Last year, I posted why I believe first looks are a good thing, but with a lot more weddings under my belt, I want to share why I believe first looks are AMAZING.
Wedding traditions are important. However, traditions that hinder the day should be replaced with new ones. One wedding day tradition says you should not see each other until the ceremony. However, as I do more and more weddings, I am finding this new, special and more personal tradition is replacing the old: That is the exchange of first looks.
When I bring up this topic at my consultations, I get some weird looks. After all, that’s a pretty small detail to be thinking about 8 months to a year in advance. However, it’s a decision that can affect many major things about your wedding day. I always share with couples that this is a decision completely up to you.
That being said, I have many reasons why I believe first looks are a great decision:

 Reason #1: It’s way more private than seeing each other while the bride is walking down the aisle. You can hug, talk, kiss, twirl, your groom can tell you how beautiful you look, you name it! This is all without hundreds of eyes all being on you.

Reason #2: You will have way more time, and feel way more relaxed. Getting portraits out of the way before the ceremony will allow ample time since your guests won’t be waiting on you.

Reason #3: A lot can happen on your wedding day. I’ve had several situations where if a bride and groom would have waited until after the ceremony to do portraits, we would have been limited to indoor portraits or even no portraits at all due to sickness and weather!

Reason #4: Your hair and makeup are FRESH! You will do your first look very shortly after getting ready, ensuring you are looking your best! No fly-aways, sweat, etc.

Despite these reasons, no matter what, grooms still react beautifully when they see their bride walk down the aisle. Whatever you choose, it’s the best of both worlds!