Are you a bride or groom ready to tie the knot? There is so much excitement and planning that goes into your ceremony and reception. You’ve probably planned your florals and picked out the perfect linens for your reception tables, but sometimes we often forget to set ourselves up for success. Although the morning of your wedding may seem like a miniscule detail in the grand scheme of things, keeping your morning in mind will help minimize stress. Let’s help you prepare how to plan the morning of your wedding day, so that you can truly enjoy, relax, and minimize – or let’s get real avoid all of the stress!
Location, Location, Location:
that you select a location that is close to your venue, or better yet – use the onsite location if there is one available. To be honest, picking a venue with an onsite bridal suite is not only easy, but also eliminates the stress of transportation and having to go back and forth between locations. Moving back and forth to various location can be exhausting, so we recommend looking for a location that provides all in one! Plus, it is so nice to have all of your essentials at the venue for any sort of touch ups you may need!
Light it up!
Lighting is everything. We cannot stress enough the importance of lighting while getting ready. You will want to select a getting ready location that has the right amount of light. Your hair and makeup artists, as well as your photographer will need natural light. Find a location that has an adequate amount of natural light streaming in. The more windows, the better! It will not only allow you to have a flawless look, but your photographer will thank you!
Plan on Extra Time
Time is of the essence on your wedding day. We highly recommend that you create a timeline for the morning of, including what needs to be completed, arrival times of your vendors, and list everyone’s responsibilities and duties for the day. We also recommend that you give yourself at least two extra hours of time, and we mean two more on top of what you think you’ll need! There are so many unpredictable things that can come up on the morning of. You may need to run to the store for something, your bridesmaid may have forgotten to pick something up, you may forget your veil etc. Things happen – that is life. But, if you plan ahead and leave time that provides some cushion in your timeline, it will be less likely that you’ll be late and you’ll be able to walk down the aisle as planned.
Do not go last!
A common misconception is that you will want to go last for your hair and makeup. In hindsight that makes sense, then your hair and makeup will last and you’ll be fresh. But, you want time to take some pictures with your photographer getting ready and putting the finishing touches on. Also, things may take longer than expected, maybe hair isn’t cooperating, or you need additional touches added. It is okay to schedule yourself first. You are the priority on your wedding day. Before your wedding day, schedule a trial or two with your hair and makeup artist to nail your look and determine the amount of time it will take for your look to be completed.
EAT
This is a priority for us with our couples. We always make sure our clients eat and have a good meal during the morning. Provide food for your wedding party to snack on throughout the morning and ensure that everyone has food in their bellies, especially if the champagne is flowing. This will be your last meal until cocktail hour, and you want to make sure that you are feeling good down the aisle. And even if you don’t feel hungry, eat. Eat a light meal, or have some protein snacks along the way. Eating will calm your nerves and ensure that you don’t faint your way down the aisle.
Plan your getting ready outfits
As the pictures start rolling, you’ll want clean outfits that are ready for some photos! If you’re wanting to give your bridesmaids a special gift, we love the idea of gifting them a robe, or jammie set to get ready in! Find something that coordinates and fits all your bridesmaids. You’ll want to find outfits that flatter everyone and makes everyone feel their best. Ensure that your photographer snaps some photos of you and your gals prior to dressing – coordinated outfits make for the cutest shots!
As you plan for your wedding, it’s easy to get consumed with all the details in your ceremony and reception. But, don’t forget to plan for your morning as well. These are special moments to share with your loved ones and a time for you to find peace within the day. Remember to eat small meals as you go, plan adequate time to get ready and the add two additional hours, select getting ready outfits that make everyone feel amazing, and plan your hair and makeup accordingly (don’t save yourself for last). If you need additional help planning your morning, reach out to your coordinator or a member of our team. We always include this in our timelines so we can keep everything moving smoothly!
Lori Losee is the owner of Elegant Affairs, a Tacoma Wedding Planner with over 19 years of experience. We create awe-inspiring experiences—Events filled with meaning and refined elegance. Behind the scenes, our experienced team collaborates on each stage of the process, executing your vision and a wedding, celebration, or corporate event that is unique to you.