The "Second" First Look

It's the quiet moment as her grandpa rounds the corner of the hotel room. It's the slight gasp as her Dad opens his eyes to see his baby girl dressed in white. It's the explosive energy that radiates from the bridesmaids as they see their best friend in the dress of her dreams. It's the "Second" First Look...and we are here for it!

While the "First Look" between the bride and groom is our FAVORITE part of the day, some of the sweetest, tenderest moments come from the first moments when our brides see their friends and family in their wedding dress. However, we often find that some brides either don't think of a "second" first look, or they have heard negative things about having a "second" first look. So for this week, we want to speak about this beautiful moment and hopefully encourage you to make this experience part of your wedding day!

Truth: You have the time

We've all heard the stories about "the timeline getting delayed" or "hair and makeup going over," and before we realize it, we can start to change our timeline to remove things that we would truly love to do! Instead of taking things away, simply schedule out 5-10 minute "buffer times" between the various sections of the day so you can make sure that even if some things go over, you still have plenty of time to do everything that you want, like a "second" first look! This is your wedding day, you have the time to do everything you want. Simply put, be intentional with your schedule.

Truth: You can do as many "First Looks" as you want!

For some brides, a first look with their bridesmaids is more than enough! They simply want to celebrate with their best friends before they walk down the aisle. For others, they have dreamed of showing their dad their wedding dress since they were a little girl! And for others, your first look might involve your grandpa, your uncle, or someone else who has been instrumental in your life. The beautiful truth is that it is totally up to you how many "First Looks" you want to do! Again, being intentional is the key, and if you need your makeup, hair, or photographers to show up a little earlier to make these "First Looks" happen, just let them know ahead of time!

Truth: You won't regret it

Yes, it will take time. Yes, you might have to ask your vendors to come a little earlier. But we can take that weight off of you with just one phrase: "You won't regret it." We have never met a bride who thought, "I did too many first looks, and it ruined my day." However, we have heard so many sad stories with brides who felt pressed for time and had to make the tough call to not do that one "first look" that they were hoping for; and at the end of the day, they truly regret it. So ladies, feel free to make this a priority for your wedding day!

All Photos are property of Josh and Andrea Photography, LLC.