DESIGN NOTE:

Don't worry, this is a hidden canvas. You can delete it after you read this.

To learn how to showcase Trending / Featured posts and your blog categories on this page, don't forget to also watch our video tutorials on the Learn page! — Jen

back

Wedding Tips

Three Essentials for a Photo-Friendly Bridal Suite

The bridal suite is an often overlooked room at a venue that I believe deserves a fresh perspective. Not only is this the room I start my work in, but it’s the place where many of your first wedding day memories happen. From getting your makeup done to getting in the dress, this room will set the tone for your day. As a photographer, I feel I can help you prepare this setting for beautiful memories and photos, and remove stress in the process.

I’ve been a wedding photographer for over three years now. I’ve learned that there are three essentials to every photo-friendly bridal suite. Natural light, clutter-free space, and privacy. In this post, I’m going to cover each element and share why these things not only contribute to beautiful getting ready photos but also a stress-free morning ahead of your ceremony.

DMV wedding photographer, black and white bride getting in the dress photo, bridal suite, natural light and airy wedding photographers in Virginia

Finding Natural Light in Your Bridal Suite

I am a natural light photographer. This means I need natural, properly filtered light in order to achieve the look and feel of my style of work. But most people are not trained to recognize good, clean, natural light as opposed to muddy or artificial light sources. And you don’t need to be. I’m going to break down the elements that typically give the clean light I need to create glowy bridal suite images. I put this first in the list because this is by far the most important element for creating light and airy bridal suite images.

One large window

All I need is at least one large window or door to the outside to cast clean, even light on my bride for her getting ready photos. In the examples throughout this blog post, my bride was getting ready in a hotel room with one large floor-to-ceiling window dressed in sheer drapery. This was enough to throw evenly dispersed light to get full-length portraits when she put on her dress, shoes, etc.

But let’s suppose your bridal suite only has one window half-way up the wall. We can make this work for tighter portraits of you putting on your jewelry and perfume, so don’t fret! But for full-length portraits, I’ll move you to another room or to a private patio/balcony outdoors with uninhibited natural light. The taller the window/door, the better! Even if there is only one.

DMV wedding photographer, black and white bride getting in the dress photo, bridal suite, natural light and airy wedding photographers in Virginia

The Importance of Wall/Furniture Colors

Believe it or not, light comes from more than just the primary light source. Light bounces off of surfaces as well. Don’t believe me? Take a white sheet of paper, stand in front of a window and hold your hand up with your palm turned toward your face. Now move that sheet of paper up toward your palm… do you see the white light that casts onto your hand on the shadowy part? That’s called a reflection of light, and it is one of the magical secrets natural photographers use to create clean, white, bright images.

I sometimes bring a large circular reflector with me, but honestly, some of the best reflectors are the items and elements that are already natural to the setting! Things like light colored walls and brighter-toned furniture bounce light off of them to create an airier room aesthetic. Outside, I look for light-colored pavement to bounce light back up in my bride’s face to create good, even light.

So when you’re touring your venue, check out the colors in your bridal suite. Just remember: White means bright and dark sucks out light. Also note that the more colorful the element, the more chance that color will bounce onto your skin and dress. If we end up in a bridal suite with bright colors, I will probably move you elsewhere for your portraits, to avoid weird color casts. It is very hard to edit those out!

Turn out the lights!

I can’t tell you how many times a bridesmaid or mother of the bride has given me a funny look for this. But when I walk in a bridal suite, I usually turn off all the lights. I know, it seems counterintuitive. But hear me out. Light bulbs do not secrete the same kind of light that windows and sunlight do. The color is different, usually bluer or more yellow. The rays are also directionally thrown in more of a radius, causing weird, uneven bursts of light that my camera is picking up. Just trust me, you want the lights off. Even if it feels dark, I’m creating an environment that will make for beautifully glowing photos!

DMV wedding photographer, black and white bride getting in the dress photo, bridal suite, natural light and airy wedding photographers in Virginia

Remove Clutter from Your Bridal Suite

The second essential for a beautiful and less stress-inducing bridal suite is a clean, tidy space. Our minds are constantly picking up little details in a room. The more clutter present, the more stressed we become. Removing little bits of clutter is an easy way to remove unnecessary stress. If you and your bridesmaids plan on getting ready at the venue, try to keep your belongings organized or contained to one corner of the room. Or better yet, find a room that fits the rest of the essentials listed here, and keep that room closed off, only to be used for photos!

