Is having a ‘First Look’ something to consider?
I’ll start by saying that having a first on your wedding day is not for everyone. Most couples prefer to take the more traditional option of seeing each other as the bride walks down the aisle. If you are the type of couple who want to try something a little bit different on your wedding day, then having a first look before the ceremony might be something to consider. Below I have outlined five reasons to consider having a first look on you wedding day. This beautiful ‘first look’ with Clara & Christoph at The Radisson Blu St. Helen’s Dublin should give you some inspiration.
1. The Nerves:
Let’s be honest, your wedding day is one of the biggest days of your life. After all, the organisation and planning has ended and the day has finally come, so it’s only natural to feel a bit nervous. Some couples decide on a first look to break the tension before the ceremony. It’s like that weight of anticipation gets lifted and the thought of the ceremony becomes less stressful. Grooms can get nervous about how they might react in front of a church full of people when they see the bride for the first time walking down the aisle. Having a first look can take the nerves away and replace them with happiness.
2. Amazing First Look photos:
Although it all sounds a bit staged, the moments that are captured during a first look can result in an out pouring of pure emotion. It starts with the suspense and the waiting as the groom tries, but usually fails, to hold it together. Then come the tears and raw emotion as the bride and groom finally make eye contact. Then you have a mixture of happiness and laughter as you both realise that the day is finally here. It’s a beautiful moment that you will never forget.
3. Alone time:
You’ve heard it so many times, that the day of a wedding can fly by. Having a first look will give you both the opportunity to share some precious alone time and create a unique personal moment to be together. Because it’s just the two of you sharing the experience you don’t have to hold back your emotions. Past brides have also told me that it doesn’t take away from the experience of walking down the aisle and that the first look actually helped them feel more calm.
4. More time to party with friends:
As a wedding photographer one of my main aims is to quickly get the couple back to the reception to enjoy the party with their family and friends. Deciding on a first look and having some photos taken before the ceremony means that you will have more time to meet your guests and enjoy the reception. This for me is what a wedding is all about.
5. Winter weddings:
If you are planning a winter wedding, having a first look is definitely something to consider. During the winter months the natural light can fade early. By having the first look before the ceremony it gives you the opportunity to get some beautiful photos in the natural light.
Click here to see the beautiful wedding of Maria & Peter at Mount Druid Weddings.