You’ve found someone you love, and this feels like forever. Is there anything more exhilarating? And of course, talking about marriage means you’ve got some shopping to do — engagement ring shopping, that is! While some couples opt to shop together, others would prefer that The Ring be a surprise. So what’s the best way to drop hints and make sure you get a ring you’ll love? We’ve got a few ideas, straight from the experts.

You have a few options when it comes to subtly (or not-so-subtly) dropping hints about your dream engagement ring. The first is to enlist a friend. The two of you can head out to look at rings, then your BFF can take notes to share with your significant other. This will help steer him or her in the right direction, without the two of you having to head to the jewelry store together.

The next? Doing a little research on your own and leaving clues around the house. That could mean websites up on your laptop, magazines open to specific pages on the coffee table or, for the most bold of brides-to-be, a picture stuck to the fridge. Hey, you’ve got to share your inspiration somehow!

If you really want to narrow things down (and get a little inspiration of your own), you could always turn to Reverie, a new website that combines Pinterest with a personality and style quiz to help narrow down what you might like, then inspire you with all sorts of gorgeous rings that fit your specifications. Create a profile full of rings that caught your eye, as well as important specifics like your ring size, whether you’d prefer a diamond or a different stone, the stone’s shape, metal preference, and setting (from a classic solitaire to a double halo). While you can’t shop directly from the site (yet!), it’s full of pictures of real life engagement rings, not ultra-photoshopped brand images, so you’ll get a real idea of what you do and don’t love. Once you’ve gotten your profile where you want it, you can share your inspiration board and specifics directly with your significant other, so they know exactly where to start when they head to the jewelry store.

See more: These Sapphire Engagement Rings Will Brighten Up Your Day

“Billie Jean is not my lover,” but Paris Jackson certainly has one in the form of drummer Michael Snoddy. The daughter of Michael Jackson surely seems to be smitten with her rocker boyfriend and the world is certainly noticing. The couple has been flaunting their love — PDA and all — in front of the paparazzi’s always-flashing cameras. And earlier this week when the pair hit the sunny streets of Malibu, California, those onlooking lens captured a very curious piece of jewelry that both the lovebirds were rocking. Are those engagement rings on the fingers of Paris Jackson and Michael Snoddy?!

A pretty sparkler on the left ring finger never fails to grab our attention — especially when it’s sitting on the hand of the daughter of the King of Pop. The 18-year-old blonde beauty was spotted with a sparkly silver ring on that finger while out and about with her beau. Sure, the girl is young, but the couple sure has been getting hot and heavy — including in a super steamy photo shoot (see below).

Last month, RadarOnline claimed that Jackson was seriously thinking of tying the knot with her sweetheart. That and the fact that Snoddy also was toting a ring on his left finger has questioning the couple’s relationship status. Is Jackson engaged? Is Snoddy rocking the man-gagement rings trend? What will the bride choose from her famous pop’s discography for her first dance?

We’ve discovered the real deal and as it turns out, there won’t be wedding bells ringing for Jackson and Snoddy anytime soon. According to TMZ, while Jackson did gift the Street Drum Corps drummer a promise ring, the bling she’s been wearing isn’t of the bridal variety. The gossip site claims that they have learned from a source that Jackson’s ring is one that she just wears for fun — and not exclusively on that attention-grabbing finger.

Guess we should just “Beat It” with those wedding plans for now. (Sorry, we had to…)

See More: 62 Wedding Ring Photo Ideas for Your Big Day

#ParisJackson #MichaelSnoddy X XXXXXXXXYX XXYXXYXXXX
XXYXXXYXXXX: https://t.co/QQmFmegbvK pic.twitter.com/mTEJdVoTfL

— XXXYXXYXXYXX (@probomond) September 15, 2016

A photo posted by Paris and Michael (@parisandsnoddy) on Sep 22, 2016 at 7:33am PDT

