Hi! It's Suzanne, founder of 14 Day Mani, and I’m taking over the blog this week to share why more UK & Ireland brides (myself included!) are choosing at-home builder gel manicures that last from “I do” to the honeymoon. When I was planning my wedding, I couldn’t find the right bridal nail shade anywhere. Salons were booked, colours were off, or the manicure chipped too soon. That’s when I realised - brides needed something better. That’s how 14 Day Mani’s Bridal Meets Builder Gel Kit was born. What Is Builder Gel? Builder Gel is a thicker, strengthening gel that gives your nails a durable base - like BIAB (Builder in a Bottle) - made for easy at-home use. It lasts up to five weeks, grows your natural nails underneath, and doesn’t lift or chip like regular polish. You can wear it alone or use it as a stronger base for your chosen gel polish colour. Why Builder Gel Is Better Than Gel Polish Alone - For Those Wanting Extra Strength - Longer wear and durability - up to 5-week wear (with infills if you need) - Strengthens your natural nails - protects and helps you grow natural length - HEMA-, TT-, and TPO-free formula - gentle on your nails, non-sensitising for those prone to irritation, and easier to remove at home - Salon-quality finish - from your kitchen table Why UK & Ireland Brides Are Switching to At-Home Manicures More and more brides across the UK & Ireland are skipping the salon and doing their nails themselves not because it’s cheaper (although it is), but because they want control. The exact shade. The right nail shape. And a manicure that lasts from rehearsal dinner to honeymoon. Plus, using your own kit is more hygienic - you know exactly where the nail files and brushes have been. Our ‘Bride Meets Builder Kit’ Includes: Perfect Prep™ Gel Nail Primer for superior prep and adhesion Wedding-ready builder gel shades like Chic Chiffon and Petal Pink Step-by-step guide to perfect builder gel application High-shine, no-wipe top coat for longer and glossier wear All the tools to shape, buff, and prep your nails and cuticles A soft-life finish that looks like you went to a salon How to Use It (In 4 Simple Steps): Ensure there are no oils on the nails before you start (this helps the polish last longer). Wash your hands with warm water and soap, then dry them thoroughly. Do your cuticle work using the Steel Cuticle Pusher. Buff your nails with step 3 of the 7-way buffer to remove shine and rough edges. Apply Perfect Prep™ Primer and let it dry for 30 seconds (apply twice on oily nails). Shake all bottles before use. Follow the correct curing times for each layer. Apply a thin slip layer of Gentle Gels™ Builder Gel (don’t cure it yet). Then add a bead of gel near the cuticle and gently spread it down the nail. Build an apex for strength and cure for 60 seconds. Apply No-Wipe Top Coat, cure for 60 seconds, and your mani is complete! Founder Tip: “If you’re doing your nails the night before your wedding - use Builder Gel in Strawberry Cream or Petal Pink and keep it sheer. It looks like natural bridal beauty but wears like armour.” - Suzanne, 14 Day Mani Founder Shop the Bridal Kit: You can shop the full kit here. Explore all Builder Gel Shades or Build Your Own Bridal Kit. Two-day UK & Ireland delivery available. Ready when you are.