So Pampered: Feeling Beautiful

By Beth Anne Piehl

One final “ahhh” is deserved before the momentous day begins.
Brides and bridal parties often enjoy one last moment of bonding and togetherness as they primp and prepare for the wedding ceremony, and area spas, salons and tanning centers can help all the ladies look and feel their best (more than likely, the men will be looking and feeling their best on the golf course by now).
A golden tan offset with a bright white dress can make a bride truly glow on the day of her dreams, and today there are more options than lying in a tanning bed for a half hour wearing those little glasses.
Spray tans are hugely popular with clients of Hot Tans in Petoskey, said manager Carrie Lesperance.
“Spray tanning is awesome. It takes about 20 minutes to have it done, and brides should have it done two to three days before their event,” she said. “You wouldn’t believe how popular it’s become over the last year.”
Lesperance handles the spray-tan operations and said the color that results blends naturally with a person’s own pigment to create a natural-tan look; for instance, someone who is very fair will not walk out chocolate brown. “It’s going to adjust to your own pigment,” she said.
The color lasts 8 to 10 days and once it’s dry, it’s dry; it won’t rub off on clothing. During the application process, Hot Tans provides throw-away garments. Some customers choose to wear the bathing suit they plan to bring on the honeymoon, and Lesperance said if some tanning spray does get on the material it is washable.
Even grooms like the convenience of the spray-on tan. “I am amazed at how many men come in and don’t want to take the time to tan,” Lesperance added.
Hot Tans also has standard tanning beds and stand-up tanning booths, and they particularly enjoy catering to brides and bridesmaids with special packages that include manicures and pedicures.
Many local salons pull out all the stops when it comes to pampering the bridal party, and the Spa at the Inn at Bay Harbor is known for its full make-up, hair, facials, nail, massage and food services. With stunning views out to Lake Michigan, the spa and salon offers make-up application by a certified aesthetician and hair products by Aveda.
Other locations around the Petoskey area have also created businesses catering to bridal parties and events surrounding the wedding. At Sunkissed Tanning Salon and Spa on M-119, brides can find hair, makeup, massage, tanning (including spray-on), nails, waxing, tattoos and piercing.

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