Bridal Nails Timeline for Columbus Weddings: What to Book and When

Your ring will be in a lot of photos. So will your hands. Here's a simple timeline our team recommends for brides around Columbus, Polaris and Lewis Center, plus what to know about booking your bridal party.

Your bridal nail timeline

2 to 3 months before: start caring for your nails

If your nails are short, weak or peeling, now is the time. A few rounds of builder gel (overlay $65, balance $55) protect your natural nails while they grow. Cuticle oil every night makes a big difference by the big day.

4 to 6 weeks before: do a trial

Book a trial with the exact look you want. Bring your dress photo, your ring, and a photo of your bouquet if you have one. This is the time to try shapes, lengths and shades. A milky pink in salon light can look different in outdoor photos, so take a picture outside after your trial.

1 to 2 weeks before: book the bridal party

If your bridesmaids, moms or flower girls are coming in together, call to book a group. Please book at least 24 hours ahead, though for a wedding it's smart to book weeks ahead, especially for a Saturday in May, June, September or October.

1 to 2 days before: your final set

Thursday or Friday before a Saturday wedding is ideal. Your nails are fresh, fully set, and you're not squeezing an appointment into the busiest day of your life.

Same week: pedicure

Get your pedicure in the same visit or a day or two earlier. Our premium spa pedicures are a great way to relax before the big week. The Collagen ($89) and 24K Gold Luxe ($99) include paraffin and collagen socks for very soft feet.

The most requested bridal looks

• Milky white or soft pink. Clean, classic, and it never looks dated in photos.
• Classic French or micro French. Timeless and elegant.
• Baby boomer (soft ombre from pink to white). Natural and romantic. Our dip with ombre is $70.
• Pearl or soft chrome finish. Adds a little glow for evening receptions. Pearl finish from $10, chrome from $15.
• Almond shape. The most flattering shape for ring photos. It makes fingers look longer.

What lasts through the honeymoon

If you're traveling right after the wedding, pick something that will look good for two to three weeks:

• Gel X ($65): length that looks natural.
• Builder gel ($65 overlay): strong on your natural nails.
• Dip powder (from $55): tough and long lasting.
• Gel on toes: lasts much longer than regular polish at the beach.

Bridal party tips

1. Pick one shade family, not one exact shade. Let everyone choose a nude or blush that suits their skin tone.
2. Moms often want something classic. A soft pink gel manicure ($45) is a safe, elegant choice.
3. Flower girls love it too. Our kid manicure is $18 for kids 12 and under.
4. Ask about our private room for groups. Call either salon to plan.

Quick answers

Should the bride go first or last?

If you're all coming together, the bride usually goes first so she has extra time to relax.

Can I bring my ring?

Yes, please do. Seeing the ring next to the shade helps you choose.

What if something chips before the wedding?

If something isn't right within 7 days, come back and we'll fix it.

Congratulations. Book at Polaris or Lewis Center, or call either salon for groups.