A photo posted by Paris and Michael (@parisandsnoddy) on Sep 22, 2016 at 7:37am PDT

Step aside Kate Middleton, it’s someone else’s turn to shine in a modern blue sapphire engagement ring! Duchess Kate sparked a trend with her blue sapphire engagement ring (which was Princess Diana’s ring previously) and we have no shortage of love for September’s birthstone. Aside from being visually stunning, sapphires make the ideal “true blue” choice for an engagement ring — the stone symbolizes honesty, and fidelity. Plus it makes a pretty spectacular “something blue” on the wedding day. From classic Victorian-inspired styles, to rows of sapphires fit for the most modern of brides-to-be, we’ve got 10 sapphire engagement rings that will make a serious statement!

1. Speaking of making a statement — can we take a moment to ogle at Trumpet & Horn’s Victorian-inspired sapphire Tiara ring? Rose gold, diamonds, and a tear drop blue sapphire have us swooning over the romantic ring.
(Sapphire tiara ring in 18k rose gold, $6,750, Trumpet & Horn)

2. This emerald cut sapphire comes layered in bands of white and black diamonds, perfect for the girl who loves to stack her rings.
(Sapphire multi band ring, $1,850, Jennie Kwon Designs)

3. Modern brides-to-be look no further than this Sydney Evan block pave blue sapphire ring. This architectural design is sure to have everyone asking about your new bauble (as if they wouldn’t already?).
(14k gold block sapphire ring, $3,565, Sydney Evan available at Bergdorf Goodman)

4. Claire Pettibone’s collection for Trumpet & Horn is a bohemian bride-to-be’s dream come true! Inspired by the designer’s love for vintage materials, the collection features gemstones — including sapphires — in Pettibone’s signature heirloom-inspired settings in white, yellow or rose gold. This vintage-inspired purple sapphire ring is so exquisitely unique, your ring will definitely be the standout amongst the #EngagementRingSelfies on Instagram.
(Nightingale purple sapphire platinum ring, $17,200, Claire Pettibone for Trumpet & Horn)

5. This sweet Azlee ring gives us shades of blue by pairing a sapphire with an aquamarine and white diamond. We love how delicate the stones look climbing up (or down) the ring finger.
(Single burst ring 18kYellow Gold, blue sapphire, aquamarine and white diamond, $840, Azlee)

6. Can’t part with the idea of a diamond ring? We feel you. How about considering a sapphire wedding band to pair with your sparkler? A row of delicate blue sapphires will definitely add a wow factor to your ring finger.
(Grant 18k sapphire band ring, $1,750, Walters Faith)

7. A pink sapphire? Yes, you read that right! A padparadscha sapphire is extra special for its pinkish-orangeish hue! We guarantee you’ll feel super unique strutting this bauble around your finger.
(Padparadscha sapphire ring, $12,100, Danhov available at Greenwich Jewelers)

8. This Asscher cut sapphire set in oxidized yellow gold and silver screams rustic and vintage-inspired. Another super unique option for the engaged lady looking to make a statement.
(Lily sapphire ring, $5,800, Single Stone)

9. This oval sapphire is straight up giving us Kate Middleton vibes. Classic, tasteful, and vintage feeling, we bet this gorgeous rings even gives you Duchess Kate level shiny locks. One can dream right?
(Oval sapphire and pave diamond ring, $7,900, Blue Nile)


See more: What Your Colored Engagement Ring Really Means

10. Go big or go home, right? Well that’s our thinking when it comes to sapphire engagement rings. Let your blue bauble standout flanked by diamonds on each side, and surrounded by even more diamonds in a halo.
(Round cut blue sapphire ring, $6,095, Gemvara)

Shannen Doherty shared a stunning wedding photo with an emotional caption on Monday, dedicating the share to her husband Kurt Iswarienko, who has been by her side during her year-long battle with breast cancer.

