Often times I try and tell my brides and grooms the advantages of seeing each other before the wedding. If the ceremony is in the evening, I try and communicate the importance of getting most of their pictures done before hand.
I thought it might be more beneficial to hear a story from an actual bride’s perspective. When I asked Audrey to share her opinion on having a “First Look”, she was more than happy to share. I hope this helps some of you soon-to-be- brides (and grooms) to keep an open mind to this option.
Here is what Audrey has to say along with some of the photos I was able to capture.
“Late last year my family recommended that I contact Sara Chapman to perform my engagement and wedding pictures. After seeing the finished product from the engagement shoot, I asked myself how did I get so lucky to come across a photographer that could envision exactly what I wanted and add her own creative flavor to jazz things up?
Our wedding photos were again outstanding. On our wedding day, Justin and I decided to take the majority of our photographs prior to the wedding ceremony. Turns out this was a genius idea for two reasons
(1) you don’t keep your guest waiting, and
(2) there is more intimate time for the bride and groom to say a few words before the ceremony.
Justin is a little old fashion when it comes to seeing the bride before the ceremony, but when we talked it over we both realized it was the perfect idea. If you’ve ever been to a wedding where there is an hour break between the ceremony and reception (where you just wait around), you understand why you don’t want to keep your guests waiting. So, when the ceremony was over we exited the venue, took maybe 15 additional minutes of photos, then went back inside to enjoy the reception. Our hungry guests really appreciated it! Not to mention, taking photos of the bridal party prior to the ceremony gives the bride more time to decide what photos she wants, instead of rushing during the window of time between the ceremony and reception.
Your wedding day is a BIG day! You’re excited, nervous, and on edge that something will go wrong. And, finally when the big day is here the ceremony and reception fly by. When Justin and I were able to see each other before the ceremony and have photographs taken of our first look, we were able to say “Hey. It’s me – and we are going to make it through this day!” Justin was able to look at my dress in detail without the rush of guests, and on lookers. And most importantly, a true first look was captured by Sara. In our photographs you can see Justin and I saying “Wow”!
First, I recommend Sara Chapman to the whole world. She has exceptional talent, is sweet spirited, and delivers a product that is priceless! Second, if you want a simple private moment with your groom, and don’t want to keep your guests waiting, the first look before the ceremony is the way to go.”
