by Lee Squirrell photography

👔 Hi Mate, Your big day is nearly here ! So, we’ve put together a few tips to help your wedding morning run smoothly and make sure we get stunning, relaxed, and natural photos during groom prep. 

What to Have Ready when we arrive:

Suit, tux or shorts (jacket, trousers, waistcoat if needed)

Shirt (clean, pressed, and preferably not still in the packet!)

Tie, bowtie, or cravat

Shoes (polished, not still in the box!)

Socks (yes, even this. Bonus points for fun wedding ones)

Cufflinks, belt or braces, pocket square

Watch or any accessories

Cologne

Wedding ring (don’t forget this one, mate!)

Buttonhole/boutonnière

Any gifts for your groomsman

Vows or letter (if you’re exchanging them)

Timing is Everything

Try to have all your more fun wrapped up about 30mins before we need  meet up with you – this gives you enough time to shower.

Make sure your groomsman 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 want your Best Man and Groomsman in any photos, make sure they are showered, dressed and ready and waiting with you in your room just before we arrive. 

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. 

Have a “Point Person”

Designate someone (a groomsman 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. 

📸

Photo Tips:

Try to keep one room tidy-ish for prep shots (natural light = good vibes) Make sure you pick up any dirty boxer shorts from the floor. 🙂 

Wait until the photographer arrives before getting fully dressed – we’ll grab some great shots of you suiting up

This is where your groomsman come in, help each other out – ties, cufflinks, and final touches make for great candid moments

🍻

Pre-Ceremony Vibes:

Get some tunes going – playlists help chill the nerves

Light snack + water (yes, hydrate before you drink a beer or 2)

Toast with your groomsmen if you like – keep it classy(ish)

Allow enough time – stick to the timings so we allow enough time.

💡

Bonus Tips:

Give your phone to someone else once you’re dressed (trust us)

Know where the rings and vows are at all times

Be present, take it all in, and don’t sweat the small stuff