Hi guys,
I’ve been giving you guys some of my best tips recently in blogs about everything from getting wedding photos you’ll actually cherish to my top tips for making your wedding day run smoothly. You’ve probably seen so many headlines on wedding magazines and searching through Pinterest, that it can seem like tips and tricks are coming at you from all angles. So I decided to give you guys a blog with only one tip. It’s my #1 wedding tip, and if you read no other advice, that’s totally ok! But I would definitely take into consideration my #1 wedding tip, because no matter what your wedding day looks like, this tip is going to help you.
So, are you ready to hear what my #1 wedding tip is?
It is to have a first look on your wedding day! I truly believe that this is the top tip that all couples should consider, because ultimately it blends into having an overall great wedding day. So let’s dive into what makes this my top tip.
First off, almost every professional wedding photographer will tell you that having a first look is a must for a smooth photo timeline. I completely agree with that! The main reason is that with a first look, you are taking the majority of your formal photos before the ceremony. That means that after the ceremony, you can get to the party much faster! With a first look, we are going to get your bridal portraits and bridal party photos done before the ceremony. We can even do family photos beforehand if you’d like! That gives you so much more time to unwind and enjoy your reception. You won’t have to be stressed about getting all the photos you want after the ceremony. Or racing against the sun going down, or having a later dinner than you’d like.
However, there are plenty of other reasons to have a first look aside from having a great photo timeline.
A huge reason to have a first look is because it will give you and your almost-spouse much more time together. If you think about it, you spend so much time, money, and effort on this wedding day. Without a first look, you really only get to see each other in the evening after the ceremony! Where is the fun in that? With a first look, you get to see each other much earlier in the day and actually get some private one-on-one time together. This time is precious before the true hustle and bustle of your wedding day sets in. You get to be with your person much earlier in the day. You can even shake off those nerves before walking down the aisle. Then after the ceremony, you will be able to get to the party much faster and have more time to focus on celebrating with your friends and family!
Finally, I love first looks because it gives you a moment to truly relax and soak in this huge moment. I talked about it a bit above, but your wedding day will truly fly by and it will be so busy! You are the center of attention on your wedding day and everyone will want to talk with the happy couple. Having a first look lets you both have a moment alone to really think “Holy cow, we are doing this.” It’s an incredibly special moment that I’ve had the privilege of photographing over and over.
So there you have it! My #1 wedding tip is to have a first look. I believe you’ll love your wedding day even more if you follow along with just this one tip.
-Liz
