Congratulations on getting married! Can you believe you are now planning for your wedding day? As a wedding photographer, it is my absolute joy and privilege to capture magnificent images for bridal couples. I have learned many tips over the years from photographing so many wonderful weddings. Hopefully sharing these 5 tips for your getting ready space will be helpful.

Below are 5 tips for your getting ready space:

1. Have lots of natural light

Remember there is no hard and fast rule to weddings. This is your special day, and you should have exactly what you have always dreamed of. However, natural light is a must when it comes to taking photos inside. Hotel rooms tend to have only one or two windows and they mostly depend on soft lighting. Some hotel rooms provide a separate space for bridal parties to get ready and that is great if that is the case. Just check it has lots of natural light in that space. A fantastic alternative is Airbnb and there are plenty of them, so I fully recommend you check them out.

Be mindful that when you are planning where to get ready that you book a tour and personally view the space. Also, take your partner with you and another family member or friend, it really helps with perspective. If your wedding is going to be in a destination where you are unable to personally view the space, read the reviews and ask questions. That way you fully know what to expect and are not disappointed. Not only will your wedding photographer (hopefully me!) jump for joy at your choice, so too will your makeup artist and hair stylist.

2. Keep the space clean for photos and have a designated closet

Even if you are the tidiest of people, there is so much fun and preparation going on that clutter happens. The once beautiful spacious room becomes messy and small. I guarantee that the number of precious wedding essentials and getting ready bits and pieces will astound you. So, my second tip to you – ensure your getting ready space has a designated closet to store all personal items.

Hair, makeup, conversations with the bridal party, a snack in between, actually getting dressed and then reflecting on the moment. Meanwhile, the photographer captures the journey, and it is so special. Not tripping over items and shifting things in the way is the best outcome for everyone.

3. Bring lots of mirrors both free stand and handheld ones

As I mentioned before, this is your moment to shine and radiate your beautiful self to your loved ones and guests. Having spent many hours deciding on the style of bridal attire and spending well-earnt money purchasing it, now enjoy it. Whether a simple, classic, boho, glamorous, etc style wedding dress, it is yours and you are wearing it. So, look in those mirrors and embrace your stunning self.

Having fabulous lighting, a clean space, and excellent full-length and handheld mirrors will make seeing yourself a beautiful experience. A mirror cannot reflect your inner beauty; however, it will reflect your lovely personality and choices of style. Your bridesmaids will also be very thankful for the mirrors.

4. Bring extension cords

Imagine hairdressers and steamers all needing to plug in to get the job done. There are plenty of outlets but no extension cords in most Airbnb and hotel venues. It is the test of patience and frustration that can be avoided by simply remembering to pack extension cords.

Bridesmaids and the bride will need their hair dried, straightened, and curled, it’s a must right? I’m sure phone chargers will be taking up plugs as well. Avoid time stoppers and remember the extension cords. Seems a no-brainer, but I can’t tell you the number of weddings I have been to, and they weren’t there.

5. Bring extra steamers

Everyone in the bridal party and of course the parents will want to look their best on the wedding day. Precious dresses, veils, and outfits are carefully put on coat hangers and squeezed into covers, ready for the wedding day. When transporting them to your wedding venue or Airbnb they can get a little crushed in the vehicle. It can be disappointing for all, so avoid this one too, by packing extra steamers.

This can be organized by a wedding specialist or your bridesmaids, it doesn’t all have to fall on your shoulders. There are a lot of things to do for this extreme celebration but what the heck, who can complain, YOU ARE GETTING MARRIED! Just add these 5 tips to your list and plan for the best ever day of your life. It will be the one and only time that you go into such detail about organizing a celebration together that defines your love story.

Above all relax and enjoy getting prepared for your wedding day. The moment you have been waiting for has arrived so flow with it. You will be ready, and your joy and love will shine through in every photo, just wait, and see.

Elopement Photography Packages

If you would like to chat about your own dreamy elopement plan, then please click this link. I love meeting people, listening, and helping them to have a fabulous celebration with quality portraits that capture the love story of their wedding day.