Everything You Need to Know About Doing a Trash the Dress
Your wedding dress is one of the most iconic parts of your big day, but what happens after you say, “I do”? For some couples, a Trash the Dress session is the ultimate way to make even more unforgettable memories while capturing stunning, out-of-the-box photos.
Whether you’re splashing in turquoise waves, channeling your inner mermaid underwater, or exploring ancient ruins, a trash-the-dress shoot at your destination wedding can be the cherry on top of your celebration. Here’s everything you need to know to plan your trash the dress!
By the way! If you’re planning your destination wedding and are a bride on a budget like I was, and you really want one of these photo sessions but can’t swing a photographer to do it, ask your family or friends! We ended up with two photo sessions: one with a photographer, and one with my parents! I wanted sunrise photos on the beach too, and thankfully agreed to getting up early for them!
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What Does it Mean to ‘Trash the Dress’?
Trash the Dress is a post-wedding photoshoot where brides (couples) wear their wedding attire in unconventional settings. They embrace the idea of getting their dresses dirty in dramatic or artistic ways. From sandy beaches to colorful paint explosions, it’s all about fun, creativity, and letting loose after the formalities of the wedding day.
This is my favourite part about having a destination wedding. They’re normally done a day or two after your wedding and it’s so much fun. These photos make for amazing memories and there are a variety of stunning backdrops to pick from – even if you stay at your resort!
While the name sounds extreme, your dress doesn’t necessarily need to be ruined—it’s all about embracing the adventure. Plus, many dresses clean up surprisingly well afterward.
It’s a great way to let loose after all the wedding planning and stress that led up to your big day. AND, are you really going to wear your dress again? Unless if you’re planning at an-home reception, you may as well have some fun with a dress you spend big bucks on!
Some may cringe at the idea of risking a gown worth over $1,000 and packed with sentimental value, but there’s no denying that trash-the-dress sessions create absolutely breathtaking photos.
Where to Do a Trash the Dress
Destination weddings offer some of the most breathtaking backdrops for trash-the-dress sessions. Popular options brides have chosen are:
1. The Beach 🏖️
The Caribbean and Mexico are beach-trash-the-dress paradise! Imagine running into the turquoise waves of Cancun, rolling in the soft white sand of Aruba, or striking a pose on the dramatic rocky shores of Tulum.
The salty sea spray and golden light create a dreamy, romantic aesthetic that’s perfect for capturing those carefree, post-wedding feels.
2. Waterfalls 🌊
For couples tying the knot in the lush tropics of the Caribbean or Costa Rica, waterfalls offer a stunning and romantic backdrop. Imagine the drama of cascading water as you wade into the pool below or pose on mossy rocks!
Iconic spots like Dunn’s River Falls in Jamaica or La Fortuna Waterfall in Costa Rica are perfect for dreamy, adventurous photos. Let your dress flow with the current as you kiss under the mist—nature’s very own bridal veil!
3. Underwater 🤿
Channel your inner mermaid with a trash-the-dress session beneath the waves! The crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean and Mexico offer the perfect setting for mesmerizing underwater shots. Imagine your dress floating weightlessly as schools of fish glide by, or posing near vibrant coral reefs in places like Cancún, Tulum, or the Bahamas.
For a truly unique experience, consider Mexico’s cenotes—natural sinkholes filled with shimmering blue water and dramatic limestone backdrops. These mystical spots add a fairytale vibe to your photos.
We went to a cenote to do our trash the dress session and I love those photos more than our wedding ones!
4. Ruins or Historical Sites 🏛️
If your destination wedding is in Mexico or the Caribbean, you’re in luck! These regions are home to stunning ancient ruins that make for jaw-dropping backdrops. Picture yourself strolling through the majestic Mayan ruins of Tulum, with your dress flowing against the backdrop of turquoise ocean waves, or posing in front of the iconic stone steps of Chichén Itzá.
In the Caribbean, explore mystical settings like the Brimstone Hill Fortress in St. Kitts or the hidden historical gems of San Juan, Puerto Rico. The contrast of your modern bridal gown against centuries-old architecture creates a blend of romance and timelessness that’s nothing short of magical.
