Getting Ready Photos

EXPERIENCE

Typical Timeline

make memories

Getting Ready Bride – 1 Hour

Getting Ready Groom- 45 Min to 1 Hour

Additional Time Recommendations:

  • Video Coverage: Allow an extra 15 minutes
  • First Look with Parents: Add 10 minutes
  • Letter Reading: Allocate 20 minutes

Important Considerations:

1
Videographer Leave Time

The videographer needs to leave at least 40 minutes before the ceremony, plus travel time, to set up cameras and audio equipment.

2
Photographer Leave Time

The photographer should depart 20 minutes before the bridal party leaves for the ceremony.

3
Travel Between Bride & Groom Location

If the bride and groom are getting ready at separate locations, factor in travel time plus an additional 15 minutes to account for logistics.

A Guide on How to Prepare

Getting Ready Photos

“Embrace the anticipation, savor the moments, and let the day unfold beautifully.”

The “getting ready” moments on your wedding day are more than just a prelude to the main event—they’re a time filled with anticipation, excitement, and meaningful interactions. This part of the day sets the tone for everything to come, with heartfelt exchanges and quiet reflections that make for some of the most cherished photos. To help you make the most of these moments, we’ve put together a timeline that ensures everything runs smoothly and every detail is beautifully captured.

Most Common Activities to Do on a Wedding Morning

  • Take Detail Photos: all the rings, invitation/save the date, special mementoes/heirlooms, dress, shoes, jewelry, bouquet, vow books, etc. For the groom these details include shoes, tie/bow tie, watch, cufflinks, boutonnières, etc. Put all of these items in one bag or box together and it will make it easy to capture. (15 Min)
  • Make Finishing Touches for Hair and Makeup. (5 Min)
  • Relax! Ladies often have cute robes and/or PJs so we’ll pour one last mimosa and hop on the bed/couch for some fun group photos. (10 Min)
  • Getting Dressed: for brides, this includes zipping up the dress, and putting on jewelry, shoes, and a veil. (15 Min)
  • A Bridesmaid Reveal of the bride in her wedding dress or a first look with her dad. (10 Min)
  • Bridal Portrait near the window/door catching natural lights (10 Min)
  • The Bride Writing and Reading Letters to Groom and opening gifts from each other. (20 Min)

How the Groomsmen Can Spend Their Getting Ready Time

  • Photos of Suits hang on the window, Shoes, Ties, Accessories (10 Min)
  • Do a final cheers if y’all are a drinking crew! (2 Min)
  • Pass out groomsmen gifts (5 Min)
  • Have a moment with mom (5 Min)
  • Getting Ready (Put on Shirts, Suits, Shoes (15 Min)
  • Put on boutonnières (ask your florist for styling blooms, extra pins, and magnet backs on the boutonnières for ease of use.) (10 Min)
  • Tying bow ties and folding pocket squares (make sure at least one person knows how to tie/fold them) (10 Min)
  • The Groom Writing and Reading Letters to bride and opening gifts from each other. (20 Min)

Getting Ready Box

I recommend putting together a “getting ready” box so you have it all together. In your Getting Ready collection, be sure to include:

1. A hanger

For a beautiful photo of your wedding outfit on display, make sure to bring a hanger to your dressing room. It doesn’t need to be an elaborate wedding hanger, but opting for a wooden or dress hanger will add a nice touch to the photo!

2. Your full wedding invitation suite

Include the envelope if it has a nice design or a pretty color—it adds a lovely touch to the small details. If you’ve chosen custom or wedding-themed stamps, bring those along too! Feel free to gather any special items or meaningful mementos that could enhance your wedding day details.

3. Styling blooms

If you’re looking to create stunning flat lay photos, ask your florist for some extra blooms specifically for styling the details. It’s definitely worth it! Just keep in mind that flat lays do require a bit of additional time to set up.

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