From Pajamas to Picture-Perfect: Designing Your Dream Prep Space
Your wedding morning is more than just the calm before the “I do’s”—it’s a magical kickoff to the best day of your life! From pajama parties with your crew to picture-perfect moments with a mimosa in hand, your getting-ready space sets the tone for all the fun, feels, and photos to come. But creating the ultimate prep zone isn’t just about grabbing a mirror and calling it a day. Whether you’re team cozy at home, chic in a hotel, or vibing in an Airbnb, we’ve got all the tips to turn your morning into a stress-free, Insta-worthy masterpiece. Let’s get glowing!
Why Your Getting Ready Space Sets the Tone for the Big Day
Your getting-ready space is the first chapter of your wedding day story, and trust us, it’s a big deal! The vibe of where you start your day sets the emotional tone for everything that follows. A calm, cozy, and organized space helps you relax and focus on what matters—enjoying the moment with your favorite people. It’s where the excitement builds, the nerves kick in, and those first stunning photos are taken. Whether it's filled with laughter, tears of joy, or just peaceful quiet, the energy of your prep space can amplify all the beautiful emotions that come with saying "I do." So, choose wisely—it’s the foundation of an unforgettable day!
The wedding morning experience can be as unique as the bride herself. The Chill and Cozy Bride enjoys a peaceful start, waking up in her own bed with a cup of coffee, surrounded by soft music and her closest friends, embracing a slow, joyful morning. The Glamorous Bride opts for a high-end hotel suite, surrounded by her glam squad, sipping champagne, and soaking up every moment with professional photos capturing the flawless beauty and excitement of the day. Meanwhile, the Fun and Festive Bride fills her getting-ready space with energy and laughter, featuring colorful decor, a lively playlist, and plenty of mimosas and snacks, all while capturing group selfies with her bridal party. Each bride’s vibe sets the tone for a wedding day that perfectly reflects her personality, whether it’s calm, glamorous, or full of fun.
Location: Home, Hotel, or Airbnb? The Spot That Says “I Do” to You
Choosing the perfect location for your getting-ready space is a big decision, and it’s about more than just style—it’s about what works for your budget and logistics. When choosing your getting-ready location, it’s also important to consider the space provided by your venue. Many venues offer a "Bridal Suite" for couples, but here's the catch—these suites are typically made available to you only 1 to 3 hours before the ceremony. While this might work perfectly for some brides who don’t have an early glam or photography session, it can be a challenge for others. If you’ve booked hair and makeup services or an early photography session, you’ll quickly realize that the limited time frame doesn’t leave much room for a calm, unrushed morning. For brides who need more time to prep, get dressed, and enjoy a relaxed atmosphere with their bridal party, the venue’s suite may not be the best option. While it might be convenient for getting ready on-site, it can leave you feeling rushed and distracted as you prepare for your big moment. This is why many couples opt for off-site locations like a nearby Airbnb, hotel suite, or even a private residence, where they can have more time to relax and enjoy the morning at their own pace.
If an Airbnb or hotel suite is outside your price range, consider your private residence or a loved one’s home nearby the venue. This option can save you money and offer a more intimate, personal setting. Plus, it gives you the freedom to design your space exactly how you want it, without worrying about rental rules or restrictions. However, space is something to keep in mind. If you’re planning to have your wedding party with you, plus your hair and makeup vendors, you’ll need to ensure there’s enough room for everyone. A large living room or multiple bedrooms could be a game changer for accommodating the entire bridal crew and setting up glam stations.
Then there’s the question of timing. If you're relying on your bridesmaids to arrive on time for hair and makeup at a home-based location, things could get a little tricky. You’re trusting that everyone will make it on schedule, and that can be a gamble. There’s no hotel concierge reminding them of their appointments, and it might be harder to keep them all on track at a more relaxed venue. On the flip side, if you’re at a hotel or Airbnb, there’s usually a more professional vibe, and everyone’s typically a little more on point when the clock is ticking. So, if you’re confident in your bridal party’s punctuality and can handle the logistics of getting everyone settled in your home, this can be a great way to save money and keep the vibe laid-back. Just be prepared for a little more hustle and bustle—and maybe a few extra reminders to get everyone in glam-ready mode!
Organized Chaos? Nope—Just Organized Bliss!
