The morning of your wedding day is where the story begins. You might wake up early, or you may not have slept at all, but none of that matters. The day is finally here. You’re getting married.
I love photographing this part of the wedding day. It often starts calmly with everyone saying, “We’ve got loads of time,” and then suddenly it’s a mad rush, ten minutes left, butterflies everywhere and a whole lot of happy chaos.
Sometimes the emotion hits all at once, and it can take you by surprise.
To help you plan for a calm, enjoyable start to your wedding day, here are a few things to think about.
1. Choose a Light Room to Get Ready In
Natural light is the most flattering light you’ll ever stand in.
If you have a choice, get ready in the brightest room you can find. If you’re in a hotel, ask for the lightest room when you book. Most places are happy to help.
When it comes to hair and makeup, sit near a window. Natural light makes everything easier and looks beautiful in photographs.
2. Think About Who Will Be With You
Surround yourself with people who make you feel good.
The last thing you want is stress or negativity on the morning of your wedding day.
I had my mum, all my bridesmaids and all their children with me — about fifteen of us. I loved the buzz. But you may prefer something calmer, and that’s totally fine.
If someone tends to take over or make you nervous, plan gently around it. Tell them you want to “surprise” them once you’re ready. If you’d rather only have one friend with you, that’s also fine. Manage this in advance so everyone knows what to expect.
3. Wear Something You’re Happy Being Photographed In
Think about what you’ll wear while getting ready.
It doesn’t need to match your bridesmaids or be fancy, but you’ll be photographed during this part of the day, so choose something you like.
A wrap-around robe or loose neckline is ideal for getting changed later. Avoid tight bra straps and socks — they leave marks on your skin.
4. Give Yourself Plenty of Time
Give yourself more time than you think you’ll need.
Aim to be in your wedding dress at least 30 minutes before you need to leave. It sounds early, but the last hour always flies. Something unexpected always pops up.
If you’re ready early, it’s not a problem. I’ll keep you busy with a few portraits before you leave for the ceremony.
5. Do Your Hair and Makeup First
Brides often get their hair and makeup done last because the photographer arrives later.
I’d always suggest doing most of it first thing. You can touch it up before getting into your dress, and it’s far better to have a rushing bridesmaid than a rushing bride.
6. Make a Playlist
Create a playlist of songs you love.
Music sets the tone. When I got married, my playlist made me so happy — and it still does every time I listen to it.
7. Don’t Forget to Eat and Rehydrate
Wedding mornings are busy, and nerves can make you forget to eat.
Choose something simple and steady — eggs, nuts, bananas, oats or smoothies. Sugary foods can make nervous stomachs worse.
You’ll go hours without eating again, so get something in early. And drink plenty of water.
8. Wedding Morning – Enjoy It
When I was at uni, getting ready with friends was half the fun of a night out.
That’s exactly how I wanted my wedding morning to feel, which is why I invited everyone to get ready with me.
The morning of your wedding is a special moment. It’s when you stop being the planner and start becoming the bride.
Enjoy it. You’re about to have the best day.
For more wedding day tips, take a peek here: WEDDING PLANNING BY PHILIPPA JAMES PHOTOGRAPHY