Getting ready is one of my favorite parts of the wedding day, and this will prepare anyone for getting ready photos. It’s the calm before the whirlwind, which is a time to soak in the anticipation and excitement while surrounded by your closest friends and family. Whether you’re sipping mimosas with your bridesmaids or sharing laughs with your groomsmen, this part of the day is filled with authentic moments that set the tone for the celebration ahead.
One of the most meaningful aspects of getting ready is capturing all the carefully chosen details that tell the story of your wedding day. These are the items that hold emotional value, reflect your style, and tie together the narrative of your special day. From heirlooms passed down through generations to the sparkling new accessories you’ve picked out, these details deserve a moment to shine.
To make sure your photographer can capture these moments beautifully, here’s a guide on what to have ready:
What to Have Ready for Lay Flat and Getting Ready Photos:
For the Bride:
- Wedding Dress
- Hang your dress in a clean, well-lit area on a beautiful hanger (avoid plastic hangers). This ensures it’s ready for those timeless shots of your gown.
- Shoes
- Place your wedding shoes nearby. Whether they’re classic heels, chic flats, or custom sneakers, they’re an essential detail to include.
- Jewelry
- Gather all the jewelry you’ll wear on your wedding day, such as earrings, necklaces, bracelets, and hair accessories. Display them neatly for your photographer.
- Wedding Rings
- Don’t forget all the rings—your engagement ring, wedding bands, and even any family heirloom rings you might be incorporating into the ceremony.
- Vow Books
- If you’ve written your own vows, have your vow books ready. These often make for sentimental photos that you’ll treasure forever.
- Flowers
- Ask your florist to include extra loose blooms or greenery in your delivery. These can be styled around your details for stunning lay-flat shots.
- Perfume
- Your signature scent deserves its moment. Include the bottle of your wedding-day perfume for an elegant touch.
- Special Heirlooms
- Incorporate meaningful items such as a gift from a loved one, a handkerchief, cufflinks, or a piece of fabric from your mother’s wedding dress. These details personalize your photos.
- Stationery and Invitations
- Include a full suite of your wedding stationery, such as invitations, save-the-dates, and envelopes. These tie together your wedding theme beautifully.
- Something Sentimental
- Display items like framed photos of your parents’ or grandparents’ wedding day, a heartfelt letter from your partner, or any symbolic tokens that hold meaning for you.
For the Groom:
- Shoes
- Have the groom’s shoes polished and placed nearby for styling.
- Cufflinks
- Include a pair of cufflinks, especially if they have sentimental value or are personalized.
- Watch
- A classic watch can make for a timeless detail shot.
- Favorite Cocktail
- If the groom has a signature drink or favorite bottle of liquor, consider incorporating it for a fun, personal touch.
- Handwritten Letters
- Include any letters exchanged between the couple for heartfelt, story-driven photos.
- Boutonniere
- Make sure the boutonniere is ready to be styled alongside other details.
- Cologne
- The groom’s cologne bottle adds a sophisticated element to detail shots.
- Special Heirlooms
- Incorporate meaningful items such as a watch passed down from a family member, a tie clip with sentimental value, or any treasured tokens that tell a story.
- Something Sentimental
- Include items like a framed photo of a loved one, a meaningful book, or a custom gift from the bride that holds emotional significance.
Tips for a Seamless Getting Ready Experience:
- Declutter Your Space: Before your photographer arrives, tidy up the getting-ready area. A clean space allows the focus to stay on you and your details.
- Timing Is Everything: Plan for your photographer to arrive while hair and makeup are underway. This allows them to capture both candid moments and styled detail shots.
- Communicate With Your Photographer: Let your photographer know about any specific details or heirlooms you’d like them to photograph. Sharing a checklist can be helpful.
- Ask Your Florist for Extra Blooms: Many florists are happy to provide extra flowers for styling detail photos. These add texture and color to lay-flat shots.
By having these details ready and thoughtfully arranged, you’ll set the stage for stunning photos that capture the essence of your wedding day. These images not only preserve the beauty of your carefully chosen items but also create a visual story of the moments leading up to your “I do.”
If you’re planning your wedding and want more tips or inspiration for your big day, check out my wedding photography page or reach out to learn how I can help make your day unforgettable.
