Tips for a Seamless Wedding Morning - Amy Rebecca
Having specialised in Bridal makeup for the past 8 years, you get to know a thing or two about smooth wedding mornings and planning for this isn’t always the utmost of priorities amongst the rest of your plans, that’s why we are here to help!
WHERE?
The first thing to address is where you and your bride squad will be getting ready on morning of your wedding. If you’re a lucky Bride who’s venue has a bridal suite that allows you access on the morning, ideal! Otherwise, the most common options is your’s or a family member’s home, a hotel or an Air B&B, which are all fantastic options, however there are definitely some things to consider.
Does your home have the space to accommodate all of your Bridal party and suppliers whilst making sure everyone feels comfortable? Also, bare in mind that your hair & makeup specialists usually prefer low to no traffic areas so we can work efficiently. One downside of getting ready at home is that you come home to the mess. Wedding mornings can be chaotic and cleaning is definitely not a priority, so perhaps hiring someone to come in after you’ve left to clean and tidy up for you so you cross the threshold as a married couple to a blissful environment.
Air B&Bs are usually fantastic too, as you can have all the comfort and pros of getting ready at home, without the need to clean up afterwards.
Hotels can be fabulous, but this will depend on which one you choose as there are some potential down sides here like having to move room at check out time, no access to a kitchen for teas, coffees or water and often these spaces can feel cramped. If you’re opting for a hotel room, I would advise going for a suite, treat yourself! It is your wedding after all :) From a supplier’s perspective, I would advise moving from one room to another whilst getting ready as you will need to move all of your belongings and your HMUA will need to pack & unpack their kits which adds to your timings.
Dresses & Accessories
I’m a firm believer in a relaxing or fun wedding morning for you and your bridal party, therefore I recommend steaming any dresses, PJs & veils the evening before then hanging them in a low traffic area away from the main festivities.
Organise all of your bridal accessories (bag, shoes, jewellery, perfume, invitation, keepsakes, mementos) into one area so these are easily accessible for yourself and your photographer/videographer should they need them.
Pack your bridal clutch/bag before the big day with key items to ensure your day is perfect! I recommend including a mini of your fragrance, lipstick, lipliner, gloss, mints, blotting sheets, powder and eyelash glue.
FOOD & Drink
Lets be honest, who wants to cook on their wedding day? However, you’ll definitely need a little something to settle your tummy. Being part of so many weddings, I’ve seen it all… Grazing tables, continental breakfasts, cooked breakfasts, even a McDonalds or two. In my experience, I find an assortment of light and easy to grab breakfast items or ‘picky bits’ works best for everyone. Not everyone is a morning person or has the appetite to eat at the same time, so cooked breakfasts are often barely touched. Oh, and of course, nothing too carb heavy to avoid the dreaded bloat!
Let’s talk drinks and this doesn’t have to be alcohol. If you’re a coffee gal, do not feel the pressure to have an alcoholic drink just because it’s your wedding day, live your best life according to your rules. Treat yourself to some amazing ground coffee or bespoke syrups for the perfect beverage, I’ve said it before & i’ll say it again, it’s YOUR day, treat yourself! If you are a booze babe, it does not have to be champagne/prosec
co!
If I have a £ for every time a bride said they hated prosecco but were drinking it, I could pay for my new bathroom. Shop for the alcohol you enjoy and get it in the fridge the night before. Bonus if you have some pretty glasses or accoutrements for your beverage of choice.
Finally, keep yourself hydrated. Yes, I know I sound like your Mum/[insert appropriate lecture worthy family member here] but your wedding day is such a long day and you won’t have time nor think to be keeping your water intake up. Trust me, as a makeup artist, we will thank you and so will your head the next morning!
Entertainment
Now this is the area that’s often missed. With some bridal parties starting as early as 6am, it’s a long morning and keeping the vibe high is top priority. Here’s some of my recommendations to keep everyone feeling their best…
Make a wedding morning playlist full of your favourite songs. Avoid anything that evokes too much emotion, your makeup artist will thank you! If you’re struggling or ran out of time? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered, here is mine !
Pop on your favourite wedding-related film like Bridesmaids to have on in the background. Again, please no Titanic girlies, or you’ll have me in tears at Rose kicking Jack off that door. He so could have fit.
Karaoke. A wild choice, but we love it!