The wedding photo was shared in a response to an Instagram “#loveyourspouse” challenge by Sarah Michelle Gellar, who had shared a photo of herself and her husband, actor Freddie Prinze Jr. Doherty responded to the challenge with a breathtaking wedding photo of her and her husband who were both looking over their shoulders while holding hands.

In the heartfelt caption, she wrote “Our wedding was exceptional and not for the big event it was. It was exceptional because we committed for better or worse, in sickness or in health to love and cherish one another,” she wrote on Instagram. “Those vows have never meant more than they do now. Kurt has stood by my side thru sickness and makes me feel more loved now than ever. I would walk any path with this man. Take any bullet for him and slay every dragon to protect him. He is my soul mate. My other half. I am blessed.” BRB, sobbing.

The actress, 45, shared with People that she was diagnosed with breast cancer in August 2015 and has been undergoing chemotherapy since July, noting that it is “nearly finished.” Her doctor Dr. Lawrence Piro said she is doing “amazing,” and that “we just have a few more weeks of treatment, and then we’ll be nearly finished with the chemotherapy.” Her doctor’s positive outlook is equally matched by the former Beverly Hills, 90210 star, who shared with ET that “cancer has, in a strange way, done some amazing things for me. It’s allowed me to be more me, like much more in touch with who I am, and much more vulnerable and the person that I always was, but I think it got hidden behind a lot of other stuff.”

Doherty attributes much of her recovery and support to her other half, saying, “My marriage was always fantastic, but it’s even better now.” Her doting hubs is clearly her rock. “I have the easy part,” Iswarienko added. “Just being a support system for her…I wish I could do it for her, you know?” Now that is love.

With a supportive husband and fearless positivity, there’s no doubt she will kick cancer’s you-know-what. Keep fighting, girl — you got this!

See More: If Your Guy Has These 21 Habits, Marry Him Right Now

My friend @sarahmgellar softly suggested a challenge to @kurtiswarienko and myself to do the 7 day #loveyourspousechallenge and we accepted! She was telling me about going thru old photos and the memories and emotions they evoke. This morning, I felt that and I'm thankful Sarah challenged us. Our wedding was exceptional and not for the big event it was. It was exceptional because we committed for better or worse, in sickness or in health to love and cherish one another. Those vows have never meant more than they do now. Kurt has stood by my side thru sickness and makes me feel more loved now than ever. I would walk any path with this man. Take any bullet for him and slay every dragon to protect him. He is my soul mate. My other half. I am blessed.

A photo posted by ShannenDoherty (@theshando) on Sep 26, 2016 at 10:10am PDT

There are many faces to cancer. This is one of them. Chemo Day With @kurtiswarienko by my side. August 10, 2016

A photo posted by ShannenDoherty (@theshando) on Aug 30, 2016 at 8:33am PDT

Bright and early, in the car, listening to #thenational with my dream team @kurtiswarienko and @themamarosa Feeling blessed, loved and happy for this beautiful day. Today is #chemoday and that means that I'm one step closer to being almost done.

A photo posted by ShannenDoherty (@theshando) on Sep 21, 2016 at 7:49am PDT

Cancer is like a book with so many pages you don't see a way to read through all of them at once. But when you take them one page at a time, a story emerges and takes shape in unexpected ways. The outcome isn't clear or easy to reckon with, but you find as you go through the journey that a clear outcome isn't the point. The journey is the thing. The people you connect with along the way are the point. It's about human energy. It's about breathing. #shannensquad ????????????????????????F???? #fuckcancer @theshando @annemkortright

A photo posted by Kurt Iswarienko (@kurtiswarienko) on Aug 1, 2016 at 10:43pm PDT

For most couples, the weeks leading up to your wedding will feel anything but romantic. You may find yourself overwhelmed with last minute details and shaken up by the inevitable pre-wedding jitters. If you’re looking for ways to take a deep breath and enjoy some quality time with your partner before you say “I do,” here are seven romantic things you can do the week leading up to your wedding — which may actually help you cross off some items on that outstanding to-do list.

