How to Have the Best Wedding Morning Ever (+ get the best photos too!)
Morning prep is one of my favourite parts of the day to photograph. Getting ready to marry the love of your life, surrounded by all your favourite people. The adrenaline, the nerves, the excitement…it really is an incredible experience.
And from a photography point of view, it’s the first thing you’ll see when you open your wedding album, the beginning of your wedding story. So let’s make it as beautiful, relaxed, and memorable as possible. Here’s how to get the best photos, and have the best morning ever!
Choose the Perfect Getting Ready Room
You’ll be spending a lot of time here, so comfort and aesthetics matter. This space becomes the backdrop for some of the most emotionally charged and beautiful moments of the day.
Look for a space with:
- Lots of natural light (big windows are a must!)
- Plenty of room for you and your party to move around comfortably
- A cupboard or spare room for stashing clutter and suitcases
- Neutral or stylish decor that matches the vibe of your wedding
If your venue doesn’t offer a suitable space, consider hiring an Airbnb. You can match it to your wedding aesthetic, stay there the night before, and start the day surrounded by your people in a relaxed environment.
Give Yourself Plenty of Time
You don’t want your wedding morning to feel rushed or stressful. Start earlier than you think you need to, an extra hour of buffer time will make all the difference.
If you’re ready early? Even better. That’s time to relax with a drink, chat with your wedding party, and soak it all in.
Get Ready First
Whether you’re the bride or groom you are the priority. It’s not selfish – it’s essential.
Aim to be ready around an hour before your ceremony / when you need to leave so we can take relaxed portraits, capture the final touches, and avoid a last-minute rush.
Set Aside Time for Your Loved Ones
The morning is full of tiny, beautiful moments that become lasting memories. Want to do a first look with a parent? Exchange letters with your partner? Just hang out with your wedding party?
Make time for these things. Let your photographer know in advance, and build them into the schedule so they don’t get lost in the shuffle.
Create a Wedding Playlist
There’s nothing worse than getting ready in silence! Bring a Bluetooth speaker and blast your favourite tunes.
Make a playlist full of:
- Songs your friends love
- Songs that remind you of your partner
- Feel-good bangers
Music lifts the vibe, helps shake off nerves, and gets everyone in the celebration spirit.
Clear the Clutter
Trust me on this one – clutter does not look good in photos. You don’t want shopping bags, phone chargers, suitcases or scruffy trainers in the background of your beautiful memories.
Designate a “clutter zone” like a spare room, large cupboard, or even the bathroom. Ask someone in your wedding party to be on clutter patrol, so we can keep your photo backdrop clean and gorgeous.
Wear Something Nice to Get Ready In
You’ll be photographed throughout the morning, so wear something you feel great in. Think:
- Matching dressing gowns
- PJ sets in your wedding colours
- Comfy, cute robes or loungewear
It doesn’t need to be fancy, but these small details make a big impact in your gallery.
Have Your Details Handy
This is when I’ll photograph your wedding details, usually styled flat-lay shots that help tell the story of your day. Think about what you want included and keep them nearby, all in one place for your photographer to find without disturbing you during hair and makeup.
Here’s a suggested list for flat lay photos:
- Invitations and stationery (envelopes, save the dates, etc.)
- Perfume
- Shoes
- Jewellery
- Hair accessories or veil
- Rings (if you have them!)
- Engagement Ring
- Any meaningful or sentimental items (like heirlooms or gifts)
- Ribbon + anything that matches your styling
Take a Moment for Yourself Before You Leave
Before you step into the whirlwind of the ceremony and celebrations, take a quiet moment alone.
Look in the mirror. Take a breath. Smile at yourself.
This small pause can help ground you in the moment and give you a beautiful sense of calm – and confidence – before you step into your day.
In Summary
Your wedding morning sets the tone for everything that follows. With the right setting, a good playlist, a bit of extra time, and thoughtful touches, it can be one of the most memorable parts of your day.
And when you look back through your wedding album, it’s these moments, the laughter, the nerves, the love, that will take you right back.
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