5 Country Wedding Beauty Ideas
From coast to coast, there are plenty of beautiful, romantic locations to exchange wedding vows. But it's Mother Nature -- not the mother of the bride -- who may take over and cause drama on the big day with weather mishaps like pop-up showers, humidity and high winds. Since many country nuptials take place in the great outdoors, brides need to take careful consideration when choosing a dress, makeup and hairstyle. While every venue is different, the location of the wedding will likely dictate these details -- and many more -- to ensure that the big day goes off without a hitch.
Are you tying the knot in the country? Here are five beauty tips that'll help you plan the wedding of your dreams.
5: Dress for the Occasion
Before signing your name on the dotted line of a wedding dress receipt, you should consider the location of your ceremony and reception. A country theme is typically a little more casual than the average nuptials, and your gown should always match the venue's atmosphere. Since long trains are traditionally very formal, opt for a dress with a short one or nix a train altogether -- especially if the wedding is going to be held outside. A tea-length dress with hems between the knees and ankles is cute, simple and easy to move in, making it an ideal style to wear at a country wedding. Also, be sure to choose a dress that's appropriate for the season, and if temperatures are going to be warm, wear lighter fabrics like satin, chiffon or crepe to stay cool and comfortable throughout the day.
4: Embrace a Natural Hairstyle
When you're flipping through style magazines and trying to come up with the perfect wedding day 'do, opt for a hairstyle that'll get along with Mother Nature. Depending on the country venue you choose, part of your wedding ceremony or reception may take place outside, so pick a hairstyle that'll be flexible in all kinds of weather -- rain or shine. Areas with high humidity can take a toll on your tresses, unraveling a tight, formal hairstyle into a frizzy, frazzled mess that no veil will be able to hide. Choosing a simple, natural look will likely prevent any hair-related drama from happening when the big day arrives.
3: Accessorize with Nature-Inspired Pieces
When choosing accessories for a country wedding, look no further for inspiration than the land that surrounds you. Select flowers native to the location of your venue, or pluck wildflowers and make a statement with a loose, natural bouquet. Feathers make stunning hair accessories, and feathered bouquets are a trend that's both fashionable and affordable. Wear a flowered crown in lieu of a veil, and consider swapping formal jewelry for earthy jewels and stones like turquoise, gems and geodes.
While every bride wants to glow on her wedding day, no woman wants to look as though she just ran a marathon when she walks down the aisle. Steer clear of heavy makeup if your nuptials are outside, and opt for a light application of foundation, blush and eye shadow instead. Dermablend Professional Setting Powder is smooth and light, even through sweat, and long-wearing cream eye shadow will stay put even on the hottest days. Waterproof mascara isn't just for weepy eyes -- it's helpful to wear in hot, humid temperatures to prevent smudging, too. Invest in eyeliner that's water-resistant, and have blotting papers on hand in case you need to freshen your face. Lastly, don't forget to protect skin from the sun's harmful rays with sweat-proof sunscreen, and if bugs are an issue at your wedding location, consider wearing a scentless bug repellant to keep insects at bay.
Is the site of your future nuptials high-heel friendly? Heels can sink in sod or dirt, making it difficult to walk, or worse -- leaving you with a nasty ankle injury. When high heels don't make the cut, consider wearing flats or wedges that are better suited to the terrain. Of course, cowboy boots are popular footwear at weddings with a country theme, so choose a pair that suits your style -- with spurs or without -- and get in touch with your inner cowgirl.
No matter what footwear you wear when you walk down the aisle, comfort is key. You'll be on your feet for most of your wedding day, and you need a pair of shoes that'll support you until your new husband is ready to carry you over the threshold later that night.