1. Reenact your first date.
Go back to the very first place you met and pretend to have your first date all over again. Order the same food you ate — or walk the same path you took a stroll on post-dinner. It will bring you back to your roots (and may even help you write your vows!).

2. Spend a night looking through old pictures.
Reminiscing with old memories and letting every inch of love seep into your relationship pre-wedding is always a good idea. Looking through old photos (whether on the computer, phone, or printed) will take you on a trip down memory lane — and may help you put together a last-minute slideshow for your rehearsal dinner or reception. Spend the night reliving all the funny and special moments you shared throughout your relationship.

3. Surprise each other with a date night.
Pick a night the week (or two) before your wedding and plan a secret date filled with the other person’s favorite things. Consider this your final stretch of dates before you become spouses. It will most likely relax you and bring you back to center before the big day.

4. Head to the spa.
What better way to relax the week before your wedding than spa treatments? Do a couple’s massage or facials together — which of course will leave you both feeling relaxed, rejuvenated, and glowing for those photo ops.

See More: 50 Things All Brides Should Do The Week of Their Wedding

5. Go wine or cocktail tasting.
Find a local wine, whiskey, or beer tasting locale and head there for a night out. If you’re still trying to decide on your signature drink, this is the perfect way to kill two birds with one stone. Take the night to have a pre-wedding toast together with your favorite drink of choice, and if it’s delicious and special enough, it may end up being present on your big day.

6. Take a couples’ dance class together.
It doesn’t hurt to learn some new dance moves before your wedding — especially if you or your partner are prone to having two left feet. If your first dance is one that’s particularly complicated or you just want to get some new moves under your belts, opt for a private dance lesson to get you both more comfortable twirling around in front of everyone.

7. Send each other a video.
If you’re spending the week or a few days before your wedding apart from your fiancé, send them a homemade video that lets them know how excited you are for a lifetime together. This will be a great keepsake present that you can replay year after year, and it can even go in a part of your wedding film. Talk about a heartfelt win/win.

Jen Glantz is a “Professional Bridesmaid” and the founder of Bridesmaid for Hire. She’s the author of All My Friends Are Engaged and frequently wears old bridesmaid dresses to the grocery store and on first dates.

Nothing can bust your wedding budget like hidden costs or fees. Before you sign off with your selected wedding vendors, it’s important to know exactly to what you’re agreeing. Now, we’re not saying you have to take these contracts to a lawyer, but make sure you read through them carefully to be completely confident in your decisions before you enter into a legally binding agreement. Keeping an eye out for these four contract items can ensure there will be happy campers all around come your big day.

Taxes
Sales tax, use tax, food tax, and more — there are a bunch of different tax laws and percentages and it varies state to state. It’s important to double check if taxes are included or calculated post-purchase when dealing with vendors, as tax on larger purchases add up quickly! If you’re using out-of-state vendors, it’s especially important to brush up on tax exemptions and state rules and regulations, as sometimes you can save money and other times you’ll end up paying more. Either way, taxes should be one of the first items discussed before decisions are made final. Your still-in-the-green budget will thank you.

Gratuity
Many vendors will include a pre-calculated gratuity or service fee, and others will not. Some vendors will mandate it within their pricing, and others will only offer suggested percentages. Either way, it’s super important to figure out (and budget for) gratuity before you sign a contract with any vendor you plan to tip. If you disagree with prepaying tips or you feel the accounting is a bit off, speak up before you sign and make it official.

The Lingo
Ask for clarification on any and all terms and phrases that are ambiguous, or are not clear. “Additional costs possible”, “Estimated cost”, “Subject to change”, and “plus set up and delivery” are just some of the red-flags to look out for before you sign on the dotted line. Contracts are legally binding, which means they should be explicitly stated and carefully worded. If there is any room for interpretation, clarify it with your vendors and ensure the contract is re-worded (in writing!) based on what you agree upon.

