As a wedding photographer and previous bride, one of the most intimate and heartwarming parts of the day is spent in the bridal suite. This space is often filled with anticipation, joy, and emotion as you prepare for one of the most significant moments of your life. It’s where your closest family and friends gather to offer support, share in the excitement, and reflect on the journey ahead. I want to make sure, as your wedding photographer, you look back on those moments and remember how they felt. Those are the ones that’ll really tug at your heartstrings.
And something to keep in mind, when choosing your getting ready location, you’ll want to make sure your space is large enough to comfortably get ready in with your guests. You’ll also want to ensure there is plenty of natural light for when you’re getting photos done and also for hair and makeup. For examples of venues with great bridal suites, see this post here.
1. Flat Lay Details: Your Special Touch
Before the hustle and bustle of the day really kicks in, the bridal suite is the perfect place to showcase all your little details that make your day so you. Think: your engagement ring, wedding shoes, the invitation suite, and any cute keepsakes you’re planning to include as these items often hold sentimental value and are essential in telling your story.
One of my favorite ways to photograph these is through flat lays. It’s a gorgeous way to highlight all the little touches that make your day unique. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it a thousand times, flat lay photos are so important! You can check out my previous post about what to include in your details box, here.
As your photographer, here are a few things I utilize for your flat lay images:
- Personalized details: From a sentimental family heirloom to a handwritten note from your partner, these items add a personal touch and help tell your story.
- Telling your wedding story: Lace, flowers, ribbons—anything that adds texture to the shot will take it to the next level. Trust me, these little details will make the whole picture pop!
- Natural Light, Light baby: Natural light is my best friend here. If you’ve got a window in your bridal suite, I’ll be positioning your items near it to get that soft, dreamy glow or most likely be taking your things outside to utilize the beautiful venue you’ve chosen.
These flat lay photos will become timeless memories, reminding you of all the personal touches you included in your wedding day.
2. Moments with Mom: Priceless Memories
Let’s be real—one of the most special parts of the bridal suite is when you’re spending those precious moments with your mom (or special person in your life) just before the ceremony begins. Whether she’s helping you into your dress or just giving you a comforting hug, these are the memories you’ll cherish forever.
As your photographer, it’s my job to capture those sweet, emotional moments without intruding on your time together. You can be sure we’ll capture authentic and candid moments. I’m talking about the hugs, the smiles, and those little gestures like adjusting your veil or wiping away a happy tear. These moments are everything! It’s also our mission to document every sweet detail we witness. Sometimes it’s not about the big moments, but the small things—like your mom fixing your dress or just holding your hand. These subtle touches are powerful.
All of these memories happen fast, so we share this with your as your friend and trusted photographers, we’ll be ready to capture them as they unfold—naturally and without any stress.
You and your mom are going to have some of the sweetest moments on your wedding day, and these photos will be the ones that you both look back on for years to come.
3. Celebrating with Your Best Girlfriends: The Fun Before the “I Dos”
Let’s not forget that the bridal suite is also a place for fun! You’ll be surrounded by your bridesmaids—your ride-or-die crew—who are there to support you, crack jokes, and share in the excitement of the day. These moments are pure joy, and I’m here to help you capture all the fun! These special humans are here to keep the vibes high and pump you up- your ultimate hype crew!
Here’s how to make sure we get the best shots of you and your bridesmaids:
- Candid moments are everything: Some of the best shots happen when you’re just laughing, chatting, or goofing off. Those are the photos that’ll remind you of all the fun you had getting ready.
- Group shots with love: Of course, we’ll get those cute group photos, but let’s make them personal—capture those moments of you all laughing, hugging, and celebrating. These shots will show how strong your bond is.
- Don’t forget the little details: Whether it’s matching robes, a toast with your girls, or a cute bracelet you all wore, make sure to snap those moments that capture the friendship and love in the room.
These celebratory moments with your best friends will be the ones that bring a smile to your face whenever you look at your wedding album. It’s the laughter, the hugs, and the “I can’t believe this is happening!” moments that make the day so unforgettable.
Make Every Moment Count
At the end of the day, your bridal suite isn’t just about getting dressed—it’s where so many of the most meaningful, personal moments will happen. From documenting the sentimental moments with your mom to the candidly fun snapshots with your bridesmaids, these are the memories you’ll hold onto forever.
As your photographers, we want to make sure these moments are captured in a way that feels as real and true as the emotions you’re experiencing. When you look back at these photos, you’ll remember not just how you looked, but how you felt—all the love, the joy, and those quiet, perfect moments.
So, soak it all in, enjoy the time with your mom and besties, and don’t forget to smile—these moments are the magical puzzle pieces in making your wedding day so special.
If you’re looking to add a personal touch to your getting ready details, check out these custom wedding day newspapers.
If you’re newly engaged or planning for your wedding, I’d love to chat more with you! Send over your inquiry and let’s get this party started.
Love this!!! I remember YOUR wedding day getting ready moments so fondly. 🤍🤍✨✨