Why the Getting Ready Process Is Important
The “getting ready” portion of your wedding day sets the tone for everything that follows. It’s a chance to relax, bond with your bridal party, and prepare emotionally for one of the biggest moments of your life. Whether you’re getting married in Alberta or elsewhere, your getting ready experience should be joyful, stress-free, and full of meaningful moments.
Plan Your Getting Ready Routine
Start with a Timeline
Planning is everything. Allocate enough time for hair and makeup, dressing, and special moments like a first look with your dad. The top reasons to hire makeup artist professionals include their ability to keep you on schedule and help you feel flawless.
A solid timeline ensures you’ll enjoy every step without feeling rushed. If you’re planning a first look at 1 p.m. and need to travel, account for drive time. For example, if you’re in Banff or Canmore, plan to finish your hair and makeup by 11:30 a.m.
Choose the Perfect Space
Your getting ready location matters. Whether you opt for a bridal suite at a hotel or a cozy Airbnb, make sure the space reflects your style. Natural light is key for photography—something any experienced photographer will emphasize in their wedding portfolio.
Tips for Hair and Makeup
Have a Trial Run
A trial run for hair and makeup is non-negotiable. Not only does it ensure you’ll love your look, but it also gives your stylist a chance to perfect their timing. This is especially important if you’re planning a destination wedding in Banff or Canmore, as Banff and Calgary wedding planners often recommend trials for out-of-town brides.
Invest in Professionals
Hiring professionals is worth every penny. They’ll help you feel confident and look amazing in your photos. If you’re wondering what does the average wedding photographer cost, remember that your photos last a lifetime, and so should your confidence in them.
Special Moments to Include
Dad’s First Look
A first look with your dad is one of the most emotional parts of the day. Capture the joy and pride in his eyes as he sees you in your dress for the first time. This is also a perfect opportunity for wall art and fine art albums, preserving these heartfelt moments forever.
Letters and Gifts
Exchange letters or small gifts with your groom. Writing a letter is a beautiful way to express your feelings as you prepare for your ceremony. Many grooms open these letters during their own getting ready process—something you can explore further in a groom getting ready guide.
Getting Ready with Mom
Sharing the morning with your mom is a beautiful moment. Whether she’s helping you with your dress or reminiscing about her own wedding day, these interactions are incredibly meaningful and perfect for candid photography and not to forget to hire the best wedding photographer in Alberta.
Bridesmaids’ First Look
Your bridesmaids seeing you in your wedding dress for the first time can be a fun and emotional moment. Their reactions are often filled with joy and excitement, making it a great opportunity for natural, heartfelt photos.
Sharing a Toast
A toast with your bridal party is a wonderful way to celebrate and ease any pre-ceremony nerves. Whether it’s champagne or your favorite drink, this moment is full of smiles and laughter.
Reading Your Vows
If you’ve written personal vows, consider taking a quiet moment to read through them while getting ready. This is a touching opportunity for reflective and serene photos.
Flower Girl and Ring Bearer Prep
Helping your flower girl or ring bearer get ready can lead to adorable and tender moments. Whether it’s tying their shoes or calming their nerves, these interactions make for charming photos.
Bridal Party Gifts
Exchanging small gifts or keepsakes with your bridesmaids or groomsmen is a thoughtful gesture. Capturing their reactions as they open your token of appreciation adds a personal touch to your album.
Final Touches on Makeup
That last swipe of lipstick or a finishing touch on your hair is a great detail to capture. These final preparations highlight the anticipation and excitement of the moment.
Pinning the Boutonniere
If you’re involved in pinning a boutonniere on your dad or another loved one, this is a sweet and intimate moment worth documenting.
Quiet Reflection
Before the festivities begin, take a moment for yourself to breathe, reflect, and savor the day. These serene, introspective shots can become some of the most cherished from your wedding day.
First Look with Your Siblings
If you’re close with your siblings, a first look with them can be an emotional and heartwarming moment to include in your day.