See More: 6 Post-Wedding Ways to Thank Your Vendors

Vendor Meals, Travel, and Accommodations
With weddings being 6, 8, or 10 hour affairs (maybe even more!) certain vendors that are with you the entire time may expect meals, travel costs and/or accommodations provided for them on your dime. Prior to agreeing to this (FYI — within reason, it is proper etiquette) look into what this will cost you to ensure you stay within your budgets. Most venues and caterers offer vendor meals at a discounted price than your per-person cost, but meals, tolls and travel can quickly add up. Being prepared will make contract time run smoothly and keep your budget intact.

Sometimes a marriage proposal goes off without a hitch. Out of nowhere, your nervous about-to-be fiancé gracefully gets down to one knee, asks you those four little words you’ve been dying to hear, and pulls out the swoon-worthy engagement ring that they had safely tucked away in their pocket. It glides right on your finger as your choke out a yes between all the happy tears. And then sometimes, things like this happen… Not all proposals are picture-perfect. Occasionally, you see the surprise coming a mile away, you get interrupted at the last minute, or he drops the ring down stadium seats in front of thousands of people. Yep, that happened. At last night’s Yankees game against the Boston Red Sox, a man decided that the fifth inning was the perfect time to propose to his girlfriend — and then promptly dropped the ring down into the abyss of the stadium seats. Oops.

Who cares about the Yankees/Red Sox rivalry? This is the saga whose outcome we need to see! When Andrew Fox dropped to one knee in the middle of Tuesday night’s game, proposing to fellow fan Heather Terwilliger, he fumbled the ring, dropping the sparkler nowhere to be seen. (We know that’s a football term, but just go with it.) Panicked, Fox immediately started searching for the ring, with neighboring fans soon joining the frenzy. All of this was captured on the Jumbotron of course (see below), so the moment can leave on in infamy. (They’ll totally want to show this to their children someday, right?)

After a massive search party, borrowed flashlights, and we’re sure about five years off this groom’s life, the engagement ring was thankfully found and Heather slipped on her new sparkler as the crowd erupted with cheers.

“Definitely not the way I planned it out,” Fox later told the YES Network of his proposal blunder. “I thought it was just gonna be a simple kneel down and pop it out and ask her, but it instantly just dropped out. I was so scared I started to cry.” We feel you, Fox…

See More: 5 Things You Should Do While You’re Waiting for a Proposal

“I didn’t know what to think,” added the bride-to-be. “It was all a shock, it came so quickly. I felt really bad. It was good that we found it.”

We wouldn’t necessarily call this proposal a home run, but at least she said yes, right?

Because every proposal story includes searching for the ring: https://t.co/KvxY6WwLEU pic.twitter.com/MLGo5XiATv

— MLB (@MLB) September 28, 2016

Are you the kind of woman who has dreamed of her wedding ever since she was a little girl? Have you imagined the venue, the flower arrangements, and even the cake? Have you thought about the qualities that you wanted your groom to possess? Have you discussed your wedding specifics with your friends and families, and in turn, have gotten their pieces of advice and predictions?

Everybody seems to have an opinion on weddings and suitable grooms. In fact, if you follow astrology, the stars have their own ideas on the type of man you’re going to love and eventually marry … if they have their way. Find out what type of man you’re going to marry according to your zodiac sign.

Aries (March 21 – April 19): Marry a man of action.
You need someone who can go toe to toe with you. You’ll marry a man who matches your love of adventure and one who has a competitive spirit. He’ll be a strong athletic type of guy who thrives on competition and there isn’t a challenge he’s not up for. This guy rarely sits on his ass, because he can’t stand not doing something. Your future husband won’t back down from a fight and will be just as into make-up sex as you are.

Taurus (April 20 – May 20): Marry a strong man of many appetites.
The man you’ll wed will be very down-to-earth, strong-willed, sensual, and one who has a lust for all the pleasures and comforts of life. He’ll be pretty dominant, but not in an abusive way — just in a way that makes you feel safe and supported. Your future mate will always have your back.

