Bride-to-be? Don’t wait until the last minute for your wedding nails!

We’re right in the middle of June… and you know what that means: wedding season is in full swing.
When you're a bride planning your big day, you're likely spending months (even a year or more!) planning your dress, your makeup artist, your hair stylist… and that’s completely normal. You want everything to be perfect.

But there’s one detail that gets overlooked way too often: the manicure and pedicure.

What happens when you leave your nails for the last minute? You end up with rushed work that doesn't match the standard you had in mind.
So many of my clients have told me:
"I wish I had known about you before my wedding…"

From chipped nails the night before the ceremony, to the wrong nude tone for their skin, or even a painful toe infection from a poor pedi — these are just a few examples of what can go wrong when nail care isn’t planned properly.

So here are my personal tips to avoid any disappointment and ensure your hands are photo (and ring!) ready 💍

Step 1: Visualize your manicure

Pinterest is your best friend. Create a mood board with nail designs that inspire you.
You can search by skin tone, style (minimal, classic,…,)or even your wedding theme.

This will make it so much easier for your nail tech to understand your vision and help bring it to life.
Trust me — the clearer your ideas, the better the result!

( Picture from Manicure Privé work)

Step 2: Research local nail techs or salons

Are you looking for a more intimate and private setting? Go for an independent nail tech.
Prefer a team or a bigger space? A nail salon might be right for you.

Today, platforms like Instagram and TikTok are just as useful as Google. Type in keywords like:

• Wedding nails + City (eg: Toronto)

• Natural bridal nails

• Russian manicure + City

• Private nail tech + City

• Gel nails + City

—> Start searching 5 to 6 months ahead. Make a shortlist of 3 to 5 options, check Google reviews, and reach out via email or phone.
This way, you’ll quickly get a feel for the experience and vibe each professional offers.

Step 3: Book a bridal nail consultation + trial

I recommend booking 3 to 4 months in advance to plan 1 or 2 trial sessions.

Ask yourself:

• Do I want to grow my natural nails?

• Am I hesitating between a classic French and pearly chrome?

• Do I want milky white or a soft rosy nude?

Giving yourself time means you can try different looks and test the retention, so there are zero surprises on the big day.
A professional nail tech should be able to guide you based on your inspiration photos, skin tone, natural nail shape, and current nail health.

As for your pedi — we often don’t overthink it, but if you’re going for French toes, I highly recommend doing a trial. French tips are way more technical than people think (even though they’re a popular request)!

Step 4: Take picture tests

Your wedding day is all about capturing memories — and your nails will be part of that.
I always tell my future brides: take pictures of your nails in natural daylight and indoors, using your phone.
You’ll get a realistic view of how they’ll look on camera.

! Don’t forget to secure your appointments early!

Once you’re happy with the result, book all your appointments right away.
Summer fills up quickly, and many nail techs (like myself!) are often booked out weeks in advance.

And if you’re not 100% happy with your trial? You’ll still have time to explore other options from your shortlist.

One last story I’ll never forget:
A loyal client who had been going to a high-end downtown Toronto salon for two years came to me two months before her wedding.
Why? Because her regular nail place didn’t want to help her find the perfect nude for her skin tone.
She came in, we did two trials… and she fell in love with the final look and became a loyal client to me since a year now!

After doing so many bridal nails and seeing what works (and what doesn’t), I can say this with confidence:
When you plan ahead and find the right professional, the risk of being disappointed on your big day is close to zero.

Getting married and need help with your bridal manicure ?
Email me at hello@manicureprive.com, or just ask at your next appointment—I’ve got you.

Until our next chat, Bisous,

Nella