Hair and Makeup at On Sunny Slope Farm - Radiant Reflection Hair and Makeup Artistry

One question I get asked a lot is “how should we plan timing for getting ready?” Of course, everyone’s day is different and people like to structure details in various ways. However, after being a part of hundreds of wedding days, I have learned a few key things. I am excited to share those with along with sharing more about Jessica and Dave’s wedding day, too! image1 (4)

Jessica and Dave got married at Sunny Slope Farm in Harrisonburg, Va. We were able to get the bridal party ready at the venue which always helps with timing for you not to have to plan extra travel time. I usually advise for the bridal party to be ready 2-3 hours from the ceremony time. This does depend on if you are or are not doing a first look.

image1 (6)

Even when you are not doing a first look, there are still so many pre-wedding photos to consider. And, putting on your wedding dress is kinda a big deal! Your photographer will be getting detail photos of you putting on the dress, and with those helping get the dress on for you.

Here are a few examples of the pre-wedding photos you may want captured even if you are not doing a first look. I love that Jessica and her bridesmaids all wore a pin of the groom from his younger days (Jessica had SO many special touches throughout the day). The girls of course needed a photo of their getting ready outfits before everyone started to get dressed. And, it is nice for your bridesmaids to be dressed before the bride to have pretty “fluffing” the dress photos. Jessica opted for a first look with her squad which I think is always a special moment. And, leave time for all the selfies and to have a cocktail before heading down the aisle!

Another aspect of timing to consider is in what order the bride will get her hair and makeup done. I usually aim for somewhere in the middle. I do want you as the bride to be able to relax in the morning, but I also do not want you to feel anxious as we near the end. Sometimes vendors need to ask you a question or the flowers may arrive which is exciting and fun to see. I do not want my brides to have any FOMO as their details start to come together.

Another moment you may want to plan extra time for are reading your letter for the video and having the gift exchange captured. image3 (5).jpeg

Of course – everyone’s day is different and sometimes my brides do go at the very end. There is not one solution for every person, these are just helpful thoughts I have learned over the years.

I am there for my brides to laugh with you and to cry with you. (literally – cried with Jess on her wedding day) Jessica and I share something I wish I never shared with with anyone. We both lost our fathers far too early in life. When she sat down to get her makeup done the emotions just flooded her. image2 (4) We just let those emotions come and caught up with timing later on. I will never rush you through feeling your emotions on your wedding day. The hair and makeup will get done, I want you to embrace every moment of this special day.