A "First Look" for those who are new to the term, simply means you see each other before the ceremony.
Are you undecided? Figuring out if a first look is right for you can be a daunting task! Traditionally, couples will not see each other until the actual ceremony, but it is becoming more and more popular for couples to do a first look. It is one topic that is highly talked about! Never ever will I force a first look upon my couples! It is ultimately your decision. (Heck, my fiance refuses to see me before I walk down the isle!) I am just here to help you make your decision and point a few things out that you might not have thought about!
I, for one, am a SUCKER for a good first look!! Seeing his reaction to you in your dress for the first time literally gets the waterworks started for me!
Here are some Pro's to doing a first look:
It Calms the Nerves
Some people get very nervous thinking about having to stand up in front of all their friends and family with all the attention on them. When you are able to see your other half before the ceremony, those nerves tend to dwindle away. I've literally seen a bride go from jittery and clammy from nerves to relaxed and excited just by seeing her fiance!
You can enjoy your Cocktail Hour
When doing a First Look, you can get almost all the photos out of the way before the ceremony! This gives you time to relax and enjoy and the delicious food with your guests! We will be able to knock out Full Bridal Party Portraits, Family Photos, and some Bride + Groom portraits all before you say I Do!
You can have that sunset ceremony you've been dreaming of
So many brides want that gorgeous sunset lit ceremony they've seen on Pinterest. When we are able to get all the Portraits done before the ceremony, it gives you more flexibility to plan your ceremony at the time you would like, without compromising natural light for Portraits.
Being able to freshen up before the ceremony
Are you a cryer? If you are, you'll be able retouch make-up, and freshen up before you walk down the Ceremony.
You'll have privacy
There aren't many moments during the wedding day that you two will have to yourself. You two will have a moment alone, together, with no one else. This time will be yours, and yours alone.
More Portrait Time
You will have more time. Period. Being able to have some portraits done of you two before the ceremony AND during sunset will give you so much variety in your Portraits.
Winter Weddings.
When having a wedding in the winter, the sun sets MUCH earlier! You'll be able to have all your Portraits done during sunlight hours, and have some more flexibility in your timeline.
I hope this helps you in making your decision!!