Should We See Each Other Before The Wedding Ceremony
December 14, 2023
It’s a major wedding day dilemma. Many couples grapple with this when planning their wedding: whether or not to see each other before the ceremony. Traditionally, it was considered bad luck for the couple to lay eyes on each other before saying their vows. However, times have changed, and more and more couples are opting for a “first look” (or at least a “first touch” on their wedding day.
Advantages Of Seeing Each Other
Seeing each other before the ceremony can have its advantages. One of the main benefits is the opportunity for private, intimate moments and genuine reactions. It allows the couple to share a special moment away from the eyes of their guests. This can be incredibly meaningful. It provides a chance to soak in the excitement. Couples can calm each other’s nerves and exchange personal messages.
Logistics Of Seeing Each Other
From a logistical standpoint, seeing each other before the ceremony also makes practical sense. It allows for more time for photography, as the formal portraits and couple’s portraits can be captured beforehand. After the ceremony, the couple can spend more time celebrating with their loved ones. They can also enjoy the reception. It also allows for a smoother timeline, as everyone involved can be ready and in place ahead of time.
The surprise and anticipation can make for an electric atmosphere, filled with suspense and excitement. Why not spend as much of your wedding day as possible together?
Time To Make The First Look Decision (Before The Wedding Ceremony)
Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to see each other before the ceremony is personal. It should be based on the couple’s values, preferences, and priorities. Each couple is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. What matters most is that the couple feels comfortable and that their decision reflects their vision for their wedding day.
At Kevin Lush Photography, I understand the importance of capturing the perfect moments on your wedding day. This includes whether you have a traditional walk down the aisle. It also includes a private, intimate first look. My experience capturing the raw emotions and special connections that make your wedding day truly unique gives me great joy!
So, should you see each other on your wedding day before the ceremony? The choice is yours. Whatever you decide, rest assured I will be there. I will capture the joy, love, and beauty of your special day. Check out more wedding day tips here. See what others at TheKnot.com are saying.
What Other Professional Photographers Say
The general consensus among wedding photographers is you should see each other before the wedding ceremony!
Why Have A Private First Look On Your Wedding Day
Benefits Of A First Look
Choosing to do a first look on your wedding day is a big decision. Should you do it? Should you wait until the ceremony? The choice is ultimately yours of course. I always appreciate when a wedding couples decide to have a private first look, and it really makes my wedding photography easier.
First, it relaxes the couples. When a couple sees each other early on in the day, their nerves are calmed. Many of the unknowns are gone.
Second, the couple gets to spend more time together. If the wedding is at 5 pm, the couple who doesn’t see each other will have at most 7 hours together. The couple who sees each other can have much more time. Maybe they do a first look at 1 PM. That gives them 11 hours to be together.
Third, it really opens the timeline for the day. More timeslot options become available for family and group photos. Although this may require family members to arrive a little early, it does allow the family the freedom to enjoy cocktail hour after the ceremony. We all know that everyone loves to enjoy cocktail hour at a wedding.
How To Convince Your Fiancee To Have A Private First Look
If you are in favor of a private first look, you can play the “if you really love me you’ll do this for me” card. Your fiancee may have a religious or traditional reason for wanting to do a ceremony first look. But maybe he or she needs a little nudge? Either way, your wedding day will be great!
Click here to see another great first-look resource I came across.
