worked its magic, I saved $91.02. Not too shabby.

Savings:

Coupon savings: $86.38

Ebates Cash Back: $4.64

Total saved on invitations: $91.02

Total saved on save-the-date cards: $33.02

To sum up all these incredible deals, I saved about $124 and spent just under $265 on invitations and save-the-date cards. That’s about $200 less than the national average and $135 less than our budget.

I’d say that’s a win.

Next up, I’ll share even more wedding deals. Stay tuned to learn how I was able to save big on honeymoon travel.

April 25, 2017

8 Ways to Get In Tip-Top Shape for Your Wedding

You’ve been planning for months, but now that your wedding date is approaching, the pressure of having all eyes on you is really starting to sink in. The best method of attack is to commit to a fitness and wellness plan well before you say, “I do.” Below, eight tips to help you be your physical and mental best for your wedding.

Plan in Advance

Although it’s tempting to freak out and fall prey to crash diets, experts advise starting early. Keep a morning journal to track your progress. What are your specific goals for how you’d like to feel and look? What types of exercise do you enjoy? Writing down your plan will help you feel a sense of control and keep you focused even when life gets busy.

Change Your Diet

Even if you’re committing to amazing workouts, it’ll be challenging to meet your goals if you’re still pounding down margaritas after work. The easiest trick: Eat your veggies. Not only will it make your skin, hair and nails look great, but it also will help you feel fuller longer.

Adjust Your Attitude

When you’re not in the mood to go to the gym, remind yourself that your wedding body is something you can control. There might be a million glitches and last-minute changes with the rest of your plans, but you’re in charge of your daily exercise.

Balance Is Key

Some brides amp up their workout routines into overdrive, leaving them more prone to burnout. Schedule specific times each week for you to hit the gym — and treat it like any wedding appointment. Make it a priority and give yourself time to get in the groove.

Start Small

It’s all about baby steps. Challenge yourself to new fitness goals. Take a yoga class after work or work with hand weights during one of your breaks. If you commit to making a little effort every day, you’ll soon notice big results.

Meditate

Whether you’re getting hitched at city hall or planning a big blowout, weddings add new challenges and issues to your everyday routine. Clear your head of worries. In the mornings, take a few minutes to focus on your breathing. It will slow your heart rate and help you be better prepared when problems arise.

Connect with Your Fiance

During the wedding process, it’s easy to forget the reason you’re doing it in the first place. Take time each day to connect with your fiance. Schedule a date night, cook a healthy dinner together or go for a long hike outdoors.

Treat Yourself

You may have your hair and makeup team for the big day under control, but it’s also helpful to pamper yourself before you say, “I do.” Book a manicure, try out a facial mask or spring for a massage.

April 13, 2017

Best Beaches for Your Destination Wedding

Destination weddings: They’re fun, intimate and unforgettable for everyone who attends. Your guests will be so deep into vacation mode that the wedding itself will feel like bliss, and they’ll be ready to party hard. For the engaged couple, choosing a destination wedding saves hassle, time and, in some cases, money — especially if you’re a smart online shopper and earn Cash Back at Ebates. Perhaps the best part of a destination wedding is that you can roll out of bed the day after you say your “I dos” onto a beach, and spend the rest of the week relaxing, enjoying each other and riding that newlywed high. Here is our list of the best beaches for a destination wedding.

Makua Beach, Kauai, Hawaii

There is no shortage of stunning beaches in Hawaii, but the tricky part is finding a beach that’s not only gorgeous but also convenient and secluded from crowds. Thankfully, Kauai is smaller and less developed than its neighboring islands, so its beaches are vast and relatively empty, depending on the time of year. Makua Beach, also called Tunnel Beach, is a crazy beautiful option that will bathe you and your guests in romance. Go to Hotels.com to book a honeymoon suite just off the beach at nearby Hanalei Colony Resort.

