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Bridal Boudoir – A Definite “I DO!” At Any Size

Today we have my good friend and fellow bridal industry wedding planning maven Kimberly Lehman of Love, Laughter & Elegance: Wedding & Event Planning sharing some invaluable insights into bridal boudoirs. Ladies this is something that you can do at any size.

Congratulations on your upcoming wedding!  There are many events that will take place during your engagement and wedding planning, and one of them might include a bridal boudoir photo session.  What is a boudoir session, one may ask?  It is a photo session, in which you are posed by a professional photographer, wearing pretty lingerie.  Often, professional hair styling and makeup are also included in a boudoir session.  This photo session may take place in a photography studio, hotel room, or one’s own home.  Sometimes photos are taken in outdoor, urban, or unexpected, non-traditional settings.  The photos are then often given to your future spouse as a gift before the wedding, or as an anniversary gift.

That’s the basic definition of boudoir photography.  

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But it is so much more than that!  Photography is an art form, no question about it.  Boudoir photography is that same art form, elevated.  It is sensual, soft, cozy, romantic, lush.  It can also be edgy and raw, blatantly sexy, and badass.   As Patrick Swayze once said in a famous movie, “it’s a feeling, a heartbeat.”  Nothing could be more true about this artistic medium.  An experienced boudoir photographer can pose you in ways that will bring out curves that you never thought you had, and will show your inner goddess off to perfection.   It will leave you feeling glamorous, sexy, and empowered in a way that will keep you (and your significant other) smiling for years to come. 

So, what can you expect to happen during a boudoir session?  During your initial consultation with a boudoir photographer, you can discuss what you like to wear, whether it is lacy and daring, or soft and sweet.  Some of the best boudoir photos I have ever seen have been with the model in an oversized, slouchy sweater, with one bare shoulder, and a pair of warm and cozy socks that reach above the knee.  You may prefer to don the bridal undergarments that will be worn on your wedding day.  Add your veil for a soft, timeless romantic look.  If you or your intended are sports fans, why not go for a playful look with a favorite team jersey?  Perhaps you would prefer a button-down shirt and a tie for a classic, professional vibe.  Or would you like to go for an all-out bombshell look?  

The options are endless, as are the wardrobe choices.  Play around with different types of looks to see what complements your figure.  Don’t forget to consider the shoes, stockings, jewelry and other accessories that will complete your ensemble.  A few props can also enhance your photos, like an antique hand mirror, or a soft blanket that feels amazing against bare skin.   If you want to feel like a queen, by all means, bring along a tiara.  It’s your day!  Anything goes!

During your consultation, your photographer will also talk about posing, and how many settings and wardrobe changes you will utilize.  You will want to schedule your photo session a few months before your wedding or anniversary, so that your photographer has enough turn-around time for editing your photos, and to place your order for prints or an album.

It’s perfectly natural to feel a little bit nervous about an intimate photo session like this.  You will relax once the camera starts clicking, I promise.  If you would feel more comfortable with having a gal pal to accompany you to your session, definitely ask.  Perhaps they would like to participate in a session as well.  Always more fun!  Also, go easy on the alcohol and salty foods a few days prior to the photo shoot to prevent bloating.  Be sure to drink lots of water, to stay well hydrated, and set your skin to glowing.  Enjoy being pampered by a hair stylist and make up artist prior to your photo session.  This is your moment to shine, and revel in all of your womanly glory.

I highly encourage all women to schedule this type of photo session for themselves, at least once in their lives.  It doesn’t matter what age you are, or size.  All women are beautiful in their own unique shapes, and skin tones.  The overall experience is amazing, and one that you will never forget!  You will come away with quite the boost in self-confidence.  You will feel very empowered, and ready to take on the world, in this next chapter of your life.  

Enjoy!

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Shafonne Myers is a certified wedding and event planner who longed for bridal inspiration that looked like her. She has created a website and magazine that brings bridal inspiration to plus size brides. She does speaking engagements educating the world about plus size brides and self confidence.
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