First off, I’d like to go on record by saying that there is no right decision. Everyone is different, and I strongly believe that your wedding should reflect your character and personality.

But, as a photographer and as someone who has seen the in’s and out’s of numerous weddings, here are a few reasons to consider seeing each other for the first time prior to the ceremony.

1. You will still get the aisle experience. Most of my bride’s concern is losing the “wow factor” of her groom viewing her for the first time as she walks down the aisle. However, that magic in the moment isn’t lost. You’re about to get MARRIED; that moment is HUGE. Whether he’s seen you in your dress or not has nothing to do with the magic of the moment. You’re about to walk back united with the other person. You will still feel the moment, and the emotion will be there no matter what.
2. Nerves. The majority of my brides are extremely nervous and anxious up until the moment they see their loved one, and the butterflies all immediately go away. This applies regardless of whether that moment was at the alter, or a couple of hours before the ceremony. You finally have your other half by your side, and you can begin processing the day with them.
3. Enjoy the moment alone together. Think of it this way, if you see each other for the first time at the end of the aisle, you can’t embrace each other, let alone talk to your loved one. OR, you can set up a private, romantic moment that you two can share forever and really enjoy it. You can laugh, cry, kiss, hug and the best part is- you don’t have to hold anything back because you don’t have to worry about anyone watching. PLUS the moment makes for extremely genuine and raw photos that you will cherish for years to come.
4. You can get the party started sooner. By seeing each other beforehand and capturing your the bride + groom pictures early, means after the ceremony and family pictures, you’re free to start your night! You’ll have a lot less on your plate, plus you don’t have to keep your guests waiting at the reception!
5. Photographs. If photographs are the most important thing to you on your wedding day, I’d highly recommend shooting before the ceremony. It expands your options for what you’re able to do tremendously. You’re able to schedule in extra time to drive to a great location, time to get a wider variety of shots, and just have a more relaxed and intimate photo session.
6. Spend the day with each other. Really,if you think about it, the majority of your wedding reception is spent talking to guests that are wishing you well. At the end of the night, you’ll realize you didn’t even spend a majority of the day with your SPOUSE!
7. De-stress. I can’t say enough how stressful a wedding day is; not just for the bride, but also the vendors. The few hours before the wedding is when florists, friends, caters and the rest of your vendors are setting up. People will begin to come and ask the bride for answers to questions that will eventually work themselves out on their own. If you’re off taking pictures, you never have to know any of it.

Now it’s your turn! What’s your opinion?

We, at Cameron Burns Photography, would of course love + be honored to capture your big day. If you think we’d be a great fit for each other, please don’t hesitate to contact us below:

WEBSITE: http://www.cameronburnsphotography.com
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