by Lee Squirrell photography

Hey lovely!

Your big day is nearly here – eek! So, I’ve put together a few tips to help your wedding morning run smoothly and make sure we get stunning, relaxed, and natural photos during bridal prep. Let’s make the most of those dreamy hours before you say “I do”!

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1. Have Your Details Ready

Before we arrive, try to gather all the pretty little details you’d like me to photograph. A small box or tray works wonders. Things to include:

•Dress (out of the bag and ready to hang, unless the bridesmaid’s haven’t seen it as yet?)

•Shoes

•Wedding Rings

•Jewellery

•Perfume

•Vows/letters

•Invitation

•Hair accessories

•Something old, new, borrowed & blue

•Bouquet (once it arrives)

Bonus tip: A nice hanger for your dress is a lovely touch in photos!

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2. Keep the Room Tidy-ish

Totally understand – it’s going to be a busy space! But try to keep the room clutter-free especially in areas that we will be capturing your sitting and near a window with good natural light. This will be our little photo corner for getting ready shots and portraits. Note: There is nothing worse than having a crisp packet or plate of chips in the background of your photos. 

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3. What to Wear Before the Dress

Consider wearing a robe, button-up shirt, or something stylish (and easy to remove!) during hair and makeup. Matching outfits for the bridal party are a fab bonus for photos too! 

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4. Timing is Everything

Try to have hair and makeup wrapped up about an hour before we need to leave you – this gives us time for relaxed portraits, bridesmaids’ reactions, and possibly a special first look with dad or your crew.

Make sure your bridal party know exactly what is expected of them and where they should be at any all times, so they can plan their morning as well, especially if they have children to attend to. 

If you are doing a first look with your Dad then make sure he is aware of the times for this so he can be ready on time to see you for the first time in your dress. 

REMEMBER: Like all wedding day vendors we need the time to be able to our job. 

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5. Keep It Chill

Play your fave tunes, pop the bubbly, and soak up the moment. Your energy will shine through in the photos, and the more relaxed you feel, the more beautiful and natural everything will look. Remember it will be warm on your day so drink plenty of water as well! 

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6. Let the Emotions Flow

Laugh, cry, hug your mum, dance with your bridal crew – don’t hold back. These are the moments you’ll want to remember forever, and I’ll be right there capturing them quietly in the background.

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7. Have a “Point Person”

Designate someone (a bridesmaid or sibling) who knows what’s what – timelines, where your accessories are, etc and task them to work with us your photographers so we can make sure your day runs smoothly and that way you can just float through the morning stress-free and enjoy every second of it.