Wedding Day Superstitions: The First Look

In the wedding industry we're full of traditions and superstitions -- it's almost impossible to get away from them. Even if you're not one to buy into superstition, others in your wedding party or guests of your big day might and won't be shy about discussing them with you. From the something borrowed to the something blue, from the bouquet toss to the cake cutting, weddings have some pretty interesting quirks that we now consider traditions. One that I have always found interesting for a number of reasons is the “first look.” Many are for it, many are against, but the fact of the matter is that one of the biggest wedding superstitions lies at the root of its division: bad luck. Those are two words that no one is ever really jazzed to hear, especially not on their wedding day. But then again, it all comes down to what you believe in. I'm not going to pretend like I'm an expert here, but here are my thoughts on the “first look” and why it might not be so unlucky after all.

 

 

Now, for the most part I would consider myself a traditionalist, but when it comes to the first look I find that doesn't hold so true. I'm not saying this was always the case, however. I definitely used to subscribe to the superstition attached to this aspect of the wedding, and told myself that I would never do a first look when I got married. I didn't want to test the universe and be sentenced to years of bad luck! But now I'm finding myself much more open to the first look—I would even say I'm completely on board with it, and here's why:

 

 

 

 

 

Bear with me, as this might be a touch corny. I know the phrase “quality time” may sound a bit cliché, but it's actually the best phrase to apply here. You're getting married. Just think about that for a second. It's a big deal. The day is bound to be a bit hectic at times between the hair, makeup and getting ready, and then all the event details and the timeline you'll have, so don't lose sight of what the day is really about. Having a first look allows you and your soon-to-be husband a chance to escape all the craziness the day might bring, and really reflect on what's about to happen and the commitment you're about to enter into. You may not have a ton of one-on-one time during the day, so even if you carve out just 15-20 minutes to see each other, calm your nerves, and just chat a bit it will be time well spent.

 

 

Additionally, a first look is a great chance for photos. You will no doubt have beautiful wedding photos, but deciding on a first look will give you some shots from a truly special moment you wouldn't have otherwise. This moment provides an opportunity that may be a bit more intimate than a first look walking down the aisle, and capturing that emotion in a photo will be a memory you can relive over and over. 

 

 

Now, just because I have a newfound appreciation for the first look doesn't mean I don't see the importance of not participating in one. There are valid arguments for both and I believe they both have merit. It all comes down to personal preference and what fits you best as a couple. 

 

Whether you choose a first look or a traditional reveal, don't let thought of “bad luck” be the deciding factor that swings you one way or the other. There's a reason that you're getting married in the first place, and chances are luck has nothing to do with it.