Boudoir by Bri
The Ultimate Bridal Boudoir Guide:
Everything You Need to Know Before Your Session
Saint louis photographer
What Is Bridal Boudoir?
Bridal boudoir is a photography session designed to celebrate you and your love during one of the most exciting seasons of your life. Traditionally, the bride will keep the photoshoot a secret surprise, and then gift her fiancé with an album on the morning of their wedding day. I don’t shoot weddings anymore, but when I did, one of my favorite parts was watching the groom open his gift in the morning and blush. They all grin and giggle! I think it’s such a cute way to shake off some nerves and get excited for the day ahead!
What Props Should You Include in Your Shoot?
Every bridal session is unique, but many brides choose to incorporate wedding-inspired details like their veil, a bouquet, the lingerie they plan to wear on the wedding night, the robe they plan to get ready in, their wedding shoes or jewelry, or their fiancé’s dress shirt or tie. I once had a client bring her actual wedding dress to use!
What Should You Wear?
You don’t need a suitcase full of expensive lingerie! A lot of bridal boudoir looks are surprisingly simple. Tried-and-true options are a classic white bodysuit, a delicate lace lingerie set, a silky robe, an oversized white button-down, or cozy sweater that falls off your shoulder. If you’re doing a Tease package session with only one outfit, I’d definitely recommend something white and bridal. If you’re leaning more toward an Angel or Bombshell session, here’s what I’d generally recommend (but please wear whatever makes you feel great): 1. White lingerie, with a veil for a few shots, and maybe a bouquet of your wedding colors, 2. Something that belongs to your fiancé, like a shirt or jersey, or something that speaks to their hobbies or interests, and 3. Something really sexy and bold, like black lingerie with a garter belt.
Should You Get Professional Hair and Makeup Done?
If it's an option for you, I highly recommend it, but it’s absolutely not necessary. Professional hair and makeup can add to the feeling of being pampered and polished, but I know it’s expensive (and your upcoming wedding is likely already draining your account). If you’re doing your own makeup, I just suggest adding a bit more than usual! It won’t look like heavy makeup on camera.
IMPORTANT TIP: If you are getting professional hair and makeup done on your wedding day, and your artist includes a trial, try your best to align your makeup trial with your boudoir session date so you can take advantage!
Here’s a list of St. Louis-area beauty vendors I recommend.
When Should You Schedule Your Bridal Boudoir Session?
I’d say your boudoir photoshoot date should be between two and six months before your wedding date. That timeline allows room for me to edit, you to choose your favorite photos for your album, and for printing, drying, binding, and shipping. Pushing things to close to your wedding date will just be an address stress, especially if there are any unexpected shipping delays that neither of us can control!
Having said that, certainly reach out to ask about last-minute bookings! I always say yes if it’s possible, and we can discuss a rush edit.
How to Surprise Them with the Photos
However you decide to surprise your fiancé, please make sure you have a game plan for where the album ends up! You should be so proud of your boudoir photos, but obviously, things can get awkward if the photos accidentally get into the wrong hands. The classic tradition is to surprise your fiancé the morning of the wedding, but you can also do it the night before, maybe right after the rehearsal dinner and you’re about to spend the night apart. Consider adding a handwritten letter!
I’ve also seen a popular trend where bridesmaids sneakily hand the groom wallet-size prints of his bride throughout the wedding day or the rehearsal dinner. I think that idea is so cute!! But again, just think it through. I always cringe at the thought of your great grandpa finding a stray photo on the dance floor!
A Few Simple Tips Before Your Bridal Session
Drink plenty of water the day before.
Get a good night's sleep.
Moisturize your skin.
Eat a meal about an hour before your session.
Steam your outfits ahead of time, if needed.
Remove all tags from lingerie.
Bring some slippers.
Wear clothes that are loose and won’t leave red marks.
The less pressure you put on yourself, the more enjoyable your experience will be.
Make it a “you” day! Treat yourself to something indulgent after your session.
You can find more helpful tips in these blogs:
Ready to Plan Your Bridal Boudoir Experience?
Whether you're just exploring the idea or already know you want to surprise your fiancé with a one-of-a-kind wedding gift, I hope this guide helped answer some of your questions!
If you're planning your wedding in the midwest/St. Louis area and would love a relaxed, supportive boudoir experience, I'd be honored to help you create something that's uniquely yours! View all of my packages here or contact me with any questions.
FAQ
Do I have to wear white?
Not at all! While many brides love classic white lingerie or robes, you should choose colors and styles that make you feel confident. Black, jewel tones, and soft neutrals all photograph beautifully.
What if I've never done a boudoir session before?
That's completely normal and fine! Most brides are first-time clients, and you'll receive guidance through every pose and expression so you never have to wonder what to do.
Will my photos stay private?
Privacy in boudoir is sacred! I photograph you alone, edit you alone, and never post photos anywhere unless you tell me to.