You might be thinking, getting ready photos, that is pretty self explanatory…you get ready right? When it comes to the pre-ceremony photos, it is SO much more than just getting dressed and you want to ensure you give yourself plenty of time to enjoy these special moments and not feel rushed or stressed.

The flatlay details:

A flatlay is a collection of all the intimate items from your wedding day usually including your invitation, jewelry, wedding rings, perfume, and any other special items. This typically takes place at the beginning before you begin getting dressed.

PJ or robe shots:

So many brides opt to have their girls wear matching robes or cute PJ’s. I love taking a minute to capture a fun moment with you and your ladies before you begin getting dressed.

The dress:

We always need a moment for just the dress

Getting dressed

Now is the point at which you get dressed. I always try to make it more than just “getting dressed”. Your dad gets so many special moments throughout the day from walking you down the aisle to your first dance. Sometimes I feel like our moms get overlooked. I like to make this mom’s special time with you and let you take your time and enjoy getting ready and have an intimate moment just the two of you.

First look with dad

A lot of brides opt to do a first look with their fathers during this time

First look with bridesmaids:

I also love having just mom help you get ready so you can have that special moment with her then do a big reveal for your bridesmaids

Prayer time with your ladies:

I think it so incredibly special to take time to have your bridesmaids and family members pray over you before your ceremony

Bridal portaits:

You always want some time for bridal portraits in the getting ready suite and around the venue

Don’t forget the guys:

We also need a little time to capture the guys getting ready. Having a second photographer to help capture they guys while your main photographer focuses on the ladies is very helpful.

First look as a couple:

Lastly, once you are doing getting ready, many couples opt for a first look. Check out the blog post of reasons I love first looks

Before the ceremony wedding party & family photos:

Not part of the “getting ready” section of the day, but just remember that you want to block some time off for wedding party photos and family photos before the ceremony EVEN if you aren’t doing a first look. This helps to give you a less stressed cocktail hour. Check out timeline planning help here

Check out more wedding planning resources here