Last week on the blog, I talked about some reasons that you might want to have a first look (seeing your future spouse before the wedding). You can read all about that here. I promised that I’d come back this week and give you some reasons why you might NOT want to have a first look.

It’s no doubt that first looks are pretty trendy, and there are some very good reasons to do them in certain situations. But, I don’t think it’s fair to say that everyone should do them, or be forced into doing them.

1. Your timeline allows plenty of time after the ceremony for pictures. If you are getting married in the middle of the day, or early afternoon, and your reception starts later, there is probably plenty of time to fit in all the pictures of you and your spouse after the ceremony.
2. You or your spouse have strong beliefs about not seeing each other before.
3. You are traveling to photo locations after the ceremony that are closer to the reception. If you have your heart set on pictures in another location, and there is a drive involved, it probably makes sense logistically to do that after the ceremony on the way to the reception.

If you aren’t sure about whether you want to do a first look or not, talk to your photographer! Let him/her know what pictures are most important to you and let him/her guide you to a decision.

Looking for other tips for brides? Check out the “For Brides” section below!