Christianson suggests that brides begin the planning process at least six months to a year before their wedding date. Brides need to come in for their bridal trial, to assure that hair, makeup and the wedding gown are perfect. “We repeat (the process) on the wedding day, so everything is organized,” says Christianson, who offers this advice: “It’s always helpful when the bride brings pictures and ideas of what they'd like for their hair coloring and makeup.”