Gemini (May 21 – June 20): Marry a man who gives good conversation.
There’s nothing more appealing to you than someone who matches your intelligence, entertains you and somebody who’s a great conversationalist. Life is never dull with this guy and he always keeps you guessing so you never get bored. Since it was his mind that you were first attracted to, when you get old you’ll still find him sexy as hell.

Cancer (June 21 – July 22): Marry a man who is a safety net.
You’re attracted to sensitive and understanding types of men, and will be most comfortable with a man you think of as fatherly. It’s not that he’s much older or a father figure to you, just that he makes you feel emotionally and financially secure. It will be easy to picture him as the father to your children. This man will be your rock and will always make sure that you feel protected and safe.

See More: Check Out These Accurate (And Fun!) Horoscopes

Leo (July 23- August 22): Marry someone charismatic.
Let’s face it: you like to be the star, but you’re willing to share the limelight with someone who is your true match. The man you marry will have charm and charisma to spare and will be insanely good-looking. Mr. Leo will be extremely generous, affectionate, and will completely understand and appreciate what makes you so spectacular. You two will rule the world together.

Virgo (August 23- September 22): Marry the all-around good guy.
You need someone who will respect your boundaries but will infuse a little creativity and humor into your analytical world. Yes, he’ll be intelligent (you wouldn’t accept anything less) and polite, and someone neat and clean, but he’ll also be one of those people who has a spark in their eyes, who can defuse tense situations. You won’t want a man who is crude and rude in public, but if he gets a little wild behind closed doors, that’s cool.

Libra (September 23 – October 22): Marry the life of the party.
There’s a good chance that a Libra will marry another Libra. Where else are they going to find someone who is as gifted socially as they are? The man you marry will be extremely well spoken, outgoing and fun. Did we mention that he’s very attractive as well? He likes to go out and enjoys everything from parties to concerts to theater. Oh, and even after you’re married, the romantic gestures will not stop. Can somebody say “swoon”?

See More: 11 Brutal Truths About Loving A Libra (Written By A Libra)

Scorpio (October 23 – November 21): Marry a man of mystery.
Scorpios are attracted to those who seem mysterious, intense, and a little dangerous (not unlike themselves). You’re strong-willed, possessive, and can get a little obsessed, so it’s hardly a shocker that’s the kind of man you’ll marry. You’ll be constantly excited by the psychological power struggles that the two of you go through, and obviously the amazing sexual connection that you two have. You’ll both spend a lifetime trying to figure out what makes the other person tick.

Sagittarius (November 22 – December 21): Marry the philosophical traveler.
Sagittarius need a partner with whom they can share adventures and travel, and in addition, someone they can have philosophical discussions with. The man you marry will have the perfect balance of honesty, integrity, spirituality and humor. They’ll be your best friend, your teacher, and your guide, but they won’t be a drag or a downer — they’ll have a true love of life.

Capricorn (December 22 – January 19): Marry someone ambitious.
Age is just a number for you, so if you find a goal-oriented, successful man with whom you can see a serious future with, you’re going to marry them. You’re interested in playing for keeps, not in having a friends-with-benefits situation. Your future husband will be well established in his career when you meet and ultimately marry. You know that marriage takes work, and both you and your husband are willing to do it.

See More: Who You Have The BEST Sex With, According To Your Zodiac Sign

Aquarius (January 20 – February 18): Marry an idealist.
Your husband will intrigue you the moment you meet because he will be exciting, unconventional and unpredictable. He’s a bit of a rebel and will probably have views that shock some people. You don’t want someone dull and boring anyway. This guy will excite you on many different levels — mentally, emotionally and sexually. You love that he’s willing to experiment and try new things all the time.