Placencia, Belize

Sidling up to the second largest barrier reef in the world, Belize is ideal for scuba-loving couples. A friendly country with turquoise waters and white sands, Belize is affordable and offers destination weddings with distinct eco-adventure vibes. If you’re looking for a beach that’s far enough away to ensure your crazy cousins-in-law will stay stateside but close enough to keep costs low, you might just find the perfect combination in Belize. Do yourself a favor and stay for an extra week or two to dive Blue Hole and book a romantic splurge at Hatchet Caye Island Resort for a honeymoon on a private island.

Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

This lively Mexican beach town is known for its artistic whimsy, warm beaches and lush rainforests. But just outside of town you’ll find all-inclusive resorts that are ideal for larger weddings, so you can relax with a poolside cocktail and let someone else take over all the decision-making for you. Or you and 18 of your closest friends and family can hole up in a luxury beachside villa, booked through VRBO, and enjoy all the sunshine and privacy Puerto Vallarta has to offer. Either way, don’t miss a trip to town for a skewer of grilled seafood and an evening stroll along the Malecon.

Paradise Island, Bahamas

If you’re dreaming of barefoot chic for your big day, there’s probably no better place than the Bahamas. With an all-inclusive option like Atlantis Bahamas, you can book what you want online and leave the rest up to the staff. It’s a low-maintenance couple’s dream, and after avoiding the stress of planning for the months leading up to your wedding, you’ll still get to enjoy a tropical party weekend and a honeymoon in paradise — a reward most newlyweds have to work for!

Algarve, Portugal

Portugal is a surprising addition to this list, to be sure. It’s neither close to the U.S. nor convenient. But it’s affordable and it’s home to some of the most wedding-perfect beaches in the world. Save by booking affordable international flights through Vayama, and book a luxury villa for the wedding party on VRBO that’s near the unique, rock-framed Praia da Marinha. Or book a neighboring luxury resort for your guests through Expedia.

April 11, 2017

10 Surprise Tips for Planning a Destination Wedding

From exchanging vows on a tropical beach to celebrating with family and friends in a European city, the idea of a destination wedding presents unlimited options. Ten percent of all couples get married away from home, but it’s not all plane tickets and passports — planning a destination wedding requires a certain know-how. Here are a few surprise tips that will help make your destination wedding the day of your dreams.

1. Residency Rule

Many countries require couples to spend some time there before tying the knot. These requirements range from no big deal (a couple days in the Caribbean) to more serious (France’s six-week residency rule).

2. Give Serious Notice

Wedding planners suggest mailing your save-the-date announcements and wedding invitations at least eight months in advance. This allows your guests to arrange for airfare and accommodations ahead of time. Experts also recommend creating a website detailing any questions guests may have related to their travel.

3. Hire Cars

Instead of making your family and friends schlepp all over town, hire cars to pick them up at the airport and safely transport them to their hotels. Traveling can be a huge hassle — especially international travel. This is a small gesture guests are sure to appreciate.

4. Fly in Your Pros

Depending on where you’re getting hitched, it may be tricky to find reliable photographers, hair stylists and makeup artists. If you bring your own, you’ll be working with professionals you trust.

5. Arrive Early

Arrive at your hotel at least a few days before your guests do so you can customize welcome gift baskets and stock their rooms with anything they may need — maps, favors, a bottle of wine, sunscreen.

6. Pay Attention to Details

Wedding planners suggest meeting with as many people involved in the wedding as possible, including the officiant, the photographer and the caterer. Inspect the accommodations and rehearsal-dinner and ceremony sites.

7. Stay Calm and Flexible

The bride’s energy will impact everyone. Things may not always go as planned — especially if you are in a foreign country — but roll with any changes, schedule a time each day to do yoga and keep a relaxed state.

8. Factor in Exchange Rate

Even though destination weddings seem cheaper than getting hitched at home (especially if you live in a major U.S. city such as New York or San Francisco), you’ll need to factor in the exchange rate. Always convert prices into dollars to get a better idea of what you’ll be spending.

9. Create a Pinterest Board to Communicate Your Vision

When you’re planning a destination wedding, you’ll be communicating your vision to a lot of different people. Descriptions can be subjective, down to color shades and cake patterns. By creating a Pinterest board, you’ll have something to show and share.

