TIPS FOR A STRESS-FREE WEDDING MORNING
Your wedding morning sets the tone for the whole day — and while it’s normal to feel some nerves or butterflies, you deserve to actually enjoy those getting ready moments instead of feeling rushed, scattered, or overwhelmed.
After photographing dozens of weddings and having been a bride myself, I’ve seen what works (and what doesn’t). So, I’m sharing real, helpful tips that can make your wedding morning smoother, calmer, and more fun — and I’ve also included a free checklist you can download and keep close while planning!
So grab your coffee (or beverage of choice) and let’s walk through it:
HOW TO PREPARE FOR A STRESS FREE WEDDING MORNING
1. GET A GOOD NIGHT’S SLEEP (SERIOUSLY)
You’ll hear this a lot, but it’s important. Try to wind down the night before — turn off your phone early, and avoid any last-minute to-dos. You don’t need to go to bed at 8pm, but giving yourself a decent sleep window helps everything feel better the next day.
2. BUILD IN MORE TIME THAN YOU THINK YOU’LL NEED
If your makeup artist says you need an hour, plan for an hour and fifteen. If your dress takes ten minutes to get into, give yourself thirty. You’ll be amazed at how fast time flies that morning, especially with people popping in, things needing to be found, or quick touch-ups.
Bonus: A buffer means more time for candid, relaxed photos and less chance of rushing out the door.
3. KEEP YOUR GETTING READY SPACE CLEAN AND CALM
Whether you’re in a hotel suite, your childhood home, or a bridal cottage — try to keep the space where you’re getting dressed tidy. Ask one or two people (trusted friends or family) to help keep bags, snacks, and clutter to one side. Clean space = calmer brain = better photos.
4. EAT SOMETHING
You’ll be surprised how many people forget this one. Even if you don’t feel hungry, make a plan for a light breakfast and snacks. Think: fruit, breakfast wraps, bagels, granola bars, juice, coffee. You’re going to be running on adrenaline — fuel is important.
5. SET THE MOOD
Put on a playlist. Open the curtains for natural light. Light a familiar candle or use a room spray that makes you feel good. It doesn’t have to be a big production — just make the space feel like you.
6. CHOOSE YOUR INNER CIRCLE WISELY
Surround yourself with people who calm you down, not stress you out. If someone tends to bring chaos or drama, maybe don’t have them in the room all morning. This is your space to breathe and get excited, not feel overwhelmed.
7. LAY EVERYTHING OUT THE NIGHT BEFORE
From your dress and veil to jewelry, vow books, and invitation suite — have it all ready and in one spot. This helps your photographer (hi!) grab all the detail photos quickly without bothering you while you’re getting your hair done. It also avoids scrambling to find earrings or shoes at the last second.
8. KEEP YOUR PHONE ON DO NOT DISTURB
If anything urgent comes up, someone else can handle it. Give your phone to your maid of honor, sibling, or mom — and let them screen what isn’t important and handle what is. You shouldn’t be answering texts from vendors or distant relatives while getting your makeup done.
YOUR WEDDING MORNING CHECKLIST
You can download this full list as a printable or save it to your phone while planning:
→ [Download the Wedding Morning Checklist Here]
You only get this morning once. It doesn’t need to be perfect — just yours. With a little prep, the right people around you, and a relaxed timeline, it really can feel like a breeze.
