Happy April friends!
It’s no secret our country (and the world) is going through some major changes right now. My heart is with all of the couples who’ve had to change their vision of their wedding day or postpone it altogether due to the virus. Things like this you can never predict. That being said, we will get through it a stronger nation, and because of that, those changes in plans for weddings, holidays, events and other cancellations we’ve had to endure will make us more grateful for them as they occur!
That’s why today I’m hoping to bring you some things to think about regarding your upcoming wedding as it relates to the first look. I’m hoping that while you are spending your time in quarantine, you can use these tips to your benefit and plan the perfect option for you.
First look: what is it?
A first look is an arranged time and place for you and your partner to see each other for the first time (before the ceremony) on your wedding day. Usually, your photographer and videographer help to arrange this and get you some seriously romantic shots of just the two of you before spending the day with your family and friends.
Why should you consider this?
Well, for one — the wedding day goes SO FAST. Before you know it, you’ll be dancing to your last dance, (and I will be collecting your personal items – favors, pictures, centerpieces, table numbers, etc.) and you’ll be off to your honeymoon. I like to counsel my couples on choosing a first look to provide them some private time with just the two of you to enjoy the moment and take everything in. This is basically your last moment before you become a married couple!!
Ian & Aubrey’s First Look!
Captured by Lauren Nievod Photography
It also allows for some beautiful photos – probably more photos than you would get without the first look, as your photographer has to schedule in time AFTER the ceremony to get all of the photos you could be getting during your first look. These may just be your best pictures of the day. Your makeup is fresh and well put together, the wedding dress is ready to show off, and suits are pressed and clean. Your florals also shine the best in the beginning of the day, which allows for beautiful detailed shots of them.
Another reason I suggest a first look to my clients is to help calm your nerves. Your wedding day will only happen once. Usually, even if you don’t THINK you’ll be nervous, you will be — it’s a big day! Professing your love in front of all of your family and friends with all eyes on you is a lot of pressure. Being able to see each other before the ceremony and spending 10-15 minutes just talking and calming each other and spending time being present in the moment and enjoying the few last minutes before you are married is a special, intimate moment that I truly recommend. The wedding day passes quickly, and it’s nice to be able to center yourselves as a couple before the celebration begins.
Quinne & Dan’s First Look!
Captured by Angela Laurienzo Photography
Last but certainly not least, your guests want to spend time with you, too! Knowing this going into your wedding day, you will be much less overwhelmed if you preserve a special time to bond with your new spouse on your wedding day. The first look allows this option with less impact to the timeline of events, creating a seamless transition from ceremony to reception without disrupting the event. Once married, your guests will want to congratulate you and enjoy the evening (or morning if you’re having a brunch wedding) with you. By having this special time before the ceremony, you will have ensured your time with your new spouse-to-be is scheduled in, instead of hoping for a couple minutes alone together after the ceremony!
Sandy & Kevin’s First Look!
Captured by Nathan Mitchell Photography
Of course, if you are a traditional couple and prefer to wait to see your spouse-to-be while walking down the aisle, there are certainly ways around this, too! You can incorporate a first touch or something like that to get some pictures of the two of you! It is your wedding and you make the rules! I just help plan them.
Jon & Kelly’s First Touch
Captured by Emma Weiss Photography
For more information on pros and cons and to get some help choosing the best option for you, give me a call! I’m happy to help you choose the right option for you.
Lexi