10. Leave a Personal Note

Your guests are traveling a great distance to watch your special day. It’s advisable to greet them with a hand-written personal note at check-in. If you’re short on time, you can work with a calligrapher.

April 8, 2017

How to Get Gorgeous Wedding Hair

Your wedding photographs aren’t just another Facebook profile picture — these are the images you’ll be looking at for the rest of your life. To look your best on the big day, it’s important to be mindful of beauty appointments and upkeep, especially regarding your hair. Here’s a countdown to help you get everything under control.

One Month Before

Invest in a keratin treatment. If your hair is naturally wild or super frizzy, an in-salon keratin treatment can remedy the situation. Experts advise booking these one month before the wedding to get your texture in tip-top shape.

Find inspiration online. Anyone who has come home from the salon in tears over a bad haircut knows that style is subjective. Your version of loose curls may be totally different than your stylist’s. The best way to prevent miscommunication is to search for pictures. Pinterest is an amazing tool. Pin the looks you love and consult with your stylist before the wedding to avoid any hairstyle confusion.

Two Weeks Before

Start conditioning. If you’re planning to wear your hair down, you’ll want it to look super healthy. Stylists suggest booking an in-salon deep-conditioning treatment to repair split ends and leave your hair looking silky. You also may wish to invest in a deep-conditioning hair treatment to use once a week to increase softness.

Fix your color. Whatever your dream shade, this is the time to book your colorist. It’ll give the dye a chance to settle and still look fresh without roots growing back in. Although a bold hue is one way to make a statement, many experts recommend keeping it natural. This is a day when you’ll want to rock the color that makes you feel most like yourself.

One Week Before

Get a trim. Stylists don’t recommend dramatic changes prior to the wedding — it’s already a sensitive time and any major snip could send you into a spiral. Book a stylist you trust and opt instead for a light trim.

Add shine. Dirt, oil and products can leave hair looking less than lustrous. Try a clarifying product to cut out gunk. You also can schedule a last-minute in-salon gloss treatment.

April 5, 2017

Where to Go on Your Mini Moon

Lots of newlywed couples are taking a long weekend or short week away immediately after their wedding to let down their hair and kick off their marriage with some relaxation, fun and time set aside just for the two of them.

For some couples, a long weekend away is plenty (and saves bundles!). For others, the mini moon is just a taste of a longer trip planned later, after the couple has had time to recover from wedding expenses and can afford to splurge (again). Either way, the post-wedding mini moon ritual is practical only if you travel to a destination that’s close and you can treat yourselves affordably. A few deals at these perfect-for-newlywed mini moon destinations could score you Cash Back at Ebates and save you a fortune in the process.

California Wine Country

El Dorado Hotel

California wine country is the perfect long-weekend getaway. All you need is a few days away to get your fill of sun, wine and award-winning food in Sonoma and Napa. It’s the best way to wash away stress and make the fun and excitement last a little longer.

Stay in town for an adorable (and walkable) experience that gives you the best of the countryside without compromising convenience. Book the El Dorado Hotel in advance through Hotels.com for a great deal and a poolside brunch.

Sedona, Arizona

A Day in the West Jeep Adventure

Amara Resort and Spa

Sedona’s brilliant red rock formations are enough to awe any newlywed couple looking for a majestic, beautiful mini moon retreat. Find yourself on the A Day in the West Jeep adventure, or take a tour of the town’s wine, beer or art scenes. Then settle in at your room in the eco-friendly and secluded Amara Resort and Spa, tucked into your own mini Grand Canyon. Book with Hotwire.com to get a great midseason deal.

Quebec City, Canada

Fairmont Le Château Frontenac

If you can’t do Paris right after the wedding, consider visiting its North American cousin, Quebec City. This Quebecois destination has a stone-walled fort and streets reminiscent of the old country, and you’ll hear a mix of languages on the street that will transport you to Europe. Stay at the Fairmont Le Château Frontenac, a luxurious European-style hotel, to truly feel like you’re in a foreign land.

