Kim Sharma's commandments for brides-to-be
Actor Kim Sharma, who one would've assumed has been busy settled into married life in Kenya, has been brewing up a fresh new entrepreneurial venture for herself, and the brides of India.
Liaison, a bridal grooming service run by Sharma in Kenya, Dubai and now India, is her way of helping the Indian bride and groom look and feel their best on their big day.
She works closely with industry experts, like skin consultant Dr Trasi, fitness expert Zarine Watson and others to guide you through the extremely exciting and at times intimidating preparation process, from hair and beauty solutions to picking out the right wedding clothes and finding the best photographer.
We got Sharma to share the insights she's gathered through this venture, and here she lays down eight commandments every bride-to-be should abide by.
Photo: long formal dresses
On finding your bridal identity
Commandment: Thou shalt not follow fads.
Kim's advice: Orchids might be in, but if you like lillies, go for it. Be very clear in your head about who you are -- give way to your quirks, likes, dislikes, have a theme, a colour palette that you're comfortable with. Remember, this is going to last a lifetime in terms of visibility.
On finding your wedding dress
Commandment: Thou shalt not get caught up in trends.
Kim's advice: Choose your jewellery first, then match your dress with it, keeping in mind your body type. Make sure that your ensemble doesn't overpower you as a bride – don't be lost behind the film set.
On your skincare routine
Commandment: Thou shalt start the process at least six months in advance.
Kim's advice: Do your research and choose what works for you. Consultations are important before you go in for any treatment – you should be looking and feeling better than before every time you walk out of that treatment room. 14 glasses of water, facials every two weeks, age-old home remedies, cleansing thrice a day should not be ignored.
On wedding make-up
Commandment: Thou shalt not look like a different person.
Kim's advice: Never overdo – make-up should enhance what you look like, not change you.
On your mental state
Commandment: Thou shalt disconnect every single day.
Kim's advice: Make this a ritual. Be it ten minutes or an hour, completely disconnect from wedding activity daily and spend time with yourself. Read, meditate, join a dance class – whatever makes you happy and calm. Be ethereal, it's your day – you should feel like an angel floating in the middle of chaos, marrying the one you love.
On your workout regimen
Commandment: Thou shalt get fit, not skinny.
Kim's advice: Fitness is a great stressbuster. Six months before the big day, get a personal trainer, eat right and work out with dedication.
On your diet
Commandment: Thou shalt not follow a crash diet.
Kim's advice: What you put in your body reflects on your skin and hair. Take your vitamin pills and eat sensibly.
On your pampering rituals
Commandment: Thou shalt pay equal attention to hair, body and skin.
Kim's advice: Join a gym, consult your skincare professional for packages, follow a thorough hair routine, exfoliate your body and go for a colonic treatment at a reputed place.
See also: Formal Dresses 2014