With a few days to go, we have noticed a huge amount of speculation surrounding the royal wedding but little advice and support for the bride and groom on what to look for on the day itself. We thought we share some of the advice we give our brides on her day that might come useful to Ms Meghan Markle or any bride. 

-Wear your bridal shoes, break them in. As a costume designer for films I am only too aware about the temptation of not wearing that very special pair of shoes until the last moment, the same temptation I have seem with many brides so let me give you one important piece of advice… DON’T. There is nothing more unpleasant that a painful pair of shoes and the pain will be reflected in all the pics, no matter what good an actress the bride is. Choose a thick pile carpet, put the shoes on and walk and then walk a bit more until you feel comfortable. The carpet will make sure the sole has no marks and the shoes look like new.

-Wash your hair the night before. Freshly washed hair does not hold a hairdo as well as a one washed the day before. In order to make sure your hair keeps the shape on the day a lot better, don’t wash your hair on the morning  of the big day in order to avoid unnecessary retouching.

- Have a tissue at hand. Your wedding day is a very emotionally charged day and the possibility of tears ruining your mascara is high. Have a tissue at hand and hold it next to the sides of your eyes as soon as you feel the need to cry, that way the make up will remain intact. 

-Avoid at all costs dark drinks on the day of your wedding. Red wine and other dark drinks can stain your teeth and these unflattering mishap will show in pictures.

-Hydrate. This is most important in order to keep up the energy levels and you looking your best. Lots of water (still not carbonated is best) and fruits with hi water density like watermelon are highly recommended.  

-Make up artist at hand. In many of the parties we design we allocate a make up artists near or inside the ladies loo for the bridal party or guests use. Its advisable to have someone at hand to do emergency touch ups in private and available at all times. A make up artist will make sure all the guest look at their best at all times which will be reflected in all the pictures, its a win win situation .

-Prep Your Hands. Needless to say there isn’t a time in life when your hands are so much the centre of attention, make sure yours and your husband’s to be look their best. 

-Take time together with your husband to be. With all the wedding craze, last minute details and visiting family member its easy to occupy your diary with wedding arrangements. Make sure you dedicate time to your other half and that he does not feel forgotten, remember that he will also be nervous and will appreciate your support and attention.

-Eat. Make sure you have breakfast, a light breakfast of watery fruits and peanut butter sandwiches will guarantee energy levels up and hydration. During the day make time for lunch opting for protein rich options with vegetables. Remember to eat small quantities but often. Speak to the caterer and appoint one person to look after you, that way you can preselect what to be served.

-Avoid pre-wedding drinks champagne or any bubble and carbonated beverages. Its not unusual for the bride to eat little on her wedding day, avoid drinks that might make you tipsy or make you feel bloated. Keep the alcohol intake to no more that one cocktail or glass every 1 1/2 to 2 hours.