By
Bridal BOUDOIR
Every woman who’s walked into my studio has done so for her own reasons—to feel beautiful, to preserve a fleeting chapter, to surprise the person she loves most.
Whatever your reason, this page will walk you through the experience of bridal boudoir: how it works, how to prepare, and why it might just be one of the most empowering things you do before your wedding day.
Explore the Bridal Boudoir Lookbook
Bridal Boudoir That’s Just for You (and Maybe a Little for Them Too)
As a photographer, one of the greatest gifts I can offer is helping women see themselves the way the people who love them do—with tenderness, admiration and awe.
Bridal boudoir is more than a session—it’s a quiet pause in the midst of all the planning. As you prepare to join your life with someone else, this is a chance to honor the woman you are right now. Just you.
My hope is that these photos reflect your strength, softness and story—and that you return to them with love and pride.
If this speaks to you, I’d be honored to connect and explore what your session could look like. View my work and contact me here.
Why I Believe Every Bride Deserves This
A Note from Ashley
An Artful Celebration of You
The Real Reason Women Do this
This is for you first.
Boudoir can be a beautiful gift—but the biggest gift might be to yourself.
These photos are a time capsule: a way to remember how happy, alive and in love you felt during this season of life. You don’t need a reason or permission to celebrate yourself.
And if they get to unwrap that on your wedding day? That’s just a very lucky bonus.
These images will become a time capsule—of joy, confidence, and the woman you were in this beautiful, fleeting moment.
Your future self will thank you
This experience reminds you how incredible you are—so you walk into your wedding feeling grounded, glowing, and fully yourself.
Confidence is the best accessory
There’s a special radiance in this season of life—boudoir captures the love, anticipation, and quiet transformation that comes just before “I do.”
You’re in a once-in-a-lifetime glow
In the rush of wedding planning, a boudoir session offers a rare chance to slow down, reflect, and reconnect with yourself—before stepping into what’s next.
A pause in the whirlwind
The Unexpected Gift You Give Yourself
I have never felt more beautiful.
I cannot stop looking at these pictures and will cherish them for the rest of my life. These photos mean the world to me.
Your session should reflect your boundaries, energy and personality. Whether you want to keep things cozy or daring, your photographer should meet you there without pressure.
04. Communicate your comfort level clearly
Even a minimal look benefits from professional application. It's key to making sure you look and feel your best on camera.
03. Invest in hair and makeup
This gives you time for editing, image selection and any gifts or albums you may want to create. (Bonus: it’s a great break from wedding planning stress.)
02. Book at least 2–3 months before your wedding
Look for someone whose work resonates with your personal style—whether that’s romantic and soft, bold and fashion-forward, or natural and unposed. The best boudoir experiences are guided, supportive and emotionally safe.
01. Find a photographer who gets your vision
Planning a Bridal Boudoir Session? Here’s What You Need to Know, Wherever You Are
Boudoir is deeply personal. It's an experience designed to celebrate you, in a season that’s as transformative as it is beautiful. Whether you're considering a session here in my hometown of Chicago or looking for a photographer in your corner of the world, here are a few expert tips to help you plan with confidence.
How to Plan a Bridal Boudoir Session from Anywhere
Make sure your photographer offers a secure gallery and clear policies on how your images will be handled. If modesty or anonymity are important to you, say so upfront.
05. Ask about privacy + delivery
The Bridal Boudoir Lookbook
What to Wear for Bridal Boudoir: A Guide to Feeling Amazing in Front of the Camera
What to Wear: Your Bridal Boudoir Wardrobe Guide
You don’t need a suitcase full of lingerie to look amazing in your boudoir photos. The most important thing? Wearing what makes you feel confident, beautiful and like yourself.
This guide walks you through bridal-inspired looks, everyday pieces with a romantic twist, and a few outside-the-box ideas that photograph beautifully. Let’s build a wardrobe you’ll love.
Classic Bridal Looks
These pieces lean into soft, romantic, and timeless styles.
Lace Lingerie Sets
Bra + panty sets, garter belts or bustiers in ivory, champagne or soft pastel tones. High-waisted bottoms are universally flattering and add a vintage flair.
Sheer Robes
Layer over lingerie or wear on their own. Look for delicate fabrics like chiffon, lace or tulle—bonus if they have movement for photos.
Veils
A cathedral-length veil is pure magic in photos. It adds drama, movement, and a deeply bridal feeling. It doesn’t need to be your actual wedding veil—borrow or buy an inexpensive one for the shoot. This Amazon Veil is an Artistrie Co. Client favorite.
Heels or Wedding Shoes
Bring them if you love them, but don’t stress. Barefoot is just as beautiful.
These pieces lean into soft, romantic, and timeless styles.
Lace Lingerie Sets
Bra + panty sets, garter belts or bustiers in ivory, champagne or soft pastel tones. High-waisted bottoms are universally flattering and add a vintage flair.
