We’ve all been there, scrolling through perfect pre-wedding photos and thinking, "I'm ready!" Only to finish the shoot and realize there were things we totally forgot.
To save you the heartbreak (and the awkward Photoshop requests), here is the down-to-earth prep list for both brides and grooms before your pre-wedding photoshoot.
For the Bride: Your Beauty Checklist
- Nails (3-5 Days Before)
Go for a soft nude or pale pink. It makes your fingers look longer and won’t clash with different dress colors. Avoid "grown-out" manicures; they look messy in close-ups!
- Hair Color
If you're dyeing your hair, do it a week early. Stick to natural browns or blacks for a high-end look. Avoid bright, trendy colors or visible roots.
- Eye Drops
You'll likely be wearing contacts all day. If you aren't used to them, your eyes will get dry and red. Eye drops are a literal lifesaver.
- Sheet Masks
Hydrate like crazy for a few days leading up to the shoot. It prevents your foundation from looking cakey or "floating" on dry skin.
- Contact Lenses
Daily disposables are best. Natural brown tones make your eyes "pop" on camera without looking like a doll.
- Hair Removal
Do this the day before. Especially underarms! If you're wearing a strapless dress, "stubble" is very hard to hide.
- The Perfect Heels
Bring your own high heels that match your wedding theme. Having your own pair ensures the height is comfortable for your dress length and, more importantly, that they actually fit your feet.
- The Essentials
Bring NuBra and seamless underwear (nude or white). Also, pack a pair of slippers. Walking in heels all day is a marathon; your feet will thank you the second you swap them out between sets.
- Sunscreen & Bug Spray
If you’re heading outdoors, you’ll be under the sun for hours. And if there’s grass, there are bugs. Don't let a sunburn or itchy welts ruin the vibe.
For the Groom: Don't Wing It!
- The Haircut
Get it done a week before. Don't go too short, you need a little length for the stylist to actually work with on the day.
- Detailing
Shave your beard and trim those nose hairs. Seriously, the camera sees everything.
- Outfit
Bring your own white shirt. Studio suits are often "one size fits most," and a belt is much classier than using binder clips to hold your pants up.
- Leather Shoes
Bring your own leather shoes that coordinate with your suit and the shoot’s theme. Make sure they are broken in and polished.
- Socks
Pack a pair of plain black and plain white socks. It sounds simple, but you'd be surprised how many people forget and end up with gym socks showing in their formal photos.
- Accessories
Wear a classic dress watch that match your tuxedo, try not to wear Apple watch or sport watches.
Shared Tips for Both
- Get Enough Rest
This is the big one! Stay enough rest the day before and try not to stay up too late.
- The "No Water" Rule
Stop drinking water after 10:00 PM the night before. This prevents your face from looking puffy the next morning.
- Hair Prep
Wash your hair the night before but do not use conditioner. "Slippery" hair is impossible to style and won't hold a curl.
- Snack Attack
Bring easy-to-eat snacks (chocolates or energy bars) to keep your blood sugar up. It’s a long day!
- Beat the Heat
Bring a mini portable fan. In the Malaysia heat, wearing a full tuxedo or a heavy gown can be brutal without a fan to help you stay cool.
