Getting Ready On Your Wedding Day

The getting ready part of a wedding day is one of my favorites. It’s often overlooked, but there’s something so special about those quiet (and sometimes chaotic) moments before the ceremony. Everyone’s usually feeling emotional, a little nervous, and really excited, which makes for such meaningful photos.

Here are a few things you can do to make that part of the day feel more intentional and help your photos turn out even better:

Spend Time Together That Morning

If you’re not tied to the tradition of waiting to see each other until the ceremony, consider spending the morning together. You could go for a walk with your dog, grab coffee at your favorite spot, make breakfast in your pajamas, or just relax at home and enjoy a slow start to the day. Some couples even help each other get ready. Whatever feels right to you, lean into it. This is your day, and it should feel like you from start to finish.

Pick a Space That Feels Good

Where you get ready can totally affect the mood of your day. A dark hotel bathroom full of bags and chaos might not be the vibe you’re going for, and that stress can sneak into how you’re feeling and even how the photos look.

Instead, try to get ready somewhere with natural light, open space, and a calm atmosphere. A clean, pretty room with your dress hanging by a window and your details laid out thoughtfully will make everything feel more relaxed and intentional.

Have Your Details Ready

Set aside a little box or corner with anything you want photographed. Your invites, rings, perfume, vow books, jewelry, shoes, florals, all of that. This helps me get started right away when I arrive and keeps everything organized. Oh, and if you have a nice hanger for your dress, that’s always a plus.

Keep Things Tidy

Clutter happens, but if you can keep at least one area near a window clean and clear, it makes a big difference. I’ll help tidy up too, but having a designated clean zone makes it easier to focus on the actual moments, not the random stuff in the background.

Let the Light In

Natural light is a game-changer. Try to get ready near a window if you can, and keep indoor lights off during photos so your skin tones look soft and natural. If you forget, no worries. I’ll turn them off when I get there.