( Part 1 | Part 2 | Part 3 | Part 4 )
Any of you that read or follow this little blog know that I love it when couples choose to have a First Look. In fact about 80% of my couple choose to have one at their wedding. This is where the bride and groom see each other before the ceremony. It give them some moments alone, and it also allows us to do most of the formal photography before the ceremony, allowing you to head straight into the reception and visit with your guests. Today we’ll tackle some of the “traditions” a First Look goes against.
1. It’s bad luck for the groom to see the bride on the wedding day.
This one came about back when brides were considered property of their fathers and marriages were arranged. Often the groom had NEVER seen the bride beforehand and if he caught a glimpse of her and did not like what he saw, the marriage was off. (Ouch) Thus it became “bad luck”. This is also where other traditions like the veil come from. (One more way of keeping the bride a secret) So, if you are nervous about him running at the sight of you, a First Look is probably not for you. :)
2. Many brides say “I really want him to have ‘that look’ when he sees me walking down the aisle.”
This sounds good in theory, but I can tell you from attending weddings for a living that often times all the groom is thinking as the bride walks down the aisle is… “Try not to pass out, try not to pass out, try not to pass out.” This is countered by the bride thinking, “Try not to trip on my dress, try not to trip on my dress, try not to trip on my dress.” (Did I mention there are also anywhere form 100-400 people staring at both of you?) Seeing each other alone before hand is a MUCH more natural and genuine interaction. This gives him a chance to say what he is thinking about how beautiful you look. It gives you a chance to tear up a bit and not feel like you are ruining your make up in front of the world. It gives both of you a chance to really reflect and just sit in the moment of your day. Believe me, he will say things to you then that you will never forget. Those minutes together may end up being your favorite part of the day. Then, when you do walk down the aisle you both still experience the realness of what’s happening, but the stress and anxiety has been removed.
Tomorrow we’ll take a look at some of the super cool added benefits you can only get by doing a First Look so be sure and come back!
