New Wedding Traditions: First Look

Break away with the old custom and see the groom before the ceremony! We give you 5 reasons why you should do it.

That moment when the bride and groom first see each other for the first time on their wedding day is magical and bursting with emotions. Tradition says it should be at the ceremony and an old superstition suggests that the groom seeing the bride before this moment is a bad omen. However, “first look” photos taken before the ceremony are the latest wedding trend everyone is talking about. We encourage you to be brave and embrace this new custom!

Here's why…

1. The groom will admire your wedding day look even more!

There is something special about that moment when a groom sees his future wife approaching the altar in her beautiful wedding gown. According to tradition, it is considered bad luck to see her before the ceremony, but this old custom originates from the times when brides were considered as their fathers’ property and marriages were pre-arranged. Modern-day brides say that the “first look” before the ceremony is even more exciting because the groom is focused on you and your dress rather than on the formalities of the ceremony.

2. You will have an intimate moment before the ceremony

Just imagine the two of you away from the crowd, seeing each other in your wedding day outfits before the ceremony! It is yet another magical moment that will make your wedding day a day to remember, and it is potentially one of the most important moments because you will be able to spend some time alone while the rest of the day is dedicated to your friends and family.

3. You will be less stressed when the time comes to face the crowd

It can be nerve-racking  to stand in front of your guests at your wedding ceremony. All of your friends and family will be there, and some of them you probably haven’t seen in a while. And then there is the pressure of seeing your groom, and you will be wondering what is going on in his head and whether he likes what he sees… You will feel much more relaxed if you arrange to see each other beforehand.

4. Your photographer will take some amazing “first look” photos

This might just be the reason which will convince you to see your groom before the ceremony… First look photos can truly elevate your wedding photography. Your photographer will be able to catch the surprise and the outburst of emotions the moment you see each other. Your photographer can also capture seconds of anticipation before it happens and the happiness you will feel afterwards. Since this photo shoot is scheduled before the ceremony, the light will be perfect for making outdoor snaps, and this is especially convenient if you opted for an afternoon or evening wedding.

5. Go to your reception venue straight after the ceremony

If you arrange the “first look” before the ceremony, you will have more time to spend with your friends and family during cocktail hour at your reception. Once the ceremony is over, you will be ready to start having fun. You don’t have to run away to have your photo session, so just relax and indulge canapés and drink champagne!

Hannah Blackmore 2016

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