Wedding Day Getting Ready Location Tips

The getting ready location plays a huge part in the visual storytelling of your wedding day. The getting ready location often gets overlooked, and for this reason I really want to emphasize its importance. I encourage you to put considerable thought into where you will get ready on your wedding day. Having photographed hundreds of weddings, the getting ready portion of the day is one of my favorites. These wedding day getting ready location tips are here to guide you as you prepare for your big day.

First Impression

As a photographer, the getting ready space immediately sets the tone for the day. I am inspired by spaces that are filled with natural light, light walls, and unique style. Nothing crushes my artistic spirit more than a dark space, with few to no windows, dark carpets, and heavy tapestry. As your visual storyteller, I want your wedding images to have a cohesive look to them. The getting ready portion of your day will be the first images you see in your online gallery. You will want them to be just as beautiful as the rest of your day. Couples who work with me are drawn to my photography because of the way I capture light. In order for your getting ready photos to look light and bright, you need to choose a getting ready space that can accommodate that look.

Wedding Venue

If you love the decor and design of your venue, you probably want as many photos there as possible. Be sure to check with your venue to see what time they’ll allow you to arrive the day of your wedding. You might need to start getting ready at an alternate location and arrive at the venue just for the “final touches”. Some venues have a bridal suite but be sure to tour this ahead of time before committing to it as the getting ready location. You want to be sure this space has plenty of light and is large enough to accommodate everyone you plan on having with you the morning of the wedding. Be sure to ask about the groom’s options as well. Oftentimes grooms get overlooked and end up with limited options. You want the groom’s space to the match the style and aesthetic of the bride’s space.

Airbnb or Private Residence

If you’re needing a little extra space, or another location in addition to your wedding venue, an Airbnb or private home is an awesome option. Renting an Airbnb for your bridal party to stay in the night before the wedding can also be a fun way to add a little extra time with them into your wedding weekend schedule. This option is my personal favorite because of the amount of space and privacy it offers. If you’re feeling less traditional, having the entire wedding party get ready in one space is a lot of fun. Be sure to rent an Airbnb or private residence that can accommodate a large group.

Hotel

As an alternative to an Airbnb, booking a hotel can also be a great option, especially if you’re having a destination wedding or a lot of guests in town for the big day. If you are getting ready at a hotel, make sure that the style of the room matches the style of your venue, and be sure to get a room with lots of windows. If the groom doesn’t have his own hotel room, he and his groomsmen will most likely be relegated to a conference room, which never photograph well. Be sure he has a flattering space to get ready in as well.