How to Make the Morning Fun
Laugh, Relax, and Celebrate
Your wedding day should be filled with joy. Crack open a bottle of champagne, share stories with your bridal party, and let the laughter flow. A top Calgary or Mountain photographer who is photographer skilled in the best tips for candid photography knows how to capture these spontaneous, happy moments.
Keep It Lighthearted
Avoid stress by focusing on what truly matters—celebrating your love. Whether you’re reviewing ceremony ideas for small and large weddings or finalizing last-minute details, remember to enjoy the journey.
Create a Getting Ready Playlist
Music can set the tone for your morning. A playlist filled with your favorite songs or relaxing tunes can energize the atmosphere or help calm any nerves.
Have a Mini Brunch
Enjoying a light meal or snack with your bridal party can add a festive touch to the morning. Think finger foods, fresh fruit, or even a mimosa bar for a special treat.
Play Bridal Party Games
Games like wedding trivia or “how well do you know the bride” can lighten the mood and bring laughter to the morning. It’s a fun way to bond with your bridesmaids and groomsmen.
Snap Candid Photos of Your Crew
Hand over your phone or a disposable camera to one of your bridesmaids for some behind-the-scenes fun. These candid moments complement the professional shots your photographer will capture.
Write a Love Note to Your Partner
Take a few minutes to write a quick note or letter to your future spouse. This small gesture adds romance and can be photographed as part of your story.
Include Your Pets
If you have pets, let them join the fun! Whether it’s a dog lounging at your feet or a cat curiously watching the activity, including them makes for adorable and personal photos.
Share a Group Memory
Ask everyone to share a favorite memory of you or your partner. It’s a sentimental way to reflect on your journey together while celebrating the people who support you.
Enjoy a Spa-Like Moment
Incorporate a calming activity, like applying face masks, a quick hand massage, or a spritz of your favourite perfume. These moments add a luxurious touch to the morning.
Practical Tips for a Smooth Morning
Dress with Care
Allow plenty of time for getting into your dress. Depending on the complexity of your gown, it could take 10-20 minutes. Plan extra time for jewelry, shoes, and final touches.
Organize Your Essentials the Night Before
Save time and stress by preparing everything the night before. Lay out your dress, shoes, accessories, and any sentimental items to ensure nothing is forgotten. This helps the morning run seamlessly.
Delegate Tasks to Your Bridal Party
Your bridal party is there to support you, so don’t hesitate to delegate small tasks. Assign someone to manage your phone, ensure everyone is on schedule, or coordinate last-minute details with vendors.
Stay Hydrated and Nourished
Keep a water bottle handy and snack on light, energy-boosting foods throughout the morning. Staying hydrated and eating well helps you feel your best for the day ahead.
Confirm Vendor Arrivals
Double-check with your wedding planner or a trusted friend that all vendors, like florists and makeup artists, are on schedule. If you don’t have a planner, consider working with Banff and Calgary wedding planners to ensure everything runs smoothly.
Have a Comfortable Outfit Ready
Choose a stylish yet comfortable outfit to wear while getting ready. Consider a robe, matching pajamas, or something easy to slip out of without disturbing your hair or makeup.
Prepare a Packing List
If you’re traveling to a venue or mountain wedding venue guide location, pack everything you’ll need ahead of time. Include items like your emergency kit, accessories, and a change of clothes if necessary.
Check the Weather
For outdoor weddings or first-look photos, monitor the weather forecast. Bring an umbrella, shawl, or sunscreen as needed to ensure you’re prepared for any conditions.
Avoid Overcrowding Your Space
Too many people in the room can create unnecessary chaos. Limit the number of people helping you get ready, and ensure the room feels calm and organized.
Keep a Timeline Handy
Have a printed copy of your timeline for reference. Share it with your bridal party and photographer to ensure everyone is on the same page.
