Vow writing, speech rehearsing…nail buffing?! It might not be top of your prenuptial to-dos, but we genuinely believe in the calming, mood and confidence boosting power of a manicure, whether you’re a man or a woman. Never fear the unknown, gents, the modern manicure truly maketh the man. Why shouldn’t you dabble in a little hand healing?
By Rachel Spedding
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1 Explain yourself
What is this ‘manicure’ we speak of? Well first up your nails are clipped, shaped with a file, and buffed for soft shine. A little oil will be applied to the cuticles to soften, before being gently pushed back. And best of all, you’ll get a little hand massage to finish (if we didn’t have you before, we do now.)
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2 It’s nail biting stuff
From anxious nibbling to peeling edges, if you’ve been feeling the pressure of wedding planning, your nails will have too. The joy of a manicure is that as well as fixing up any jagged edges, it’s forty-five minutes where you can peace out to all things wedding. Plus, wedding aside, frequent salon trips help get your nails strong and healthy; never a bad look.
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3 You have got time
Let’s face it – one salon trip might not be enough. We can’t demand miracles from our manicurist, chaps (if the concept of nail care isn’t on your radar, we’re looking you). If your nails are long enough to literally cut shapes on the dancefloor, then it’s probably a quick fix; a manicure 1-2 days before the main event should do the trick. If it’s heavy-duty healing (think split skin and thinning nails), start your appointments 6-8 weeks in advance.
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4 Your hand in marriage
Besides trim-looking talons, a manicure will keep your hands in mighty-fine condition, so they’ll be more than ready to put a ring on it. How’s that? Exfoliation rubs away dead skin to encourage cell growth (think baby softness), while massage helps to increase blood circulation. Oils and lotions provide a healthy dose of hydration (and always smell delightful), so if preened fingertips weren’t enough to tempt you, that just might.
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5 And it's relaxing?
It sure is. We all need a little TLC to soothe our soul (as well as our nail beds). Take a step back from the pre-wedding mania, or just embrace that ‘me’ time – no need for justification here. You and your hands are soon to get a lot of attention, so it’s a great excuse to get ’em looking good. Oh, and if you’re doing the dishes before the big day (reality bites), make sure to slide on the Marigolds – don’t go undoing that manicure magic.
FAQs
What happens during a manicure treatment?
You get your nails clipped, shaped with a file, and buffed for a soft shine. Cuticle oil is applied to soften the skin before cuticles are gently pushed back. The treatment finishes with a relaxing hand massage for added comfort and care.
When should you book a manicure before a big event?
Book your manicure 1-2 days before the main event for a quick fix. If your nails need more intensive care, such as dealing with split skin or thinning nails, start appointments 6-8 weeks in advance to ensure healthy, strong nails.
How can a manicure help if you bite your nails or have peeling edges?
A manicure helps fix jagged edges and provides a calming break from stress. Regular salon visits boost nail strength and health, giving you well-groomed hands that make a lasting impression long after the event.
Why is a manicure recommended before showing your hands or wearing a ring?
A manicure keeps hands in great condition with exfoliation that removes dead skin, massage that boosts blood circulation, and moisturizing oils and lotions. These steps add softness and hydration, making your hands look and feel their best for any special moment.
Is a manicure relaxing or just about nail care?
A manicure is both relaxing and beneficial for your nails. The process offers time to unwind and enjoy some ‘me’ time, helping you step away from daily stress while giving your hands the attention they deserve.