Bonus result: keeping a clean bridal suite means an easier clean out when the day is over. This makes for happy venue coordinators AND bride tribes, because nothing goes missing or gets left behind. Win-win!

DMV wedding photographer, black and white bride getting in the dress photo, bridal suite

Choosing a Private Space for Getting Ready Photos

Your bridal suite should already provide this, but privacy is more than just a room with a door. In my experience, guests and groomsmen arrive early in the day, which means that adjacent hallways, nearby bathrooms, and surrounding windows could provide unintended sneak peeks at the bride in her dress. The more removed your bridal suite is from the flow of traffic in a venue, the better. This should be a given, but smaller venues are tougher to coordinate private getting ready spaces.


These tips should mostly help the bride still searching for her ideal venue, but if you already chose a venue with a less than ideal bridal suite, maybe consider getting ready elsewhere! I’m a bride this year too, and I will be getting ready at my parents’ house because they have a gorgeous master bedroom with plenty of natural light and my venue has only dark, dimly lit rooms available. There are always options, especially if you think outside the box.

If you need help brainstorming or assessing the light in your bridal suite, feel free to get in touch with me! Happy wedding planning!

For more wedding planning tips and bride-centric education, see my other popular blog posts below:

*The photos in this post were taken by me while second shooting for Julia Summers Photography*

+ view the comments

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This Wilbur Mansion wedding could not have been more perfect and picturesque for two longtime sweethearts. Journeying through the previous year with Andrew and Rachel has been a true privilege. From photographing the moment Rachel said “yes” to Andrew’s proposal at National Cathedral, to their picture-perfect snowy engagement session at the DAR Headquarters, to a […]

When Taylor reached out about having me photograph her Hilton Head Island wedding, I could hardly believe it. Since marrying my husband, I’ve enjoyed annual trips to Hilton Head with my in-laws, who have been visiting for years. I’m not much of a beach person (love my lake life!) but the beauty of the low […]

Brandon and Sadie tied the knot in an intimate Alexandria elopement, with a special ceremony at their home church on August 28, 2024. That day was such a sweet culmination of their beautiful love story. Though I’m on maternity leave after welcoming my first baby home, I was so honored that Brandon & Sadie chose […]

featured

Planning your wedding in Savannah, Georgia, provides you with so many options in a city full of Southern charm, historic elegance, and breathtaking low-country beauty. Whether you’re dreaming of a romantic garden ceremony, a grand ballroom reception, or something in between, Savannah seems to have wedding venues for every taste. As a Georgia wedding photographer, I’ve done the research so you don’t have to.

Savannah wedding venues, list of the best venues from a SAV wedding photographer who shoots light and airy style wedding photos | side by side images of Spanish moss at a Savannah wedding venue

Why You Should Consider Savannah Wedding Venues

Savannah is a city unlike any other. With its oak-lined streets, historic homes, and timeless coastal views, it’s no surprise that couples flock here to tie the knot. Savannah wedding venues offer something for everyone—from intimate settings surrounded by nature to grand estates steeped in history. Plus, its mild climate makes it a perfect choice for weddings year-round.

Top Savannah Wedding Venues to Consider

Hotel Bardo (formerly, The Mansion on Forsyth Park)

For couples seeking a venue that provides a fun vintage aesthetic amidst classic Savannah landmarks, Hotel Bardo is one of Savannah’s crown jewels. This venue combines historic charm with mid-century modern sophistication, offering everything from intimate indoor spaces to a picturesque garden courtyard.

Wormsloe Historic Site

For those who want to embrace Savannah’s natural beauty, Wormsloe Historic Site provides one of the most iconic backdrops in the city. The long driveway lined with towering live oaks draped in Spanish moss is a bride’s dream. It’s a serene, ethereal setting perfect for a romantic outdoor ceremony.

The Westin Savannah Harbor Golf Resort & Spa

If waterfront views are your vibe, The Westin Savannah Harbor offers a stunning riverside backdrop. With expansive lawns overlooking the Savannah River, this venue blends elegance and nature seamlessly. Plus, the convenience of on-site accommodations makes it ideal for your out-of-town guests.

The Savannah Yacht Club

Couples who envision a sophisticated coastal wedding will fall in love with The Savannah Yacht Club. This venue offers sweeping views of the water, nautical charm, and an air of exclusivity. It’s perfect for smaller, more intimate weddings or grand celebrations with a coastal flair.

