Getting Ready

How you can have killerrrrrr “getting ready” photos

Nicole + Justin Wedding Highlights by Sarah Brookhart Photography-41.jpg

Natural light.

It’s all about the natural light, baby. The more windows, the better. If the suite has minimal natural light, I’ll likely take you to a spot nearby with better light when it’s time to put on the dress and jewelry.

Gather the goods.

Remember all those little details I told you we’d photograph at the start of the day? (Read the Timeline to refresh your memory). In the days leading up to the wedding, put these items in a shoe box/gift bag so that they’re all together and ready to be photographed upon our arrival.

For some extra flare, ask your florist if he or she would provide you with a few loose stems and/or greenery that can be used to style your details.

Minimalism.

Keep the clutter to a minimum. Kindly tell your wedding party to organize their stuff so we don’t have random bras or Doritos bags in the background of photos.

A little non-exhaustive checklist for ya…

invitation suite
ceremony program
all three rings
ring box
vows
earrings and other jewelry
shoes
dress out of the bag and on hanger
perfume
cufflinks
tie
socks

Samantha + Brandon Wedding Highlights-48.jpg

Airbnb > hotel

If your venue does not have a suite for getting ready, consider investing in an Airbnb for your wedding party instead of a hotel room. It may be a better option both photographically and logistically speaking. Some reasons!

More space

Airbnbs are larger than hotel rooms. There will be way more space for you and your people to hang out, get ready, eat, and drink than a hotel room.

Savings

Often times, Airbnbs are often more cost effective than a hotel room considering square footage and included amenities.

Kitchens

Airbnbs have kitchens! You can have a designated space for food and drink (and a large fridge to hold loads of champagne 😉 )

Style

Airbnbs (most) tend to be more stylish than hotel rooms. There are more windows and less distracting decor elements. Say goodbye to bold hotel carpeting and weird art that’s been super-glued to the wall.