5. Unique Local Settings 🌴
Infuse your trash-the-dress session with the vibrant culture and natural beauty of your destination! Here are some unique ideas:
- Bright Street Murals in the Caribbean : Islands like Curaçao are famous for their colorful street art. Pose against bold murals for a splash of culture and creativity in your photos.
- Rustic Boats and Docks : Incorporate a charming fisherman’s boat or rustic dock for an authentic seaside vibe. Perfect for capturing the laid-back essence of Caribbean island life.
- Sugar Cane Fields or Plantations : Explore the historic plantations or lush sugarcane fields of Jamaica or Barbados for a dramatic yet romantic photoshoot.
- Deserted Island Beaches 🏝: Rent a boat and escape to a secluded beach in the Bahamas or Turks and Caicos for breathtaking, intimate shots.
What to Consider Before Your Trash the Dress
1. The Dress 👗
Not ready to risk your actual wedding gown? Consider these alternatives:
- A Second Dress: Buy a cheaper, similar dress for the session. Amazon has lots of cute and inexpensive options!
- A Rental Dress: Opt for a rented gown you don’t mind getting messy.
- Something Non-Traditional: Think flowy maxi dresses or outfits that still match your bridal vibe.
2. Location Logistics 🌍
Research permits, accessibility, and timing. Some spots might have restrictions or require advance notice for photoshoots. Check with your photographer and see which spots they offer as part of their service, or what they recommend.
3. Photographer Experience 📸
Choose a photographer who has done trash-the-dress sessions before. Bonus if they specialize in underwater photography if that’s the route you want to go. I highly recommend hiring a local photographer who a) has done this many times before a b) knows how to shoot in unique situations!
4. Safety First 🚨
If you’re planning to wade into water or dive underwater, ensure you’re comfortable. You’d be surprised how heavy wedding dresses can become when they’re waterlogged, or how quickly your feet can become entangled. Be sure there are people nearby to help if needed.
5. Cleaning the Dress 🧼
If you’re using your original gown, find a professional cleaner with experience in restoring delicate fabrics post-session, if this is a concern for you.
I will tell you that when we were done trashing the dress, I had mud stains (bat poop??? haha) on my dress from the cenote. I rinsed mine out in the hotel shower and hung it on our balcony to dry. I balled it up and chucked it in my suitcase coming home. After that, my mom turned it inside out and put it on the gentle cycle in the washing machine, and it came out pristine.
So, depending on what you’re planning to do with it afterwards, and given there’s no jewels or anything super delicate on your wedding dress, you may be able to get away with a home cleaning. Otherwise, be prepared to spend some money to get it professionally cleaned.
Why You Should Do It!
- Unforgettable Photos: Traditional wedding photos are lovely, but trash-the-dress sessions are epic.
- Stress-Free Fun: No need to worry about keeping the dress spotless—you can relax and enjoy yourself.
- Creative Expression: It’s a chance to show off your adventurous side and make the most of your destination.
Trash the dress sessions are perfect for couples who want to make the most of their destination wedding experience. Whether you dive into the ocean, chase waterfalls, or explore ruins, you’ll end up with stunning, one-of-a-kind photos—and memories to last a lifetime!
Trash the Dress Lessons from Past Brides
- Wear nude-coloured undergarments so they don’t show through a water-logged wedding gown
- Bring bug spray – especially if you’re going to a cenote or an area with lots of trees. (See what to pack for a destination wedding!)
- Make sure you can swim. This is crucial because your dress will become heavy in the water.
- Be prepared to be cold after being in the water. Bring a change of clothes and a bag for your wedding dress for the way back to the resort if you’re not doing it on-site.
- Wear waterproof makeup!
- Research and pick a photographer that specializes in destination weddings, trash the dress sessions, and caters to your style.
- Save a few photos that you love for your photographer to reference and work off of as a starting point.
- Choose a beautiful location and consider timing to avoid things like wind, populated beaches, and too much sunlight.
- If you’re hiring an outside vendor for your hair and makeup for your wedding day and if your wedding package includes hair and makeup, ask about using the included services for you to trash the dress instead.
Above all else – HAVE FUN! This was one of the best parts about our wedding (aside from actually getting married, of course 😉).
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