Hello soon-to-be-brides! As you’ve been planning your wedding, you’ve almost certainly been faced with countless plans to draft, numerous decisions to make, and an onslaught of information to sift through. After planning our own wedding back in 2017, we definitely understand how stressful all of this can be! One thing that can make this whole process smoother is a simple checklist. I’m a fan of checklists for literally any occasion, but especially when it comes to saving our couples stress on their wedding day!

 

This blog is our ultimate checklist of everything you need in your bridal suite the morning of your wedding! We ask all our #HSPBrides to be sure that these details make it into a “bride bag” and the bag is in their suite when we arrive. This way, when we step into the getting ready suite on the morning of the wedding, our brides can continue on with their hair and makeup (after a quick hello and a few hugs), and we can get right to work capturing these details that you’ve spend so much time planning!

 

1. Two Complete Invitation Sets

Every couple spends hours poring over the different options for the invitation suite! Should you go simple and elegant, incorporate a floral pattern, or maybe match the wedding website?

 

As wedding photographers, Hunter and I want to capture every gorgeous detail, which especially includes the invitation set. So go ahead and set aside TWO copies EACH of your wedding day program, save the date, invitation, and RSVP card, as well as a stamped envelope with return address!

 

 

2. Rings and Ring Box

Another crucial detail is, of course, your wedding rings! Those unbroken circles that will represent you and your husband’s eternal love for one another deserve a starring role in both your ceremony, as well as your photo gallery.

 

Your rings show the world your love, as well as your personality and style. Pack your wedding bands in that handy bride bag and take comfort in knowing that a groomsman will not forget them! And of course, we’ll grab your engagement ring right off your hand for just a few moments when we arrive.

 

 

3. Wedding Dress and Hanger

While everyone will ooh and ahh over your jaw-dropping dress, there are only a select few that will get to see it while it’s still hanging! Many brides pick out an adorable hanger with their wedding date or new name on it, or keep things simple and elegant with a wood or metal hanger. No matter what you choose, once you get the dress, toss out those plastic hangers and drape your dress over something worthy of such a beautiful gown!

 

 

4. Your Something Borrowed and Something Blue

Many of our brides are gifted with family heirlooms or jewelry during their wedding weekend. We’ve seen grandpa’s pocket-watch attached to bouquets, Mom and Dad’s rings worn in the bride’s hair, and special pieces gifted by the groom the day of.

 

More often than not, these pieces are filled with deep meaning and love. You probably will not forget them, but make sure they make it into your bride bag so that we can capture their appearance on your day as you enter into a new family, and build on the memories and lessons of those who came before you.

 

 

5. Florals

Flowers have the incredible ability to bring beauty, light, and joy to a wedding, and usually carry a deeper meaning to each bride, whether they love the flower or always dreamed of their perfect wedding with that particular floral arrangement.

 

Whatever your reason, we always ask that our brides ask their florist to have the flowers brought directly to their bridal suite before we arrive, to bring joy and excitement to both you and to your photos! At the very least, help us to spice up your invitation or ring photos by securing a few loose flowers or other pieces of greenery — and we DON’T mean by disassembling your bouquet!

 

 

6. Shoes

I know that shoes hold a special place in every woman’s heart – we all love a particular style, brand, color, and heel type. Whether your shoes bring a pop of color to your outfit or blend in perfectly with your dream dress, make sure you have them with you for their close-up!

 

 

7. Perfume

Whether you’ve decided to wear the same scent you’ve worn for years, or opted for a brand new scent on your wedding day, this tiny bottle plays a huge role in your day. As an added bonus, these photos will help your soon-to-be-hubby remember what brand you like)!

 

 

Thanks so much for reading this blog! If you’re an HSP Bride and we sent this blog to you, then we’ll see you in just a few days!! If you just discovered this post on our blog and want to learn more, click here to learn more about a wedding experience with Hunter and Sarah Photography!