As the hopeless romantic who loves the imagery of the groom seeing his bride for the first time when she’s walking down the aisle toward him, I’d say no. However, we chose this path and looking back, I kind of wish we had done the ‘first look’ pictures and would encourage most couples to do it too. Here’s why…
We went the route of hopeless romantic and while that moment was amazing. He’s my best friend and of anyone I could have seen before we got up in front of EVERYBODY was him. I remember moments before the wedding, I was sitting in my aunt’s van, alone, and panicking. I am an introvert and struggle with a touch of social anxiety so being the center of attention was the ultimate nerve rocking situation. My coordinator came and got me from the van and I felt weak and anxious beyond belief. My dad greeted me at the door and put his arm out, we turned the corner, my eyes locked on Tyler’s and I was fine. While that speaks volumes to his calming effect on me, I think I could have avoided all of that had I seen him beforehand.
This day is a big deal. Ideally it’s the first day of forever for you two. Superstition aside, there is only benefit in coming together before the ceremony to center yourselves as a couple.
Now, let’s talk photos. You’d think that photo would be amazing and he looked spot on but for whatever reason I was mirroring his facial expression like a ding dong, and it didn’t look right.
Image by Margaret Jacobsen
I can’t help but wonder if we had done ‘first look’ picture if we’d have some great photos of the two of us. Not to mention our post ceremony photos got cut short due to some friendly heckling and we ended up rescheduling pictures of the two of us which wasn’t the easiest to schedule and I was way more nervous about having a camera in my face that day.
There are a lot of ways to do a first look, it can have all the wonder and anticipation of seeing each other for the first time walking down the aisle without the added nerves of everyone's eyes on you, and most importantly it can be just you two.
At the end of the day, do what feels right, and take advantage of all picture taking opportunities.
Until next time!
Xx, Bethany