The moment that’s photographed forever

You’ll remember the moment you say “I do.” But your photographer — and every guest with a camera — will remember the moment you reach for the ring.

Your hands will be in more photos than your bouquet, so it’s worth giving your nails the same care as your skin, hair and dress. Not because they have to be perfect, but because they tell part of your story.

How to prep your wedding nails at home

Healthy nails don’t happen overnight. Ideally, start four to six weeks before your wedding day to repair damage, strengthen, and refine the shape.

Four to six weeks before

• Hydrate and repair nightly with Ultimate Nail Rescue — the two-step serum and oil system that restores moisture and flexibility to dry, brittle or gel-damaged nails.
• Keep nails short and rounded to prevent snagging or peeling while they rebuild strength.
• Apply Self Love Oil daily to soften cuticles and improve circulation to the nail bed.

The week before

• Lightly shape and buff your nails — never over-file.
• Avoid acetone removers or salon hardeners (they can dehydrate nails and undo your prep).
• Start using a rich hand cream to keep your hands hydrated.
• Continue nightly Ultimate Nail Rescue to maintain hydration and smoothness.

The night before

• Apply the Flawless Nails Set or your chosen polish, and allow plenty of time for it to dry completely. A relaxed evening — without last-minute rushing or touch-ups — ensures your nails are smooth, glossy, and ready for the day ahead.

What to paint your nails with on the day

We love polish that looks timeless, effortless, and real — the kind of beauty that doesn’t fight with your ring.

Here are a few modern alternatives to gels and SNS for your wedding day:

1. Soft shimmer or pearl finish

A fine, micro-shimmer polish adds a hint of light without overpowering your jewellery. Think of it as “your nails, but lit from within.”

Best for: Brides with simple dresses or gold accessories who want subtle radiance.

2. Modern French (without the clichés)

Skip the stark white tips. Instead, opt for a tonal variation — a blush base with a soft beige or champagne edge. Finish with Supersonic Top Coat for a quick-drying, chip-resistant shine.

Best for: A classic bride who likes tradition, but with restraint.

3. Elegant nail art

Delicate nail art can feel beautifully personal without stealing the spotlight. A fine floral detail — a single painted bloom, a pressed petal, or a minimal stem across one or two nails — adds a romantic, handcrafted touch that feels timeless, not trendy.

Keep the palette soft and tonal: think sheer blush, ivory, or gold accents that complement your jewellery rather than compete with it. The effect is elegant, subtle, and perfectly in tune with the occasion.

Best for: Brides with simple dresses or minimalist styling who want a quiet hint of artistry and romance.

If you’re still choosing between gel, builder gel or polish

At Kester Black, we’re all for a beautiful manicure — but we’re equally passionate about nail health.

If you’re going to the salon, opt for Builder In A Bottle Gel (BIAB, not SNS). Builder gel offers flexibility and strength with far less damage to the natural nail.

A few expert rules:

• Always return to the salon for professional removal or refills — never peel or pick.
• Avoid acetone soaks where possible; they dehydrate and thin nails.
• Follow removal with Ultimate Nail Rescue nightly for 4-6 weeks to rehydrate and restore the nail barrier.

If you’d prefer to stay completely gel-free

If you’d rather skip the gels altogether, reach for the Flawless Nails Set — your all-in-one polish prep and protection system for naturally strong, smooth, and glossy nails. Designed to create a salon-quality finish at home, it strengthens, smooths, and adds a luminous shine that lasts well beyond the big day.

It doubles as a brightening base coat and protective top layer, giving you that healthy, polished look without the damage or downtime. The result: nails that feel just as beautiful on your honeymoon as they did when you said “I do.”

The Kester Black bridal routine

• 6 weeks before: Start Ultimate Nail Rescue nightly.
• 2 weeks before: Switch to weekly filing and gentle shaping.
• 1 week before: Use Self Love Oil morning and night, plus a rich hand cream. 
• The night before: Apply the Flawless Nails Set (or your chosen polish) for strong, smooth, glossy nails that complement the ring — and last well beyond the big day.
• The day of: Moisturise your hands with a rich hand cream, and get ready to say "I do."

The result: naturally strong, beautifully groomed, ring-ready nails — with none of the post-wedding damage.