I've got Lebanese and Native American ancestry so I've never had a problem tanning but I've heard good results from the spray tans. Let us know how you go with them.
A lot better than the solarium. There was a news article about a girl who is 26 and dying of melanoma.She was a rabid user of tanning beds.
Good luck with the wedding. Just remember mate, if someone doesnt accept you with your new look than they arent worth your time anyways.