The getting ready time is when the couple gets ready for the wedding ceremony, separately or together, surrounded by their family, friends, and/or the bridal party. Just like no two weddings are the same, no two preparation processes will look similar. To make the process full of fond memories and ease, here are some tips to ensure you get to the aisle on time.
Timeline Timeline Timeline
Just like the wedding ceremony, you need to plan a timeline to fit in all the aspects needed to get you ready to say I Do. Creating a timeline will also give you the opportunity to see what aspects you would like memorialized by the photographer and ensure that the key people and items are present for those times. Does your hairstylist have everything they need and know the details planned for your wedding prep? Keep in mind that hair and makeup can take 60 to 90 minutes each for the bride and 30-45 minutes each for every bridesmaid and mother-of-the-bride. Does your mom need to be camera ready by the time you lace up your gown? Are you doing a first reveal with the entire wedding party present? Creating a timeline will help ensure your photographer is at the right place at the right time, and you start the getting ready process at the right time. It will also ensure you have a relaxing wedding prep before the big ceremony.
Preparation is Key
Now that you have an idea of how the getting ready process will go, you can make sure you have everything you need. Do you want your wedding prep in special robes with your bridesmaids? Does the groom have special gifts for his groomsmen? Bridesmaid/Groomsmen gifts, emergency kit, special outfits, toiletries, that special shade of lipstick the bridesmaids will wear, your something old, new, borrowed, and blue…creating a list and gathering everything before the big day will ensure nothing gets left out or forgotten. As soon as you arrive/wake up you should take your wedding gown and veil out of your garment bag and hang it where it can breathe a bit, unbustled. This will allow you to see which areas need steaming the most. Tuck the comb of the veil inside the back of the dress and let it hang down. Having all your items on hand while you get ready will also help your photographer capture those extra details like your grandmother’s broach on your gown or your specially made wedding shoes.
Power of Ambience
Having the right ambience will help keep your energy going and stress free. Does one of your bridesmaids make the best playlists? Task her with creating an awesome getting ready one and don’t forget the Bluetooth speaker. What foods give you energy without a crash? The last thing you want to be when preparing for your special day is hangry or drowsy. Make sure you have enough snacks and drinks to fuel your wedding party and keep everyone hydrated. Want to sip on champagne with your gal pals? Remember to drink plenty of water and have food on your stomach so you don’t end up getting too buzzed to concentrate on details or feel extra jittery. Planning these extra necessities will keep your wedding prep stress free and add to the memories of your special day.
The wedding day begins with the getting ready process and you want to make sure the setting fits the vision of your special day. Whether you have a small bridal suite, a whole house like ours, or an offsite space prepping and planning for your getting ready time will help keep your day as smooth and easy as possible. Rather than hurriedly racing to the aisle, you’ll be able to step into your gown and smile with all the confidence of a well-prepared bride.