Pisces (February 19 – March 20): Marry a savior or someone who needs to be saved.
You love a dreamer, a romantic and someone who’s sensitive. You often find yourself helping those in need and if he needs saving, you’re happy to do it. On the other hand, you’re a hopeless romantic and wouldn’t mind being saved from time to time yourself. You’ll marry a man who can be both the saver and the saved, because you have that kind of rare relationship where you’re so perfectly matched, it’s as if you’re one person.

This article originally appeared on YourTango.

When you’re ready to begin the search for the perfect dress, you’ll soon realize Washington, D.C. has no shortage of shopping options. Whether you’ve been dreaming of a romantic ball gown, a modern silhouette, or recreating a vintage gown to be your own, you’re in luck! We’ve rounded up our favorite D.C. bridal salons to be sure to check out on your quest for the dress.

Hitched (Above)
Nestled in Georgetown, Hitched has been an award-winning bridal salon for over 10 years. With versatile dress offerings from modern and sharp silhouettes to romantic lace gowns, owners Katelyn and Katie promise to leave every bride with the perfect look for their wedding day regardless of budget, style preference, or figure. Designers at Hitched include Amsale, Rebecca Schoneveld, and Modern Trouseeau — among many others. This bridal boutique also offers a fully stocked department of accessories so the soon-to-be Mrs. can select the perfect veil, jewelry, and other accents to complete her look. Read real brides’ reviews here!

Carine’s Bridal Atelier
Since its opening in 2006, Carine’s Bridal Atelier has been providing brides-to-be with exclusive fashions and impeccable service. With dresses designed by both emerging bridal designers as well as those synonymous with bridal fashion including Monique Lhullier and Carolina Herrera, owner Carine Krawiec brings over 10 years of New York City high-end fashion experience to the nation’s capital. Aside from offering elegance and style, Carine’s also often hosts trunk shows, sample sales, and special events. Read real brides’ reviews here!

Rizik Brothers
Helping brides selected their look for over a century, Rizik Brothers has been at the forefront of bridal fashion. Having evolved with the industry it’s main focus has remained on couture. It’s current location (at the intersection of Connecticut Avenue and L Street) Rizik’s is also a full fashion headquarters offering accessories, contemporary, business and cocktail attire, along with their acclaimed bridal boutique. With on-premises professional alterations, this one-stop-bridal-shop curates designers including Jenny Packham, Tara Keely, Watters, and Romona Keveza. With experienced bridal consultants ready to help you along the way, you’ll be certain to find the dress (and fit) of your dreams. Read real brides’ reviews here!

See More: After You’ve Found the Perfect Dress, Accessorize Your Gown with Bridal Jewelry Courtesy of These Local Jewelers

Nazemi Bridal
If you’re looking for the dress of your dreams and haven’t found it off the rack, head to the heart of downtown Georgetown to Nazemi Bridal. For a truly unique experience, Nazemi Bridal offers custom couture wedding gowns, as personalization and customization are at the heart of this shop. This boutique also offers custom veils, belts, jewelry and more as you work with the skilled attendants and seamstresses for your one-of-a-kind experience. Read real brides’ reviews here!

Diana’s Couture and Bridal
Have your heart set on recreating your Mom (or Grandma’s!) wedding day look — but with a twist? Look no further than Diana’s Couture and Bridal. Owner Diana My Tran has been helping brides put a special spin on dresses from the past, combining current fashions with heirlooms and memories for over 32 years. Also known as “The Gown Doctor,” this award-winning designer can custom design your gown or work with an existing gown to make it your own. Read real brides’ reviews here!

For more local boutiques for all your bridal style needs, browse our Washington, D.C. Dresses page!

Let’s face it, all eyes are on you, and your wedding beauty look, as you walk down the aisle. Regardless of what the weather may throw your way—from scorching temps to torrential downpours—you want to look flawless. That means long-lasting makeup that won’t fade halfway through your first dance. Spoiler alert: your go-to lipstick likely won’t cut it. Beyond just being waterproof, our favorite long-wear makeup formulas are smudge-proof, tear-proof and smooch-proof (trust us, we tested them). In other words, they won’t budge—guaranteeing you stay photo-ready. Here are the products you need to make your wedding makeup last from the first look to the after party.