Ships of the Sea Maritime Museum

For history buffs and lovers of unique spaces, the Ships of the Sea Maritime Museum is a standout option. This venue features a lush garden courtyard and historic exhibits that add personality and charm to your wedding. The combination of indoor and outdoor spaces offers flexibility for your big day.

Bethesda Academy

Bethesda Academy boasts one of Savannah’s most stunning natural landscapes, featuring majestic oak trees draped in Spanish moss and rolling green fields. Its historic chapel and beautiful outdoor spaces create a dreamy, intimate setting perfect for a romantic Low-Country-inspired wedding.

The Mackey House

Tucked away in a private estate surrounded by nature, The Mackey House is a venue straight out of a fairytale. With a grand Southern-style mansion, lush gardens, and a peaceful lake, it’s the perfect place for an outdoor wedding full of whimsy and charm.

The Ford Field & River Club

Located just outside Savannah in Richmond Hill, this venue exudes refined Southern elegance. The sprawling estate features scenic views of the Ogeechee River, romantic oak groves, and luxurious accommodations, making it a perfect choice for an intimate yet grand wedding experience.

The Harper Fowlkes House

The Harper Fowlkes House is a historic and elegant mansion nestled in the heart of Savannah’s historic district. With its Greek Revival architecture, sweeping staircase, and lush gardens, this venue exudes timeless sophistication and charm. The courtyard garden is ideal for an intimate outdoor ceremony or cocktail hour, while the mansion’s interior offers a beautifully preserved space for receptions with intricate details like antique furnishings and grand windows.

The Kehoe House

The Kehoe House is a stunning, historic mansion located in the heart of Savannah’s Historic District. Built in 1892, this stately home is an exquisite example of Renaissance Revival architecture. Known for its ornate ironwork, grand interiors, and warm Southern hospitality, the Kehoe House is ideal for couples seeking a venue with timeless elegance and charm.

Savannah wedding venues, list of the best venues from a SAV wedding photographer who shoots light and airy style wedding photos | side by side photos, left side image shows a long rectangle table set for a wedding reception amidst live oak trees draped with Spanish moss; right side photo shows a set of gold wedding rings next to a strand of Spanish moss

Tips for Choosing Between These Savannah Wedding Venues

  1. Consider Your Guest List Size
    Savannah wedding venues come in all shapes and sizes. From intimate gardens to sprawling estates, ensure the venue you choose comfortably accommodates your guest list.
  2. Think About Your Wedding Style
    Your venue should reflect your wedding vision. Are you dreaming of timeless elegance, coastal charm, or a whimsical outdoor affair? Savannah has venues that can bring any aesthetic to life, but the wrong venue can make your details and decor appear out of place. Make the most of that investment (and wedding photos) by choosing a venue that harmonizes with your style!
  3. Factor in Logistics
    From transportation to accommodations, Savannah is known for its hospitality, but it’s wise to consider the proximity of your venue to hotels and local attractions for your guests’ convenience. Consider traffic, city events on or around your wedding day that may cause disruption, and other logistics your guests may face. A wedding planner will help you navigate all the unexpected challenges with ease!
  4. Book Early
    Savannah is a popular wedding destination, especially in spring and fall. To secure your dream venue, book your Savannah wedding venue as early as possible! Then secure primary vendors on your list such as photographer, videographer, planner (if you don’t yet have one) and more.
Savannah wedding venues, list of the best venues from a SAV wedding photographer who shoots light and airy style wedding photos | photo shows a wedding couple kissing under the Spanish moss, wearing a light grey linen suit (groom) and an off-the-shoulder satin wedding gown (bride)

Making the Most of Savannah Wedding Venues

Choosing one of Savannah’s stunning wedding venues is just the beginning. Personalize your celebration with touches that reflect your interests and love story. Whether it’s incorporating local cuisine like shrimp and grits, offering your guests trolley rides through the historic district, or having your photos taken under the iconic Spanish moss, Savannah is full of ways to make your wedding day an unforgettable experience for all.

Planning a wedding is no small task, but having a photographer who knows and loves the charm of Savannah can make all the difference.

I specialize in creating artful images out of your favorite memories. Booking me ensures you’ll have a wedding gallery that represents the essence of your love and legacy in every image. Learn more about my services and approach here.

If you’re considering a wedding in Savannah, I’d love to capture every moment for you. Let’s connect and discuss how I can create timeless art from your most cherished memories.

Inspiration & Photo Prep tips, Straight to your inbox

First Name

Email Address

Subscribe

MORE TO EXPLORE