It's March. And with that comes the idea that spring is just around the corner and soon we'll be sliding right into summer. There's a lot of detailing happening here at the moment, including hashing out timelines for our couples who are getting married in 2016. I wanted to take a moment to discuss the "First Look" and outline exactly what this is and why it should be considered.
I am a big fan of holding on to traditions. I always direct my couples to talk about what traditional elements (if any) are important to them personally. Sometimes I find that as we go along in the decision making process we tend to plan things because that's how they are "supposed" to be or that's just always how we've seen it done. The option of having a first look comes up often and I try to really delve into the pros and cons so our Brides and Grooms are getting the most out of their day. So what exactly is the first look and how does it work?
Relic Photographic
The First Look - A "first look" breaks tradition in that the Bride and Groom are able to see each other privately before the wedding ceremony. Usually this takes place in a scenic location with just the Bride, Groom and photographer. There are many ways to do this and have fun with it! Sometimes we see blindfolds, or the Bride will walk up to the Groom from behind and tap him on the shoulder. There are a million ways to spin the moment. The "first look" happens when the couple see each other for the first time looking dapper and gorgeously gowned and fresh.
The Pros - I feel that the benefits of planning a first look far outweigh the cons! But remember, that is just my opinion. A first look usually happens in the early afternoon after everyone is dressed and styled wonderfully. Makeup and hair are fresh and everyone is looking their best. The Bride and Groom get to have this space in time completely to themselves and privately enjoy just being in the moment and seeing one another for the first time. Real quality time is able to happen and all of those things you want to say to one another are possible, because you've got plenty of time before walking down the aisle. There is also the ability to take this window of time for a couple's session with the photographer, and because their aren't any time constraints, usually we opt to have couples go somewhere extremely scenic and beautiful OR a location that is very meaningful to them. This also opens up the opportunity to capture all of the formal photos with the wedding party and family before the ceremony begins. Not having to take rushed formals after the ceremony is so extremely beneficial that I almost don't have enough words to describe it! Imagine that after your wedding ceremony the only thing you have to worry about is enjoying this wonderful celebration you're putting on with your guests and not taking hundreds of photos in marathon fashion!
Relic Photographic
The Cons - If you are uber traditional then this definitely isn't for you. It goes against some of the more concrete formalities of wedding traditions from the past. Another con is that you tend to have to start the day a bit earlier to ensure everyone is dressed and ready to go a couple of hours before the ceremony. Although, we don't find that most Brides or Grooms are interested in sleeping in on the day of their wedding as they are far too excited to get the festivities started! Aside from that, there really aren't any other mentionable cons to having a first look.
As I always state, consider all of your options and choose what suits you best. There is no right or wrong answer to how you want your wedding day structured! Being happy, comfortable and relaxed is all that matters.
Happy spring and happy planning lovelies!