The dress or suit is chosen, the venue is booked and now you want that one finishing touch: a sparkling piercing in your ear or nose. Your wedding day is the moment to shine, and a beautiful piercing can add to that. But a fresh piercing and a big day don't always go well together. In this blog you'll read how to plan it smartly, so you shine in the photos and your piercing can heal in peace.
The golden rule: in good time, or afterwards
A new piercing is a healing wound. Especially in the first period it can be a bit red, swollen or tender. That's normal, but not ideal on a day when hundreds of photos are taken, you hug everyone and you dance until late. That's why our advice for a big event is to rather wait until it's over.
So there are two good options:
- Well in advance. That gives your piercing time to settle before the big day.
- After the wedding. A lovely memory of your wedding day, without stressing about healing.
What you'd better not do: get a new piercing just before the wedding.
How much time do you need?
That depends a lot on the spot. An earlobe usually heals faster and more predictably than cartilage, such as a helix or tragus. Cartilage really needs much more time. Our 25 things you need to know about ear piercings tell you more about the different parts of your ear. Remember: an average is not a guarantee, and a piercing that no longer hurts isn't necessarily healed.
Not sure which spot fits your timeline? Drop by and we'll look together at what's realistic.
Which jewellery will you wear on your wedding day?
Want to wear different jewellery on your wedding day, like a gold ring or a delicate piece with stones? Keep this in mind:
- Only in a healed piercing. Changing jewellery in a piercing that hasn't healed yet can seriously disturb the healing.
- Let a professional change it. Especially with gold, which is softer than titanium, it's smart to let us do it. Your first change is best done by a professional anyway. Read more in our jewellery & materials FAQ.
- Choose quality. Solid 14K and 18K gold (most in 18K) is a beautiful and lasting choice for your big day.
- Don't leave it to the last minute. Change your jewellery a while before the wedding, so you know for sure everything feels comfortable.
Getting your piercing well in advance? For a fresh piercing titanium is best, but gold is possible too: we often use a titanium bar with a gold attachment. Gold is fine for a new piercing too, but the first bar is longer and is later replaced with a shorter one. That's why we usually use a titanium bar with a gold attachment.
Together with your bridesmaids or best people
Getting pierced with your bridesmaids, best man or best friends is a fun way to celebrate the run-up to your wedding. Just plan it well in advance too, so everyone can shine on the big day. You can walk in or book an appointment. Coming as a group? Then an appointment is handy. You can get pierced with us from the age of 12. Between 12 and 16? Then a parent or guardian comes along and signs a consent form, and you both bring a valid ID. From 16 you can come on your own; just bring your ID. Tattoos are from 18. Under 16? Read our page on the minimum age for piercing and tattoo first. All prices are in our studio price list.
Tips for the big day
- Check your jewellery. Make sure the balls or closures are screwed on tightly.
- Hair and make-up. Tell your make-up artist and hairdresser you have a piercing. Keep hairspray, make-up and perfume away from a piercing that hasn't fully settled.
- Veil and hair accessories. Make sure a veil, pins or a headband can't catch on your piercing.
On honeymoon
Flying with a piercing is no problem. Bring your aftercare products, like the Aphraheals Piercing Aftercare Spray, in your carry-on. If your piercing is still fresh, be careful with swimming, sun and tight clothing. Our travel, work & lifestyle FAQ has more answers.
Frequently asked questions
How long before my wedding should I get a piercing?
That depends on the spot. An earlobe heals faster than cartilage. Drop by for advice if you're unsure. Is the timing too tight? Then wait until after the wedding.
Can I wear gold jewellery in my piercing on my wedding day?
Yes, if your piercing has healed. Have the jewellery changed a while before the wedding, preferably by a professional.
Can I get pierced together with my bridesmaids?
Absolutely! From 16 you can come on your own. From 12 to 16 a parent or guardian comes along and signs a consent form. Everyone brings a valid ID. For a group, an appointment is handy.
Can I fly with a new piercing?
Yes. Bring your aftercare products in your carry-on.
See you soon at Reguliersbreestraat 46!