We get it! You’ve got a big event coming up, and you want to look like you just got back from a dreamy island vacay (minus the sand in weird places). Maybe it’s your wedding. Maybe it’s your bestie’s beach wedding in Sandbridge. Or maybe it’s prom night, or that long-awaited girls’ getaway to the Outer Banks. Whatever it is, you’ve already nailed your outfit, booked your hair and nails, and maybe even squeezed in a few extra squats.
 

But there’s one finishing touch that can take your whole look from “cute” to holy-glow-goddess: the perfect Sundays spray tan. 

Now, here’s the golden question—when’s the best time to tan before your big day? Because if you go too early, you risk fading before you even hit the dance floor. Too late, and well… let’s just say streaks, orange palms, or the dreaded “fresh spray” smell are not the accessories you were going for. 

Don’t worry. We’ve got your glow plan mapped out—step by step. 

 

Step 1: Two Weeks Out — Start the Skin Prep 

Before you even think about hopping in a tanning bed or booking that spray session at any Sundays tanning salon, your skin needs a little TLC. Think of this as priming your canvas before the masterpiece. 

About 10–14 days before your event, start a gentle exfoliation routine every few days. Pay extra attention to dry areas like elbows, knees, and ankles (because those are the first to go rogue). 

Then—moisturize like your skin’s getting paid for it. Daily. But skip oil-heavy lotions right before your tan; they can mess with the formula’s absorption. 

Oh, and drink your water. Hydration = smoother, glowier skin. 

Tip: If it’s your first time at any of our tanning salons, schedule a trial tan right about now. Every salon’s formula and booth setup is a little different, so a test run helps you find your perfect shade—and saves you from any last-minute “oops” moments. 

 

Step 2: One Week Out — Make Your Game Plan 

Alright, it’s go time. One week before your event, you’re locking in your glow strategy. 

• Decide: Are you going UV tanning or sunless spray tan? 

• Book your appointment (seriously—salons fill up fast during wedding and prom season). 

• Press pause on harsh exfoliants, retinoids, and scrubs. You don’t want to irritate your skin before tanning. 

If you’re going the UV route, aim for 2–3 short sessions at tanning salon near me, spread over the week to build a natural color without frying. If you’re choosing a spray tan, plan your appointment for 2–3 days before the big event (we’ll get to that timing magic in a second). 

And tell your tanning technician about your event! Whether you’re walking down the aisle or hitting the beach, they’ll know exactly how dark to go so you don’t look washed out under bright lights or too bronzed in photos. 

 

Step 3: Two to Three Days Before — Time to Tan! 

This is it—your golden window. Literally. 

If you’re doing a spray tan, schedule it now. You’ll have just enough time for the color to develop, rinse, and settle into a natural, even glow—no weird streaks or transfer worries. 

Before your appointment: 

• Exfoliate, shave, and shower the night before. 

• Skip lotion, deodorant, and perfume before tanning (they can mess with absorption). 

• Bring loose, dark clothing. Tight jeans or strappy sandals? Nope. 

• Tie up your hair and wear a shower cap if needed. 

Virginia Beach is full of Sundays tanning salon offering custom airbrush tans, where a technician hand-sprays you for a contoured, streak-free finish. It’s next-level if you want that perfectly sculpted bronze. 

Prefer a UV tan? Do your final session 2–3 days before the event too. That gives your skin time to cool and your color time to deepen naturally. 

 

Step 4: The Day Before — Don’t Panic! 

If you wake up and think, “Oh no, I went too dark,” breathe. It’s totally normal. Spray tans typically deepen for the first 8–12 hours, then mellow out beautifully after your first rinse. 

By the day before, your color should be peak perfection. 

Keep it that way by: 

• Avoiding long, hot showers. 

• Staying away from pools or saltwater. (Sorry, no early dips!) 

• Gently patting dry after showering. 

• Using an oil-free moisturizer to keep that glow going strong. 

 

Step 5: The Big Day — Glow and Go  

You did it! Your skin’s hydrated, smooth, and perfectly sun-kissed. 

Whether you’re saying “I do,” posing for prom pics, or sipping cocktails under string lights, your tan will enhance your look—not overpower it. 

And a little bonus tip? If you’re rocking a white dress, go just a touch lighter. A softer bronze looks more natural (and photographs like a dream). 

Now all that’s left is to glow, smile, and let your confidence shine. 

 

FAQs 

Q1. How many days before my wedding or prom should I get a spray tan?
Two days before is the sweet spot. It gives your color time to settle and any bronzer residue to rinse off. 

Q2. Should I get a trial tan first?
Absolutely. Especially if it’s your first time or a new salon. You’ll know exactly what shade suits you—and avoid any surprises. 

Q3. How do I prep for my spray tan?
Exfoliate and shave the night before, and skip lotions or deodorants the day of. Wear dark, loose clothes afterward. 

Q4. How long will my spray tan last?
Typically 5–7 days, depending on how well you moisturize and care for your skin. 

Q5. Can I combine UV and spray tanning?
You can, but go easy. All our 30 salons offer hybrid tanning—UV for a base, spray for that flawless finish.