Summary
Planning your wedding tan? Whether you’re considering a spray tan or building your glow using sunbeds before your big day, timing and preparation are everything. In this guide, we cover how to choose the best tanning option for your wedding day, when to get a spray tan before your wedding, and how to build a natural-looking bridal tan responsibly. From expert prep tips to step-by-step timelines, discover everything you need to achieve a flawless wedding glow in Ireland.
You’ve dreamed of this day for years. The bridal gown you’ve always envisioned. The long flowing veil. The picture-perfect hair and makeup. A beautifully golden tan can be the perfect partner for your bridal look, offering a radiant, sun-kissed finish that illuminates your bridal glow.
We understand that, on your wedding day of all days, you want everything to be just right. And, if you’re new to tanning, concerns about responsible sunbed usage, streaky spray tan or patchiness can feel all too real. That’s why we’re here to share everything you need to know about achieving the best bridal tan for your big day.
From choosing the right tan for you to essential skin prep, tanning timelines, and aftercare, we’ll help you achieve the perfect sun-kissed wedding tan so you can walk down the aisle positively radiating confidence.
How to Choose the Best Tan for Your Wedding Day
The best tan for you might not be the best tan for your bridesmaids, mum, or guests. If you’re considering tanning before a wedding, be sure to consider:
- How dark do you want to go? We always suggest a subtle, natural look, though it really is your choice.
- How much time do you have before the big day? Are we looking at a quick spray or a buildable UV tan?
- What is your natural skin type and tone? This helps us assess suitability for sunbeds as well as identifying your ideal spray tan shade.
Spray Tan for Wedding: Yes or No?
Spray tanning is a hugely popular choice with brides. Not only does it deliver a flawless, streak-free tan, but it does so rapidly. Developing fully in 24 hours, our Norvell spray tans provide an instant bronze that lasts up to 7 days with proper aftercare. A skin-kind, sunless option, choosing a spray tan for wedding prep is ideal for customers who are newer to tanning, or anyone seeking a boost to their natural colour.
Why clients choose bridal spray tans:
- Fast-developing, sunless glow
- Multiple shade options
- Skin-nourishing ingredients
- Completely private automated booths
Sunbeds Before Wedding: What You Need to Know
Responsible UV tanning is another option offered at The Tanning Shop Ireland. Unlike fast-acting spray tans, sunbeds require you to start your pre-wedding tanning timeline much earlier, building your glow gradually over a number of weeks prior to the wedding. This allows plenty of time between appointments to ensure you’re developing your tan responsibly.
Why clients trust The Tanning Shop for UV wedding tans:
- Even, natural results
- Personalised plan for responsible use
- Choice of lay-down and stand-up sunbeds
- Luxury tanning equipment
Spray Tan vs Sunbed for Brides: Which is Right for You?
When weighing up the best tan for your wedding day, consider your schedule, tanning goals, and skin type. Your tanning specialist will provide expert guidance and advice during your consultation, but here’s a quick guide to what might be the most suitable option for you.
| Scenario | Tanning Option |
| Want to build gradually | UV |
| Short tanning timeline | Spray |
| Sensitive skin | Spray |
| Regular tanner | UV or Spray |
How to Get the Best Spray Tan for a Wedding
If spray tanning sounds like the right option for you, here’s everything you need to know to nail your perfect bridal glow.
Achieving a natural-looking wedding tan with our automated spray booths is easy when you know what you’re looking for. At The Tanning Shop, we think that boils down to four essential elements:
- Customised colour: spray tans should never be a ‘one-shade-suits-all’ situation. Our specialists guide you through the solution options to find the ideal shade to complement your natural skin tone.
- Flawless application: at The Tanning Shop, we use automated spray tanning booths that deliver perfectly even, 360-degree coverage with no room for technician errors.
- Trial run: an absolute non-negotiable when it comes to bridal tans. We recommend that all brides book one 3-4 weeks before the wedding to allow time to make sure you’re happy with the finished colour and make any shade adjustments before the big day.
- Prep & aftercare: taking care of your skin before and after your appointment is crucial for an even, long-lasting glow. We’ll cover full wedding glow prep next, so take note!
How to Prepare Your Skin for a Wedding Spray Tan
Your bridal glow starts before you set foot in the salon. Here’s how to ensure your spray tan skincare prep is up to scratch:
- Gently exfoliate and moisturise your skin in the days leading up to your appointment (about 5 days).
- Wax or shave at least 24 hours beforehand to prevent tan from clogging open pores.
- Avoid harsh soaps on the day of your appointment; we recommend showering with clean water only.
- Don’t apply moisturiser, deodorant, makeup, or perfume on the day of your spray appointment, as these can all impact your tan’s development.
- Immediately before your spray tan, apply barrier cream to dry areas, including hands, feet, elbows, and knees.
Read our full spray tan prep guide for more hints and tips.
