Nowadays there are a million and one resources to help guide brides-to-be – from beauty tips to bridal gifts; from rentals to runway looks. But after one of our colleagues confessed to having a tough time finding tips before her engagement photo shoot, we decided to tackle the question ourselves! We went straight to the experts and asked fashion guru Kelley Heuisler, owner of Poppy & Stella and Babe. (a boutique), and wedding photographer Meaghan Elliott to see what is most important to keep in mind when preparing for your first photo opp:
First and foremost, it is key to choose an outfit you are comfortable in and know works, “You will wear that confidence in your photos!” Meaghan says. Meaghan advises to tackle your look first before moving on to your other half, “consider a color palette with 3-4 colors, and tie his outfit with yours by having a splash of 1-2 of those colors in his outfit.” Try to avoid being too perfectly matched – you still want to each look like yourselves!
For those girls who are planning to wear a dress, Kelley says keeping the dress “classic yet consistent with the bride-to-be’s individual style” works best. Just remember to choose a dress that won’t compete for attention and take away from the moment you are sharing with your fiancé. Kelley thinks choosing a dress in a solid color is optimal; patterns are ok as long as they are subtle.
But since this is a special occasion, shouldn’t there be some glam? Kelley suggests wearing a pair of fun pumps for your pictures, “something that stands out but is still comfortable enough to walk around in . . . colorful pumps, fun wedges, even great cowboy boots can make a statement about the bride-to-be’s style while adding something extra to the shoot.” Accessories are another great way to add expression into your pictures, “a chunky necklace or a pretty stack of bangles can bring some color to the outfit but also be taken off or changed for a different look mid-shoot,” Kelley says. Meaghan agrees – “accessories are a must . . . they can add a lot of personality to your look and also give you something to do with your hands in photos.” Kelley styled this outfit as an example:
- Dress by Alythea ($52), Naya shoes ($168) and beaded statement necklace ($49) at Poppy & Stella.
Keep in mind a few different looks that work for your photo shoot. Meaghan usually suggests her clients choose three outfit changes because after all “variety is the spice of life!” Most importantly, remember to smile and have fun.
