The Best Tips For a Great Getting Ready
Getting ready is seriously such a wonderful time.
The vibe is chill, excitement's in the air, and nobody's freaking out (yet). Plus, it's that sweet moment when the couple (sometimes) hasn't laid eyes on each other, adding to the anticipation. Looking back at the photos later is like getting a sneak peek at each other's pre-wedding photoshoot - and sometimes you’re in a for a surprise.
Getting ready is the ultimate time for:
snapping those intricate, detailed shots,
taking a moment to center yourself,
shedding all that pre-wedding stress,
gabbing with the girls,
toasting with my crew after conquering that tricky bow tie, thanks to the tenth YouTube tutorial.
There are endless moments like these during the getting ready phase.
That's why it's such a crucial part of capturing those wedding memories.
WHEN TO START | WHERE TO GET READY | DETAILS & TIPS
click on the category you wan to check to get to it quicker
01. WHEN TO START?
Plan for at least an hour for the photos. It's better to have an extra half-hour to sip some champagne or calmly than to stress out because time's ticking away. Perhaps you've scheduled a mini session with the girls. I also love using this time to capture a few bridal portraits. The makeup's fresh, the hair's flawless, and you can feel the joyful anticipation in the air. Same goes for the boys, give yourself time to toast with your buddies, hug your grandmother and re-tie that tie again because it’s crooked.
I always recommend to start getting ready 3-4 hours before the ceremony (consider travel time if you change locations) so you get the vibe going with a cool playlist and absolutely no rush.
02. WHERE TO GET READY?
No matter where your Getting Ready happens, aim for a room that's spacious and flooded with natural light. Ideally, avoid colorful carpets, dark curtains, or overly bright wall colors - unless that’s totally your thing! - since light tends to reflect the surroundings. But hey, don't stress if you can't avoid these things. As a seasoned wedding photographer, I know how to work with any setting and capture beautiful memories for you. Plus, you can always jazz up the space with flowers and laughing family and friends!
— HOTEL
— HOME
If you're feeling cramped in your hotel room during the getting ready phase, make sure it's clutter-free – no suitcases lying around! If space feels tight or there's just too much stuff, don't hesitate to ask the hotel for a bigger, empty room.
They'll likely accommodate the request, especially for the bride and her crew. And hey, the same goes for the groom and his squad! If getting ready happens in a hotel, I can easily hop between rooms for shots – after all, the guys can also create awesome (and hilarious) getting-ready moments.
When getting ready at home (or your parents home), opt for the biggest and brightest room available. Clear away clutter, but don't tidy up too much! What's intriguing about getting ready at home are those personal touches that make your space unique.
Your home reflects who you are, your dreams, your personality – and I love capturing those details in the photos.
03. DETAILS & TIPS
Before getting ready, gather all your personal items and details like jewelry, bouquet, rings, shoes, and, importantly, your wedding stationery in one spot for me. Pro tip: Ask you florist to give you a few flower heads to add to the flatlay! I love diving into these beautiful details right at the start while the makeup process begins, so you can relax and focus without interruptions. The same goes for the groom and his essentials. Perhaps you've planned to exchange gifts or write heartfelt notes before seeing each other on the big day. Getting ready is the perfect time to unveil these little surprises. Emotions often run high during this time, leading to incredibly touching and emotional moments. Since tears are common, it's wise to open these gifts before makeup is finished.
Since neither the bridesmaids nor the groomsmen are in the beautiful dresses and/or suits when getting ready, but many great photos are taken here, it would make sense to think about which outfit you want to wear during styling. An airy summer dress or maybe some kind of kimono? However, make sure you don't have to pull it over your head and ruin the hairdresser's or makeup routine. Likewise, you shouldn't wear tops or bras that are constricting or leave unsightly marks that can be seen on the wedding dress.