Key West, Florida

Key West Sunset Key Cottages

Key West is ideal for achieving a romantic beach getaway without leaving the U.S. Post up on a quiet island to get your fill of bungalow living, snorkeling, diving, fresh fish dinners and unbeatable rum cocktails. Come to think of it, there’s nothing mini about Key West. Stay in a romantic ocean-side bungalow at Sunset Key Cottages, booked through Expedia for a great deal.

Bermuda

Cambridge Beaches Resort and Spa

Just a two-hour flight from New York, Bermuda is a popular honeymoon spot for newlyweds on the East Coast. Its popularity shouldn’t be a put-off, however, since it’s still possible to find empty, pink-sand beaches and crystal-clear blue water. Stay in a cabana on one of four private beaches at Cambridge Beaches Resort & Spa.

Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

The Cape, a Thompson Hotel

For those tying the knot on the West Coast or in the Southwest, Cabo could be perfect for a beach mini moon. Its local flair gives it that true honeymoon destination feeling, and you’ll relish endless beaches, mind-blowing al pastor street tacos and margaritas. Book ahead on Travelocity to stay at The Cape, a Thompson Hotel, perfect for ocean views and modern luxury.

April 4, 2017

How to Get Your Skin Ready for Your Wedding Day

Finding an amazing makeup artist is just one step toward getting gorgeous skin on your wedding day. The real work comes during months of skin care, diet and exercise. The good news is that you easily can achieve luminous results with a few simple tweaks. Here’s a plan that will result in your best skin ever.

1. Start Drinking More Water — Immediately

Yes, it’s the oldest advice in the book, but water maintains moisture and increases skin elasticity, and it will combat skin problems such as wrinkles and eczema. Force yourself to take water breaks at work, and keep a glass by your nightstand. And, if you’re bored by water, make it fun: Get in the ritual of having water with lemon when you wake up. Drinking more water will change the way your skin looks more than anything else.

2. Pay Attention to Your Diet

You are what you eat, so revamping your diet will make a more dramatic change than any expensive skin cream. Experts advise paying extra attention to your diet in the months leading up to the big day. Keep a food journal describing how you feel after eating. Do you notice certain foods making you feel sluggish? Pay attention to how your skin reacts to the new diet. Cut out carbs, sugars and animal proteins; fruits and veggies have all the minerals, nutrients and antioxidants you need to glow from the inside.

3. Stick to a Routine

Planning a wedding means you’ll be busier — and more stressed out — than ever. Set your alarm for five minutes earlier than usual and block off an extra five minutes at night to commit to a strict skin-care routine. Invest in a good mask tailored to your skin’s needs and use it every Sunday night. Julia Noik, founder of organic beauty line African Botanics, suggests doing this at least two to three months before your wedding.

4. Commit to Exercise You Enjoy

Exercise increases blood flow, nourishes skin cells and carries away waste products. Working up a sweat revs up collagen production and is on par with getting a facial, experts say. If you have only three spare minutes in the morning, begin your day with cat-cow pose: inhale, lift your chest and butt, and drop your belly. Then exhale, drop your head and curl in your navel. Do it fast! Yogis say the anti-aging benefits of this pose are in the speed.

5. Book a Facial

A month before your wedding, book a facial. It will increase circulation and decrease waste (which causes puffiness) under your skin. It also will cleanse your pores on a deeper level and can help even your skin tone and lighten dark spots.

March 31, 2017

What Your Bridal Shoes Say About You

Blame Cinderella, but there’s no denying it: There’s something decidedly fantastical about wedding-day footwear. And although your gown may steal the show, it’s your wedding shoes that reveal your true colors. From a comfortable wedge to a serious stiletto, here’s the message your bridal shoes are sending out into the world.

1.“Fashion is my first love forever.”

Who cares if you can barely see your heels beneath your dress? You’d know — and die — if you didn’t do it up designer from head to toe. Fashion is more than fun to you — it’s your identity. And comfort means nothing when style is concerned.

2. “I look for a bit of magic in everything.”