Aftercare Tips for a Long-Lasting Bridal Glow
You’ve stepped out of the salon glowing from head to toe. To keep your tan flawless for the big day and beyond, don’t scrimp on aftercare. Here’s what we recommend:
- Wear dark, loose-fitting clothes to your spray tan to minimise the risk of uneven colour development.
- Avoid contact with water while your tan develops (ideally 24 hours).
- Use an oil-free moisturiser daily after the initial 24 hours to prevent patchiness or cracking.
- Avoid intensive exercise, swimming, saunas, or harsh exfoliants until after the wedding.
When to Get a Spray Tan Before Your Wedding
Virtually every bridal client asks the same thing: how many days before a wedding to get a spray tan. It’s a valid query! Tan too early, and you risk losing your glow before the big day, too late. and there’s a chance your tan won’t be fully developed, or colour could transfer onto your wedding dress.
The best time to get a spray tan before a wedding? We think the sweet spot is 2-3 days prior. This ensures your glow is fully developed and looking its best as you say your ‘I dos’.
Wedding Tan Timeline
With the big day approaching, the last thing you need is more life admin to contend with. That’s why we’ve done the prep for you and created the ideal timeline of when to get a spray tan for a wedding.
4-6 weeks before
Book your bridal tan trial and pre-wedding appointment.
3-4 weeks before
Visit the salon for your personalised consultation and trial run. This is your opportunity to test out the tan and request any adjustments ahead of your bridal appointment.
1 week before
Begin your exfoliation and moisturisation ritual to ensure skin is soft, healthy, and hydrated. Shave and exfoliate the day before your wedding tan appointment.
2-3 days before
Return for your bridal tan appointment with clean, exfoliated skin and dark, loose clothing.
Wedding day
Apply an oil-free lotion to keep your tan nourished and radiant. Why not add a shimmer lotion for an extra luminous touch? (It is your special day, after all).
Ready to plan your wedding tan timeline? Book a consultation at your nearest Tanning Shop.
Common Wedding Spray Tan Mistakes to Avoid
We know how important it is to feel gorgeous on your wedding day. Thankfully, your tan can be a weight off your mind if you avoid these common wedding spray tan mistakes.
- Skipping a trial: even if you’ve had spray tans before, we always recommend a wedding trial so you can be confident that you love your bridal glow.
- Not timing sessions correctly: we strongly advise against getting a spray tan on your wedding eve, so you have time for the tan to develop fully and are able to shower off any residual bronzers.
- Ignoring skin prep: we don’t suggest it for fun, proper exfoliation, moisturisation, and hair removal really make a difference to the finished look!
- Neglecting aftercare: as with prep, aftercare is key. Avoid tight clothing, hot showers, and sweating, while prioritising daily moisturisation.
- Shaving or waxing too soon: removing hair within 24 hours of your tan also removes your bronzed glow, leaving tan patchy and uneven.
How to Prepare for a UV Wedding Tan Responsibly
If you’ve decided to opt for UV tanning, timing, exfoliation, and hydration are your non-negotiables. Unlike spray tanning, which delivers instant colour, UV tanning is a gradual process that builds your colour over time, making it a better fit for brides who are looking to build their glow in advance.
UV Tanning Timeline Before Your Wedding
When it comes to tanning before a wedding, starting early gives you the most control over your final result. Here’s an example wedding glow routine for those who choose sunbeds before a wedding:
6-8 weeks before
Begin your tanning journey with shorter sessions, gradually building up duration and frequency. Your consultant will guide you based on your skin type and tanning history, ensuring your plan supports a gradual, responsible result.
2-4 weeks before
As your bridal tan develops, it’s time to look at optimising your glow. Consider alternating between lay-down and stand-up sunbeds for the most even results and focus on keeping skin nourished.
1 week before
In the final week before your wedding, focus on keeping your skin healthy, hydrated, and glowing. If you choose to continue tanning during this period, avoid increasing your session length and stick to the minutes recommended in your personalised tanning plan.
Sunbed Skin Prep Before a Wedding
Just like with spray tanning, skin prep is key to how well your tan develops and lasts. Here’s how to keep your skin in the best condition as you build your wedding tan:
- Exfoliate gently 24 hours before your sessions to keep skin smooth and even
- Keep skin consistently moisturised to support an even-looking result
- Use a UV-specific lotion before each session to help maintain hydration
- Drink plenty of water to hydrate skin from within
Can You Combine UV and Spray Tan for a Wedding?
Yes, for sunbed customers who want an added boost before the big day, a spray tan offers the perfect final glow. We would still recommend booking a trial to ensure your tan doesn’t come out too dark.
Where to Get the Best Wedding Tan in Dublin
If you’re a bride looking for a professional, reliable wedding tan, then trust The Tanning Shop Ireland. With over 30 years of tanning expertise, personalised consultations, and a range of sunbed and spray tanning options, we’ll help you find the perfect bridal tan for you.
