The anticipation leading up to your wedding day is filled with excitement, nervousness, and a touch of magic. One of the decisions you will face is whether or not to have a "first look" before the ceremony. To help you decide, I've put together a list of some pros and cons!
To First Look
Emotional Connection: A first look allows you to share a private, intimate moment before the whirlwind of the day begins. This can be incredibly meaningful and can help calm any pre-wedding jitters.
Photography Opportunities: A first look provides ample time for the photographer to capture genuine, candid reactions from the couple. The lighting is usually better earlier in the day, which can result in stunning photographs.
Extended Celebration: Seeing each other early allows for more time together on your special day. It can create a more relaxed timeline, allowing you to enjoy each other's company, and potentially participate in pre-ceremony festivities.
Stress Reduction: A first look can alleviate some of the built-up anxiety that comes with the anticipation of seeing your partner for the first time at the altar. It can be a comforting and grounding experience.
More Flexibility with Schedule: The timeline of the day can be more flexible when you have a first look. This can be particularly beneficial if you have a tight schedule or if you're planning to have the ceremony and reception at different locations.
Not to First Look
Tradition and Suspense: For many couples, the moment when you first see each other at the altar is one of the most cherished and emotional parts of the ceremony. Opting for a first look means sacrificing some of that suspense.
Logistical Considerations: Coordinating a first look requires careful planning to ensure that both partners arrive at the designated location without seeing each other beforehand. This can add a layer of complexity to the already busy wedding day. (Unless you hire a planner aka Moi!)
Time Constraints: Some couples prefer to stick to a traditional timeline, which can limit the opportunity for a first look. This is especially true if you have a late afternoon or evening ceremony.
Less Emotional Impact: Some couples feel that having a first look diminishes the emotional impact of seeing each other at the altar. The moment may feel less spontaneous and less intense if you've already seen each other earlier in the day.
Limited Privacy: The first look often takes place with photographers and possibly videographers present. This can limit the privacy and intimacy of the moment, as you'll be sharing it with your wedding vendors.
Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to have a first look is deeply personal and should reflect your desires and preferences as a couple. Some may find that a first look enhances the emotional experience of their wedding day, while others may prefer the traditional surprise at the altar. There's no right or wrong choice, only what feels right for you!
Remember, your wedding day is a celebration of your unique love story, and however you choose to structure it, the most important thing is that it feels authentic and meaningful to both of you.
With love,
Leor
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