Remember the old superstition that a groom seeing a bride in her dress before the wedding would doom the marriage? It doesn't seem to hold any weight anymore what with all the First Look videos we see on social media, but is it a good idea?
Let's take a peek at some of the pros and cons of a Fist Look.
Pros
You get to share a private moment before the ceremony.
It's hard to sleep the night before, and mornings prior to a wedding are usually a flurry of activity with little time to stop and appreciate the moment. By the time you're both primped and dressed, you may be a bundle of nerves. Taking a quiet second to just be with your partner before the ceremony and reception, can go a long way to helping you actually remember why you're doing this.
You can get some of your couple's portraits out of the way.
Pictures taken during your First Look can help cut down on portrait times after the ceremony. Depending on your setup, you might even be able to get a few family and wedding party portraits done. That means you can go straight to your reception after the ceremony, which means less time waiting for food to be served!
You can share a sweet moment with a parent, children, or friends before getting swept up in the day.
First Looks aren't just for you and your partner, there is also a great opportunity for one-on-one time with a parent, friend, or child. There's just something special about having that private moment to talk before the ceremony begins.
Cons
You have to find space in your timeline for it, which means you may need to get ready even earlier to be able to keep it in your schedule.
If you're having a single First Look, with minimal photos, this may require carving out a half-hour of your day. If you're having multiple First Looks and doing extensive portraits as well, get ready for at least an hour. For a ceremony slated for 2 pm, that means you need to have hair, makeup, and attire done before noon, and you may need your hair and makeup artist(s) on hand in case something smudges or falls. I'm not saying it's impractical, but it does require forethought and someone keeping time and order.
Finding Space for your First Look.
First Looks tend to take place in secluded areas so early-bird guests don't get a peek. It also needs to be a space that is not currently being decorated or being used in some way. Depending on the venue and weather, this might be quite difficult.
Breaks some of the "magic" of seeing each other in the ceremony space for the first time.
Sort of a personal preference here, and less of a con. Also, getting caught by early guests can be a bummer.
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