First Look or No First Look?

A first look is a newer tradition in the wedding world. In the olden days, seeing the bride before the ceremony was considered 'bad luck'. Thankfully, we have migrated to a more contemporary response to this and couples all around the world are taking part in a first look. There is no written rhyme or reason as to why/when/how this began, but couples are often torn between the two. Here are a few pros and cons of a first look and then you can decide if it is for you or not!

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PRO: As mentioned, it can help your wedding day timeline flow a little better. You will get all of your couple photos out of the way so then after the ceremony you can focus on bridal party and family photos. This will shorten the time that your guests are waiting for the reception to begin.

CON: It's not traditional. Some couples want to stick with a more traditional wedding experience and this is just simply not the way to go. There is nothing like seeing the raw emotion on a groom's face like seeing his bride for the first time! Remember, it's your day and whatever you want is how it will be.

PRO: It's more intimate for you and your soon-to-be. It gives you two time to be together and calm any nerves you may have before the ceremony.

CON: Having a first look may either delay the ceremony or cut into your getting ready time. Photographers know what they're doing and have likely perfected the timing of a first look and photos, however, tears will be shed so you may need to freshen up and they do not want to rush your time together so it's really hard to time out a first look.

PRO: It will allow you to give your soon-to-be a gift or exchange letters to one another before the ceremony rather than having someone in your bridal party deliver whatever it may be.

CON: Foregoing the first look allows time before the reception to be together as a newly married couple. This time together after the ceremony is precious. It allows you time to soak it in and be alone together for the first time as a married couple. If you choose a first look then it's likely you'll jump right into bridal party and family photos after the ceremony. Most photographers will help you find an escape route so you can have a few moments together but it's not for very long.

PRO: The photos. Looking back on your photos of your first look your will see such pure and raw emotion. There's nothing quite like it.

CON: A first look will take away the shock value of your partner seeing you for the first time across the aisle. These are also such pure photos but since they've already seen you, the emotions might not be as magnified.

So, whether you choose a modern first look or want to be more traditional, you're big day will be amazing either way. We hope you find this helpful and remember, there's no right or wrong way! Cheers!