You’ve no doubt been scouring Pinterest and getting lost for hours in the images of happy carefree bridal parties in their robes. I too have been a bride and it was many (many) years before the craze of social media took hold. The things I stressed about just paled in significance to the magical day I had. Brides put so much pressure on having ‘the perfect day’ that sometimes they can forget to relax and take in the moment.

Here are my 12 top tips to help you create a calm, stress free wedding morning:

CATCH THOSE ZZZZ
Get to bed early! I know it’s tempting to stay up all night with your bridal party chatting over a few wines, but the last thing you want is to be tired or hungover. Jump into bed early with some beautiful fresh linen and a nice cup of herbal tea.

TIMING IS KEY
Ensure you have a running schedule from your hair & makeup artist and from your photographer. Your suppliers have been working weddings for many years and they always include some extra buffer time just in case a problem arises. Each and every step should be relaxed, not rushed. If you think your day is starting out a bit earlier than what you had thought, please just trust your wedding suppliers.

BOOGIE
Prepare a Spotify playlist of your favourite tunes. Music is a wonderful destressing tool. It’s also a nice way to break any silence and to get everyone in the mood for the fun day ahead.

NOURISH
It’s a good idea to have some pre-made platters and nibbles. Nothing greasy or messy. Fruit, sushi and finger sandwiches are always devoured. Also drink lots of water, hydration is key!

SPICK, SPAN AND READY TO GO…
If you’re getting ready at your home then make sure its spick and span. You’ll be surprised, but this can save time for when the artists and photographers arrive. The last thing you want to be doing is vacuuming or tidying up. Also have someone designated (Dads are always a good option) to tidying up any mess created throughout the day and preparing any bags to be taken to the ceremony/venue.

ARE WE THERE YET?
If your home is 45 minutes away or more from your venue then consider booking accommodation close by. This way you won’t be worried about being stuck in traffic and you won’t be up as early in the morning. Just be sure to write yourself a checklist of what to take with you.

IF THE DRESS FITS
Make sure everyone in the bridal party tries on their dress a few days before the big day. You don’t need any unexpected zipper malfunctions.

READ THE FINE PRINT
Please read all of the information your hair & makeup team provides on skin and hair preparation. Don’t go and have any last-minute waxing or buy some new beauty product you’ve never used. The last thing you want is a reaction!

ALLOW EXTRA TIME
Don’t wait to the last minute to get dressed. Surprisingly this can take time. Bridesmaids should all be dressed before the Bride. Also, if the brides dress has a button down back, take note of how long it takes to do this up. Some buttons can be fiddly, and can take much longer than you think.

WEATHER CHECK
Check the weather forecast, if its looking like rain, then think about purchasing a few clear umbrella’s. They’ll keep you dry and look amazing in your photos too.

DELIVERIES
Make sure important things like flowers, cakes etc. are being delivered exactly where you need them to go. Who wants to be rushing around picking up orders, or worse be the person responsible for holding the cake!

ENJOY BEING PAMPERED
Put down your phone and relax while your hair & makeup team are pampering you. Having a mobile service is a luxury, so sit back and enjoy every moment, as it doesn’t happen every day.

Your wedding morning is what you make of it. It’s a fun time, so relax, get pampered and enjoy quality time with your bridal party.

Jane xo