Ahh, the “First Look Debate”. A first look is when the bride and groom coordinate a time to see each other before the actual ceremony. This modern idea is at the heart of many contemporary vs. traditional wedding discussions. While, admittedly, it’s not for all couples, the first look definitely does have it’s advantages. As the lead wedding photographer here at Carrie McGuire Photography, I feel as though it’s my responsibility to inform my brides of every option available to them. From a professional standpoint, I love when my brides decide to have a first look. It allows me to give them 40% more portraits on your wedding day. Happy brides make me happy!

From personal and professional experience, I can wholeheartedly attest to the fact that your wedding day will be one of the most emotionally charged, chaotic days of your life- in the best possible way, of course. Between your bridal brunch, hair, makeup, coordinating with your florist, confirming cake delivery and set-up location, questions from your caterer, final details, and the precious memories you will undoubtedly create with your bridal party, it’s very easy to get swept up in the rush of it all. On top of all of this, you have to make sure to check every corner, every room, to ensure your groom doesn’t accidentally glimpse a peek of you. When choosing to do a first look, this pressure is relieved. The chore of hiding is taken off your plate and you are given the rare opportunity of having one less thing to worry about on your big day.

For couples that do decide to go the “first look route”, I hear a overwhelmingly positive common response, time and time again. It’s such a special and precious moment the bride and groom get to share. Whether it be with the entire bridal party present, or an intimate encounter, the first look gives the bride and groom a kind of “pause button”, if you will. It allows the opportunity to focus on the beauty of the love you two share together, and nothing else, if just for a moment.

Again, the first look isn’t for every couple. All I ask is that you take the time to consider your full range of options. Wouldn’t it be wonderful to steal a few quiet moments alone? I can’t begin to express the raw beauty of the emotions I see through my lens when I get the opportunity to capture those memorable first looks. What a beautiful gift it is to be able to forever cherish those preciously fleeting first moments.