A commonly overlooked detail in planning for one’s wedding day is the getting ready portion. With all of the other “big” details we think about like which vendors we’ll hire, what color palette we’ll choose, what food we’ll eat, which song we’ll dance to… the planning that goes into the preparation part of your day is often forgotten about. And to most, it may not seem like a big deal; we just need space to change our clothes, a mirror to do our hair & make-up, and then we’ll be on our way- right? Sure! But to ensure a morning of getting ready that doesn’t rush through sweet moments, that allows you to soak in that first glimpse of yourself as a bride or groom, or to share a moment with your bridesmaids as they see their friend in her wedding attire for the first time… intentionality is key! Rest assured, your wedding planners and photographers are here to help with these little details. Here are a few tips to keep in mind.
Location, location, location! If you’re able to, choose a getting ready location with lots of natural light! Big windows and lots of light are a huge help in getting glammed up for your big day. Airbnb’s are a GREAT place to get ready if you’re in an area with that option. They allow a lot more space without the distraction of other hotel guests, or the cramped feeling of all your friends in one hotel room. If you’re in a hotel room, be sure to open up those window curtains! Not only will you get excellent prep photos, but your hair and make-up artist will thank you too.
Details first! Place all of your details into a box for your photographer. Detail photos are everything, and so much fun for us to capture for you. But the last thing we want to do is add stress to your day by asking you to round up all of your keepsakes in the middle of getting ready. The night before the wedding, make sure your dress, veil, shoes, rings, jewelry, perfume, invites, and any other keepsakes are all in an easily accessible spot for your photographer to grab when they arrive. (Pro tip- place all of the smaller items into your shoebox with your shoes! And bonus points if you include some leftover flowers from your florist or your bouquet!)
Don't forget the steamer!!! I don’t think this one needs an explanation, so we’ll just leave it at that.
Keep it clean. I don’t think I’ve ever stepped into a bridal suite that wasn’t covered in clothes, bobby pins, food, cups, garbage, etc. I GET it.. It’s a busy morning with so much to do and everyone’s things are hard to keep track of when you’re trying to get your glam on. Do your best to keep items organized/out of the way of well lit areas. This will save your photographer the hassle of asking “can I move this?” and cleaning up your things, and allow them to focus on capturing this special part of your day. Trust me - no one wants a beautiful photo of the bride putting on her final touches with a bra or pair of panties lying on the bed behind her. 😉
Choose practical prep 'fits. This one is just because I love practicality and ballin’ on a budget - so take it or leave it!! Steer clear of the customized, bedazzled “bride” and “bridesmaids” t-shirts, robes, and PJs. Trust me when I say - you’ll never wear them again. Save yourself the hassle of customizing and keep it simple and classy! Grab yourself a cute robe and your friends something versatile in another color that you’ll all be able to wear again.
Let your friends get ready first. We love a good first look with your pals. EVEN IF they’ve seen the dress before, they’ve never seen you as a bride before. And trust me, that excitement is next level. But we want to make sure you all look great - so let them hop into their wedding attire before your big reveal!
Leave space. You only get one wedding morning. Intentionally create your timeline with space to enjoy time with your friends, snap some cute shots throughout the process, share a few favorite memories, and just relax! There’s nothing worse than feeling rushed on your wedding day. If you’re looking for tips on creating your timeline to allow for this, don’t hesitate to coordinate with your hair/makeup artist and your photographer!
Take a breath. I know; you’ve done so much work to put this wedding together. And every detail feels so, so incredibly important and you just want everything to be perfect. But I promise you, when you finally get to the end of the aisle and see your other half, none of it will matter. TRUST your vendors to get the job done for you, and relax knowing the day will be amazing no matter what.