Prepare for Unexpected Delays
Build a little extra time into your schedule for unforeseen delays, whether it’s a traffic jam on the way to the venue or a last-minute wardrobe adjustment. A buffer ensures a stress-free transition between events.
Have a Backup Plan
Pack a small emergency kit with essentials like sewing supplies, stain remover, and extra eyelash glue. These small details can make a big difference if something unexpected happens.
Why You Don’t Need a Second Photographer
You might wonder, do I need a second wedding photographer? As an experienced solo photographer, I ensure every moment is captured beautifully without the need for additional shooters. My approach is seamless and personalized, focusing on what matters most to you.
How Your Photographer Captures Getting Ready Moments
An experienced photographer knows how to create a relaxed atmosphere while documenting your day. From what is the point and the best engagement locations to your bridal suite, the goal is to capture moments that feel genuine and timeless.
Your photographer should prioritize quality over quantity, ensuring that every image reflects the beauty and emotion of your day. (Learn more about my philosophy in do photographers retouch wedding photos.)
Final Thoughts: Enjoy Every Moment
Your getting ready experience is more than a checklist—it’s the start of an incredible day filled with love, laughter, and joy. Whether you’re using my venue guide in Calgary, planning with mountain wedding venue guide resources, or working with Banff and Calgary wedding planners, the key is to stay organized and focus on what matters most.
Take the time to laugh, celebrate, and create memories that will last a lifetime. And when the day is done, those precious moments will live on through your photos and in your wall art and fine art albums.
Let me know how I can help make your wedding day unforgettable!
Frequently Asked Questions
How many hair and makeup artists should I have on my wedding day?
To ensure a smooth preparation process, allocate approximately one hour per person for hair and makeup. For example, if you have four individuals (including the bride), this would total four hours. Hiring two stylists can reduce this time by half, allowing everyone to be ready promptly.
Who typically gets professional hair and makeup done on the wedding day?
The bride usually receives professional hair and makeup services, and it’s common for the bridal party to do so as well. However, this depends on the budget and who is covering the costs. To manage expenses, bridal party members can individually pay for their services, but it’s essential to discuss and agree on this arrangement beforehand to avoid any misunderstandings.
How many hair and makeup trials should I have before the wedding day?
At least, one trial is recommended to ensure satisfaction with the chosen artist’s work. If the initial trial doesn’t meet your expectations, consider scheduling additional trials with other artists until you find the perfect match.
How early should I start getting ready on my wedding day?
Begin by working backward from your ceremony or first look time. For instance, if your first look is at 1:00 PM with no travel time, aim to be ready by 12:30 PM. Plan to have your dress on by noon, with hair and makeup completed by 11:30 AM, allowing buffer time for any unforeseen delays.
Does the mother-in-law get ready with the bride?
Traditionally, the mother-in-law prepares with her son, sharing a special and emotional time. However, there are no strict rules; if you both feel comfortable, she can join you during your preparation.
How many bridesmaids should I have?
The number of bridesmaids is entirely up to you. Whether you prefer an intimate setting with no bridesmaids or wish to include many close friends, the choice should reflect your comfort and vision for the day. A wedding planner can offer guidance to help you make this decision.
Do I need to buy gifts for my bridal party?
While not mandatory, expressing gratitude throgh a heartfelt note or a small gift is appreciated. Consider how you would feel in their position and choose a gesture that reflects your appreciation for their support. Wedding planners often have creative ideas for bridal party gifts.
Why does a bride carry a bouquet?
Historically, carrying flowers symbolizes a new beginning and fidelity, a tradition dating back to ancient times. Today, bouquets are a romantic and integral part of wedding ceremonies.
Who walks the mother of the bride down the aisle?
This role can be filled by a family member, usher, or close friend, depending on personal preferences and family dynamics.
Do brides still throw the bouquet?
Yes, many brides continue the tradition of tossing the bouquet for fun, though its significance has evolved over time. If you wish to keep your original bouquet, consider asking your florist to create a separate tossing bouquet.
