A Beautiful Wedding

Ah, it's finally here-wedding season. Every bride and groom want to be their best on the big day, but you shouldn't rely on wedding-day magic to make all of your dreams come true. Like everything on your to-do list-from location to wardrobe to menu-looking and feeling fabulous requires planning.

Looking Great

Flawless-looking skin for your wedding won't necessarily come out of a cosmetics jar. If essential fatty acids (EFAs) are not part of your skin regimen already, make sure that you start taking them daily. EFAs help keep moisture in your skin and will give you the healthy glow that everyone wants for the main event. EFAs are also important if you are prone to oily skin and acne; in order to compensate for a lack of EFAs in your diet, your oil glands go into overdrive trying to protect the moisture content of your skin. Excess oil traps dirt and bacteria, contributing to acne and pimples. Get EFAs from fish like salmon and tuna and from borage and flaxseed oil. EFAs are also available in supplement form.

If you are worried about getting zits just in time for the wedding, you are wise to watch your menu in the weeks leading up to the nuptials. Foods that are high in refined sugar or saturated fats, like pizza and chocolate ice cream, are linked to pimples. Opt instead for a diet high in fresh fruits and vegetables along with lean protein and whole grains. Not only will your complexion benefit from these healthy choices, but you won't have to worry about gaining extra pounds that will keep you from fitting into your clothes when the photographer arrives.

Feeling Fantastic

With all of the last-minute details to take care of, sleep might be the last thing on your mind. Unfortunately, dark circles and under-eye bags can't always be covered with makeup. Go to bed at the same time every night (preferably before 11 pm) and sleep for seven to eight hours every night. To entice a visit from the sandman, avoid caffeinated beverages past noon, and stop eating at least four hours before bedtime. If stress is keeping you up at night, try supplemental hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) to naturally encourage the production of serotonin, the body's "feel good" hormone.

Getting enough sleep will allow your body to stay strong and stave off bacteria and viruses. Nothing ruins wedding pictures like red eyes and runny noses! For added insurance against getting sick during this stressful time, add a multivitamin supplement.

When Things Go Wrong

Everyone wants a perfect wedding, but you're likely to enjoy it more if you let go of that expectation. Anticipate possible problems and plan for them in advance. If you are worried that rain will spoil your plans for an outdoor event, be sure to have an alternate location available. The memory of a ring bearer dropping the ring under the pew or the groom's car getting a flat on the way to the ceremony is the one you will laugh about in years to come.

And laugh you must. Research proves that laughter is a great stress reliever, and a good giggle can even boost your immune system. After all, when the wedding day is over, you both want to have the energy to enjoy your honeymoon!

Wedding Survival Tips

Stay out of the sun. Brides pay a lot of money for the wedding dress. Don't let a tan line or sunburn detract from a polished appearance.

Avoid the aesthetician. Facials typically release toxins and often result in extra pimples. Have your last facial at least three weeks before your special day.

Water yourself. During the busy wedding day be sure to hydrate with plenty of pure, filtered H2O. Adequate water will prevent dehydration caused by the sun, the temperature of the building, and celebratory champagne. You don't want to suffer with a headache or faint from the heat.

Lisa Petty BA, RNCP is a holistic nutritionist, health advocate and journalist. Learn how to create beauty through health from her book Living Beauty: Feel Great, Look Fabulous & Live Well (Fitzhenry&Whiteside 2005) at major bookstores. She is a regular contributor to alive magazine. Visit http://www.alive.com for related articles.