Everything you need to know about bridal boudoir as a wedding gift for your fiancé.
First of all congratulations on your engagement! Happy dance time!
That is so exciting. I’ve been married for 15 years this coming February, and I still remember the thrill of the engagement. Soak up every minute of it.
Second, you have a fabulous idea for a wedding gift. But… just like most things you’re about to take on, it can be a bit overwhelming to figure out where to start. So I’m going to help you out with everything you need to know about making this bridal boudoir photoshoot one that neither of you will ever forget.
When do I book a bridal boudoir session?
Your photoshoot should be at least 6-8 weeks prior to your wedding date (or when you leave town). This allows plenty of time for your photoshoot, ordering appointment and products to be created. Many of the best photographers book up 3-6+ months in advance, so it’s a good thing you’re planning. If your wedding date is less than 6 weeks away, no need to panic, we might be able to squeeze you in and make sure you’ve got a beautiful gift in time.
How do I find a boudoir photographer?
You’re already looking for a wedding photographer, but it’s a little bit different. Who you want sharing your big day might have a different energy than the one who will be part of this intimate experience. First and foremost, you want an experienced specialty studio. The way you feel on your honeymoon depends on it. The right photographer will leave you feeling so confident that you are burning up those honeymoon sheets. Start by asking your friends. Then use your favorite search engine and check out reviews to see the vibe you get from real clients. You can see highlights of mine here or just google Lavish boudoir reviews.
What should I wear for bridal boudoir?
This one is all relative to your taste. But I want you to consider what adjectives you want to describe the mood of your session… classic, flirty, girly, wild, edgy, pretty, timeless, vintage, discreet. Go with wardrobe that speaks those words to you. Here are my favorite outfits that always look beautiful:
your wedding day lingerie (don’t forget accessories and your new ring)
blue bra and panty set that is delicate and oozes romance
white lace bodysuit/teddy
nothing but white sheets, tousled hair and a smile
black lingerie set that matches your adjectives above. That can be strappy and daring or a corset that looks vintage. Black is always a safe bet.
What gift should I give my fiancé? What do I do with boudoir photos?
Sometimes it’s difficult to splurge when you’ve got a whole lot of other things to fit in your budget. I’m totally biased, but I believe that when all is said and done… all you have is the love of your life, your photos, and the way they make you feel. Imagine cuddling up together on each anniversary to look through a beautiful leather book filled with gorgeous saucy photos. Think of the passion that can ignite. Special photos created just for the occasion. Printed photos are entirely different from digital photos. Holding them in your hands and delivering them will create all those flutters of passion. Splurge. Get the quality album that will last until your golden anniversary.
When do I give my fiancé the boudoir photos?
My favorite idea is to have a close friend deliver an eye-popping gift like a 3d viewmaster or mini album. Attach a note that says, “I’m all yours tonight. Wait until you see the rest of these photos!” Prepare to have your fiancé try to get the reception done with as quickly as possible. When the champagne has run out and you’re settled into bed together… present the full album. I advise you not to take it on the honeymoon and leave it home for safekeeping.
What if a luxury boudoir photoshoot isn’t in my budget?
Maybe this isn’t what you want to hear, but doing it right is more important than doing it now. It will be just as amazing on your first anniversary after you’ve financially recovered from the wedding. The traditional anniversary gift is paper, so I can’t think of a better use of that than a boudoir album. Another option is to ask for gift cards in lieu of shower gifts from your closest friends. Boudoir or breadmaker? Boudoir!
Either way, bridal boudoir is a wedding gift to you both. If you’d like to learn more about booking a photoshoot with Leslie in her Maryland studio, schedule a consult below. I look forward to making this session everything you want and more.