Primer
Primer is absolutely essential. It smoothes, evens, and preps skin for foundation. It creates a perfect canvas that makes makeup look better and last longer. Smashbox Iconic Photo Finish Foundation Primer diffuses light, blurs imperfections — and works overtime to fill in fine lines and pores. Bring on the flash photography! (“Photo Finish” foundation primer, $36, Smashbox available at Sephora)

Concealer and Foundation
Next up, you’ll need a concealer and foundation, like Westmore Beauty Coverage Perfector. This creamy 2-in-1 formula delivers buildable coverage, for an airbrushed complexion that lasts up to 24 hours — without budging or transferring. We’re talking Hollywood special effects flawless. (“Coverage Perfector” foundation $36, Westmore Beauty)

Bronzer
There’s nothing better than gorgeous, glowing skin. But between the ceremony and cutting the cake standard bronzers can fall flat. Luckily, there’s Tarte Amazonian Clay Matte Waterproof Bronzer. This photo-friendly formula—in the iconic Park Ave Princess shade—adds instant warmth and dimension that’s bound to stick around. (“Amazonian Clay” matte waterproof bronzer, $30, Tarte available at Sephora)

Blush
Applying a pretty peach or pink blush to the apples of your cheeks really brightens up your face. Look for a lightweight, buildable formula, like Sephora Collection Perfection Mist Airbrush Blush. This fine mist gives you a perfect natural flush. And because it’s waterproof, it’ll stay put through “I do’s,” dinner and dancing. (“Perfection Mist” airbrush blush, $20, Sephora)

Eyeshadow
There’s nothing worse than shadow that creases and melts into lids. The solution: Make Up For Ever Aqua Cream. This ultra-pigmented, waterproof, cream shadow is the top choice of U.S. Olympic synchronized swimmers. So you know it can withstand some pretty extreme conditions. (Aqua cream, $23, Make Up For Ever available at Sephora)

Eyeliner
Whether you’re going for a dramatic cat eye or something more subtle, eyeliner really makes peepers pop. When it comes to wedding makeup, opt for a waterproof product that won’t run if (or, more realistically, when) you tear up. Bridal beauty experts tout the benefits of Laura Mercier Instant Ink 24-Hour Brush Eyeliner. This precision liquid liner goes on smooth and lasts all day (and night). (“Instant Ink” 24-hour brush eyeliner, $30, Laura Mercier available at Sephora)

Mascara
Finish your look by applying a few coats of waterproof mascara. Clinique High Impact Waterproof Mascara is a favorite of blubbering brides everywhere. This cry-proof pick offers instant volume and length that resists flaking, clumping and smudging. (Waterproof mascara, $17.50, Clinique)

See More: Wedding Day Beauty: Top 40 Tips and Tricks

Brows
For brows that wow, A-list makeup artists turn to Anastasia Beverly Hills Dipbrow Pomade. This award-winning, all-in-one brow perfector glides on easily, dries fast and has major staying power! Plus, it’s available in 11 shades to match your natural brow tone. (“Dipbrow” pomade, $18, Anastasia Beverly Hills)

Lip Liner
The key to a perfect stay put pout? Long-wear liner. Our top pick: Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Lip Pencil. This long-lasting, waterproof formula fills in, defines and prevents feathering. In other words, it gets your pucker primed and ready for lipstick. (Lip pencil, $20, Urban Decay available at Sephora)

Lipstick
When it comes to bridal beauty, the red lip is a timeless classic. Charlotte Tilbury Hot Lips in Carina’s Love leaves lips with a modern matte that’s totally first kissable—and will still look fabulous for photo ops later on in the evening. (“Hot Lips” lipstick, $32, Charlotte Tilbury)