Thursday's Thoughts | The First Look

I love reading and writing blogs, which is why I choose to keep one for my business and continue to update it semi-often.  I yearn to write more about photography and wedding-related topics, personal posts, and fun things as opposed to just sessions.  So I created Thursday's Thoughts.  My goal is to update my blog with non-session posts on Thursdays to create a conversation about something...anything..that's been on my mind.

Today I want to discuss First Looks.  This is a rather controversial topic among brides and grooms (and sometimes their parents).  When I ask a couple if this is something they are planning on doing, most times it's an immediate yes or no.  And, usually, the no comes from the groom.  I think it is ingrained in our heads to see the bride for the first time when she's walking down the aisle.

It's important to realize that there is no right or wrong answer when deciding to do a First Look.  Couples who decide to do it, do so for a variety of reasons:

• Time.  Time is a rare thing on a wedding day and even when you think you have more than enough, you never will.  Some couples opt to do a First Look to save the time their guests are waiting after the ceremony.
• Cocktail Hour.  Some brides and grooms want to join the party early and mingle with their guests during the cocktail hour.
• The moment.  It's true, when your groom sees you for the first time walking down the aisle you can't have that private moment.  You won't be able to wipe his tears and hear him say how beautiful you look.  Having a moment for just the two of you on your wedding day is hard to come by.  
• The pictures.  Some couples just like having those photos for their album and feel it completes the story of their day.

There is really only one reason not to do a First Look: 

• Tradition.  A lot of couples envision seeing each other for the first time on their wedding day when the church doors open and there is the love of your life waiting at the opposite end of the aisle.  Of course there is the superstition of seeing each other before the wedding = bad luck.  But, let's be honest, seeing each other before the wedding is no worse than a black cat crossing your path before you walk into the church.  That's just silly and definitely NOT the reason to forgo a First Look.  If tradition is your thing, stick with it and wait for that big moment that you dreamed of your whole life.  It will be worth it.

If you opt for the traditional route, there is an option to still feel close before the big moment.  Some couples stand on opposite sides of a doorway or wall, holding hands soaking it all in or reading letters from each other.  This can be the best of both worlds; you still have that private moment (and get a cute photo!), but don't have to break your tradition.

No matter the option your choose, make sure to discuss it and ensure you both feel comfortable with the reasons you decided to or not to do a First Look.  I'm completely impartial and always work with my couples on a timeline that will suit their choices and beliefs.  Don't forget, the most important part of your wedding day is the moment you say "I Do" and vow to spend the rest of your days together. :)