Wedding Timeline Planning


As a wedding photographer, I’m always looking for ways to make my couples feel as relaxed, confident, and prepared as possible for their big day. While most wedding packages include an engagement session as a part of the package, I also offer the option to add a bridal session. But is it worth it? And how do you decide if it’s right for you? Let’s dive into why a bridal session could be one of the best decisions you make for your wedding day!


1. A Perfect Trial Run for Hair & Makeup

One of the most valuable benefits of a bridal session is that it gives you the opportunity to see how your hair and makeup will look in your wedding dress. It’s the perfect time to experiment and make sure you’re happy with everything before the wedding day. From the style of your hair to the shades of your makeup, you can adjust and tweak as needed, ensuring that on the big day, you’re feeling your absolute best.


2. Get a Sense of Your Wedding Day Timeline

We’ve all heard how quickly the wedding day can go by. Having a bridal session beforehand is a great way to get a real sense of how long it will take you to get ready. You’ll have a chance to time how long it takes to get dressed, perfect your hair and makeup, and maybe even add those finishing touches. With that knowledge in hand, you can plan your wedding day timeline a little more confidently, ensuring there’s enough time to relax and enjoy every moment.


3. Work Through Any Dressing Hiccups

Let’s be real — sometimes getting into that wedding dress isn’t as smooth as we imagine! Whether it’s figuring out tiny buttons, adjusting a corset, or making sure the train is just right, a bridal session gives you the chance to work through any wardrobe challenges without the stress of a ticking clock. When you know exactly how to dress and move in your gown, you’ll feel more comfortable and ready to take on the real thing when your wedding day arrives.


4. Beautiful Photos to Display at Your Reception

While your wedding photographer will capture your stunning bridal portraits on the big day, there’s something special about having a whole set of professional photos of you in your wedding gown before the hustle and bustle of the wedding day sets in. These images are perfect for displaying at your reception or using in your wedding decor. Imagine a gorgeous canvas print or framed bridal portrait greeting your guests as they enter your celebration — it’s an extra way to showcase the love and excitement leading up to your marriage!


5. A Less Rushed Experience

One of the things many brides appreciate most about bridal sessions is the opportunity to slow down and enjoy the experience. On the wedding day, there’s often a sense of urgency to get everything done, and it can feel a bit rushed as you transition from one part of the day to the next. A bridal session offers a more relaxed pace, giving you a chance to savor the moment and focus on getting those dreamy, stunning photos without feeling like you’re in a race against the clock.


So, Should You Book a Bridal Session?

Ultimately, it depends on what you’re looking for. If you’re someone who loves a little extra time for details and wants to feel extra confident in your dress and beauty choices, a bridal session can be a game-changer. It’s a chance to have a relaxed, stress-free photo experience and get some beautiful portraits that you’ll cherish forever. Plus, you’ll be far more prepared and calm on your wedding day knowing you’ve already had this practice run.


As with any part of your wedding planning, it’s all about what makes you feel the most excited and prepared. If you have questions about bridal sessions or want to know how to incorporate them into your wedding photography package, feel free to reach out — I’m here to help!