The Morning of
As a wedding photographer, I have seen first hand how stressful the whole wedding planning process can be. Turns out, im part of your planning checklist! The lead up to the big day is months, even years, and before you know it you're waking up on the day of and forget your dress at your house, didn't sleep the night before, have no idea where your earrings are, and don't know when your cake will arrive. I've seen brides and grooms completely freaked out and unable to relax before walking down the isle because everything is chaotic the morning of the wedding. There are people coming and going, there's a timeline to stick to, and combined with all your emotions about the day, it's easy to become overwhelmed. So to help you prepare for your wedding morning/day, and make it as chilled out, relaxing, and fun as possible, I've put together my top 5 Tips For The Morning of, that will allow you to soak in every moment.
1. Go to bed early the night before.
Its so important to get rest before a long day. With emotions and adrenaline pretty high its best to lay down early since it make take you a while to fall asleep. More than likely you will wake up super early for hair and makeup and wont be able to rest until after you exit the venue that night. Extra sleep is needed!
2.Choose your bridesmaids/groomsmen wisely.
If you get anxiety in stimulated and busy environments, surround yourself with people that have a calming effect on you. I know you love Sarah, and she was a great college roommate but, her tardiness and messiness contribute to some overwhelming emotions. Maybe its mom who is just a tad controlling and loud.. Keep her busy with other things rather than being in your getting ready room.
tip: Invite the Sarahs to your bachelorette/bachelor trip rather than being in your wedding. They will still be a huge part of the celebration that way!
3.Pass the Planning.
Confirm timings with your vendors and wedding party, such as hair and makeup artist arrival or flower and cake delivery at least 2 weeks before, so you don't have to do any more planning or organizing on the morning of the wedding. If you're planning on making items, arranging flowers or doing some of your own décor, make sure to have everything ready to go and in place before the big day. Have designated people to set up the decorations so you wont need to be on your feet more than you should. If you want to check the venue or set up, make sure it's the first thing you do, so it's out of the way. Have all the cash for any on-the-day vendors in envelopes ready to go and handed over to a trusted bridal party member, such as your chief bridesmaid or best man.
4.Plan hair and makeup wisely.
When you do trial runs with your hair and makeup time how long it takes to finish. The worst is when you feel rushed. Give your hair and makeup artists plenty of time to finish your hair and add any finishing touches. Double check how your hair and skin should be prepped before the hairstylist and makeup artists arrive, you may need to have hair washed the night before. Confirm the timeline with your hair and makeup artists, and brief your bridal party so there's no confusion about who goes first. Make sure you've tested any new beauty products before the big day to ensure there are no last minute reactions!
5.Don't forget to eat.
Although many brides say they feel too anxious or excited to eat in the morning, it really is important to have a hearty, healthy breakfast to get you through the day. Chances are you wont eat again until 6-7pm. A layered breakfast bowl with fresh fruit, natural yogurt and granola and a calming herbal tea will set you up nicely for the day. Try to avoid greasy and stodgy foods, as these can make you feel a little queasy and bloated if nerves are heightened. If you're staying at the venue or a hotel, make sure to order your brekkie for room service delivery the night before.
