Should the groom see the bride before the ceremony on
their wedding day, or will it mean bad luck? All superstition aside, many
couples are forgoing the tradition of avoiding each other before the wedding
and instead choosing to capture the moment on video and in photographs. Often
called “The First Look” or “The First Glance” reveal, this alternative gives a
couple time to connect emotionally before the whirlwind of their wedding day
begins, and ensures ample photography time for fantastic images.
The Tradition: The idea
that the groom should withhold from seeing the bride before the ceremony dates
back to when arranged marriages were typical. This custom developed during a
time when a groom often met his bride for the first time on their wedding day,
and it was feared that if the groom didn’t like the physical appearance of his
bride, he might not show up for the ceremony.
Even a woman who is not superstitious may have long
cherished the idea of an “Aisle Reveal” – the moment when the groom sees her as
a bride for the first time at the end of the aisle. Many couples will employ a
second photographer to capture the reaction of both the bride and the groom.
The First look isn't right for everyone, but if you are open to it, there are
many advantages to taking this route.
The Twist: For
couples who value their photos and video highly, the First Look provides extra
time to capture great images, and can be done in a way that is equally
memorable and romantic as the traditional Aisle Reveal. The couple can enjoy
one-on-one time before the ceremony, and accomplishing formal photos early can
diminish the stress of the day. Houses of worship will often restrict the
photo/video team from the altar area in the front of the church, which can make
getting a first-reaction shot of the groom difficult. The First Look reveal is
the perfect solution for restrictive ceremony locations. Also, Jewish couples
traditionally see each other prior to the ceremony for the Ketubah signing, and
planning a First Look adds an element of romance to moment.
Making it Memorable: When the
groom sees his bride for the first time in all of her glory, the moment should
be a special one and documented accordingly. In many cases, the groom will have
his back to the bride as she approaches, then turn to see his wife-to-be. Some
grooms opt to be blindfolded to add an element of fun to the reveal. This is an
emotional way to keep the traditional surprise, and yet maximize your time.
You can also keep the element of walking down the aisle
when doing your First Look at the ceremony location. Before the ceremony, the
groom stands at the altar with his back to the aisle as the bride prepares to
walk toward him. Close family members can be invited to witness the reveal
while sitting in the pews. Once the bride reaches the groom, she taps him on
the shoulder, he turns, and the moment is captured on film. One bride with whom
I worked wore one gown for the First Look, and then surprised her husband by
wearing another for the ceremony. Other options include having a groom stand
behind a door which the bride then opens, or to have the bride concealed behind
a curtain. One bride wanted to pop out of a box to surprise her husband-to-be!
Whichever route you choose; the moment you see your
beloved for the first time on your wedding day will be amazing -- no matter
where or when it takes place.
