Portland Wedding Photographer // My first look

I was a traditionalist. I had my wedding planned by age 8 and included in the big plans was my groom seeing me for the first time walking down the aisle. I saw it no other way. When I reached the ripe ol’ age of 19 the day was approaching when my groom would see me walking down the aisle. As I began my search for a wedding photographer my dream suddenly came crashing down. Each wedding photographer I met with encouraged us to see each other prior to the wedding. I just couldn’t fathom this. When I have a dream no one will stop me. I continued to meet with photographers, in fact I think I may have met every single one in Spokane, they all told the same story. I realized my dream was about to die but I would embrace the new idea with a smile.

On July 1, 2005 In all my nervousness and anticipation I prepared to meet my groom for the first time. He had his back turned and with my heart pounding and a huge smile on my face I slowly approached him. He then turned around and our moment happened. I remember it so so vividly. It was just us and our love for one another. It was sweet and tender.

Whenever I am looking through my wedding album I have some favorite shots and these first look shots are right at the top. I don’t once regret this decision. Our first look shots are dear to my heart and laced with memories. I absolutely LOVE them!

Now being on the flip side as a photographer I often run into many of “me.” Brides are adamant to have their groom see them for the first time as they walk down the isle. As I sit and listen to them, I totally get it! I sat in your shoes 6 years ago. I will never force you to do a first look, but from experience I want to say it was the best decision I made.