Wedding planning can be exciting, emotional, stressful, and fun – often all at once! While most couples plan every detail of the ceremony and reception, one part that often gets overlooked is the wedding morning. That’s where professionals like me come in with tried-and-tested wedding morning tips to keep things calm and enjoyable.
As a wedding hair and makeup artist working across Bristol and The Cotswolds, I’ve helped hundreds of brides create a smooth, stress-free start to their wedding day. Here are my top tips to make your morning run perfectly.
Create a Calm and Relaxed Morning
Your wedding morning should be a relaxing experience, not a rushed one. In the lead-up to your big day, I’ll send a detailed hair and makeup schedule that allows plenty of time for everyone. This includes a buffer for photos, chatting, and all the little interruptions that naturally happen.
Remember – a calm morning sets the tone for the whole day. Give yourself time to enjoy it.
Choose the Perfect Getting Ready Room
Lighting is everything. Natural light helps your bridal makeup look flawless in person and in photos. It also makes your photographer’s job easier. Avoid dark rooms or harsh ceiling lights. No one looks their best under orange bulbs!
Make sure there’s a decent-sized table available, ideally a dressing table or dining table. Small side tables or beds don’t work well for setting out professional kits. Plus, I’m clumsy – the last thing we need is foundation on your mum’s favourite duvet or a curling wand burn on the sheets!
Trust Your Stylists with the Schedule
Leave hair and makeup timing to your professionals. We know how long each service takes and always include extra time to set up and adjust if needed. I usually plan around an hour’s buffer to make sure everything runs smoothly.
Don’t forget to include time for breakfast or a snack – it’s a long day, and everyone will feel better with food (and tea!). Also, let your artist know if there’s any travel involved, like moving from your prep location to the venue or church.
Touch-Ups and Final Details
I usually apply lipstick last, once everyone’s hair and makeup are complete. This allows you to eat, drink, and brush your teeth without worrying about ruining your lips. I also apply lipstick before you put on your wedding dress. No-one wants a lipstick stain on their wedding dress!
And yes — please brush your teeth before sitting in the makeup chair 😉
Getting Dressed Without the Stress
Gather everything you’ll need before the morning begins. Your photographer may want to capture details like your dress, shoes, and jewellery, so keep these ready. It helps the morning flow smoothly and avoids any last-minute searches.
Steam your outfit the day before. A handheld steamer is your best friend — the “shower steam” trick rarely works! Please do not steam any dresses or outfits once you’ve had your hair and makeup done. Humidity is not your friend.
Think about what you’ll wear while getting ready, too. These outfits often end up in your photos. Choose something you love that’s easy to remove without disturbing your hair and makeup. A button-down shirt or robe is ideal. And take off anything that might leave marks early in the morning — socks, hairbands, and watches are the main culprits.
Enjoy It!
This is one of the most special mornings of your life. Take a breath, soak it in, and let your professional team handle the details.
If you’re looking for more inspiration, take a look at some of my real weddings from Bristol and The Cotswolds.
