Behind the Veil: Why Bridal Modelling Is Big Business

What, dear readers, is your most treasured memory? If you’re struggling to pinpoint your no.1 recollection, think about what your most important day might be in the future. It could be realising you’ve saved up enough money for a deposit on your first house. It could be a first family holiday, or a milestone birthday. Maybe it’s an offer of a job you’ve been eyeing up for years. These are life-defining moments, and we hope all our models achieve happiness that lives long in the memory.

But there might be one memory that trumps the others – marriage, of course. It’s “The Big Day”, the daddy of all days in the calendar, and one that demands the most organising. It’s a day that hundreds of photos and videos are taken, to be seen with fondness years after. A wedding is the ultimate celebration, and one that everyone anticipates for months.

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Not taking anything away from grooms (for they are essential, naturally), brides are usually the focal point of the entire day, from the morning make-up and hair to the show-stopping dress, from the ceremony to the post-wedding celebrations. Weddings really are the bride’s big day.

Weddings are also big business (anyone who has paid for one will certainly agree to this!). Professional photographers are worth their weight in gold, but they come at a price, as do florists and caterers. Wedding planners are ubiquitous leading up to the day, and hair stylists put the finishing touches to a bride’s ensemble. Then we have event / car hire, marquees, the evening DJ and the customary free first round of drinks. All these elements come together to make an unforgettable day, and very proud parents.

Bridal modelling is no different to a lot of types of modelling. Where there is a demand then bride modelling will always be required. Bride modelling may be classed as a niche market, but it’s extremely important nevertheless.

Weddings remain more popular in the spring and summer months, but there is a trend for winter weddings, meaning that the demand for bridal modelling is perennial. Winter months can take the term “white wedding” to new heights!

If you haven’t thought of bridal modelling, you could be missing out. Here are some tips to really stand out:

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  1. Though a time of joy and celebration, weddings can be tremendously nerve wracking. Brides need to see total confidence in models posing in wedding dresses; they need to (literally) place themselves in the model’s shoes and imagine what they’d look like before thinking about purchasing any wedding dresses. Therefore, models must ooze confidence at all times. Let the photographer lead the way, but don’t be shy.
  2. Be natural. Unless asked, wear minimal make-up and mascara. Real brides won’t forgo cosmetics on the day, but they won’t overdo it, either. Also, refrain from jewellery. Don’t worry too much about physical markings or tattoos, because the client should have looked at your portfolio and they will know your personal traits. You may be asked later to cover up any tattoos, but that should be asked in the job brief.
  3. Scan the internet for bridal companies and event planners in your local area. Enquire about potential openings for bridal models – after all, without them, they won’t be able to appeal to the discerning public. Another option is to ask to pose without pay (save expenses) so you can gain experience in a professional setting – and post on social media and your Models Direct portfolio.

We’d love to receive photos of same sex marriages, or photos of brides wearing dresses made from sustainable materials. Anything that stands out is a bonus, so don’t be a blushing bride and make it happen!