Welcome back to Wedding Tip Tuesday! I’m Kayce Clary of Kayce Stork Photography, a wedding photographer based in Biloxi, Mississippi. Alongside my husband, we capture heartfelt, timeless wedding days for couples all along the Gulf Coast, from Bay St. Louis and Ocean Springs to New Orleans and Point Clear. Every week, I share a little behind-the-scenes advice to help you plan a smooth, stress-free, and beautiful wedding day from a photographer’s perspective.

One of the first parts of your wedding day that I photograph is the getting-ready portion, the laughter with your best friends, the final touches on your makeup, the moment your dress is zipped up, and those sweet details like your invitation suite or perfume bottle. It’s such a beautiful, emotional part of the day, but one thing couples don’t always realize is how much the space itself can impact your photos.

Light is Everything

Natural light is a photographer’s best friend. When possible, choose a space with plenty of windows and soft, natural light. Rooms with neutral-colored walls will reflect that light beautifully, giving your photos a clean, timeless look. On the flip side, dark or cluttered rooms with harsh overhead lighting can make your images feel flat and shadowy.

If your venue doesn’t have a bright bridal suite, consider booking an Airbnb or hotel room nearby with large windows and minimal décor. It makes such a difference, not only for your photos but also for how relaxed and calm the space feels as you’re getting ready.

Keep It Tidy and Thoughtful

Wedding mornings can get busy fast. Between hair, makeup, snacks, and bags, the space can quickly become cluttered. I always recommend designating one corner or bed for personal items and keeping the main area as clean as possible. That way, when I arrive to capture those sweet moments, the background looks fresh and intentional rather than busy or distracting.

If you’re planning for matching robes, a custom hanger for your dress, or a pretty box for your details, have those ready before I arrive. It helps the morning flow smoothly and ensures we can start photographing right away.

Beyond the light and décor, your getting-ready space should feel comfortable and spacious enough for you, your bridal party, and family. A little extra breathing room means more space for genuine, joyful moments, the hug from mom, the first look with your bridesmaids, or the quiet pause before heading to your ceremony.

Those in-between moments are some of my favorites to capture because they tell the story of your day so authentically.

Your getting-ready space sets the tone for your wedding photos and your entire day. With a little planning and intention, you’ll create a peaceful, beautiful environment that allows you to be fully present and ensures your photos reflect the joy and emotion you’re feeling in those unforgettable hours before “I do.”

If you missed last week’s Wedding Tip Tuesday, I shared why I love having a few extra minutes before the ceremony to photograph your reception space before guests arrive. Be sure to check that one out if you’re working on your wedding day timeline. Both of these tips go hand in hand to help create a seamless, beautifully documented day.

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