At The Studio: The Sweetest Bridal Surprise
Written by photographer and friend, Kayla Griffin.
Credit for all of the photos featured in this post belong to Kayla Griffin Photo.
Wonderland Studios couldn’t have been a more perfect setting for this unforgettable moment. As a local photographer, I’m always excited when new locations come up, so when I got booked for a Bridal Getting Ready session, I was thrilled. But when I found out it was going to be at Wonderland Studios? I was over the moon.
This shoot is one I’ll remember for the rest of my life — not just because of the beautiful space, but because of the story behind it.
The bride, Jordan, had no idea I was coming. And to be honest, I had no idea she didn’t know I was coming either.
Jordan’s sister reached out to me over a month before the big day. She and the rest of the bridal party were coming in from out of town and had found me through Instagram — which meant so much to me. Trusting someone you’ve never met, based solely on their online presence and photography style, is such a huge compliment. I was already honored to be part of this moment.
When I arrived at Wonderland Studios, one of Jordan’s sweet bridesmaids greeted me with a handwritten note I was meant to give Jordan. That’s when I learned it was all a surprise. My heart was racing as I walked up the stairs.
Handing her that note — seeing her reaction, the emotion in her eyes — it honestly brought tears to mine.
It was such a special moment to witness, let alone capture.
The shoot itself quickly became one of my all-time favorites. Not only was the studio absolutely stunning, but I also got to spend the morning with an amazing group of women who kept me laughing the entire time. I swear, I laughed for three straight hours.
One of my favorite parts of being a photographer is the people I get to meet.
Building connections, helping people feel confident and comfortable in front of the camera — that’s the heart of what I do.
I left the session on such a high, I couldn’t wait to get home and start editing. I ended up delivering Jordan’s gallery that very same day (yes, really!). Her and her sister’s reactions completely made my week. Their words put the biggest smile on my face and reminded me why I love this job so much. I felt seen, appreciated, and trusted — and I could tell these photos truly meant the world to them.
Moments like this are why I do what I do. Being part of Jordan’s special day, capturing memories she’ll look back on forever — it’s a blessing I don’t take for granted.
Wonderland Studios had everything we needed to make this session unforgettable. I already can’t wait to shoot there again.
We’re so honored to play even the smallest part in Jordan’s special day :)
A big thank-you to Kayla for sharing her sweet surprise shoot story with us- be sure to give her a follow over on Instagram!
