An expert guide to pre- and post- holiday beauty rituals by Venetia Archer, founder of Ruuby

My Pre- and Post-Holiday Rituals 

- By Venetia Archer, Founder of Ruuby

For me, travel begins well before take-off. I’ve always loved the quiet rhythm of getting ready to leave - it builds anticipation, a shift in pace before the journey even begins. Some of the rituals I rely on are practical, others are a little more indulgent. But all of them serve the same purpose: helping me feel my best, without disrupting the schedule. 

Ruuby was created out of that exact need. When I launched the platform in 2016, I was working long hours in London, and even finding time for a manicure or wax felt nearly impossible. I remember thinking—if you can order a car or dinner in seconds, why not a beauty treatment? Today, Ruuby delivers everything from blow-dries to IV drips, direct to our clients, wherever they are - at home, in hotels across the UK, Switzerland and the South of France. 

Here’s what I book to prepare for a trip and how I ease back in when I return.

A good tan brings everything together. Our express formula develops quickly and evenly, which makes it perfect the night before flying. It gives that healthy, rested look—before the holiday has even started.

I don’t wear much makeup on holiday, so these are my essentials. Defined lashes and brows give structure to the face without any effort. I can go straight from the beach to dinner without thinking twice.

Coming home always feels slightly abrupt. These are the appointments that soften the landing.

Brazilian Lymphatic Massage
Post-flight, everything feels a bit off- bloated, heavy, tired. This massage clears all of that. It’s hands-down my most booked post-holiday treatment and I always try to book the day I get back.  Trust me there’s a reason it’s trending.

The Dr Barbara Sturm Signature Sturm Glow Facial 
My skin always shows signs of travel—sun, SPF, cabin air, too little water. This facial resets everything. It’s hydrating, anti-inflammatory, and designed to restore glow and balance. We offer it exclusively through Ruuby, and it’s the first thing I book to feel like myself again.

Bespoke IV Drip
After travel, I always need hydration, energy, and a proper night’s sleep. The IV drip does all three. I usually have it on the sofa while catching up on emails and checking the diary for the week ahead.

After travel, I always need hydration, energy, and a proper night’s sleep. The IV drip does all three. I usually have it on the sofa while catching up on emails and checking the diary for the week ahead.