Sheer Robes
Layer over lingerie or wear on their own. Look for delicate fabrics like chiffon, lace or tulle—bonus if they have movement for photos.
Veils
A cathedral-length veil is pure magic in photos. It adds drama, movement, and a deeply bridal feeling. It doesn’t need to be your actual wedding veil—borrow or buy an inexpensive one for the shoot. This Amazon Veil is an Artistrie Co. Client favorite.
Heels or Wedding Shoes
Bring them if you love them, but don’t stress. Barefoot is just as beautiful.
Soft & Romantic Staples
These pieces are effortless, cozy, and incredibly photogenic.
Bodysuits
Supportive, curve-hugging and beautiful on every body type. Try styles with lace, mesh or plunging necklines.
Oversized Button-Downs
Think: sheer white blouses, lightweight linen shirts or feminine pajama tops. Skip anything too structured or stiff—softness is key. Consider everyone's favorite boudoir button down shirt here.
Sweaters & Cardigans
A slouchy off-the-shoulder sweater over a simple set or bodysuit creates a cozy, just-rolled-out-of-bed feel.
Flowy Sheer Dresses
A little drama, a lot of beauty. These photograph like a dream when they catch the light.
These pieces are effortless, cozy, and incredibly photogenic.
Bodysuits
Supportive, curve-hugging and beautiful on every body type. Try styles with lace, mesh or plunging necklines.
Oversized Button-Downs
Think: sheer white blouses, lightweight linen shirts or feminine pajama tops. Skip anything too structured or stiff—softness is key. Consider everyone's favorite boudoir button down shirt here.
Sweaters & Cardigans
A slouchy off-the-shoulder sweater over a simple set or bodysuit creates a cozy, just-rolled-out-of-bed feel.
Flowy Sheer Dresses
A little drama, a lot of beauty. These photograph like a dream when they catch the light.
Elevated & Unexpected
Perfect if you want to mix in a little edge or high-fashion flair.
Blazers & Jackets
Try a fitted blazer worn open or paired with lingerie bottoms. Leather or denim jackets add contrast and personality. A trench coat = surprisingly sexy.
Silk Slip Dresses
A minimalist option that drapes beautifully and flatters with zero effort.
Jeans + Nothing Else
Yes, really. Topless in jeans, or jeans + bra, or white tee + undies—this can be striking and effortlessly sexy.
Bed Sheets
Simple. Timeless. Powerful. Nude undergarments help maintain modesty if desired.
Perfect if you want to mix in a little edge or high-fashion flair.
Blazers & Jackets
Try a fitted blazer worn open or paired with lingerie bottoms. Leather or denim jackets add contrast and personality. A trench coat = surprisingly sexy.
Silk Slip Dresses
A minimalist option that drapes beautifully and flatters with zero effort.
Jeans + Nothing Else
Yes, really. Topless in jeans, or jeans + bra, or white tee + undies—this can be striking and effortlessly sexy.
Bed Sheets
Simple. Timeless. Powerful. Nude undergarments help maintain modesty if desired.
Artistic Touches
These little extras add personality, intimacy, and emotion to your shoot.
Perfume Bottle
Bring the fragrance you’ll wear on your wedding day. A detail shot or spritzing moment can be beautiful.
Sentimental Jewelry
Your engagement ring, a family heirloom, or something with meaning.
Stockings, Gloves, or Hair Accessories
Vintage elements like pearl hairpins or satin gloves add sophistication and style.
These little extras add personality, intimacy, and emotion to your shoot.
Perfume Bottle
Bring the fragrance you’ll wear on your wedding day. A detail shot or spritzing moment can be beautiful.
Sentimental Jewelry
Your engagement ring, a family heirloom, or something with meaning.
Stockings, Gloves, or Hair Accessories
Vintage elements like pearl hairpins or satin gloves add sophistication and style.
Looking for inspiration? → View my Boudoir Wardrobe Pinterest Board
Ready to shop? → Visit my curated Amazon Boudoir Lingerie Storefront
Want to download my Boudoir Wardrobe & Preparation Guide? → It's coming soon. Stay tuned!
Wherever you are in the planning process, I’m here to help you feel confident every step of the way.
Everything You Need to Feel Prepared & Inspired
What to Expect From a Bridal Boudoir Session
Most of my clients have never done anything like this before and that’s exactly who I love working with. You don’t need to know how to pose, what to wear, or how to be “sexy.” I’ve got you.
Here’s how it all flows:
01. Hair & Makeup
You’ll arrive fresh-faced and we’ll begin with light, natural glam to help you feel polished and relaxed.
02. Wardrobe Review
Bring 3–6 outfit options, and we’ll go through everything together to choose the most flattering looks. I’ll help you style pieces you love.
