The Wedding Morning
Your wedding morning is like the opening chapter of a great love story. It’s exciting, emotional, and full of little moments you’ll remember forever. And while the whole day will be a whirlwind, the way you start it can set the tone for everything that comes next. As a photographer who blends documentary-style authenticity with editorial elegance, I’ve seen firsthand how the little things—timing, environment, and even mindset—can make a huge difference in how your day unfolds. Here’s what every bride should consider when preparing for the big day.
1 - Atmosphere
Your wedding morning should be peaceful, not chaotic. Start by surrounding yourself with people who make you feel good—whether that’s your mum, sister, best friend, or a mix of family and bridesmaids. You want to keep the vibe relaxed, so no stress or drama! Set the tone early by choosing a space that feels serene—light a candle, put on a playlist of your favourite songs in the background. If you’re feeling extra nervous, take a moment to breathe and just be in the moment.
Pro Tip: A calm environment makes for more natural, beautiful photos. Think cozy, light-filled spaces with no clutter. Bonus points if you keep a separate room to get dressed in.
2 - Create a realistic, flexible timeline
Planning is everything, but flexibility is key! A well-thought-out timeline for getting ready is crucial, so you don’t feel rushed. Here’s a basic breakdown:
- Hair: 45-60 minutes
- Makeup: 60 minutes
- Dressing in your gown: 30 minutes (This includes time for any final touches like putting on jewelry, shoes, veil, etc.)
Pro Tip: Add a buffer for unexpected moments—trust me, you’ll be glad you did. Your photographer will appreciate the extra time, too, as they’ll want to capture your reactions, your details, and the intimate moments with your loved ones.
3 - Your getting ready outfit matters
While the dress is the star of the day, your getting-ready outfit deserves some love, too! The last thing you want is to be stuck in something uncomfortable for hours while trying to look the part. Choose something that feels like you—whether it’s a soft, silky robe, a vintage-inspired button-up shirt, or a chic pyjama set. Make sure it has a little “wow” factor too—whether it’s lace, satin, or even a monogrammed detail—because these moments will show up in your photos, and you want them to reflect your personality and style.
Pro Tip: Don’t forget to coordinate with your bridesmaids! A cohesive getting-ready outfit (think matching robes or color palettes) can make for stunning group shots.
4 - Don't go last
One common mistake I see is scheduling the bride’s hair and makeup last. While it might seem like the easiest option, it can cause unnecessary stress if things run behind. Instead, try to have your glam session earlier in the day. That way, you’ll be ahead of the game, and you’ll have plenty of time to relax and enjoy every moment leading up to your ceremony.
This also gives you the chance to get dressed at a leisurely pace while your glam squad wraps up with the last few bridesmaids, leaving you plenty of time to capture those stunning, relaxed portraits.
5 - Lighting is everything
Good lighting is crucial for those stunning getting-ready photos. Ideally, you want a room with plenty of natural light. Choose a space with large windows or a light, airy feel. Soft, natural light will make your skin glow and give your photos that timeless, editorial vibe. If you’re getting ready in a hotel room or a rented space, try to clear away anything that might distract from the beauty of the moment—extra luggage, random bags, or clutter can distract from your gorgeous bridal look.
Pro Tip: If you’re working with a space that doesn’t have a lot of natural light, ask your photographer for suggestions on how to use artificial light. They’ll know how to make the most of any space.
The magic of a wedding morning lies in the quiet moments. when anticipation fills the air and time seems to stand still
6 - The details
The details of your wedding day matter more than you think. Before you slip into your dress, gather all the things you want to include in your photos—your rings, shoes, veil, invitation suite, perfume, jewelry, or any family heirlooms or gifts from your partner. These intimate shots often become some of the most cherished, as they capture the small but meaningful touches that make your wedding day uniquely yours.
Pro Tip: Lay out your dress and accessories before the photographer arrives—this gives them the opportunity to capture the full story of your getting-ready moments. Include anything that reflects your style and your relationship, like a handwritten note or a special gift.
7 - Embrace the unexpected moments
Not everything will go according to plan, and that's totally okay. Whether it's a last-minute wardrobe malfunction, a surprise gift from your partner, or a spontaneous moment with your bridesmaids, the little hiccups and surprises often make the day feel even more special. The best part of blending documentary and editorial photography is capturing those unscripted moments that are raw, authentic, and unforgettable. So, if something unexpected happens, roll with it—those are the moments that make your wedding day truly yours.
Pro Tip: Don’t stress about minor details or things that aren’t “perfect.” Some of the best photos happen when everyone is just being themselves and having fun!
8 - The first look
It’s not just the moment you see your partner for the first time that’s emotional—there are so many other heartwarming first looks throughout the day! One of the most special moments I love to capture is when the bride reveals her dress to her bridesmaids or family. These reactions are priceless, and they help tell the full story of your wedding day. From laughter to tears, these authentic moments bring out the true emotion of the day.
As a photographer, I realise what a huge privilege it is to share these incredibly personal and powerful moments with the Bride and her loved ones, particularly when it is just the Bride and her Father.
9 - Don't forget to eat & drink
The last thing you want is to feel faint or sluggish when you’re about to step into your dress! Drink plenty of water throughout the morning to stay hydrated, and make sure to eat something, even if it’s just a light snack. It’s easy to forget to eat in the excitement of the day, but you’ll be glad you did when it comes time to walk down the aisle.
Pro Tip: Consider having a designated person (like a bridesmaid or wedding coordinator) bring you some healthy snacks—think fruit, granola bars, or a smoothie. Keeping your energy up will help you stay focused, radiant, and feeling like your best self.
10 - Create a personal playlist
Music is one of the most powerful ways to set the mood. Whether you’re getting ready with your closest friends or in a quiet moment alone, the right playlist can instantly uplift the vibe. Choose songs that make you feel happy, confident, and ready to take on the world. And hey, you might even want to belt out your favourite tunes during your hair and makeup—it’s your day, after all!
And there you have it—10 essential tips to help you feel prepared, relaxed, and ready to enjoy every moment of your wedding day. The morning sets the stage for what’s to come, so make sure it’s a chapter you’ll never forget. From getting ready with your closest friends and family to the first glimpse of your partner, these moments are the foundation for the rest of the day. By setting aside time to enjoy the process and trust your photographer to capture the magic, you can fully immerse yourself in the love and excitement of the day.
It’s all about the little details that make everything feel personal and meaningful—whether it’s a quiet moment of reflection, a laugh shared with your bridal party, or the joy in your partner’s eyes as they see you for the first time. With these tips in mind, you'll not only have beautiful memories but also a stress-free, joyful wedding day. You’ve got this!
