How to Have A Stress-Free Morning: Tips for Bride and Groom Prep
The morning of your wedding should feel joyful, calm, and full of anticipation, not rushed and stressful. As a photographer, I’ve seen firsthand how intentional time management during the getting ready phase can set the tone for the entire day. A little planning goes a long way in making sure you feel present, relaxed, and ready to soak in every moment. Here are my best tips to help your prep run smoothly!
Bridal Prep: Creating Space to Breathe
One of the most important parts of your wedding morning is coordinating with your hair and makeup team. Ideally, everyone (including touch-ups) should be finished by the time your photographer arrives. This ensures you and your bridal party are photo-ready for those fun robe or PJ shots and gives you a little extra breathing room to grab a snack, use the bathroom, or simply enjoy a few quiet moments before slipping into your gown.
If someone special is helping you into your dress and you’d like that photographed, make sure they are fully ready themselves before you step into yours. This way, your getting-dressed photos look polished, intentional, and beautiful.
Hoping for a special moment, like a bridesmaid reveal or a first look with your dad? Communication is key! We love creating space for these heartfelt scenes, but they do require a little extra time in your pre-photo timeline. Planning ahead ensures you get all the candid, emotional moments you’re envisioning, without feeling rushed.
Flatlay Details: Thoughtful Preparation Pays Off
Whether you’re a detail-loving bride or just want a few simple keepsakes captured, flatlay photography requires time to style and curate which typically can be up to 30–40 minutes. To help your photographer create something beautiful, have everything gathered in one box the night before. Include items such as:
All three rings
Vow books
Perfume
Jewelry you’ll wear that day
Shoes & veil
Invitation suite (with envelopes, RSVP card, and any inserts)
Loose florals from your florist (these elevate the entire flatlay!)
Also, don’t forget your dress! Have it steamed, out of the bag, and hung on a non-plastic hanger in a well-lit space. During your timeline call, let your photographer know how important these details are to you so they can build in time and answer any questions.
Groom Prep: Simple but Intentional
Groom prep tends to be more low-key, but time management here is just as important. By the time your photographer arrives, make sure all of the guys are showered and mostly dressed. Keeping the prep space tidy and choosing a well-lit area makes a huge difference in the photos.
Just like the bride, the groom will also have a flatlay session (about 30 minutes). Gather details in advance such as:
Shoes
Tie or bowtie
Special cufflinks
Cologne
Watch
Vow book
Boutonniere or loose florals
The groom should be in pants, shirt, and socks by the time flatlay photos are complete. And whoever is helping him get dressed should be fully dressed themselves; this keeps the photos polished and intentional.
Why This Matters
Time management during your prep isn’t about being rigid. It’s about creating space to breathe, enjoy, and stay present! By preparing ahead and communicating with your vendors, you’ll avoid unnecessary stress and set yourself up for a wedding day that feels effortless. And as your photographer, my goal is always to ensure the day flows smoothly, so you can focus on what truly matters: celebrating and soaking in every joyful moment!
Groom prep detail photos taken for Sharyn Louise Photography, Jes Terkowski, and Hope Helmuth. Bride prep were taken for past RBP brides