When you are planning a wedding, you have so many decisions to make that sometimes you get bogged down in the details. Let me lay this one out for you so that you can make an informed decision pretty easily. Are you team “First Look” or No First Look”? And I will tell you my answer to this question at the end of this blog post. If I make it all the way to the end and you still can’t tell which way I would go, then I did my job well!
What is a first look?
The first look is typically when we set aside a little extra time for the bride and groom to see each other for the first time without anyone else around, except the photographers/videographers. We have had people let their parents watch for a few minutes and then the parents step out to give them privacy. As a photographer, I usually do the same. But, the goal is to have a few moments to catch your breath in the chaos of the day, to be together, calm nerves (if there are any), be excited to see each other, exchange gifts if you are going to do that, and just soak it in, because the rest of the day might be very hectic and busy…in the best way possible.
Imagine your day and what is important to you.
People do all different kinds of things on their wedding day. Some light unity candles, some pour sand, some stomp a glass, some throw plates. There are too many different things to mention here but they are all important and special in different cultures and to different people. Bringing two lives together is a big deal, and if it’s important enough, you will make time for it on your wedding day. Don’t let anyone else make the decision for you because it’s your day, and you need to be the one that is happy about the decision.
Think about your schedule.
A lot of people don’t really take into consideration their schedule for the wedding day when planning their wedding. There are a lot of things to fit into a certain amount of time. If you have a lot of time, and you know that your people are mostly on time to events, then don’t stress. Throw in a first look. It is a very special, meaningful time between you and your soon to be spouse. It’s usually just the two of you and the photographers/videographers and it can really help with nerves if that is an issue.
If you are short on time it’s going to be hard to fit in a first look that will be long enough to be something meaningful and special and give you the time you want, without rushing the 2 of you through the whole process.
What works best for photos?
Photos can be taken either way. If you are going to do a first look, the majority of your photos can be finished before the ceremony. However, you will still need some time afterward for a few. If you are not going to be seeing each other before the ceremony, you would need to take photos before the ceremony and photos after the ceremony. It’s really just preference. But you would have to make sure all the family and the wedding party know to stay after the ceremony because they would be needed for photos.
Is one way better than the other?
OK, before I answer, take a minute to guess what my answer will be to see if you get it right…
While traditional weddings where the bride and groom don’t see each other before the ceremony are sweet, the “first look” is SO much sweeter! You have a moment to yourselves before the chaos begins. You get to enjoy each other the rest of the day with your friends. You don’t have to feel these wedding day nerves on your own. In all honesty, it makes the day go by much more smoothly if the bride and groom see each other before the wedding, and I don’t think I would have it any other way! Don’t get me wrong, whatever the couple wants, the couple gets…this is just my honest opinion and 20 years of experience talking.
Did you get it right!? How do you feel about the “first look” at weddings? Is it something you have considered? Let us know below in the comments!
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