Do you know what a bridal session is? Is it necessary? Would you want one? These are all questions that run through brides minds as they research wedding photography packages. A bridal session is with HOH is usually 60-90 minutes, often at the wedding venue, and is the perfect opportunity to photograph the bride in her wedding dress before the wedding day. Often times a large framed wall portrait or canvas of the bride is displayed on an easel at the wedding. Not only is it a southern tradition but it is a great opportunity for brides to do a hair and makeup trial. I also suggest that brides have their florist make a duplicate bouquet to use during the session. It’s the perfect time to see how your wedding day look comes together, and make any adjustments if you aren’t happy with jewelry, hair, makeup or even the flowers. More than anything, take a moment to breathe and relish the bridal feeling through the crazy wedding planning process.

Brittany met me at her wedding venue which is Separk Mansion in Gastonia. I always love photographing at Separk mansion but it is such a treat to be in the wedding venue when it is empty and full of morning light.

The florist is Pink Petunia located in Charlotte and made such a stunning bridal bouquet for us to use. The flowers were the perfect shades of blush, cream and just the right amount of greenery.

Brittany’s dress fit her like a glove and came from couture Bridal Store in the Ballantyne area and was altered by Jablonska Inc.

My two favorite locations at Separk Mansion are the amazing dramatic staircase and the checkered room as I refer to it. Both are such iconic bridal portrait locations, which would be very crowded on the actual wedding day.