How to Prep for Your Bridal Spray Tan (and Avoid Common Mistakes)

Every bride dreams of glowing on her wedding day—and a flawless spray tan can take your bridal look to the next level. At Seven Sunless, we specialize in custom bridal spray tans that look natural, radiant, and photograph beautifully. But great results don’t just happen in the tent—they start with good prep. Here’s your complete guide to preparing for your bridal spray tan, plus the biggest mistakes to avoid.

Why Brides Love Spray Tans

Spray tans have become a must-have for brides in Seattle, Bellevue, and beyond. They even out skin tone, add a subtle golden glow, and enhance your dress, makeup, and photos. And unlike tanning beds or hours in the sun, spray tans are safe and customizable for every skin tone.

When Should You Book Your Tan?

1. Schedule a Trial Tan Always book a trial tan 3-4 weeks before your wedding. This gives you time to see how the color develops and make any adjustments to the tone or depth. It also allows you to test how it looks with your makeup and dress!

2. Book Your Final Tan 2 Days Before Your Wedding We recommend brides schedule their final tan 48 hours before the big day. This gives your tan time to fully develop, settle, and avoid last-minute stress.

Pre-Tan Prep: What You Need to Do

1. Exfoliate Properly
Exfoliate gently with an exfoliating mitt 24hrs before your appointment. Pay extra attention to dry areas like elbows, knees, and ankles.

2. Hair Removal Comes First
Shave or wax 24-48 hours before your tan. Doing it afterward can remove the tan or cause patchiness.

3. Moisturize the Week Leading Up
You want your skin to be moisturized and hydrated so that the spray tan can soak into your skin evenly. After you exfoliate and shave, make sure to moisturize the skin so that it's not dry when you come in for your spray tan. 

4. No Lotions, Deodorant, or Makeup 
On the day of your appointment, arrive with clean, product-free skin. Lotions and deodorants can block the solution and cause streaks.

5. Wear Dark, Loose-Fitting Clothing
Think: black joggers, a loose tee, and open-toe slides. Tight clothing can rub off your tan before it develops.

Avoid These Common Mistakes

• Skipping a trial tan (this is your wedding—no guessing games!)

• Wearing lotion or deodorant to your appointment

• Using retinol's or chemical exfoliants on the skin

• Exfoliating or shaving AFTER the tan

• Getting your nails or lashes done post-tan (always do those first!)

Bonus Tip: Book a Tan Around Other Events

Many of our Seattle bridal clients book their trial tan to align with events like:

• Bachelorette weekend

• Makeup trial

• Bridal shower or engagement shoot

It’s the best way to make the most of your glow!

Ready to Glow for Your Big Day?

At Seven Sunless, we’re known for giving Seattle brides the most flawless, confidence-boosting spray tans in the city. Our custom bridal packages include a trial and final tan to make sure you feel 100% ready to walk down the aisle.

Book your bridal spray tan now or reach out with any questions! Spots fill fast during wedding season.