Jyasmin knew I was coming to her bridal shower — what she didn’t know was that my camera was coming with me. I wanted to surprise her by photographing the day and giving her a full gallery of a celebration that so much thought had gone into.
Her uncle’s backyard was completely transformed for the shower, with a draped backdrop beside the pool, garden umbrellas over the lounge seating, string lights overhead, and her personalized “Jyasmin’s, Officially Laced in Love” sign tying everything together. Jyasmin came out in her white gown carrying a lace parasol, and from there, we spent the afternoon capturing a mix of portraits and everything happening around her.
Her mom and sister had put so much into making the day special, down to the smallest details. Her best friends were there celebrating with her, and they even created a custom Bridal Jeopardy game that had everyone sharing stories from Jyasmin’s childhood, her upbringing, and memories from over the years.
Between the “Mrs.” hanger for her gown, gold and marigold cupcakes, white roses, and little touches inspired by her upcoming wedding in Egypt, there was so much to photograph. Her fiancé also surprised her during the shower, showing up with a bouquet of red roses — and her reaction made the moment even better.
Jyasmin will be getting married in Egypt on October 8th, and I loved that pieces of what’s ahead for her were woven into the celebration.
This is what I want an event gallery to feel like. Of course we made time for portraits, but some of my favorite photographs came from everything happening in between — laughing with her friends, moments with her mom and sister, the games, the surprises, and all of the little interactions she may not have even noticed while they were happening.
If you’re planning a bridal shower, engagement party, or special celebration, I photograph the day as it actually unfolds while still making sure you walk away with the portraits and details you want.
Congratulations, Jyasmin. Next stop: Egypt. 🤍
