see each other before or not?

Are you planning on seeing each other before the ceremony or not?

As a photographer this is something that really affects how the day will flow. In my area there seems to be more brides that are more traditional and don't want to see each other before the ceremony. I think some people don't really consider any other way because that's what they're used to and how it's been done for years.

There seems to be a growing trend however where couples are seeing each other before, and just having some one on one time together. Personally, I like it much more when couples spend this time together before the ceremony. That way the first time they see each other they will be alone, and not standing in front of so many people. Many times I will actually set it up in a cool place and take photos of them interacting with each other for the first time that day. It usually makes for some great intimate, and emotional photos. It also allows us to get photos taken of them alone and with the bridal party before hand which frees up more time afterwards for them to spend with family and friends.

I've shot many weddings both ways and it's my preference that the couple meet before hand, but of course, I go with the flow however the couple wants it.

What are your opinions and thoughts?

Jonathan

i wanted to add a poll to this but couldn't figure out how. little help? :-)

We are seeing each other before the ceremony. Like you said we as a couple will share a private moment together.. alone... and Juan will capture it all for us. After the cermony we'll do group shots and just the B & G on the beach. Juan actually suggested a nice spot for Cain and I to meet for the first time.. :-) That's when I came up with the idea of us walking down the aisle together.

Jonathan, what is your thought on that? The B & G walking down the aisle together?

I can see it both ways...but my personal feeling is I want him to get the "wow" factor as I first step into his sights coming down the aisle. I means more to mean that way for some reason. I just like the intial shock in front of all our family/friends of how he feels when he watches his bride coming down the aisle to him! Just how I feel. But I can see how it would be eaiser for pictures to do it before.

I've never seen that before but I love the idea. Obviously there are situations where family can't be present so this is an option. It also partly depends on the bride and her relationship (or lack there of) with her family.

DW's are meant to be different so be different however you can. :-)

1) You should be able to add a poll by going to "Thread Tools" at the top of the thread. Then I can't remember from there, but hopefully that points you in the right direction!

2) Honestly, I can't decide, and it will probably come down to what Paul wants, and I am guessing he will want traditional - that we don't see eachother before the wedding. But I like the idea of having some private time together beforehand, to see eachother for the first time - and hopefully have your photographer there to capture that moment. I can see both ways though.

I had started another thread about the guys seeing our dresses before the wedding, and it kind of turned into this discussion - read if you're interested! http://bestdestinationwedding.com/forum/t2054

Jonathan.. Are you trying to do just DW or local weddings as well?

I do both. It's been mostly local and regional right now, but I'm trying to expand my market and do more national and destination weddings. My two passions are photography and traveling, so why not combine them?! :-)