From ruby slippers to your beloved first pair of jelly heels, footwear has a storybook quality for you. You’d never even dream of slipping into a standard pair of white or cream heels on your big day. Keep the whimsical vibes alive with these gilded flats. Demure yet daring, they add the right bit of charm to any gown.

3. “This is my ultimate princess moment.”

You’ve dreamed of this day your entire life and you aren’t afraid to go all out — the big gown, the traditional jewels and the stacked heel. These sparkling stilettos, featuring an open toe and a pretty T-strap, fit the bill for your big moment.

4. “I basically want to be barefoot — except more glam.”

In an ideal world, you’d get married in your bathing suit. You loathe hair brushes, barely can be bothered to take off your leggings and would rather be on a beach than in a shopping mall. Keep it casual yet polished with these simple, slip-on flats.

5. “I move to my own drumbeat.”

A traditional pump is the sartorial equivalent of the snooze button for you. You want a shoe that stands out yet still makes sense for the occasion. These booties are fun and fashion-forward, not to mention easy to dance in.

March 29, 2017

Cute Alternatives to the Standard Wedding Cocktail Hour

A wedding is a time for tradition. That’s why most couples in the U.S. opt for the traditional order of wedding events: ceremony first, followed by a cocktail hour, then dinner and dancing. But what if you want to break with tradition and do something different for your cocktail hour. Or (gasp!) not have a cocktail hour at all? With more and more couples opting for creativity over tradition during cocktail hour, wedding guests are increasingly surprised and delighted by cute options like these that create even more memorable moments.

Play lawn games

Custom wedding cornhole boards

Croquet, cornhole, giant Jenga, giant checkers, homemade Twister — there are dozens of fun lawn-game options to keep your more playful guests entertained. Having games set up for your guests to play at their leisure is a fun and memorable way to make your cocktail hour unique. Etsy is an incredible resource for finding gems for cocktail hour lawn games, like these custom wedding cornhole boards. And, as a perk, you’ll have the games to keep for future parties.

Create a cigar bar

Montecristo

There are plenty of ways to signify a celebration is in order, but two of the most celebratory are champagne and cigars. If you have some cigar lovers in attendance, hosting a cigar bar during your wedding cocktail hour is an impressive and distinct way to make your day even more special. JR Cigar has an incredible selection, including world-renowned Montecristo cigars, and you can add a special DIY flair by creating your own handmade description cards to highlight the distinct tasting notes for each type of cigar.

Do your toasts (or even cake) early

Cava

If your ceremony is earlier in the day, why not forgo the traditional cocktails and hors d’oeuvres and serve cake and coffee immediately following the ceremony? This is a great alternative to the traditional wedding-cake cutting at the end of the night, and it’s a great way to save money. Cutting down on the amount of alcohol served is always better for the budget.

Another cute alternative is to have champagne poured and do your wedding toasts a little early. It’s a less formal way of bringing everyone together in recognition of the bride and groom, but it’s a fun way to kick off the cocktail hour. If your venue allows you to supply your own, stock up on plenty of bubbles from wine.com. (Tip: Go for cava or dry prosecco, rather than true champagne, to save some money.)

Host wine or beer tasting

If you think your guests are going to appreciate an activity that will keep them entertained beyond toasting and mingling, you could offer a wine- or beer-tasting bar. This little addition to a cocktail hour could amplify the festivities, especially if you and your fiancé are avid wine tasters or beer aficionados. A tasting bar could add an adorable touch to share with your guests something personal and special from your life.

Completely mix it up

For nontraditional couples who want to save money, replacing a standard cocktail hour with, well, nothing might be a good option. Replace that hour with late-night bonfires and s’mores, or simply make a quick getaway after the ceremony to greet your guests and kick off the reception.

Or, for a complete flip on tradition, make your wedding reception one long cocktail hour. As long as your guests get plenty of food and drinks, a formal dinner might not be missed — especially if there’s ample music and dancing!

