Many of my couples ask me whether or not they should have a first look. If you’re reading this, you’re probably wondering the same thing. In my professional opinion, they are an excellent idea. I love first looks. I know that they are a tad bit ‘untraditional,’ but let me take a minute to explain the benefits of a first look:” Your wedding day will be crazy busy. There is no getting around it. You have so much to do and so little time to do it. If you have a first look, it helps calm the day a bit. Instead of trying to rush around to get everyone together and have pictures taken between the wedding ceremony and reception while your guests are waiting, you’ll have time to relax and enjoy your guests without worrying about being late for your reception. We can do all the central portraits before the ceremony begins – at least the bride and groom and bridal party photos. This way, your hair and makeup are still perfect, as they were just finished. If your family is coming earlier, we can do their photos beforehand, as well, or we will only have to worry about those portraits after the ceremony and not the bridal party shots.

A first look gives you a unique, intimate moment with your new spouse. If you are nervous or stressed out, this will significantly help to relax you, and your spouse can comfort you and let you know it will all be OK. During the ceremony, many people are watching; you can’t fully enjoy it because everyone is staring at you. With a first look, that moment is just between you and your spouse (and me, of course). Even if you have a first look, your husband will be just as happy to see you walking down the aisle, and you’ll still take his breath away. Don’t worry that you’ll spoil the moment by seeing him before the ceremony.