The Boudoir Equivalent to a "Spend The Night Bag" | Packing the Perfect Boudoir Bag
Is it the night before your boudoir shoot and you have no clue what you’re supposed to bring for the big day? Keep on reading to learn the must haves to pack in what we like to call your “spend the night bag.” Are you the type to pack four bags for a weekend trip or the type to throw a couple things in a backpack and call it a day? Whichever you are, we’ll tell you everything to bring and why! Now, let me be your guide.
Let’s start simple with the one or two looks you need to bring for your session. As you know, you are more than welcome to borrow looks from the extensive client closet in our studio, but we do ask that you have one or two looks! My number one recommendation is always going to be your favorite bra and panty set! Bring something that makes you feel so comfy, so sexy, so fine. Need to order something? Make sure to check out our lingerie buying guide! A simple set creates timeless photos and can even be worn under one of the fluffy robes we have in studio! Whether laid across a bed or posing upright wrapped in a sheet, a simple bra and pantie set will give you the relaxed look you’re going for.
Let’s say you can’t find that classic bra and panty set, then what? Well, how about a big oversized sweater? Your favorite jamies? Or that large t-shirt of your partners that you sleep in every single night! All of those bring the cozy vibes we are looking for and allows us to get photos from all different perspectives of you. There are so many vibes you can bring to a shoot and why not try a few of them out? Let's get that sexy bombshell and then transition to your sweet side. What does a comfy outfit look like for you? In my world it’s either my favorite sweats that accentuate my booty with a tank top! Bring what makes you feel like a cozy bad ass.
Now that we have the wardrobe pieces packed, let’s chat about the accessories. In the studio wardrobe there are a few options for jewelry to borrow, but make sure to pack the earrings, bracelets and sparkly things that make you feel delicious. There are no wrong answers when it comes to bobbles and it is better to be over packed. Also make sure you are packing any heels, boots or footwear you want to wear during your shoot. A high heel can spice up any outfit so bring those smutty heels you can’t walk in. We will put them to great use! Lastly, throw in any significant accessories that might personalize your sessions. If you are doing this as a wedding gift, bring your veil! Have a special tie your partner loves? Bring it. Have a piece of fabric that holds a special memory? Let’s include it. This is where you can get creative and spice up the session in a way that is genuine and authentic to you!
Ok, so we have the wardrobe and accessories knocked out, so let's talk about that glow. Hopefully you’ve already read the “Pre Shoot Do’s and Don'ts” blog but if you haven’t, make sure to read that next! Taking care of your skin before a shoot is so important! So when you moisturize the night before your shoot, throw all that stuff in your bag to have on hand at your session. Think lotion, chapstick, dry oil or anything that you use to keep you skin hydrated and glowing. Fun tip, applying chapstick about an hour before you apply lipstick (if you choose) will keep the color from cracking. Especially if you go with a matte lip. Moisturized and supple skins photographs really well so come prepared with all the goodies!
Cosmetics time! When you get to your shoot, hair and makeup will need to be photoshoot ready, but touch ups will for happen throughout the session. Not only are these sessions pretty long, but you also have to remember that we will be changing, trying lingerie on and moving about so it is bound to get a little messy. Most people have a to-go bag of makeup so bring that if you have it, otherwise think of the essentials like mascara, eyebrow pencils, foundation, concealer, blush, contour, lipstick etc. Anything that can move or get smudged needs to be in the bag. Better safe than sorry.
I also highly, highly endorse false lashes for your photoshoot. They add so much to your look on and off camera. I know that when I wear lashes, I feel like I can conquer the world. Don’t know how to apply lashes but you want to wear them for your shoot? Practice makes perfect. Buy a set or two of cheap false lashes and pull up a youtube tutorial! My favorite is, “False Eyelashes 101: Select, Apply, Remove, Clean” by Emily Noel. I usually skip to about 3min 30sec into the video. Just remember that if you are wearing false lashes, you HAVE TO BRING the glue with you. Those little guys can be super squirmy, so the glue is a safety precaution. That is a must have in your boudie bag.
Lastly, let’s chat about hair. If you are like me, I never know what to do with my hair. If you don’t want to think about any of this, you can for sure add hair and makeup with one of our preferred vendors. But if you’re doing your own hair, don’t forget your styling tools! Whether straight or curly, you’ll want to make sure you have everything you need for touch ups. Bring your favorite curling iron or straightener to maintain the look you want through your session. We play with hair a lot here and I am on board for that messy “bed head” look, but some people aren't. Toss some hair products in your bag for the finishing touches and you’re good to go!
My biggest tip: make a list of everything you need to pack. As you pack your bag, cross each item off the list and double check that you have everything! I also send you a welcome guide when you book your session, so make sure to read through that and pack the night before your session. A calm, cool and relaxed morning is the best way to prep for your shoot! If you have any additional questions email me at katelyn@katelynscott.com, I would be happy to help!
Embrace all bodies, especially the one you are in.
Love,
Samantha and Katelyn, the Embrace All Bodies team