Modern NJ Boudoir Stories: Kayla's Custom Wedding Album

This is an account of one woman's boudoir story. Names have been changed to protect privacy. Images used are not the images of the client.

Hi everyone. Boudoir photography has transformed over the years into a cherished experience, especially for brides-to-be. What was once simply about capturing intimate images has now become an event in itself. Many brides, like Kayla, see it as a special part of their wedding preparations, turning it into a memorable occasion.

Kayla approached her boudoir session with enthusiasm, seeing it as an opportunity to create a custom, high-end boudoir album as a wedding gift. Despite not being a regular fancy lingerie shopper, she embraced the experience, enjoying every moment of preparation. Her journey is a testament to how boudoir photography can be a delightful and empowering part of wedding planning.

Kayla had many questions leading up to her session, worried she might be bugging me, but she wasn't. I was more than happy to help. With the guidance and reassurance that bridal lingerie was optional, Kayla felt more at ease. She even brought a friend for moral support, adding to the fun and relaxed atmosphere of the shoot.

On the day of the session, Kayla's initial nerves quickly faded. She found the experience enjoyable and was thrilled with the final results. The process of selecting the perfect style and cover for her boudoir album was the cherry on top. The textured leather cover she chose was stunning, making her wedding gift a huge success.

Let's take a look at her story...

The Interview: Kayla's Boudoir Journey

Mike: Kayla, thanks for sharing your story. Can you start by telling us what inspired you to do a boudoir session?

Kayla: Of course! I wanted to create a special, personal gift for my soon-to-be husband. I thought a custom boudoir album would be perfect. I literally always wanted to do a session and this was a perfect reason, so I took the plunge. Plus, it sounded like such a fun experience. I'm not usually into fancy lingerie, but this gave me the perfect excuse to splurge a little. Until you start looking you have no idea this elaborate lingerie is all out there-- it was fun.

Mike: I know! There are companies making pretty high-end stuff, and if it gives you that boost during your session and you feel good-- why not! How did you feel leading up to the session?

Kayla: I was a mix of excitement and nerves! But it was fun keeping the session a secret. I ordered two lingerie items and was like, Ugh! He never opens my packages, but that day he would and he'd be like what's this all about? So I did ship things to my friends house--

Mike: Yes--

Kayla: --I took your advice on that. Good tip. It probably wouldn't have happened BUT you know your brain goes into that mode. But how many times did I text you, like 100? I kept thinking I was bugging you with all my questions, but you were so patient and reassuring.

Mike: LOL. It's fine.

Kayla: One tip for everyone doing a bridal session-- Knowing that bridal lingerie wasn’t a requirement really helped me relax. For some reason at first I thought everything had to be in white lingerie, which just wasn't how I saw my session. It was all about my preferences, which made it so much easier.

Mike: You mentioned bringing a friend along. How did that impact your experience?

Kayla: Having Stephanie there was great! She was my cheerleader and helped me feel more comfortable. It turned into a really fun girls' day out, which took away a lot of my initial nerves.

Mike: How did you feel during session?

Kayla: I was a bit nervous at first, but you made me feel so at ease. And you know, your natural hosting skills really make it easier. I'm not kidding you should be on a TV show--

Mike: --A TV show... hmmm. Now you got me thinking.

Kayla: You do a good job! I imagine all those nervous women you deal with. But the entire session was so much fun, and I ended up enjoying myself way more than I expected. --And oh, another bonus of having Stephanie there-- You remember that red strappy outfit? With all the straps?

Mike: Yes!

Kayla: It was so cute, but who could ever figure out how to get that thing on!! It was just straps and straps. It was hot AF-- and the bonus of having a friend along was Stephanie stepped it up on lingerie patrol. We went on the website and were looking at the pictures of the outfit and like hmmm... this strap goes here. This one covers your boob... That's why that took so long!!

Mike: Oh, no!

Kayla: I mean I loved it, but Pfew! who knew lingerie was so hard to master. It WAS my favorite from the session though. I loved those shots.

Mike: Tell us about the process of choosing your boudoir album.

Kayla: That was an adventure in itself! I know I'm so difficult. I spent days looking through different styles and covers. I love texture and fabric and really wanted something special. I finally settled on this amazing textured leather cover. It was absolutely stunning and perfect for the occasion. It's not easy!

Mike: I know!

Kayla: Was I bad?

Mike: No! I told you as we talked after the session picking photos was hard, and picking out a cover can be hard. People are worried about making a "wrong" choice-- but there's not a "wrong" or one "best" cover-- some people really struggle...

Kayla: Yeah, I just wanted it great. I probably sent you another 50 texts after the session. I know I drove you crazy. LOL. But we did it!

Mike: How did your husband react to the gift? Did you get to do the album reveal in the strappy outfit??? It wouldn't have stayed on long!

Kayla: I know! No. I kept changing my mind when I was going to do it. I decided to wait till my wedding night. He loved it! The album was a huge success. Seeing his reaction was priceless. One thing about that choice was I was so super exhausted by the end of the day. I had literally been up and on the go since like 4:30AM... and by 11PM I was deliriously tired, but that's OK. The day was great.

I'm so glad I decided to do this. It turned out to be such a special and memorable part of our wedding. I see an anniversary gift in my future!

Conclusion

Kayla's story is a beautiful example of how boudoir photography can enhance the wedding experience. It's not just about the photos; it's about the journey and the memories created along the way. For New Jersey brides like Kayla, it becomes a cherished part of their wedding preparations, adding a touch of personal magic to their big day. Boudoir photography continues to offer unique opportunities for self-expression and celebration, making it a perfect gift for any occasion.

If you're in the Ocean County, NJ area and making a custom wedding boudoir album sounds like fun to you, reach out to me on my Contact Page and we get started on your adventure!