Getting ready for your wedding is an exciting and memorable experience, and choosing the perfect getting ready location can make it even more special. No matter how organized you are, wedding planning can feel overwhelming as you start to realize how many decisions you have to make. Often times, choosing the perfect getting ready location ends up being last on your list and the deciding factor often ends up being proximity to your venue and/or cost. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious hotel suite, a modern loft or a cozy Airbnb, here are some tips to help you find the perfect getting ready location for your big day.
Look for Natural Light
Natural light can make a huge difference in the quality of your wedding photos, especially during the getting ready portion of the day. When choosing a getting ready location, look for a space with large windows and plenty of natural light. This will not only make your photos look better, but it will also help you and your wedding party feel more energized and awake. If possible, visit the space at the same time of day that your wedding will be taking place to get an idea of the lighting conditions.
Most hotel rooms/getting ready locations are VERY dark. You’re probably thinking, “then turn the lights on.” But the thing that most people don’t realize is that artificial light will cast a very yellow and unnatural tone. Natural light is the most flattering on skin tones and is MUCH softer. Therefore if at all possible, I will keep all of the lights off and use whatever natural light is available.
Look for White Walls
When choosing a getting ready location, it’s important to consider the aesthetics of the space. White walls provide a clean and neutral backdrop for your photos. By keeping the background simple, the focus remains on YOU rather than the distracting elements surrounding you. White walls also serve as a natural reflector which will help bounce light, thus more evenly illuminating your images.
Consider the Size of the Space
When choosing a getting ready location for your wedding, it’s important to consider the size of the space. You want to make sure that there is enough room for you and your wedding party to comfortably get ready without feeling cramped or crowded. Consider the number of people in your wedding party and the amount of space needed for hair and makeup stations, getting dressed, and any other activities you have planned. It’s always helpful if you’re able to find a space that has a few separate rooms. This way all of the luggage, dresses, makeup, shoes, accessories, robes, etc. can be tucked away in one room (whichever one has the least amount of natural light) while the other room remains clean and photo ready. It’s better to choose a space that’s a little too big than one that’s too small.
Don’t Forget About the Ambiance and Overall Vibe of the Space
While aesthetics are important, don’t forget to consider the overall ambiance and vibe of the getting ready location. Is it a calm and relaxing space, or is it noisy and chaotic? These factors can greatly impact the mood and energy of the bridal party as they prepare for the big day. Consider visiting the location in person to get a feel for the space and ensure it aligns with the atmosphere you want to create.
Think About the Location’s Proximity to Your Venue
When choosing the perfect getting ready location, it’s important to consider its proximity to your ceremony and reception venues. You don’t want to choose a location that’s too far away, as this can cause delays and add unnecessary stress to your day. Ideally, your getting ready location should be within a reasonable distance from your ceremony and reception venues, so that you can easily move between them without any issues.
