Wednesday, October 14, 2015

Why We Are Having a First Look



First looks. Some people like them, some people don't. We fall under the category of people who like them. Well I do, Timmy took a little convincing. But as soon as we knew we were going to be getting married at the Church I grew up in, I knew I wanted a first look. 

I have my reasons as to why I want to have a first look. But these reasons are just little bonus add-ons that will make the day run smoother, but they are also some of the main reasons other couples have them; so let's get to those first.

Ugly Crying. I am going to be one disaster on my wedding day, or at least I think I am. So if I have a first look with just my fiance he and the photographer will be the only ones to see my ugly cries. Also, another bonus...I can quickly touch up my makeup. I wouldn't be touching up my makeup during the ceremony.

Intimidation. I am extremely intimidated of walking down the isle and all eyes being on me. The church where we are getting married the center aisle seems like it goes on forever! But at least if we have a first look I won't be freaking out about all the guests and my fiance. Just the guests. 

Timeline. Everyone knows the day of the wedding you have a strict timeline. I love pictures so having a first look is going to give more time to take pictures before the ceremony and then after with the family and then more time to party at the reception.

Intimate. The setting is just you and your fiance, not you and everyone you invited. You can kiss him right away you don't have to wait until the officiant says you can.

Now for the biggest reason and most important reason to me and Timmy.

My mom. When my mom was alive she was Timmy and I's biggest supporter. I always dreamed of planning my wedding with my mom by my side and us arguing over the linens or the wedding colors. But, I didn't get to do any of that. My mom passed away a few months before Timmy and I got engaged. But she didn't need me to have a ring or have a ceremony or his last name for her to consider him her Son-in-Law, she already did.  My mom's ashes are in the Columbarium at the church I grew up in, which is also the Church Timmy and I are getting married at. FINGERS CROSSED...it doesn't rain, but that is where Timmy and I will see each other for the first time on our Wedding Day along with my mom. 

Before I told Timmy the reasoning behind why I wanted a first look I couldn't convince him, but after we talked about where it would be and significance he was on board and was so excited that we were going to do it where my moms ashes were. It will be an emotional moment but it will be the most special first look for us.


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15 comments :

a little bit of emily said...

This is the sweetest thing! I definitely plan on doing a first look when I get married and your reasoning is just extra special!

Caitlin Elizabeth said...

Doing the first look with your mom will be such a special moment! It's definitely a personal choice for each couple, and it sounds perfect for you to share it with her.

Unknown said...

If you cry, no one will judge you :P I can't wait to see more pictures of your wedding!

Unknown said...

Oh, and I also fully love the idea of first looks. That's just an extra stash of beautiful pictures for you to cherish forever!

Alanna @ Alanna and Company said...

That sounds like great reasons for a first look.

Anonymous said...

Hey Ashley! I'm struggling with this right now. My photographer wants us to do first look photos but I'm sort of against it....I don't want my fiance to see me until the wedding! But then again..i know the pictures will be way better!

Cori said...

Aww that's a really sweet reason to have a first look. I decided against it because I knew I wouldn't want to leave his side once I saw him. The intimidation thing didn't bother me. I made eye contact with him and forgot everyone else was there as Dad brought me down the aisle. That may sound mean, but he was my focus that day.

Nadine said...

What a special moment that you are going to get to share with your mom!!! Chills went down my arms as I read that last part. I personally love first looks because it is the only time it will be just the two of you on your wedding day. To take a few personal moments and be able to knock out some pictures is so worth doing it!

The Southern Thing said...

Sorry to hear about your mom. That will be such a sweet and special moment during your first look.

Sarah Ricker: Sarah Emily Blogs said...

I got chills reading this girl! I love that you three are going to have such a special and meaningful first look. This will be one of those many special moments you will never forget!

Morgan Gifford said...

We didn't really do this and I sincerely regret it! I wish we'd had the time but we moved up our wedding date which left less time for wedding dress alterations and I didn't get my dress back until two days before! I hope you have an amazing first look! It's such a beautiful story and I know that your mom will be there with you.
The Rad Wife

Shaylee Anne said...

This makes me re-think my wedding plans! Maybe this would be a good idea! I hope your big day goes perfectly!

Jenn said...

your reason for wanting to do a first look is even more special than most! I didn't have any special reason, but I went with a first look & have never regretted it one second. One other thing I would suggest (if you can) is during the cocktail hour, to have a private dance just between the two of you in the reception space! Its just a short 5 minute break from all the hustle and bustle, but it allows the two of you to talk alone & engage in the moment! You get to see all your hard work first in the reception space and its such a special moment. Also makes for great pictures!! Enjoy! xoxo

Unknown said...

I just came across your blog on Twitter! I love this post :) I got married almost a year ago and we had a first look, it was my favorite part of the day! Everything flies by on your wedding day and it was so nice to have those few minutes alone with my husband and to be in the moment. It helped with the butterflies and nerves for sure! Enjoy every moment of planning your wedding and I wish you all the best in your marriage :)

Brita Long said...

I'm almost crying reading your personal reason. That is so sweet and special. <3