In the last minutes before your date rings the doorbell, you finally have a moment to glance in the mirror. In doing so, you see a gorgeous brunette with perfect caramel strands laced throughout the curls pinned at the crown of her head; wisps of hair frame her fresh make-up and compliment her attire. While your eyes glide downward, they widen as you realize the toes you see in your cute new shoes are half-painted, chipped, and plainly ungroomed. Not only are your toes not fitting the imagined look you had, but your fingernails aren't very nice either. Then the doorbell rings. Don't let this happen to you.

First, the most important point to keep in mind when you have a big night on the town is to not go to a random stylist. Find a designer who's in touch with your style and communicates well with you. This is imperative because going to a stylist once a year for one style isn't enough for the stylist to know what you like and feel comfortable with. Always have an idea in mind or bring pictures to help explain the style you want. A good designer will let you know if the style you choose compliments your face shape, as well as the neckline of your outfit.

After choosing the cosmetologist who fits you best, reserve an appointment one month before your event to touch up any texturizing services you regularly receive or desire. This means shaping up permanent waves or relaxing natural curls. Next, about two weeks prior to your big night out, freshen up any color, highlights, and/or lowlights you may have. When doing so, make sure to mention the style you have in mind to ensure the dimension of your locks are perfect for that particular style. In addition, remind the artist of the shades you'll be wearing to make certain your hair color won't clash. Tones that complement your skin tone, as well, are often more natural.

Reserve the next appointment when you check out to make sure you get the day and time that fit you best. About a week prior to your occasion, get back into shape with a haircut and waxing. This allows enough time to get used to a new style or get into the habits of primping your updated do. In addition to the cut, take the time to have waxing done now to allow redness or breakouts to subside.

Within three days of the event, remember to have a fresh manicure and pedicure. If you really want to go all out, get that set of acrylics you've always wanted to try or fill the set you already have. Make sure to purchase and take along an emergency pocket-sized hair spray, nail polish, and lip stick. Then when your day arrives, all you have left to do is get a hairstyle perfected and make-up applied.

Don't forget that cosmetologists are trained to do styles to suit individuals and make-up to accentuate fine points and minimize imperfections. In the long run, you'll be glad you prepared, and you'll be satisfied with the beautiful results. TPW