This is seriously one of my favorite portions of any wedding day. While not every couple sees each other before their ceremony, we highly recommend it for many reasons. The main reason is in order to let the day run smoothly with very few interruptions and to allow the couple to get to their reception and get their PARTY on ASAP! But the other reason is because these pictures are absolutely priceless.
I know many brides and grooms dream of seeing each other for the first time coming down the aisle and that makes sense, but let me give you a preview of how we set it up for the bride and groom to see each other before the ceremony.
We pick a location that is beautiful and make sure that no one other than the bride and groom (and us) are there. You can see the rest in the pictures below.
I know most people don’t love history lessons, but let me give “y’all” (shout out to our southern friends) a glimpse into the tradition of not seeing the bride before the ceremony. Back in the middle ages there were many arranged marriages amongst nobles and royalty. Most of these marriages were arranged for political, social, or economical gain. Many marriages took place without the bride and groom having ever met because the parents of both parties were afraid that if they actually meet or saw one another before the wedding, they would not be able to make them go through with the marriage.
Before I say anything else, let me say that Jennifer and I didn’t see each other before our wedding ceremony on the day of our wedding. It was more due to the fact that I wanted to wait to see her and I don’t regret that. But if I had it to do over again, I might think about arranging a first meeting before the ceremony. It’s private, intimate, emotional, and makes for AMAZING pictures! What’s not to love?!
This may not change your mind and that’s okay…but at least you can get an idea of what a first meeting looks like.
Oh btw…Julianne and Stu, I hope you enjoyed this little preview. We’ll have another blog up for you soon!
Have a great new day “y’all!”
). Thanks for the information!
Josh and Jen are true professionals and some of the coolest peeps we have met. We had such a great time with you both at our engagement shoot and wedding. You guys are the best. Thanks for providing all the memories from our wedding day!