Bridal sessions are quickly becoming one of my favorite sessions to offer! But a lot of couples come to me unsure what a bridal session is, or why they are so important – and fun! These pre-wedding shoots originated in Europe, but have become a southern tradition that brides love. These shoots happen before your wedding day and allow you to get some incredible portraits at your venue, or you can select a different location. Many couples chose to display some of the bridal session images at the wedding, often at the reception. Today, I’m sharing all the reasons you should do a bridal session, and why they are so fun!

Try Your Full Look Before The Wedding Day

One of the best reasons to do a bridal session is that you can easily try your full-day look, before the wedding day! I always tell my brides to have their hair and makeup trial saved for their bridal session, so they can test it all out. This really lets them make sure they love the whole look, before committing to the final details. Maybe you want a little more blush or a bolder lip color. You can also see all the elements together. From your hair and makeup to your jewelry, veil, and shoes. Think of this as a dress rehearsal for your big day.

Don’t forget the flowers! This is the perfect time to work with your florist to test out your bridal bouquet. This way you can see how the size is, the shape, and adjust any colors. Or, if you have dreamed of a bright bouquet, but chose a simple white and black color palette, use this as an opportunity to have a fun bouquet!

Get Comfortable In Front of The Camera

Scheduling a bridal session lets you have portraits taken, in a stress-free environment. On your wedding day, we have a timeline to follow, and your nerves might be a little high. This session lets you find the right poses, and have pictures taken without the overwhelm of the wedding day. You can really enjoy the afternoon, and twirl around in your gown! You will still have pictures taken of just you on your wedding day, but this is a chance to get those extra photos without having to worry about the timeline.

Make It Extra Special!

I love when brides bring family members to their bridal sessions! This makes this day even more special. Bring your mom, best friend, or even your grandma, and allow them to soak up your bridal look without the wedding day’s busy schedule! You can even go out for drinks after with your bridesmaids. You’ll be all dolled up with gorgeous hair and makeup, so why not celebrate!

Do a Dress Rehearsal

The best perk? You get to wear your stunning wedding dress! And what bride doesn’t want to wear their dress all the time? I always tell my brides to schedule the session around the time of their final wedding gown fitting. This way, you can also make sure it fits perfectly!

Bridal Sessions Make Great Gifts

Bridal session portraits always make the best gifts. You are creating an heirloom – these portraits will likely be passed down for generations! One idea is to surprise your dad on the day of the wedding with a print nicely framed. Another option is to give portraits as gifts to your grandparents. It is a perfect way to thank your grandparents and parents!

Book Your Bridal Session

If you want to add on a bridal session, I would love to photograph it! There are so many gorgeous venues around Tulsa, Oklahoma that we can choose from, or we can do them at your wedding day venue. Reach out, and let’s plan the perfect bridal session!

Bridal Session Venue: Spain Ranch