First Look is a ‘Tradition’
If there is one word that is synonymous with weddings, it is the word ‘tradition’. Our cultural traditions play a huge role in shaping the decisions we make about how, where, and when we are to be married, and often even who we are going to marry. 19th century Dutch historian Johan Huizinga said ‘if we are to preserve culture, we must continue to create it’.
Traditions themselves often have their roots in the past, and do not reflect the modern life that we live today, or the changing world around us. If our traditions do not serve us, then why are we still doing them?
As the trailblazers of this new and rapidly evolving world, it is us who must create the new traditions that serve our highest potential in life, and ultimately lead to greater health, wealth and happiness for our future.
1. Fear or Love
One particular wedding tradition that actually has its roots in fear, is that of the idea of not seeing the bride before the wedding. Historically, this tradition came from the time of arranged marriages, whereby the marriage was less about love, and more about a business deal, between families.
The idea was to prevent the couple from seeing each other before the exchanging of the rings so that neither party had the chance to ‘back out’ of the deal if they did not like the look of their new spouse.
These days, weddings are all about love, so hiding your big nose underneath a veil until your partner is well and truly hooked, is simply not required, because he already loves you for who you are – nose and all.
2. The Intimate Reveal
One particular wedding tradition that actually has its roots in fear, is that of the idea of not seeing the bride before the wedding. Historically, this tradition came from the time of arranged marriages, whereby the marriage was less about love, and more about a business deal, between families.
The idea was to prevent the couple from seeing each other before the exchanging of the rings so that neither party had the chance to ‘back out’ of the deal if they did not like the look of their new spouse.
These days, weddings are all about love, so hiding your big nose underneath a veil until your partner is well and truly hooked, is simply not required, because he already loves you for who you are – nose and all.
3. Perfect Photography in Your Own Time
The funny thing about weddings is that usually the ceremony is held in the afternoon, and afterwards the wedding party goes off somewhere to have their photos taken, while the guests make their way to the reception.
Often this means that the photos are happening in the late afternoon, when the light is waning and the wedding party is not feeling as fresh as they were in the beginning.
Having the ‘first look’ tradition at your wedding will enable you to get all of your wedding photos while everyone is looking and feeling their best. Not only will the light be perfect, but it will allow you to have ample time to get as many shots as you want, wherever you want, without feeling rushed by time as the light fades into evening.
Additionally, if you do need a make-up touch up before the ceremony you will have time to do that, and feel contented that you have already got a whole bunch of perfect photo’s of the wedding party.
4. Peace of Mind
We have all heard the term ‘bridezilla’ and for those of us who have been a part of a wedding party or two, we may have our own stories about this idea that are scarred into our psyche. While it is an amusing imagery, the fact is that often the wedding can become less romantic comedy and more of a horror movie for all involved, due to the stress of trying to organise everything and everyone, on the day.
Considering the fact that our wedding day is (usually) the only day in our whole life that we ever get to have this experience, and that we often spend months planning and organising everything – it’s crazy that on the actual day, it can end up being so stressful.
Usually this stress is caused by a number of factors, but mostly it is due to the time constraints of trying to make sure we actually get some nice photos of the dress, and us, with our wedding party. However, as many brides have found, getting everyone together and taking the photos after the ceremony can be akin to trying to line up ducks in a row. Not easy.
The first look tradition gets all that done beforehand, allowing ample time after the wedding to take it easy and actually enjoy the day as it unfolds, content with the peace of mind that the photographer already has a hard drive full of fantastic photos of ‘ze dress’ in perfect light.
5. Continuity and Inclusion for Wedding Guests
Another significant aspect of weddings is the opportunity for both the new families to come together, and the members of each of those families to see each other. These days for many families, the only opportunity they actually have to see each other, all together, is usually at weddings and funerals.
People travel from far and wide, and in some cases across the seas, to share in the beautiful day with their loved ones during the important milestone of two families coming together for life
Unfortunately it is often the case that in all the rush to get the photos done post ceremony, travel to the reception, do the speeches, eat the food, cut the cake and do the dance, the window where you can actually spend any quality time with your guests, is quite small.
Weddings that follow the tradition of the wedding party rushing off to take photos after the ceremony, allow for only a few moments to say a quick hello before the bride and groom are whisked away.
First look and pre-wedding ceremony photos allow for having more time to enjoy those precious moments with family and friends on your special day, and for many families, this is fast becoming a new tradition that is passed down.
The first look tradition means that everyone gets more time to actually take in the beauty of their loved ones dressed up in their finest threads, as well as getting to the know the new in-laws and enjoying the company of people who they may only see a handful of times in their lifetime.
Additionally, first look allows for continuity for family members of not having the guests of honour absent for many hours (while they are off taking photos). It means that you’ll have ample time to hear the crazy stories from ‘Uncle Richard’ that lives in Thailand now or spending precious time with Grandma who only just made it to see your wedding day. If there is one thing we can’t ever get back, it is time with the people that we love, so make the most of your wedding day and opt for the first look tradition.
You can also choose to do First Look with mom and dad, and your bridal party too, who doesn’t love a big entrance when you are in your wedding dress?
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