Why Your Getting Ready Space Matters on Your Wedding Day
Top Maryland Wedding Getting Ready Spaces | Strong Mansion, Whitehall, Tidewater Inn, Perry Cabin & The Oaks
Your wedding day story begins long before you walk down the aisle. From the first pop of champagne to your final lipstick touch-up, the place you choose to get ready sets the tone for your entire day. As a photographer, I’ve seen how light, space, clutter, and emotional energy in a room directly impact not only how you feel but also how your photos will look.
Here’s why it matters — and how to set yourself up for success.
Light: Natural Light is Everything
Nothing flatters a bride more beautifully than natural light. Large windows, sheer curtains, and soft morning sunshine create timeless, glowing photos. Imagine slipping into your gown at the Inn at Perry Cabin, with sunlight pouring over the Miles River just beyond the window — the effect is both elegant and ethereal.
At venues like Strong Mansion or Whitehall, tall windows and historic architecture give you a romantic, light-filled canvas before the ceremony even begins.
Space: Give Yourself Breathing Room
A cluttered, tight space can feel stressful. Spacious suites allow your bridal party, makeup artists, and photographer to move freely without stepping over bags or curling irons. At the Tidewater Inn, the bridal suites are known for their airy feel and historic charm — perfect for large bridal parties.
At The Oaks, you’ll find more than just a single suite — you’ll have access to beautiful custom cottages and even the entire house for getting ready. These private spaces give you flexibility: one area for your bridal party, another for the groom and groomsmen, and plenty of room to spread out and relax. The charm of the cottages combined with the convenience of a full home makes your morning feel intimate yet effortless, with every corner offering a picture-perfect backdrop.
Clutter: Keep the Backdrop Clean
Suitcases, shoe boxes, and Starbucks cups have a way of sneaking into photos. A designated “clutter corner” is your best friend — one spot to tuck away bags and wrappers so your backdrop stays as clean and elegant as your vision.
At Whitehall, the bridal suite itself feels like stepping into history. The space is full of charm, with its soft pink walls and one-of-a-kind wallpaper that add a touch of romance and personality. These historic details create a backdrop that feels both timeless and unique — allowing your gown, accessories, and wedding morning moments to be framed in an atmosphere that’s as memorable as the day itself.
Emotional Energy: Your Morning Matters
The people and energy in the room shape how you feel all day. Surround yourself with those who calm, uplift, and celebrate you. Some of the most emotional, joy-filled photos I’ve captured are during the getting ready hours — moms helping with veils, bridesmaids toasting with champagne, sisters laughing over old stories.
With its sweeping historic architecture and mountain views, Strong Mansion offers a regal setting for your wedding morning. The bridal suite combines old-world charm with high ceilings and oversized windows that flood the room with light. The grandeur of the estate creates a calm, elegant space where every detail — from lacing up your gown to a champagne toast with your bridal party — feels elevated and timeless.
The Inn at Perry Cabin is a classic Eastern Shore icon, and its bridal suites are infused with nautical elegance and waterfront charm. Imagine the soft glow of natural light spilling in as you prepare, with sailboats drifting by on the Miles River just outside your window. The refined, coastal-inspired design of the Inn makes for serene, airy images — a perfect match for brides seeking both luxury and relaxed sophistication.
Megan’s Tip: Think of Your Morning as Part of Your Wedding Design
When you picture your wedding day, don’t just think about the ceremony and reception — your morning matters just as much. A bright, spacious, uncluttered space filled with people you love ensures your photos feel elegant, authentic, and timeless.
Your getting ready space sets the stage for everything that follows. Choose wisely, and it will become one of the most meaningful parts of your wedding story.
📸 If you’re planning a wedding at Whitehall, Strong Mansion, Tidewater Inn, Inn at Perry Cabin, or The Oaks, I’d love to help you capture not just your ceremony and reception, but every tender, emotional moment that begins your day.
Your wedding morning deserves to be just as beautiful as the rest of your day. Let’s chat about how I can capture every moment — from getting ready to your final dance.
