Wedding Morning Tips for Grooms

Wedding mornings always seem to focus on the bride, but here is the truth. The groom’s morning sets the tone, too. A calm, organized start can make the whole day smoother, more meaningful, and a lot more enjoyable. After photographing so many weddings, here are the groom tips I see make the biggest difference.

Let’s start with the bow tie. Do not wait until the morning of the wedding to learn how to tie one. I promise you, YouTube is not your friend at 10 a.m. when nerves are high and your hands suddenly forget how to function. Practice ahead of time so you can start your day relaxed and confident instead of sweaty and frustrated.

Make sure your best man is fully dressed before you. This is one of the most underrated tips. A dressed best man can help you with your jacket, tie, boutonniere, and every final detail. An undressed best man will be struggling beside you, asking where he put his belt, and that is not the energy you need.

Break in your shoes before the wedding. Even if they feel comfortable in the store, your wedding day is long and your feet will thank you. Walk in them, bend them, soften the leather. No groom should spend his reception regretting every step.

Set aside all your important details for when I arrive. Your watch, cufflinks, tie clip, cologne, handwritten notes, even your invitation suite if you have it. Having everything together saves time and lets me start photographing right away without asking you to hunt through bags or pockets.

Speaking of pockets, nothing goes in them. I mean it. No phones. No keys. No wallets. Nothing. Pocket bulges show up in photos far more than you think. Even a phone can ruin the clean lines of a suit you spent good money on.

Here is one more tip that grooms often overlook. Eat something. A real meal. Wedding days move quickly and the adrenaline keeps you going until suddenly it doesn’t. A protein bar is not a meal. Have breakfast. You will feel better, look better, and enjoy the day more.

And lastly, take five quiet minutes for yourself before the chaos begins. Step outside. Breathe. Look around. Let the reality of the day sink in. You are marrying your person. Let that moment settle into your bones.

Your wedding morning does not need to be rushed or chaotic. With a few simple choices, it can be calm, intentional, and full of quiet excitement. And when you start your day feeling grounded, your photos reflect it.

I will be there to capture it all. Just make sure those pockets stay empty.