First, you have to decide if you want photos of yourself and your bridal party getting ready. My advice? Yes, you want them. "But I'm just putting a dress on and getting my hair and make-up done." No, you're putting on THE dress. You're spending the morning with your friends and family the last day of being a single person. You have butterflies in your stomach and curlers in your hair, there might be tears, there will be hugging.. it will be memorable. But of course that's up to you.
My favorite getting ready experience I've had so far is when a father saw his daughter for the first time in her white dress and fancy hair, he came up the stairs and immediately covered his face with his hands as the tears poured. He grabbed her and twirled her around and instantly she was 5 years old, daddy's princess. They started dancing to the music that was playing. It was pretty magical, at least a very touching moment.
If you decide you would like to include "Getting Ready" photos, here's some tips to make sure they are all you wanted and more.
1. Keep the clutter under control
It's easy to clutter up the room you are getting ready in with dress bags, tissue paper, shoe boxes, robes, sneakers etc. So it might be good to set aside an area for these things in a corner or in another room. Let all the women know that you want to keep the room clean for photos.
2. Give some thought to where you'd like photos of your Dress and Jewelry
If you've chosen a dark room with no windows or personality, the photos you have envisioned of your getting-ready may not be as whimsical or artistic as you'd like. A tall window goes a long way for photos of your dress. Or perhaps looking outside for a tree with a low branch to hang your wedding dress is one option. Be creative!
3. FOOD!
Some brides have nerves of steel and have a practical breakfast before their wedding, others are so nervous that that have no appetite. Having some light snacks around are a great idea.
4. Pick out your "Getting Ready" spot with photos in mind
Some venues provide a bridal room for you. However, if the choice is left to you, keep in mind that photos will have to be taken in that room. Look for a place with a lot of natural light, as this is the most flattering. Pick a clean room with light paint. Getting ready in your childhood bedroom may seem sentimental but, cramming all 5 of your bridesmaids into a tiny room with dark purple walls is not going to result in beautiful photos.
5. Consider having your Hair and Make-up Appointments at your Getting-Ready spot
Why? The first reason is, you don't want to miss any part of your special day, why not keep everyone together and enjoy the time with friends and family? Also, you will be able to use the time you hired your photographer to the full, if everyone is together you will have photos of you getting your hair curled while your mom is having her lipstick applied and your maid of honor helps her daughter get into her flower girl dress.
6. Have your flowers at your Getting-Ready spot
Some flowers are delivered directly to your ceremony venue, however if you are able to have them at your getting ready spot, your flowers can have their photo session as well. Get photos of and with your flowers at their freshest. Also, if there is enough time you can get some portraits done beforehand, such as with your girls or with your family.
7. Stay Organized!
Keep the stress level down by keeping everything together and in it's place. You won't be relaxed and ready to go if your necklace is missing or you only have your left shoe. Have all of the corsages and flower bracelets (do they have a special name?) labeled, since you more than likely won't be present for the pinning. Make sure you delegate responsibilities to responsible people. Don't put it on all on yourself. For example, assign one person, perhaps an Aunt or someone who won't be in the wedding but will know where everyone is located, to take care of all of the flower distribution. There are many duties you can delegate and it will help your day go smoothly, as well as making people feel included in your special day.
There are so many things to do before your ceremony, hopefully this list, though not exhaustive, can help you organize your morning ahead of time so you can relax and sip on your Mimosa, knowing everything is being taken care of.
