Come behind the scenes for Melissa’s couture bridal photoshoot! When it comes to all things fashion photography, I absolutely adore working with the incredibly talented Penny Ralene! Over the years, Penny has become more than just a vendor—she’s a great friend, collaborator, and honestly incredible artist. Our similar design aesthetics mean she always knows exactly what I’m looking for, often exceeding my expectations! Together, we’ve embarked on some truly special projects, and each time, Penny brings her A-game. I also appreciate her willingness to capture the spontaneous moments and be flexible.

This photoshoot was the very FIRST day utilizing the new Sarah Kolis studio!! We had to kick out the contractors working on final touches and said come back later! Moved in furniture and decor as needed and moved it right back out after the shoot. Seeing this space in action was truly a lifelong dream come true for me, and it confirmed that the layout design of the space actually did allow for such a shoot, a big goal of mine to be able to do in addition to my day-to-day bridal alterations appointments.

A couture photoshoot offers a unique opportunity to capture moments that might not be possible on the actual wedding day. Our main goal is to photograph the bride in her dream gown, a true one-of-a-kind piece. We also take the time to capture bridal portraits, providing a serene environment away from the hustle and bustle of the wedding day. This allows me, as the designer, to get all the shots I want without the time constraints of the big day (or being too bossy on the big day trying to get my desired shots!). This way, I can just leave the wedding day to be whatever photography the couple wants, as it should be! Hosting these photoshoots is always a highlight for me, and this particular day was no exception.

The Glam Team

To bring our vision to life, I enlisted the help of some of the best vendors in the industry. The day began with makeup by Danielle from DN Artistry and hair by Carleana from Hairpins & Happiness. Both went above and beyond to ensure Melissa and I loved our looks. Yes, I indulged in getting my hair and makeup done too—after all, this was a special shoot for my sister, and I wanted to enjoy the experience fully!

The Media Team

Penny arrived with her assistant, Astrid, and the work began. Alongside videographer Gabe from Ten Thirty Films, they set up the white paper backdrop and all their high-tech equipment, ensuring the lighting was perfect and made adjustments throughout the day as the sun moved. Melissa and I shared plenty of laughs as the team adjusted lights and captured what truly seemed like ghosts in the studio! It seems the team was ‘seeing things’ we were not! That’s why we hire experts! Their expertise and dedication were evident in every shot, making us feel well taken care of and confident that the photos would be nothing short of perfect.

For this shoot, Penny even brought in a second shooter, Astrid, to capture all the angles and behind-the-scenes moments. Astrid’s infectious laugh and ability to make everyone smile were responsible for much of the joy captured in the photos! We cannot think of Astrid without smiling! She was the MVP, bringing an energy that made the day even more fun.

We kicked off the photoshoot with the rehearsal dinner dress. Melissa, initially timid, quickly found her stride thanks to Penny’s guidance. Penny has a knack for capturing authentic moments, blending realness with old Hollywood glamour. Watching Melissa transform into a natural model reminded me of a fashion photoshoot we did together back in January 2023, which solidified Penny’s reputation for extraordinary fashion photography. Her posing is so unique and spontaneous!

Next, I donned my bridal shower dress, a creation I finished just days before the event. The experience was a delightful throwback to our previous shoot, with Danielle and Carleana making me feel beautiful and Penny capturing it all perfectly. Astrid’s laughter added to the joy of the moment, making the shoot a memorable one and helping us smile!!!

We continued with sisterly shots, bridal brunch looks, and even included the groom, Cam, for a few quick photos. Each outfit change brought a new favorite moment, with everyone involved bringing their best to the table.

Mother-of-the-bride Cynthia Kolis joined in, initially nervous but quickly finding her confidence with some nice twirls and throwing her jacket over her shoulder! This spontaneous pose with her tweed jacket became a highlight, capturing the contagious smile we all love, leading all the vendors to say “Do it again!”.

Meanwhile, Carleana prepared for the second bridal look, a hairstyle we had debated for weeks and honestly could not conclude on a decision between Melissa and I, but Carleana’s interpretation of our indecisiveness was spot on! Her confident approach led to a stunning, unique updo that Melissa absolutely adored.

Lunch, provided by Genetti’s, was a delicious break before diving back into the shoot. We enjoyed a sunny patio moment before resuming with Melissa’s bachelorette party dress and casual look. A spontaneous dance party, an outfit change into the bridal getting-ready robe, and a session on a vintage floral couch added to the day’s fun.

Finally, it was time for the bridal gown—a moment I had been eagerly anticipating. The gown, a vintage-inspired masterpiece, looked breathtaking on Melissa. Seeing her in the finished product, all dolled up, was a proud moment I’ll never forget. Penny even said “this gown has its own magical aura”.

Throughout the day, the camaraderie, laughter, and shared passion made the photoshoot an unforgettable experience. This day was about the gowns I made, a celebration of my work, and on May 11th, I would see Melissa not just as a model but as my beautiful sister marrying the love of her life. This photoshoot captured the essence of this whole experience for her and the joy of creating something truly special together. Thanks for joining us behind the scenes for Melissa’s couture bridal photoshoot! Stay tuned and follow along @Sarahkolisdesigns for more beautiful content!

Interested in your own Sarah Kolis couture gown?? Inquire here!

Sarah Kolis

Amazing vendor team:
Photographer @pennyralenephotography
Couture gown and veil @sarahkolisdesigns
Videographer @tenthirtyfilms
Hair @carleanadlc @hairpinsandhappiness
Makeup @dn_artistry
Florals @thebeautifulbloomdetroit