Wedding Day Getting Ready Guide
Shooting details is one of my favorite parts of the wedding day. I love capturing meaningful items that tell your story. This wedding day getting ready guide helps you prepare those details so your photos feel timeless and personal. Share your wedding colors with me so I can bring styling tools that match your vision. Do not hold back—every detail matters. Bring all the special items that showcase your love.
What to Have Ready – Bride
Place your dress on a wooden hanger for photos. If you don’t have one, no worries—I’ll bring a vintage hanger. Gather your shoes, jewelry, veil, and perfume. All three rings. Include your “something blue” and “something borrowed” for those sentimental touches. Save your full invitation suite, with every piece of stationery. These details help tell the complete story of your wedding day. Include vow books, ceremony programs, and any customized paper goods. Every detail matters when tying your wedding story together. Add ceremony or reception items like napkins, koozies, or favors. These extras showcase your unique wedding style. Keep everything together in one box or space. This way, I won’t need to interrupt you when I arrive.
What to Have Ready – Groom
If you booked a package with a second shooter, we will capture his details too.
Here are tips for him: lay out his tie, shoes, boutonniere, watch, and any personal keepsakes. Lay out your suit or tux on a hanger. Keep the shirt, vest, or suspenders pressed and wrinkle-free. Place shoes, socks, belt, and tie together so they’re easy to photograph. Add your cufflinks, watch, and pocket square. Keep your boutonniere nearby with pins ready. A sharp boutonniere shot completes your look. Set aside your vow book, letters, or gifts for your partner. These items create meaningful photo opportunities. Include small keepsakes or heirlooms that matter to you.
Rings and Florals
The most common detail missed on a wedding morning is the rings. Keep all three rings together in one box. Family and friends trying to help often suggest giving the bands to the best man early. Wait until portraits instead. This way they are there for the detail shots! Ask your florist to deliver bouquets and boutonnieres to your getting ready space before the first look. This ensures you have your bouquet in portraits and I can style extra flowers with your details. Fresh florals elevate your detail photos and tie together the entire story of your wedding day. This wedding day getting ready guide ensures no important details get overlooked.
Choose a Clutter-Free Space
Keep your getting ready area tidy and organized. A clean space creates timeless photos without distractions. Clear away bags, water bottles, and food containers. Small clutter can sneak into the background of your portraits. I will most likely photograph your portraits near a window. Keep those areas free from belongings and clutter.
Natural light from the windows creates soft, flattering photos. Clean spaces allow your details and emotions to shine.
So Exciting to Get There!
Your wedding morning should feel calm, joyful, and full of love. For tips on picking the perfect getting ready spot, check out my other blog!
