The morning of your wedding is one of the most exciting – and emotional – parts of the day. Whether you’re getting ready solo, with your best mates, or close family, setting yourself up properly means you'll feel calm, in control, and ready to enjoy every minute.

As your photographer, I love capturing those beautiful “getting ready” moments – but a little prep goes a long way! Here’s everything I recommend to help your wedding morning run smoothly (and look gorgeous in photos).

Pack a ‘Details’ Box or Bag the Night Before

Have all the key items you'd like photographed gathered and ready in one place – a nice bag, box, or even a basket works perfectly. This saves time, reduces last-minute panics, and means you can relax with a glass of fizz instead of rummaging through suitcases.

Your photographer will usually shoot these details first thing in a quiet spot – ideally near a window with natural light – before returning them to you or placing them in a designated spot. Here's what to include:

Dress or suit
Shoes
Perfume or cologne
Jewellery, cufflinks, watches
Veil or hair accessories
Spare wedding invite/stationery
A small family heirloom if you'd like it captured
A pretty wooden hanger (trust me, this makes a huge difference in photos!)
Bonus: Ask your florist if they can include a few loose stems – perfect for styling your flat-lay shots.

Dress & Accessories Prep Tips

Steam everything the day before. This includes your veil and any robes or outfits being worn in the morning.
Remove all tags and stickers from clothing, shoes, and accessories.
Keep a clutter-free space near a window for photos – a calm, tidy room makes all the difference.
Consider personalised or coordinated dressing gowns for your wedding party – they look lovely in photos and make a sweet keepsake.

Timing Is Everything

Aim to get into your dress or suit about 30 minutes before your photographer is due to leave for the ceremony. Why?

Your photographer might need to travel ahead to capture venue shots, guest arrivals, or set up.
We love getting those beautiful portraits of you fully dressed – especially if you're doing a first look with parents, your wedding party, or siblings.
It gives you breathing room to soak it all in and not feel rushed.

Eat, Drink & Be Hydrated!

You might not feel hungry from all the excitement – but you need to fuel up! Order a breakfast grazing platter with pastries, fruit, and light bites that are easy to nibble. Keep bottles of water on hand too.

Top tip: avoid anything too heavy or greasy, and keep caffeine minimal if you’re prone to pre-wedding jitters.

Know Your Dress (and Train!)

If your dress has a train or bustle, know how and when it needs to be hooked up, and who’s responsible for it. Practise ahead of time – even a quick video tutorial can save stress later.

Clever Tips for Ceremony Tears

Worried you’ll well up? If your outfit has pockets, pop a tissue in.
No pockets? Try this photographer-approved trick: hide a few cotton buds in your bouquet. They're perfect for dabbing tears without disturbing your makeup – and discreet enough to go unnoticed. Just pop one out, dab the corners of your eyes, and slide it back in. No soggy tissue in sight.

Bonus Tips from UK Brides & Grooms

Some extra thoughtful (and quirky) ideas we’ve seen couples use on their UK wedding mornings:

Mini survival kits for you and your wedding party – include plasters, deodorant, paracetamol, mints, fashion tape, and a mini sewing kit.
Bluetooth speaker for a pre-ceremony playlist – uplifting tunes keep the vibe light and fun.
Love notes or gifts exchanged the morning of – it’s a beautiful, quiet moment to savour.
Handwritten vows or letters – photograph them before the ceremony for a meaningful detail.
Bridesmaids or groomsmen hangers with their names – makes for a lovely flat-lay moment and doubles as a keepsake.

Final Word: Enjoy Every Second

Your wedding morning sets the tone for the day. With a little preparation, it can be relaxed, joyful, and full of laughter (and maybe a few happy tears). I’ll be there capturing it all, so you can look back on those quiet, beautiful moments forever.

Now breathe deep, pour the fizz, and let’s get you married!