We get it—your bridal suite needs to be Pinterest-worthy and totally on brand for your big day, but let’s not forget the unsung hero of wedding prep: organization. Sure, you want your getting-ready space to ooze with that perfect vibe—whether it's cozy, glamorous, or lively—but keeping everything running smoothly is what will truly make the morning magical. Enter your dream team! Trusting the pros, like your planner or coordinator, photographer, and hair and makeup squad, is key to keeping the chaos at bay. These experts know exactly how to juggle the timeline, and their guidance is your secret weapon for stress-free bliss. They’ll help you break down the perfect flow for hair, makeup, and all the must-have photos, plus give advice on when to add in those special moments—gift exchanges, toasts, and even the pre-wedding snacks.
And speaking of planning, think beyond the getting-ready glam! You’ll want to factor in any other moments or events that need a bit of attention, like a quick toast with your crew, a surprise gift exchange, or time for a bite (mimosas count, right?). Don’t forget to loop in your caterer or any other vendors who might need to coordinate timing, so nothing falls through the cracks. The more organized you are with the little details, the more you’ll be able to enjoy your day without running around like a chicken with its veil on. With the right planning, your bridal suite will be a serene haven of joy and excitement, leaving you ready to take on the rest of the day with ease (and a lot of glam!).
From Glam to Go-Time: Nailing the Travel Game on Your Big Day
Now that your glam squad has worked their magic and you’re feeling your best, it’s time to transition from “getting ready” to “getting there.” But, as we discussed earlier, a little planning ahead makes all the difference—because things can get a little chaotic when it’s time to head to the venue. Picture this: multiple bridesmaids running around trying to gather their belongings (because, of course, someone left their shoes or their lipstick in the bathroom), and you’re frantically checking the time. Even worse? If you’re staying at a rental space, you might find yourself scrambling to pack up and check out of your Airbnb or hotel room before heading to the venue. Trust us, one out of ten would not recommend this, so if you go this route, we highly suggest booking an extra day to avoid the stress of packing up and dealing with cleaning schedules.
Once you’ve gotten all your things together, the next big question is: how are you getting to the venue? Will you have a driver whisking you away in style, or will you be carpooling with your crew? If you’re relying on others for transportation, be sure to factor in how far your getting-ready spot is from the venue, and keep in mind that wedding traffic or local events (think parades, festivals, or conventions) could cause delays. You don’t want to find yourself running late because you didn’t consider these potential hiccups. Having a solid transportation plan in place—whether that’s hiring a driver or coordinating carpooling with your bridesmaids—will keep things smooth and stress-free. The last thing you want is for your wedding morning to turn into a mad dash across town, so take the time to plan the journey ahead and allow some buffer time for any unexpected surprises. After all, you want to arrive at your wedding feeling relaxed, not frazzled!
Dress Code: From Slippers to Silk—What to Wear While You Prep
Now that we’ve covered the nitty-gritty of location, timing, and travel logistics, it’s time to have some fun with the wardrobe! When it comes to getting ready for your wedding, what you wear is a big part of setting the tone and adding to the overall vibe. Many brides opt for matching pajama sets, robes, or color-coordinated outfits for their bridal party. It’s a cute and cohesive look for photos, plus it makes everyone feel like they’re part of the team! Whether you’re going for matching silk pajamas or something more laid-back like comfy button-down PJs, just make sure that all clothing can be easily removed without disturbing the beautiful hair and makeup that took time and money to perfect. Spaghetti strap tops, button-up robes, or anything off-the-shoulder are perfect choices for this—stylish, comfortable, and easy to slip out of when it’s time for the main event.
And here’s a pro tip: Comfort is key, especially if you’ve got an early start time. You want your bridal party to feel at ease, not squirming in tight corsets or itchy fabrics while they’re trying to sip their coffee or relax before the ceremony. Think soft fabrics, breathable materials, and pieces that allow everyone to move comfortably. You’re setting the stage for a fun, memorable morning—so make sure everyone feels relaxed and ready for a stress-free start to the day.
Also, don’t forget to plan for steaming your ceremony gown, veil, and any other garments the night before. Wrinkles happen, and you don’t want to risk messing up your hair and makeup while trying to fix them. If possible, assign someone to steam your dress and veil later in the glam timeline—just be sure they’re not doing it while anyone is in the chair! This simple step can save you from unnecessary stress and ensures your gown looks flawless without anyone rushing or scrambling at the last minute.
Bridal Brunch Vibes: Snacks, Sips, and Smiles
No bridal morning is complete without some tasty snacks, refreshing sips, and plenty of smiles to go around! When planning your meals, it’s all about keeping things light, delicious, and easy to eat without disrupting your glam. First rule: straws are a must! No one wants to ruin their lipstick or get foundation all over their glass, so make sure everyone has a straw to sip their drinks without a hitch.
