Preparing your room for your wedding photographer is probably the last thing on your mind on your wedding day, but it makes a big different when it comes to getting those beautiful preparation photos. Because of this, I always share these simple tips with my couples before the big day, so that the room is ready to go when I arrive.
1) Task someone with keeping your room tidy.
You’ll be too busy on your wedding morning to worry about keeping the bridal suite clean, but chances are you have a family member or wedding party member who would love to help out. Put them in charge of keeping counters clean, tidying up, and making sure the room doesn’t look too cluttered for when the photographers arrive. Clean rooms make for great photos.
2) Remember to make your bed.
If you’re getting ready in a hotel room, make the bed yourself or call the front desk and ask for someone to come and tidy the bed up.
3). Make a list of details you want photographed before the wedding day and put them aside for your photographer.
There have been so many times where I’ve had a bride forget to give me something important. If you make a list, you won’t have to remember on the morning of the wedding when you’re thinking about so many other things. The night before the wedding, put everything in a box or corner of the room for the photographer. When I arrive and all of the details are together in one space, I can easily start working through all of the items that are important to the couple. The items I typically photograph are; rings, shoes, invitations (I ask couples to bring one that is opened and one that is unopened), perfume, letters from the groom, cufflinks, jewelry, and anything special that might add to your wedding theme.
4) For the groom, bring a few things for the guys to do.
Not only does it make for fun photos-but while the bride is usually busy for the entire morning of the wedding, the guys often have a little more time on their hands. I few things I’ve often seen are cards, games, and even a football to toss around.
5) Consider the space of the room.
Even though you only have two or three bridesmaids, there will be makeup artists, family members stopping by, photographers, videographers, their equipment, and wedding planners. Make sure the room you are prepping in will be large enough for the group.
6) Think about what your wedding party will be wearing to get ready.
It’s not necessary, but always a cute touch with photos when the wedding party has matching robes or t-shirts.
7) Bring a nice hanger for your wedding dress.
You have a beautiful gown, might as well find a hanger that’s worthy!
With these easy simple tips, you’ll be sure to get clean and beautiful images of you and your bridal crew preparing for your wedding day.