When it comes to the number of weddings predicted for the year 2000, by many accounts, a certain Millenniumania seemed to emerge. By year's end, stats will prove if there was a major marriage increase. According to David's Bridal, (www.davidsbridal.com) the nation's number one bridal retailer, the following has held true

in the last couple of years. Sixty percent of couples tied the knot between June and October, with June the number one choice. Whether marrying in the year 2000 or beyond, expert consultants concur that a "survival guide" may be helpful to brides and created a Survival Guide for the Millennium Bride. Like the tips, hints and advice they offer for finding the perfect gown, the guide has timeless information for brides for this or any other Millennium!

BEAUTY...
TEARS OF JOY should not result in streaking mascara. Waterproof mascara is a must!

THE EYES HAVE IT! A bride's eyes will stand out when framed with false eyelashes. For a subtle effect, a bride may apply only a few separate lashes on the outer corners, then add two coats of mascara.

NAIL IT THE DAY BEFORE! Ideally, a manicure should be done the day before the wedding and a coat of clear on the day of the wedding. French manicures and sheer shades of pink are favored.

PHOTO PERFECT LIPSTICK! A bride and her party should avoid glosses, since they fade and frosted lipsticks, which don't photograph well and tend to look dated. Think classic shades. For an ivory gown, peach or soft brownish red tones work well and berry stained lips are best with a white gown.

PRACTICE MAKES PERFECT! Find out in advance what type of film the photographer is using, as certain ones can give skin a yellow cast. Test shots can be vital for feeling confident with knowing how to pose and spotlighting your best side. Remember that you will be looking at these photos for years to come and you want to be picture perfect.

HAIR…
TRESS REHEARSAL is important. Try a wedding hairstyle and see how it holds up before the wedding. Have your regular trim four weeks prior and book the wedding day appointment a month in advance to make sure your stylist is available.

A LIGHT EFFECT! If hair is highlighted, for a fresh look it should be done a week before the wedding.

TIARABLE' STYLE! Since tiaras look best with hair pulled away from the face, hair can be kept in place without looking sticky or stiff by spraying a cotton ball with hair spray and lightly smoothing the surface.

MISC…
JUST-IN-CASE, the following items tucked into a small bag can be essential: breath mints, a small comb, clear nail polish (for stocking runs), needle and thread, safety pins, talc powder (great for covering a stain on the white dress) and aspirin.

A HEELING THOUGHT for the bride is not to let the wedding day be the first day she wears a pair of new shoes, especially if they have high heels. If shoes are brand new, a couple pieces of masking tape on the bottom will prevent slipping.

RINGING WITH SPARKLE! If time does not permit to have the engagement ring cleaned professionally before the wedding, soak in pneumonia and water and then rinse with water the day of the nups'.

THE MOST IMPORTANT TIP! Be prepared for the unexpected and remember to relax and relish in the celebration of marrying the person you love.

David's Bridal offers thousands of the latest designer bridal gowns and bridal party dresses in sizes 2-26, complete with head-to-toe accessories. Over 100 store locations. Visit www.davidsbridal.com or call 1-800-399-BRIDE to find the store nearest you.