Why you should consider a first look

This is a topic I LOVE. Before we dive in- let’s start with the basics. What is a first look? First looks are a more modern approach to seeing each other for the first time on your wedding day. It is a private meeting that happens before the wedding ceremony between the bride and groom. Because they are “untraditional” a lot of couples, and families feel strongly against them. But they are often dismissed before truly investigating why.

I am planning my own wedding and when I let everyone know that the ceremony time was 6 pm the initial reaction from my future in-laws was “Oh- well I guess you won’t be spending a lot of time with each other all day.” Cue awkward silence. I looked over at Ryan- he didn’t speak. LOL!!!

“Well about that…” I said as I explained to them that we would indeed be seeing each other before the ceremony on our wedding day. And guess what?! IT WAS OKAY.

Actually- everything will be better than okay because none of that really matters!

And Brides- I HEAR YOU! From both a professional standpoint and because I am right there with you! We have all imagined standing in the back of the church, the music begins and everyone falls silent as the doors swing open, and your fiance is standing at the end of it grinning from ear-to-ear or sobbing because this is the moment you have been waiting for all of your life. If this is the moment you have been waiting for then absolutely stick with this tradition. For Groom’s there is a lot of pressure built into this moment.

But what if I told you that a first look lets you spend more time together on your wedding day? And that when you walk up to your groom he can embrace you, hug you and kiss you however he chooses because this is the most intimate moment you will have all day. You two. Alone. Soaking it all in. Sometimes THIS is the biggest and best reaction because you can be yourselves and there isn’t an audience or ceremony regulations. After this moment there is just this giddy excitement as the nerves fade, your bridal party joins you, and you can all celebrate together.

A first look also allows more time for portraits. You have the opportunity to spend time getting creative and visit other locations or walk around the venue without the time time hanging over your head. If have a lot of portraits and a variety is important to you then absolutely consider having a first look!

I am not sharing this to make any one feel bad about their decision!! I just love the sweet intimate moments and benefits over and over again! I will never pressure any of my couples to have a first look but it is my job to share the benefits. If you are having a winter wedding though, I would strongly encourage a first look if your ceremony will not be over until after sunset.

 

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