Is a first look right for you?
We all know what your grandmother would say, "It's bad luck if your future spouse sees you before your wedding ceremony!" But is this time-honored, good-luck superstition still important to the modern-day couple? Well, to some it is and to some, it isn't. We've asked around and are here to present you with the pros + cons of doing a first look from industry experts.
First of all, we would like to let you know that at Poppy + Prim we take your wants + needs and bring them to life. You want a first look? You got it. Do you want us to carry a tent around you to ensure that not a soul gets a sneak peek of your beautiful self on your wedding day? We will make you our Hailey Bieber. No problem. We are the biggest advocates for our brides + guide them through the tedious planning process that in the end, makes them feel like a guest at their own wedding.
We are some pretty positive people, so let's start with the pros!
Nervous Bride
If you are a very high-strung, anxious person, we would strongly recommend a first look to ease your nerves before the wedding ceremony. The first look allows you to take a moment, just the two of you, and soak in the fact that you are about to commit a lifetime to each other.
Practicality
A first look is very practical. It allows the photographer to capture photos of the couple in natural lighting. That is key my friend. Ask any photographer. By getting those photos finished before the wedding, it limits the amount after the ceremony, which means you get to your reception sooner and your guests won't have to wait for hours.
Intimacy
Many people have the opinion that a first look will "spoil" the ceremony. Listen sis, the entire day is an emotional whirlwind. A first look does not mean that you won't have that moment seeing your partner's reaction when you walk down the aisle. In fact, your photographer will be able to capture the reaction of both of you at that moment, rather than separately from opposite ends of an aisle.
This is a private, intimate moment on a day that is fast-paced and scheduled down to the minute. On a day that is solely about the couple, there is minimal to no alone time. It's the sad truth. A first look gives you the opportunity to just be in the comfort of each other's presence (without hundreds of people watching).
But not everything is perfect, so here are the cons!
Tradition
If you have dreamed of seeing your partner's initial reaction when you walk down that aisle since you were a small child, do not change your mind because it's more efficient for the timeline or for your vendors. Last time we checked, this day is about you. The last thing we would want is for you to have any regrets on your big day. Be firm with what you want and speak up! Don't Force It
If a first look doesn't work with your timeline - don't force it! Whether you are not an early riser or don't have the time available at the venue, there is absolutely no pressure to have a first look. Rushing it will take away from the special moments and cause unneeded stress for everyone.
Expectations
There may be an expectation for one partner to react in a certain way that satisfies the other (jaw drop, crying, hand over mouth, etc.) These expectations can cause one to become very uncomfortable and you can definitely see that in the photos. The last thing you want on your wedding day is to be annoyed with your future spouse.
When deciding to do a first look or not, choose what feels best for YOU!
At the end of the day, it's your wedding and you need to stay true to yourself. Pick what feels most natural and what will make you and your partner the most comfortable.
When the wedding planning becomes stressful, remember that you are doing all of this because you are in love!
It also wouldn't hurt to book with Poppy + Prim!
At Poppy + Prim, we would love to make your wedding dreams a reality. We will take care of every detail from the beginning of your engagement until we send you down that aisle! Schedule a free consultation with us today.