Wedding Day Checklist for Brides & Bridesmaids
As a trusted Birmingham wedding photographer, we at Bryant Studio have seen firsthand how preparation can impact a wedding day. That’s why we have put together this helpful and insightful guide, to help brides and bridesmaids feel confident, organized and stress free!
It’s no secret that even small, forgotten items can cause unnecessary stress, which is why a comprehensive checklist is so essential. From what to pack and confirm, to walking down the aisle and more, we are here to help you every step of the way.
Why a Wedding Day Checklist Matters
Weddings involve many moving parts. From timelines to guest lists, organization is essential in every aspect of wedding planning. Which is exactly where a comprehensive checklist can make all the difference.
Your checklist can help to ensure that nothing of importance is forgotten, from the marriage license and rings, to beauty essentials, accessories and everything in between. This organized approach can help to keep the morning calm and structured, especially during pivotal moments such as hair, makeup and getting ready photos!
Having certain details and items prepared ahead of time can also help to ensure that your photographer has everything they need for the big day. Meaningful details such as rings, invitations and accessories are perfect for flat lays and those special details.
Bridal Checklist: Everything the Bride Needs to Pack
Here is a comprehensive checklist, crafted with the bride in mind!
Wedding Attire and Accessories
Wedding dress (steamed and ready the prior evening)
Veil, accessories and head pieces
Jewelry, including necklaces, earrings and bracelets
Shoes for getting ready, ceremony and reception
Undergarments
Garter, along with any sentimental items (something old, new, borrowed, & blue)
Engagement ring and wedding bands (placed in a secure, designated spot)
Overnight bag (if you aren’t staying home the night before)
Beauty and Personal Care
Makeup kit
Hairbrush, comb, hairspray, and styling tools (if needed)
Perfume, deodorant and lotion
Toothbrush, toothpaste, and floss
Nail glue (for accidents and keeping necklaces in place)
Steamer (for last minute touches)
Important Details and Documents
Marriage license
Printed vows or vow books
Wedding day timeline and vendor contact list
Special letters or gifts
Personal Comfort Items
Snacks and water
Tissues or handkerchief
Getting ready outfits or robe
Backup shoes
Polaroid camera or camcorder
Bridesmaids Checklist: What to Bring and Be Responsible For
Calling all bridesmaids! For the wedding day and day before, here is an organized checklist complete with everything you need. The bride, and other bridesmaids, will thank you!
Clothing and Accessories
Bridesmaid dress and getting ready outfit
Shoes for both ceremony and reception
Jewelry and accessories
Undergarments
Beauty and Hair Essentials
Personal makeup kit
Hair tools (if needed)
Hair ties, bobby pins and clips
Skincare items and deodorant
Hairspray
Personal and Overnight Items
PJs and loungewear (if staying overnight)
Toiletries (toothbrush, face wash, and makeup remover)
Extra clothes
Comfortable shoes or slippers
Bridesmaid Responsibilities
Arrive on time and follow the timeline accordingly
Assist the bride in getting ready
Keep the bride calm, hydrated and on schedule
Assist with small tasks (organizing items, tidying up, communicating with vendors)
Be ready for photos and support throughout the day
Take behind-the-scenes photos and videos to be shared with the couple
The Wedding Day Emergency Kit Every Bridal Party Needs
While we do not wish for an emergency or accident to happen, it’s always better to be on the safe side. Especially on your wedding day. One of the best ways to prepare for the worst case scenario is to create and bring a Wedding Day Emergency Kit for the bridal party.
This kit can join your group the night before, morning of, on the party bus, and even at the reception. You never know who might need a little helping hand!
Consider including the following items in your emergency kit:
Mini sewing kit
Safety pins and fashion tape
Stain remover pen
Pain relievers, allergy relief and anti-nausea medication
Bandages and blister care
Mints, snacks and water
Makeup, blotting papers and tissues
Phone chargers and a portable battery pack
Nail glue
Tweezers
What else would you consider including in your emergency kit?
Final Pre-Wedding Tasks to Confirm Before the Ceremony
When it comes to creating checklists for your wedding day, it’s about so much more than just what to pack. It’s also about completing certain tasks prior to the ceremony, to help ensure that the day runs smoothly.
Your day-of-coordinator, planner or wedding party may be able to assist with this checklist, which is a win-win for the happy couple!
Vendor and Timeline Checks
Confirm arrival times for your photographer, hair and makeup team, and vendors
Ensure that all payments and gratuities are prepared in labeled envelopes
Double-check your ceremony and reception timelines
Ceremony Essentials
Rings are with the designated person
Bouquet and floral arrangements are delivered
Ceremony programs and decor are set up
Music and sound systems are ready
Personal Preparation
Eat a light meal, snacks and stay hydrated
Allow enough time for hair and makeup
Take a few quiet moments to relax and enjoy
With the right approach and preparation, you can enjoy a seamless day!
Tips from a Birmingham Wedding Photographer
As an experienced Birmingham wedding photographer, there is a wealth of information to be shared with brides and bridesmaids alike, to help create a truly enjoyable wedding day!
Keep all of your details, such as invitations, rings, and accessories, along with any other details, together for easy photography styling. Having a “flat lay bin” will keep all of these items organized and safe, not to mention an easy delivery to your photographer.
Choose a clean, minimal space with lots of natural light for getting ready to help ensure beautiful photos. In every space, access to natural light is truly key!
Build buffer time into your wedding day schedule to help avoid feeling rushed. On your big day, there is truly never too much buffer time.
Place trust in your vendors and bridal party, so that you can remain present and truly enjoy your day. Never underestimate the power of delegating tasks - your village is here to help you!
Always remember: preparation leads to smoother timelines and ultimately more authentic, relaxed photos.
Enjoy Every Moment of Your Wedding Day
Perfection is not the goal on your wedding day. Preparation is!
At the end of the day, a well-planned checklist can allow everyone to focus on celebrating, rather than stressing and last-minute planning.
Bridesmaids should aim for a balance of taking their roles seriously, along with enjoying the experience. Nervous energy won’t do anyone any favors on the big day!
For more information about wedding photography in Birmingham, connect with Bryant Studio today! We’re proud to be your trusted local Birmingham wedding photographer, with many years of experience capturing meaningful details and beautiful days.
