Something we send to each of our couples is a wedding day tips sheet — some of the things we’ve learned and want to pass on to our couples that will help make their weddings run smoothly and produce great photo ops for them. And one of the key parts of that sheet is our note about what the bride will want to have ready for us to photograph when we arrive at her hotel room.

Here’s a quick rundown of the must-haves: The Dress
Make sure the gown is accessible quickly — it can be one of the more time-consuming details to photograph, and it’s the one we always start with.
The Hanger
If you have a custom hanger, have it already with your gown so that it doesn’t get overlooked for the photos.
The Veil and Hair Accessories
Make sure these are all stored together — and if you haven’t decided which of several hair accessories to use, have them all ready for your photographer.The Shoes
These are one of my favorite accessories to photograph! Make sure they’re clean and clear of any footprints on the soles (so if you have open toed shoes, avoid wearing them before the wedding!)The Rings
It might not seem like it makes sense for the bride to have her engagement ring and both wedding bands, but it’s very important to ensure you get shots of all the rings together. After the ceremony, you’ll be busy — and so will your photographer — and since macro photography takes some time, it’s best to get the ring shots out of the way at the start of the day.The Other Jewelry and Accessories
Earrings, bracelets, necklaces, broaches, and rings are all wonderful to catalog your wedding day. So are garters, sashes, belts, shawls, jackets, and purses.
The Perfume
If there’s a perfume you particularly love or bought especially for the wedding, it only makes sense to add it into the photos!
The Invitation
Like the rings, this is a detail that probably won’t get photographed unless it’s photographed early on in the day. So have an invitation — and everything that is a part of the invitation suite, if there are additional pieces — ready to go.The Sentimental Items
If you’ve made or purchased a gift for your soon-to-be-spouse or have any meaningful items from family or friends with you on your wedding day, make sure they’re where your photographer can get to them easily, and be sure to point each item out. The Flowers
Have your flowers delivered to the location where you’re getting ready, if at all possible. That way, your bouquet can be photographed in the same context and surroundings as your other details.

Are there any other items you think ought to be on the list? Let us know in the comments!

~ Laura