Bridal boudoir guide: The spicy wedding gift they'll remember forever

Bridal boudoir? They won't necessarily see it coming, but they'll definitely remember (and come back to it) forever.

Let’s be real: monogrammed flasks and custom socks aren’t exactly swoon-worthy gifts. But a boudoir album? That's the kind of intimate, personal, and romantic newlywed gift you'll both love. And a boudoir shoot is one of the best ways to celebrate this wild, beautiful chapter of your life.

So here's what you need to know if you’re thinking about doing a bridal boudoir session before your wedding.

Bridal boudoir photography is becoming more popular with couples who want a wedding experience that actually feels personal. And while there’s no one-size-fits-all shoot, there are a few things I always recommend keeping in mind before booking a bridal boudoir session:

1. Timing your session around your wedding plans

2. Choosing the right vibe, location, and wardrobe

3. Deciding what you’ll actually do with the final photos

Taking time for a personal boudoir session before your wedding is a chance to slow down and celebrate yourself before the whirlwind of your wedding day hits. Bridal boudoir is the kind of gift that hits harder than anything you can find on Etsy — and the best part is, it’s a gift for them and for you.

Whether you’re doing it for your partner, yourself, or just because you don't want that trial hair and makeup to go to waste - let's dive into what goes into the bridal boudoir process.

What goes into a boudoir photoshoot in general?

If you’re new to the world of boudoir, don’t worry — I’ve got you. A boudoir shoot isn’t about being overly posed or trying to fit some Pinterest-perfect mold. It’s about creating space for you to feel confident, empowered, and a little (or a lot) bold in front of the camera.

Boudoir photoshoots can come together in so many different ways which is why we'll collaborate on ideas, location and creative approach to make sure you're feeling as comfortable and prepped as possible coming into your photoshoot day.

When should I schedule a bridal boudoir shoot?

The short answer? **At least 4–6 weeks before your wedding.**

The longer answer? It depends on what you want to do with the photos — and how extra you want to get.

If you’re planning to gift an album, frame a print, or have anything physical made (and trust me, you’ll want to), give your photographer enough time to shoot, edit, and design something worth drooling over. Depending on the photographer and your needs, this can take weeks to months.

Here’s a basic timeline:

12-16 weeks out:  Ideal for photoshoot scheduling, prints or album design and stress-free delivery

6–8 weeks out: Good for photoshoot scheduling and ordering small prints

3–5 weeks out: Doable for photoshoot scheduling and possible prints

2 weeks or less: Tight but doable if the scheduling works out, but prints are unlikely

Pro tip: Book your session early in your engagement and use it as a warm-up to get comfortable in front of the camera. It’s a confidence booster *and* a great excuse to feel hot as hell during a high-stress season. Even better? Find a wedding photographer who offers bridal boudoir add-ons (Hi, I'm Gracie - a candid Portland wedding photographer available to shoot wherever you're in love. Reach out to chat about your 2025 - 2027 celebration).

What do I *do* with the photos?

This is your permission slip to do *whatever the hell you want*. But here are some popular (and badass) ideas:

• Gift an album on the wedding day — leave it in their suite, deliver it with a handwritten note, or have it waiting when they wake up

• Include a print in your vow book or a small framed photo for their eyes only

• Keep it for yourself (for now), and gift it to them on your 1 year anniversary

• Turn it into a mini film or reel for a spicy first-look moment

Also — can we normalize gifting sexy photos to yourself with no reason other than “I felt good and wanted to celebrate that”? We love self-love around here.

What should I wear for a bridal boudoir session?

The key here is to wear *whatever makes you feel like the hottest version of yourself* — not what Pinterest told you a “bridal” look should be.

That could mean:

• Lingerie sets (yes, white lace is classic but black always hits)

• An oversized button-down or your partner’s shirt

• Your veil, wedding shoes, or gloves if you’re wanting to lean into the wedding look

• A jacket and nothing underneath

• A robe or draping fabrics

• Your favorite worn-in tank and underwear combo

• Literally nothing (if that’s your vibe)

Boudoir is *not* about following rules — it’s about capturing a version of you that feels honest, electric, and real. If you’re unsure what to bring, I’ve got a whole prep guide (and I’m always down to help you style the shoot to match your energy).

How do I find the right creative boudoir photographer?

Start by asking yourself two things:

Do I love their work? And maybe more importantly — do I vibe with them?

Boudoir is intimate — you want a photographer who gets your energy, hypes you up without making it weird, and knows how to create a space where you actually feel comfortable being seen. That’s why consultations matter. Take the time to talk with your options, peek behind the Instagram grid, and make sure you’re choosing someone you’d actually want to spend an hour half-naked in a room with. (Seriously.)

If you’re even thinking about booking a shoot, that’s your sign. Let’s make something your partner will love forever.