How to Nail Groom Preparations
- Helen & Noel
- Jun 13, 2025
- 4 min read
(Without Losing Your Mind or Your Socks)
Let’s be real, wedding mornings aren’t just for the bridal glam. Groom preparations can (and should) be just as memorable, emotional, and joy-filled. It’s the start of a huge day, and whether you’re getting ready solo, with your best mates, or surrounded by chosen family, there’s a real opportunity to slow down, savour the moment, and make some genuine memories.
But, just like anything wedding-related, things can get a little chaotic if you’re not intentional. So here are our favourite ways to make the most of the groom prep time with good vibes only, of course.
Create a calm space for groom preparations to start the day
The mood of the room you’re in? It matters. Whether you’re at home, in an Airbnb, or tucked away in a country house suite, choose somewhere with natural light, a bit of space to spread out, and (ideally) not a mess of overnight bags and empty crisp packets.
Tidy it up in the morning, put on a chilled playlist (yes, you get a getting ready playlist too), and take a moment to breathe it all in. This is a rare pause before the whirlwind. Use it.
Keep your people close
The best groom prep moments often happen with your ride or die crew around you. Whether it’s your best mate, a sibling, your dog, or your dad, surround yourself with the people who’ll lift you up, make you laugh, and know when to pass you a drink or a tissue.
You don’t need a crowd, just the people who ground you and get you.
Dress at your own pace
There’s no rule that says you have to be in a full suit two hours before the ceremony. If you feel better hanging out in your joggers until the last possible minute, do that. Take your time with each part, putting on your shoes, fastening your cufflinks, adding a keepsake to your lapel. These little rituals matter more than you think.
Also, a note for your future self, steaming your suit the day before = elite move.
Add meaning to your details
Speaking of lapels and cufflinks, if you’ve got anything sentimental, now’s the time to lean into it. A watch passed down, a handwritten note from your partner, a lucky charm in your pocket. These tiny touches bring so much heart to the day and make for powerful photo moments, too.
Fuel up & hydrate (seriously)
You wouldn’t run a marathon on an empty stomach and zero water, so don’t attempt your wedding that way either. A solid breakfast and a cheeky mid-morning snack will go a long way to keeping your energy up. Bonus points if your crew makes a morning of it, coffee, bacon rolls, and a toast to the day ahead? Yes, please.
Lean into the laughter
Things might go off-script and that’s okay. Maybe someone forgets their socks, or the tie-tying tutorial turns into a full-blown comedy act. These are the stories you’ll laugh about for years. Roll with it. Let it be imperfect and human and real.
Take a moment for yourself
Before you step into the ceremony, carve out five quiet minutes. Step outside, close your eyes, breathe. Think about what’s ahead not just the aisle or the vows, but the life you’re about to step into. That clarity, that pause? It’ll carry you through.
Trust your photographer (we’ve got you)
Last but definitely not least: know that we’re there to capture it all. Not just the “stand there and smile” stuff (though we’ll get a few of those too), but the emotion, the small interactions, the moments you don’t even realise are happening. Your job? Just be yourself. The rest will follow.
Groom prep doesn’t have to be an afterthought or a rush to get dressed. It can be a slow, grounding, and genuinely fun start to a huge day. And the best part? When you make space for presence and connection, the photos become more than just memories—they become how it felt.
So breathe deep. Laugh hard. Tie the damn tie however many times it takes. You’ve got this.
And just in case you need them, a couple of videos showing different ways to tie your tie
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nrcRYfwirmQ - Full Windsor Knot
https://www.youtube.com/shorts/qrzmDgAfqFQ - Half Windsor Knot
Groom Preparations FAQs
What should be included in groom preparations ?
Groom preparations often include getting dressed, grooming, time with groomsmen, breakfast or drinks, and some relaxed moments to take it all in. It’s also a great time for candid photos.
How long do groom preparations take ?
We usually recommend setting aside 1.5 to 2 hours for groom prep, including time for photos and a few calm moments before heading to the ceremony.
Where should groom preparations take place ?
Choose a space that feels relaxed, has good natural light, and enough room to move around. Bonus if it’s meaningful to you, like your home or a favourite local spot.
Further blog posts to help keep everything relaxed.......
Want relaxed, story-filled coverage of your groom preparations ? We’re here to capture every laugh, toast, and quiet moment before the magic begins.
Get in touch here to chat about your plans.
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