As well as each bride is unique- so should be each portrait session. It is much more a southern tradition to have a completed portrait of the bride for viewing at the reception, but it's become so popular brides across the world have determined it a wise investment.
Give yourself a good six weeks prior, but check with your photographer to ascertain how much time he/she needs to prepare a framed portrait (and please, never assume framing is included in the cost of a portrait). Try to plan ahead to give yourself time for a final fitting so the dress is at it's most comfortable for your "trial" run. You will learn a lot on the day of your bridal- such as, how comfortable your undergarments are, whether you like the shoes you selected, how cumbersome or surprisingly effortless it is to move in your dress. This is a great opportunity to make little changes which will enhance your comfort for the day of- after all, this is the most fun you will have in this ensemble without being nervous!
Make sure you wear all your accessory items the day of your bridal so you can get an idea of how they will look- you might determine you don't care for your jewelry or don't like the way your dress falls with the dream shoe Carrie wore in her wedding to Big.
It's a good idea to eat a bit of food, so you are energized and not feeling weak during the sitting. In advance of the day, look through wedding magazines and tear out photographs you like- it could just be the "feel" of the image, but be prepared to explain what it is that caused you to tear it out of the magazine (and please be realistic- if you are five foot tall and planning a session in studio, you are never going to appear six feet tall as you are riding a horse in an open field). The tear sheets will help the photographer to better understand your style and the mood you are shooting for.
If you are a drinker- today is the day to have a few drinks! Mimosa is an excellent choice- light, refreshing and full of sugar. Champagne is a popular drink as it is certainly a festive day for you and perhaps a chosen friend or family member. Try to take some time out for the balance of the day- have a fabulous lunch with friends or your fiance' after- it will really get his attention to see you in trial hair and make up for the big day!
Speaking of hair and make up- try hard to use the same artist for both your portrait session and the day of- you don't want any unpleasant surprises- but if you do dislike the work they do the day of your portrait session- do not hire them again! Tear sheets in this case are also a very good idea. Artists work well with visual representations of your ideas.
Bringing a friend or family member along to help is a great idea- don't depend on your photographer to manage you or the dress- they have their own set of priorities. Make certain you select someone who won't make you want to choke them or off yourself prior to the end of your session.
Be patient with your photographer- often times, their vision will not be realized to you until you see the imagery- I tell my brides and models- "the more uncomfortable you are, the better you look"- it's true right? High heels and push up bras are a great example of this!
Most important for the day of your bridal session- have fun, relax and enjoy.
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