Whether you favour responsible sunbed tanning ahead of your big day or are on the hunt for the best bridal spray tan Dublin has to offer, our knowledgeable team can’t wait to help you achieve your ultimate bridal glow.
Get in touch with us or find your nearest salon to arrange your consultation and start your wedding glow journey today.
Wedding Tan FAQs
How Many Days Before My Wedding Should I Get a Spray Tan?
We recommend booking your bridal spray tan 48-72 hours before your wedding. Be sure to do a trial run a few weeks in advance.
How Tanned Should I Be for My Wedding?
The depth of your bridal tan is down to personal preference, though most brides choose a natural-looking, sun-kissed glow rather than a rich, dark bronze. We can help you find your ideal shade during your consultation.
Will My Wedding Spray Tan Last Until the Honeymoon?
If you’re jetting off straight after the big day, then you’ll be able to enjoy a few extra days of your golden glow. With correct aftercare, spray tan results last up to 7 days. Consider adding a tan extender or gradual tanning lotion to your skincare routine to help your colour last longer.
Will a Spray Tan Stain My Wedding Dress?
It’s a common concern, but when your spray tan is applied correctly and you’ve followed the recommended aftercare, the risk of transfer is very low. We recommend booking your spray tan 2–3 days before your wedding to allow the colour to fully develop and showering before getting dressed on the day.
Should I Choose a Spray Tan or UV Tanning for My Wedding?
The best wedding tan for you depends on your skin type, goals, and personal preferences. If you’re unsure which option is most suitable for you, our tanning consultants can help.
Our Latest Tanning and Wellness Insights
Wedding Tan Guide: Find Your Perfect Bridal Glow
Plan the best tan for your wedding day. From UV tanning tips to when to get a spray tan before a wedding, read our expert guide for brides across Ireland.
How to Choose the Best Tanning Lotion (Accelerator vs Intensifier vs Bronzer vs Extender)
At The Tanning Shop Ireland, we’re proud to offer a vast array of professional tanning lotions from industry-leading brands, Australian Gold and Vital. But with so many to choose from, how do you decide the best tanning lotion for you? From accelerators and intensifiers to bronzers and extenders, we’re here to give you the low-down on how each product works and which sunbed cream is best for your skin type, experience level, and goals.
Responsible UV Tanning Checklist: Before, During & After Your Session
UV tanning is a choice many people make to achieve a natural-looking glow without spending long periods in the sun. In Ireland, however, UV exposure is strictly regulated due to the risks associated with sunbed use. That’s why, at The Tanning Shop Ireland, we place such a strong emphasis on responsible tanning.
Red Light Therapy – Your Winter Skin Care Saviour
As the days grow darker and temperatures drop, it’s not just our mood that can suffer. Cold weather and constant indoor heating often strip the skin of moisture, leaving it dry, irritated, blemished, or more reactive than usual. If your complexion feels angrier or more unpredictable during the colder months, you’re definitely not alone.
What is Red Light Therapy and How Does It Work?
A Complete, Full-Body Guide to Red Light Therapy in Ireland
A Quick Guide to Red Light Therapy
Have you booked your red light therapy session but are not quite sure how to use a red light bed? Don’t worry we have you covered! Follow the simple steps below and you’ll see that it is very simple to use and if you have any further questions at your appointment, our friendly staff at our Tanning Shop locations […]
A New Era of Tanning in Greystones: Discover the Luxura Jewel
Exciting news! We are excited to announce an exciting addition to the Tanning Shop in Greystones, we would like to introduce a new era of tanning in the heart of Ireland- the Luxura Jewel has arrived at the Tanning Shop Greystones and is raising the bar for luxury tanning! This state-of-the-art tanning bed features: Tan-boosting UVA Power LEDs […]
Top Winter Skincare Tips
Cold weather can wreak havoc on our skin. But fear not we are here to help. As we know dry skin can deflect UV rays and affect your tanning results. So, look after your skin to keep that summer glow feeling all year round. Moisturise: Winter’s dry and cold air will take its toll on your […]
Top 5 Skincare Tips for Autumn
During the Autumn months when the colder weather sets in, it’s important to protect your skin! Colder weather, artificial central heating and drier air in Autumn can be harsh on your skin and may cause your it to become dull and dry. When your skin becomes dry it can mean that your tanning results are […]
It’s Official: We’re One of the Best Tanning Salons in Dublin!
We are delighted to have been listed as one of ‘The Best Tanning Salons in Dublin’ by Best in Ireland Here are some of the areas they reviewed and our scores! QUALITY OF TANNING: Here, we’ve reviewed their equipment, if they were able to follow clients’ desired skin tone, and how they keep you comfortable throughout the […]
How to Optimise Your Tan Responsibly
At The Tanning Shop we always encourage responsible tanning. Here we take the opportunity to share our top tanning tips to optimise tan tan responsibly this season! Session Length To build your glow it’s important to gradually build your minutes up over time. This allows your skin to get used to the UV rays and will reduce […]
