To see, or not to see?

Great question! Some brides and grooms aren’t sure whether they want to see each other before the wedding, or whether they want their first view of each other to be at the ceremony. Of course, this is completely a matter of preference, and as your photographer, I can accommodate whatever you choose!

When my husband and I were planning our wedding a few years ago, I thought that I wanted to wait until I was heading down the aisle to see my husband for the first time that day. That is, until I shot a wedding the summer before my own. At this wedding, the bride and groom wanted a few special minutes to themselves. Only the two photographers were in the sanctuary, and it was a very sweet moment. We then went on to take bridal party and family photos and relax before the wedding. I was sold.

At my own wedding about 10 months later, we did the very same thing. My husband Kevin and I planned to meet about 2 hours before our wedding. Since I’m quite a shy person in front of groups, I cherished the idea of seeing Kevin without a crush of people watching. Only our photographer was in the room with us, capturing the scene from a distance. Kevin and I were able to hold each other, talk, and enjoy a few minutes alone together on our wedding day. Then we took many of our formal photos with our families and bridal party, and finished in time to hide away and enjoy some food while guests were arriving. After the ceremony, we made a short detour for some fun wedding party photos, then proceeded to our reception. What a great day!

I’ve photographed weddings both ways – ones where brides & grooms see each other beforehand, and more traditional weddings where the first moment was reserved for the ceremony.

Some people prefer the convenience of taking most of their posed formals earlier in the day. Others choose to take as many shots as they can without the bride & groom actually seeing each other.

Christy & Brad spend a few minutes together as we all peek...

Kevin and I made the choice that best fit our personalities, and it was wonderful! Consider your own wishes, personalities, and vision for your wedding day, and make the choice that works best for you!

A sweet few moments between the bride & groom...