For food, think light and sustaining—protein-rich snacks, fresh fruit, and granola bars are great options to keep energy up without weighing anyone down. Avoid anything too greasy or messy, as you’ll want to keep your hands and faces pristine for all those glam moments. And speaking of staying fresh, don’t forget about hygiene! Brushing your teeth before the makeup appointment is ideal, but if you need to do it afterward, use a toothbrush that won’t mess up your newly applied lipstick. Keep breath mints on hand to ensure everyone stays fresh and fab.
Hydration is also key! Assign someone—whether it’s a bridesmaid, planner, or family member—to act as the hydration boss for the day. Keep reminders flowing so no one gets too caught up in the excitement and forgets to drink water. After all, we want to avoid anyone feeling faint or off during such an important day! Be mindful of any dietary restrictions or allergies as well, making sure your snacks accommodate everyone. Whether it’s gluten-free, dairy-free, or vegetarian options, having a variety ensures everyone stays happy and healthy. With a little planning, you’ll have a bridal brunch that’s just as memorable as the wedding itself!
Playlist Perfection: Curating the Morning’s Soundtrack
Music is one of the easiest ways to set the tone for your wedding morning, and curating the perfect playlist is a fun way to add personal touches to your day. We love suggesting that our brides select artists or genres they truly enjoy and include songs that hold special memories for them and their wedding party. Whether it’s a song that reminds you of a fun girls' trip, a tune that’s been part of your relationship journey, or a classic that everyone can sing along to, filling your playlist with meaningful tracks will create a vibe that feels uniquely yours.
With modern streaming services, curating a custom playlist is a breeze, giving you the flexibility to adjust the mood as needed throughout the morning. For those super early call times when everyone is still waking up or enjoying breakfast, start with calming, chill music to ease everyone into the day. Think mellow hits, soft acoustic tunes, or relaxing jazz to keep things peaceful and stress-free. As the day progresses and the energy picks up, you can gradually switch to more upbeat tracks to energize the group—save the “turn-up” songs for the final hours of getting ready, when the excitement starts building and everyone’s ready to dance their way to the venue.
If you’re working with a vendor who provides music, be sure to communicate any restrictions or preferences you have. Your getting-ready suite may be visited by guests of all ages, from grandmas to flower girls, and you definitely don’t want to throw on a Cardi B track if it’s not the right crowd! Keep things family-friendly, but don’t be afraid to throw in some fun jams when the mood calls for it. A carefully curated soundtrack will not only elevate your morning but will help create memories that you and your wedding party will cherish for years to come.
Make It Insta-Worthy: Tips for Picture-Perfect Prep Pics
Shout out to the Type A brides who have a fully detailed PowerPoint presentation mapped out for every vibe, angle, and aesthetic of their wedding prep—that’s dedication! But let’s be real, not all of us are living in a Pinterest-perfect world, and that’s okay! While some brides might have a vision of every moment being Instagram-ready, others may prefer a more relaxed and natural approach. No matter where you fall on the spectrum, capturing those candid, behind-the-scenes moments is key to remembering the magic of your morning.
If you’re looking to keep things fun and spontaneous, consider adding a few playful elements to your prep pics. Disposable cameras or Polaroids are always a crowd favorite—pass them around for your bridal party to snap impromptu shots and capture moments you might miss while getting ready. The best part? The instant gratification of holding the photos in your hands will add a fun, nostalgic touch to the experience. If you're all about that social media content, why not let your bridesmaids take turns capturing a reel or TikTok of the action? Get creative with a fun dance moment, a quick hair flip, or a slow-motion champagne pop to make your feed pop!
For the bride who loves a little bit of both worlds, you can combine detailed shots with candid moments—start with those perfectly styled photos and then let the fun unfold with some casual, in-the-moment pics. Just remember to have fun with it! Whether you’re posing for the camera or laughing at a goofy moment, these photos will be treasures to look back on for years to come.
Final Thoughts…
Choosing the right getting-ready space is more than just picking a pretty room—it’s about crafting an environment that sets the perfect tone for your big day. The energy of your prep space can influence your mood, your timeline, and the memories you make before you even step foot into the ceremony. Whether you’re at home surrounded by loved ones, in a chic hotel suite, or renting an Airbnb for a bit more flexibility, your getting-ready space should be a sanctuary where you feel comfortable, calm, and excited. It’s the place where you’ll share special moments with your bridal party, reflect on your journey, and, of course, snap some unforgettable photos. With careful planning—considering things like organization, timing, and a little fun—your prep space can be the perfect starting point for a smooth, joyful day. So, as you make the final decisions about where and how you’ll get ready, remember that this part of your wedding day deserves just as much attention as the ceremony or reception. It’s the foundation of your celebration and the first chapter of your “I do” story—let’s make it count!