One question you’ll be faced with early on in planning is: do we do a first look or not? While your friends, families and planner will have strong opinions here let us be the first to say that this is totally up to you! Deciding to do a first look is such a personal choice. Sentiment, tradition and timing all play a part in helping you decide if it’s right for you two as a couple. And either way you go, you’ll still have beautiful photos and a well executed wedding if you have the right team on board!

That said, if you ask your planner they’re most likely going to recommend doing one. And here’s why you should consider doing a first look too:

• Allows you to have a private moment with your partner before celebrating with all of your guests
• Calm your nerves (if you’re anxious about being in front of everyone you know!) 
• Opens up your photo schedule so you can spend time pre-ceremony doing the posed shots and post-ceremony enjoying your wedding with your friends and family
• Lets you take advantage of light if you’re getting married in the fall or winter

Photos in this post by Kate Greer