March 6, 2017

10 Wow-Worthy Wedding Makeup Tips for the DIY Bride

You want your big day to be flawless, and that includes your wedding makeup. Get the lovely looks you and your bridesmaids crave with the best wedding makeup ideas around. No matter your stunning style, you’ll save a pretty penny with Cash Back at Ebates and some simple DIY wedding makeup tips. Here are our top 10 tips for flawless wedding makeup!

1. Prime Time

The best bridal makeup begins with the perfect surface. No matter the season or location of your wedding, the ideal primer will ensure your makeup stays put from your walk down the aisle to photos and every dance move in between. Apply a water-based primer from a makeup maven like Kat Von D Beauty and get ready for the smoothest skin possible. You’ll notice your makeup has more staying power than ever before. If you’re going for any shadow, be sure to keep your lids lovely with an eye shadow primer to prevent creases too!

2. Matte Is a Must

Overly oily skin can get in the way of even the best makeup looks. Combat that greasy glow in an instant with top-rated oil-blotting papers from Bobbi Brown Cosmetics. A must-have for summer weddings and warmer climates, these ultra-thin papers are perfect for an on-the-go touch-up without smudging your bridal makeup. They’ll soak up sweat and oil and leave your skin feeling flawless.

3. Hands Off

Using a clean brush or soft makeup sponge is one of the best wedding makeup tips around. Skip breakouts on your big day by always applying foundations, BB creams, concealers and anything else that touches your face with a clean makeup brush or damp blender.You’ll prevent any dirt and bacteria from transferring from fingers to face. Plus, great makeup tools will give you that flawless finish you want, without leaving behind smudges and fingerprints. Be sure to blend well to stop those pesky makeup lines from infiltrating your wedding photos.

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4. All About the Arch

The right makeup for wedding day photos is crucial. Don’t let your bare brows steal the spotlight! Instead, if your eyebrows are slightly sparse, give them some shape with an eyebrow pencil or defining cream from NARS Cosmetics. You’ll frame your face and really make your snapshots pop. Be sure to watch a wedding makeup tutorial to get your look just right, and practice perfecting your arches with the right shade before the big day.

5. Get Glowing

Ditch the dull and get a stunning sheen in seconds with a radiant highlighter. When properly placed, a highlighter can give you a subtle glow without making your face look like a strobe light. Pop some in the corners of your eyes for a fresh-faced, awake look in an instant. Use it under your brow arch for a little lift, and sweep some on your cheekbones for a great glow if you’re looking for some easy glam. Check out e.l.f. Cosmetics for lots of illuminating essentials while saving with a makeup promo code.

6. Waterproof for the Win

Let happy tears flow freely and never mess up your makeup, thanks to waterproof wedding makeup. Your lashes will love a coat or two of waterproof mascara to keep them in perfect shape all day long. Check out some great, long-wear waterproof mascara options at Tarte Cosmetics and lengthen and strengthen your lashes with the best.

7. Stay Put

Once you’ve achieved your perfect bridal makeup look, be sure to set it with a great makeup setting spray, like Urban Decay’s All Nighter. Give your face a generous mist and let it dry to give your look staying power from morning to night.

8. Get Cheeky

The last thing you want is for your face to appear washed out in your wedding photos. Avoid a dull look by adding a pop of color to your cheeks with a natural-looking cream blush. It’ll give you instant lift and a healthy glow. Smile, pop some color on the apples of your cheeks and blend out toward the temples for the perfect look.

9. Bright Eyes

Skip red, tired eyes with your favorite anti-red eye drops. We recommend the tried-and-true Clear Eyes Maximum Redness Relief. A must if you’re anticipating a late night the day before your vows, eye drops will get the red out and brighten up your look instantly.

10. Bye-Bye, Bags

Pesky under-eye bags and dark circles have no place in your wedding photos. Prep your delicate under-eye area with a moisturizing eye cream and let it sink into your skin. After your primer layer, dot on a color-correcting concealer in a triangle shape under your eyes and blend out toward your cheekbones. This technique will give you a great, natural-looking highlight and cover up any drab darkness under your eyes. Be sure to set it with a light powder before your grand appearance.