If, like me, you have family and friends scattered across the world, wedding season isn’t confined to a few months–it’s a year-round sport. If you now travel back to your home country for these celebrations, the trips may be wildly hectic with the dance practices, tailoring appointments, and catch-up sessions. It is important to take care of yourself to ensure that you can be as present for your cousin or (insert family member).
Social media may serve you unhinged “wedding glow-up” tips, but honestly most of the best advice comes from the women in your community. Here are some from the women in my Thai-Indian community in Bangkok—tried, tested, and passed down regardless of season. And in true mai pen rai fashion, everything will be okay… as long as you prep with a sense of sabai.
Breakfast that won’t make you crash mid-ceremony
Start the day with this protein-packed roti so you have enough energy to survive the long hours in the makeup chair. Besan isn’t just good to wear, it’s great to eat. It’s high in plant protein and rich in fibre, which keeps you full without feeling heavy–great for the lavish outfit changes you’ll have. The added spinach boosts iron and antioxidants, helping your skin stay bright and your energy steady throughout the day.
IYKYK henna dye is for hair too
Recommended a few days before the wedding for those of you who want rich colour without the chemical overload. Beyond giving your hair that deep and warm tint, henna coats each strand rather than stripping it, which can make your hair feel thicker and smoother. It also helps balance oil on the scalp and can reduce itchiness or irritation for people sensitive to traditional dyes. Plus, it adds a subtle shine that looks incredible in sunlight (and even better in those wedding reels).
Coconut oil hair mask is your bff
A few days after the dye, a pre-wash coconut oil massage is basically a love language in most Thai Indian homes. Warm a little oil with your hands and work it through your scalp and hair before you shower. It moisturises and protects your hair from heat styling during the wedding week. Plus, scalp massages boost circulation.
Book that foot or body massage, seriously
Yes, really! A cutesy trip with your cousins for massages is as relaxing as sitting together to doom-scroll on TikTok. A good massage improves circulation, helps reduce water retention (needed before long nights in fitted outfits), and relaxes tight muscles so you’re not stiff when you inevitably end up dancing for hours. It also helps calm pre-wedding stress, which shows up on your face more than you think.
The anti-bloat tea that actually works
If you’re feeling bloated, this magical little concoction can help. Ginger supports digestion and helps ease that tight feeling after heavy meals. Basil has naturally calming properties, which can soothe both your stomach and your nerves. And cumin is a classic in many South Asian households for reducing bloating and supporting gut balance. Together, they make a comforting tea that helps you feel lighter before slipping into your lehenga, sari, or bodycon dress.
Haldi and aloe vera face masks zone
Save some turmeric from the family haldi (if you celebrate) to mix with milk and honey for a face and body mask– don’t leave it on for more than 10 minutes! Best to do this a couple of days before a wedding. For natural healing moisturiser, use an aloe vera gel to soothe out any dry skin or redness.
Cool girls know about the magic of ice cubes
Once you’re seated in the make-up seat, dab ice cubes on your face to reduce puffiness and tighten the skin temporarily–this allows the MUA to work with and not against your skin. The MUA in Bangkok also sometimes do face massages to perform a little gua shua magic to get the blood circulation going. You’ll not only look refreshed, but also feel like you’ve had a full night’s sleep.
At the end of the day, any beauty routine that works for you is the best one for you. Weddings are chaotic, colourful, and deeply communal. Lean into the rituals, old and new, care for yourself the way the women before you did, and let that quiet sabai settle in. And remember, always always wear sunscreen–even if you’re indoors (those camera flashes can be intense even if glamorous).