03. The Shoot
I’ll guide you through every pose and expression, no experience needed. Expect a calm, fun vibe, with music playing and gentle direction every step of the way.
04. Afterward
You’ll receive a gallery of edited images within 3–4 weeks and I’ll help you design an heirloom album if you’re gifting your photos.
You may walk in a little nervous, but you’ll walk out feeling confident, proud and fully seen.
📍 Want to know more? View the FAQ.
Have Your Session
You'll come into the studio for a fully guided experience, complete with professional hair and makeup.
2 Months Before Wedding:
View Your Gallery
About 3–4 weeks after your session, you’ll receive your private online gallery to select your favorite images.
6-8 Weeks Before Wedding:
Design & Order Your Album
Once you've chosen your images, your custom album will be designed and sent to print. Albums typically take 4–6 weeks for production and delivery.
1 Week Before Wedding:
Wrap it, write a note, and prepare to surprise them
Your gift is ready. Whether you give it the morning of the wedding or on your honeymoon, it’s sure to be unforgettable.
When’s the Best Time to Book a Bridal Boudoir Session?
Timing is everything, especially when you want your boudoir images ready in time for your wedding.
Here's a helpful guide to stay on track:
How to Turn Your Boudoir Photos Into a Gift
A personal, unforgettable way to say “I love you.”
Your boudoir session is already a gift to yourself—documenting your beauty, confidence, and spirit in this once-in-a-lifetime moment. But it also makes an incredibly meaningful and romantic gift for your partner.
Here’s how to turn your photos into something they’ll never forget.
It’s the little things that make it feel magical:
+ Include a handwritten note or letter
+ Spritz the wrapping with your perfume
+ Add a copy of your vows or a lyric from your first dance
+ Wrap in a silk ribbon or tuck into a linen pouch
Tip: If you’re giving an album, leave a blank page at the end and write a note directly inside.
3. Add a Personal Touch
When to Give Your Gift:
+ Morning of your wedding
+ During your honeymoon
+ Rehearsal dinner night
+ Anniversary, birthday or just because
Make it personal, private and a little unexpected.
2. Pick the Perfect Moment
Album, Print Box, or Digital Slideshow
Most clients choose a handcrafted heirloom album—a keepsake that feels elevated and timeless. You can also opt for a custom print box with 10–20 favorite images or a private slideshow gallery.
Tip: Match the album aesthetic to your wedding—linen, velvet, or silk ribbon details are gorgeous and bridal.
1. Choose Your Format
Three Simple Steps to Create the Perfect Gift
What My Clients Are Saying
"The photos turned out so much better than I ever imagined. They made me see myself in a whole new light."
"If you’re on the fence, just do it! This was one of the best things I’ve ever done for myself—it’s an investment in self-love."
"Ashley has a true gift for capturing beauty in the most authentic way. Every image feels like art."
"The atmosphere was so comfortable and relaxed—better than I ever imagined. It felt like a day to celebrate myself!"
"Seeing my photos for the first time was incredible. I couldn’t believe how beautiful and confident I looked—it brought tears to my eyes."
"I was nervous at first, but Ashley made me feel completely at ease. By the end, I felt confident, radiant, and empowered."
"The vibes were fun and upbeat! I loved having my favorite music playing and feeling so pampered throughout the session."
"This experience was truly transformative. I walked in with nerves but left feeling like the best version of myself."
"I thought I would feel self-conscious, but Ashley's guidance made me feel comfortable and celebrated. It was an unforgettable experience."
Frequently asked questions
Have Questions about taking bridal boudoir photos? I’ve Got You. Click to expand.
What is Bridal Boudoir?
A bridal boudoir session is a photography experience for any bride who wishes to celebrate her body, self and sexuality while also creating an incredible wedding gift for her spouse.
I’m not a model—can I still do this?
Absolutely. In fact, most of my clients have never done anything like this before. You don’t need to know how to pose or have any experience in front of the camera. I’ll guide you through everything. The most important thing is that you show up as yourself. Confidence comes from feeling comfortable, and that’s my job to help create for you.
What should I wear for my session?
Do I have to get fully nude?
I’m feeling nervous. Is that normal?
How far in advance should I book?
Can I use these photos as a wedding gift?
For Chicago boudoir photoshoot requests, kindly complete the form below or email ashley@artistrieco.com. I'll be in touch with more information regarding pricing and availability within 48 hours, Mondays—Thursdays.
Request Information
I can't wait to chat with you and hear more about your vision for your photos!
While I review your details, I would love to learn more about YOU and what has inspired you to do a boudoir session.
I invite you to complete this Boudoir Questionnaire. Your thoughtful responses will help guide our upcoming conversation.
Expect an email soon to discuss availability, pricing and the overall experience in greater detail.
I look forward to connecting with you!
Thank you for Your Inquiry!
