Whitening Teeth

When it comes to that picture-perfect wedding day smile, teeth bleaching can be a plus. But the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry says always see your dentist before choosing an over-the-counter product since some may irritate gums and lips, and cause swelling.

To help whiten teeth naturally, they recommend eating raw veggies such as carrots and celery, which can help remove surface stains, or rubbing teeth with strawberries or lemons -- both natural whiteners -- and then rinsing with cool water.

You should also avoid drinking coffee, dark sodas, and red wine in the weeks leading up to your wedding to reduce teeth stains.

And while nothing makes a smile whiter or brighter than a tan, before you grab for that self-tanner -- or worse still head to the beach or tanning salon -- Alan says the rule of thumb is underdo not overdo.

"I've seen brides who try to get a little color on their face and body and end up either beet red or as orange as a pumpkin," says Alan.

Skin safety issues aside, Alan also points out that white dresses reflect light, so what you thought was a little color could look a lot darker in photographs.

The safest way to add some color to your wedding day face, he says, is with a cream or powder bronzer.

"This is the safest alternative because you can try out the look well in advance, and even if on your wedding day you suddenly decide you don't want it, you just don't use it -- or you use less of it," says Alan.