Choosing your getting ready location

I want to talk to you about choosing the oh-so-important: choosing your getting ready location. I know this might not be at the top of your priority list right now, especially if you are in the early stages of planning your wedding, but it’s a biggy. There are a few things to consider when choosing your getting ready location for your partner and yourself. These factors also come into play with how your photographs will be captured at those locations. 

The Natural Light

First things first, the most important is the lighting….. Let’s talk about natural light. The last thing you want when getting ready is to be stuck in a dungeon of a room with harsh fluorescent lighting on your big day. Trust me, you won’t love it. Few reasons behind this first one being that your makeup artist will have to use some sort of extra lighting e.g a ring light, for them to help actually see what they are doing and this light is shining on you the whole time and they will be forever grateful! Next, obviously for photography reasons, big windows that let in plenty of light let us create dreamy photos to capture you or your partner getting ready. Bonus points if there’s a great view outside for some dreamy photo ops! 

The Clutter

Now, let’s talk about clutter and distractions in the background of your photos. Choosing a location that doesn’t have every wall covered in something or every bench top scattered with items, This can be very distracting in your photos and you don’t need to be looking for items through this clutter while you are trying to get ready. Give one of your bridal party members this responsibility before the photographer arrives. You don’t want to be tripping over your aunt’s suitcase or your cousin’s pile of shoes while you’re trying to get ready. Make sure the space you choose is tidy and clutter-free. You don’t need any distractions or obstacles getting in the way of your perfect day!

And speaking of distractions, let’s talk about TVs.Of course it’s fine to have a TV in the location you are getting ready. But things to think about is it on the only blank wall? There is nothing worse then in the back of all your getting ready photos a massive black blob sitting on the wall behind them all. 

Location Location Location

Another biggy to keep in mind is the location. How far away is this getting ready location (if getting ready off site). You don’t want to be stuck in traffic or spend half your day in the car traveling to your wedding day. Or another thought: your photographer getting stuck in traffic between your getting ready location and ceremony venue. If you are both getting ready at different locations, think about how far away from each other they are…. Do you really want to waste your photography coverage by having an hour between a getting ready location? That could be an extra hour of EPIC party photos…. 

Choose a spot that’s relatively close by, so you can maximise your time and avoid any unnecessary stress.

Space

Last but not least, think about space. Who doesn’t like their own space?? Especially on your wedding day…. You don’t want to be crammed in a tiny room with all your bridal party feeling like sardines in a can. Make sure the space you choose has enough room for everyone to move around comfortably, without feeling like you’re on top of each other. If you need a few minutes to yourself to take a breather, make sure there’s space for that too!

So there you have it folks! My top tips for choosing your getting ready location on your wedding day. We are so lucky to be in the times of having Air BNB’s so easily accessible and aesthetically pleasing. Let’s be honest, they are amazing! Keep these things in mind and you’re sure to have a stress-free, picture-perfect morning. And of course, if you need any more advice or help finding the perfect spot, you know who to call 😉

If you would like to check out some previous weddings with some awesome getting ready locations, see below blogs!