Pros and Cons of Doing a Bridal Session Before Your Wedding Day!

What Is a Bridal Session?

A bridal session is a photo shoot featuring just the bride in her wedding dress before the wedding day

Typically scheduled 1–3 months before the wedding

Often held at a scenic venue (Hill Country venues, gardens, ranches, or even the wedding venue itself)

A long-standing Southern wedding tradition—especially popular in Texas (and guess what amazing state we are in!)

Pros:

A Stress-Free Way to Wear Your Dress

No wedding-day timeline pressure

No guests waiting on you

Time to slow down and actually enjoy the experience

See how hair and makeup photograph in natural light

Confirm veil placement, jewelry, bouquet, and dress bustle

Great opportunity to adjust anything before the big day

Golden hour, sunset, or soft overcast lighting

Ability to move locations or reschedule for weather

More editorial, magazine-worthy imagesNo need to squeeze bridal portraits in between events

More time with your partner and guests on the wedding day

Helps the wedding day feel calmer and more intentional

Perfect for:

• Guest book
• Bridal portraits at the reception
• Gifts for parents or grandparents

A meaningful way to showcase your dress and details

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Cons of Doing a Bridal Session Before Your Wedding

Your Dress Will Need Extra Care

• Possibility of dirt, wrinkles, or minor wear (unless you are SUPER careful with a squad to hold your dress as you walk 😉
• Requires cleaning before the wedding day ( but hopefully not!)
• Best to avoid risky locations if you’re concerned

Weather Can Be Unpredictable

• Especially in Texas heat, wind, or rain
• May require flexibility or rescheduling
• Not ideal for brides on tight timelines

Not Every Bride Wants to See the Full Look Early

• Some brides prefer the full reveal on the wedding day
• Personal preference plays a big role here!

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Is a Bridal Session Right for You?

• You love portraits and details
• You want a calm, luxury experience
• You’re planning a full glam look
• You want more images without rushing the wedding day

Final Thoughts from your favorite Wedding Photographer

Bridal sessions aren’t required—but they are a beautiful bonus

They offer space, creativity, and confidence before the wedding day

When done right, they elevate the entire wedding experience

Are you looking for some amazing vendors to bring all of these to life? Here are a few of my favorites to add to your list for your bridal look!

hair and make up:

Viva La Glam: https://vivalaglam.com/

Hill Country Bridal Stylists: https://hillcountrybridalstylists.com/

Floral:

Blue Bonnet Fields Floral: https://bluebonnetevents.com/bluebonnet-fields-floral-design/

The Flower Guy: https://theflowerguysa.com/

Dress:

Brides by Elizabeth: https://bridesbyelizabeth.com/

Celebrations Bridal and Prom: https://www.celebrationsbridalandprom.com/

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