Brides & Weddings Magazine
by Lisa Beth Miller
Brides meticulously select the style, color, and length of their wedding veil, but nobody really tells you exactly when to take it off. We are here for you, and ready to tackle this major conundrum!
Love the look of your veil and feel totally comfortable wearing it? It is totally ok to just leave it on for your entire reception. This is especially true if your whole hairstyle is centered around the veil, or if it is a high-impact statement piece that enhances the look you want to achieve. For example, a quirky birdcage veil might look amazing with a retro tea-length dress; why remove it?
If you do decide that you want your veil to go bye-bye, there are a few appropriate times to take it off.
The first idea is right after the ceremony. If you finished all of your formal portraits before the ceremony, and want to create a more relaxed vibe, now is the time. Just have a bridesmaid or hair stylist on hand to help you gently remove the veil and restyle your hair. Some brides even switch to a totally different hairstyle once the veil is removed, like switching from an updo to a loose side ponytail.
The bride could alternatively remove the headpiece after taking formal portraits, between the ceremony and reception, or after the first dance. This timing ensures that the veil has received maximum opportunities to be photographed!
Another great option is to repurpose the veil into a different headpiece for the reception. This can be a fun way to change up your look without completely removing the veil. One popular option is to remove the blusher or top layer of the veil, leaving only the longer layer for a more dramatic effect. The shorter piece can then be transformed into a chic headband or hair clip. This way, you can still enjoy the beauty of your veil while dancing the night away.
If you do decide to remove the veil entirely, make sure you have a plan in place for what to do with it. You may want to assign someone to hold onto it for safekeeping or have a designated spot to store it. A garment bag or box is a great option for keeping the veil clean and protected.
Remember, there is no right or wrong way to handle your wedding veil during the reception. It ultimately comes down to personal preference and what makes you feel comfortable and beautiful. Whether you choose to leave it on all night or repurpose it into a different accessory, your wedding day will be unforgettable no matter what.
