These Simple Prep Steps Will Help Your Wedding Day Go Smoothly
As a wedding photographer, I've had the honor of capturing countless beautiful moments, and I’ve learned a few things along the way that can make your special day even more magical. Your wedding day is one of the most important days of your life, and you deserve to have everything run smoothly so you can fully enjoy each precious moment. To help you prepare, here are some tips that will not only save you time but also ensure your photos turn out as stunning as you’ve always imagined.
Steam All of the Dresses the Night Before (Especially Your Wedding Dress!)
One detail often overlooked until the last minute is steaming the dresses. This task can take much longer than expected, particularly if your gown has multiple layers. I’ve seen brides spend over an hour just steaming their dress! You don’t want to be scrambling on the morning of your wedding, especially when I’m there to photograph your dress on its hanger while you’re finishing up hair and makeup. Plus, steaming can create humidity, which might cause your hair to lose its perfect style—something we definitely want to avoid!Consider Custom Hangers for the Dresses
I love capturing all the dresses together, but it can look a bit mismatched if they’re on the plastic hangers from the dry cleaner. Custom or plain wooden hangers not only photograph beautifully but also elevate the overall look of your dresses. Plus, they make wonderful additions to your bridesmaids' gifts! Here’s a quick link to some affordable options I love that look fantastic in photos.Have the Bride’s Hair and Makeup Done (or Nearly Done) by the Time I Arrive
This tip also applies to the Maid of Honor and Mother of the Bride, or anyone else helping you into your dress. When I arrive, I usually start with the Detail photos, which only take about 20 minutes. After that, I’ll be ready to capture those special “Getting Ready” moments, and we want everyone looking their best for these shots!For PJ/Robe Photos, Aim to Have Everyone’s Hair and Makeup Done or Nearly Done
These photos are all about capturing everyone feeling and looking their best. If PJ or robe photos are something you’d like, let me know in advance so we can adjust the photography timeline accordingly.Planning to Give Bridesmaids or Groomsmen Gifts? Let Me Know!
If you’re giving gifts to your bridal party, I’ll need to adjust the timeline to make sure we capture these special moments.Prepare a Box of Detail Items for My Arrival
To streamline the Detail photos, have everything ready to go in one spot, preferably in a box. This includes items like all three rings (cleaned, if possible), ring box, shoes, veil, jewelry, invitation suite, perfume, special mementos, and spare florals. This way, we can make the most of our time together and ensure nothing important is missed.Detail Photos Aren’t Just for the Ladies
If your groom is having “Getting Ready” photos, we can capture his details too! Typical items include a tie, cufflinks, watch, socks, shoes, cologne, and any special mementos.Keep the Window Area Clutter-Free
Natural light is a photographer’s best friend, so we’ll likely be shooting near a window for the “Getting Ready” photos. Keeping this area free of clutter allows us to focus on capturing beautiful portraits without needing to tidy up the space.First Look with Dad? Make Sure He’s Ready Early!
If you’re planning a First Look with your dad, ensure he’s dressed and on location at least 15 minutes before the scheduled time. This will give us time to capture those heartfelt moments without feeling rushed.Family Photos Before the Ceremony? Have Them Ready 15 Minutes Early!
If you’re taking family photos before the ceremony, make sure everyone is dressed and on location at least 15 minutes prior. This helps the session run smoothly and on time.Hold That First Kiss for 3-5 Seconds
I know the excitement and nerves are high, but try to remember to hold your first kiss a little longer—3 to 5 seconds is perfect. I might also have you stop halfway down the aisle for another kiss, so be prepared for that moment!Ask Family Members to Stay for Photos Before Heading to Cocktail Hour
After the ceremony, we typically start with family portraits. I recommend having your officiant announce that family members should remain seated for photos before heading to cocktail hour. Giving them a heads-up beforehand is also helpful.Make Sure the Groom Knows We’ll Be Taking Photos After the Ceremony
It’s important to set expectations with your groom so he knows we’ll be doing family, wedding party, and couples photos after the ceremony—before heading to the cocktail hour. This can help things go smoothly and ensure we get all the important shots.Take a Video of How to Bustle Your Dress
Bustling your dress can be more challenging than it seems. Having a video on hand will help whoever is assisting you follow the steps easily.Remember to Stop and Take It All In
Your wedding day will fly by, so make sure to pause, look around, and soak in the joy and love surrounding you. When things get stressful, take a deep breath and remember that everything will work out beautifully. This is your day—enjoy every moment of it!
These tips are designed to help your day flow smoothly and ensure we capture every beautiful moment. I’m here to make your wedding photography experience as enjoyable and stress-free as possible, so you can focus on what truly matters—celebrating your love!
