Getting Ready- Stress Free
I highly recommend getting ready photos for every wedding, even for elopements. This is a special time for us, the couple and the photographer, to make a connection before the day really starts. It also allows me to help keep the timeline on track. This time allows me to capture so many details that you have spent time planning as well.
After 9 years of wedding photography I have seen it all. Getting ready can be some of the best moments or the worst. Here are my suggestions so that you start your wedding day relaxed:
For the brides:
Air conditioning, a fan, ice packs, all of it. I’m telling you, when girls are getting ready in one room or one area, it will get so hot in there so fast! Especially in California, through out the year, the bridal party is always over heating. So try to keep yourself cool. Plan ahead, maybe put the AC on the night before.
For the bride herself, give yourself enough time to be ready to roll, on schedule. 80% of the time the hair and makeup stylist will take a little bit longer than expected so always leave that extra room in your timeline. But be sure to ask your artists their suggestions as well!
Delegate someone to have your phone during this time to answer questions so you can be present and relaxed. This can be a day of coordinator or bridesmaid.
I will arrive when hair and make-up is done, but please wait to put on your dress. Most brides have their mom or maid of honor help button up their dress and put on their veil. Make sure they know to be there for getting ready photos.
For the Grooms
Plan something the morning of your wedding with your guys just to relax. Some guys go golfing, for breakfast, brunch or any hobby that you genuinely like to do together, because you will have a lot more time to get ready than the bride will. Don’t be late or hung over, we can see those puffy eyes. Tell your groomsmen to be on time, shirts ironed and ready to support you up at the altar.
For the Couple
Champagne pops are always super fun in the getting ready stages, or just when you just put on your fresh dress and suit. These are just super fun to start the day off with! Some couples give each other gifts, some give gifts to their bridal party. Wait for me! I want to capture it all!
Have your vows already written before your wedding day. This always takes longer than you think, even just copying them into your vow book. Take a moment during planning to get this done.
Details- this is always forgotten and results in someone running around trying to get everything together. Put all your details (jewelry, invitations, rings… all three rings together!, flowers, etc.) together. This could be with either the groom or bride; however, most of the time it is with the bride. Details are often forgotten and I feel so bad because I want to take photos of all small things you have spent hours planning. I have another details advice blog coming out soon.
The atmosphere
Try designating one room to take getting ready photos in, and try to make someone else in charge of cleaning/ picking up the room before I arrive. This will allow for those dreamy getting ready photos without you stressing out the morning of your wedding!
Try to make sure the designated room is in a room with lots of windows and natural lighting.
Adjusting to getting ready temperature of the household the night before, and checking the weather as well to coordinate.
I’m here to help!
Finally ask me for help and advice. I am here to guide you through having the perfect day. We can find a great place to get ready together, create a timeline and delegate task so that you can enjoy these special moments and be present for your wedding day.
If you want a stress free day from getting ready to grand exit, I’d love to be part of your day! Head to my contact page so we can get in touch and start planning your dream wedding!
