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First Look or Not for your Athens, GA Wedding

First Look or Not for your Athens, GA Wedding


First look or not for your Athens, GA wedding: Deciding whether to have a first look before your wedding is a very personal choice. At SpringHaus Farm, we support and encourage whatever you decide and most importantly, we are here to give you some considerations to help you decide what the best choice for your special day will be when it comes to having a first look before the wedding.


First look at SpringHaus Farm
The Tap of the Shoulder...Photo Cred: Keri L Photography
First look at SpringHaus Farm
Immediate reaction...Photo Cred: Keri L Photography
First look at SpringHaus Farm
It sets in...Photo Cred: Keri L Photography
First look at SpringHaus Farm
Then realizing this is going to be your spouse soon, what a moment! Photo Cred: Keri L Photography

First Look: Why, or why NOT to do a first look


Pros:

  1. Private Moment: A first look offers a private moment for you and your partner to share your emotions before the ceremony.

  2. Less Nervous: Seeing each other beforehand can help calm pre-ceremony jitters.

  3. More Time for Pictures Later: Taking photos before the ceremony allows you to enjoy more time with your guests afterward.


Cons:

  1. Tradition: If you value tradition, you might prefer seeing each other for the first time at the altar.

  2. Timing: A first look means starting your day earlier to ensure there’s enough time for photos.


First touch at Spring Haus Farm
First touch at Spring Haus Farm...photo cred: Savannah H Photography

No First Look: Why or Why Not?


Pros:

  1. Traditional Experience: Seeing each other for the first time at the altar can be a powerful, emotional experience.

  2. Fresh Look: You’ll be at your freshest, with makeup and attire perfectly intact.


Cons:


  1. Time Crunch: Post-ceremony photos can be rushed if you’re eager to join your guests.

  2. Guest Waiting Time: Your guests will need to be entertained while you’re away taking pictures.


First touch at Spring Haus Farm
Consider doing first touch or private vows at SpringHaus Farm: Photo cred: Emma Camfield Photos

Regardless of your decision, your photographer should know all your wishes in advance. Find a photographer that has the same values and vision! We suggest having a 2nd shooter if you decide to not have a first look so the photos can be done timely after the wedding!


Whether you choose to do a first look before or after the ceremony, ensuring your guests have a pleasant experience will be important. Here are some ideas if you choose to not do a first look to allow your guests an unforgettable experience while they wait:


Provide Appetizers and Finger Foods: While you're off taking photos, keep your guests entertained and satisfied with a selection of appetizers and finger foods during a cocktail hour.


Consider the following options:

  1. Mini Sandwiches: Easy to eat and universally liked.

  2. Fruit and Cheese Platters: A fresh and elegant choice.

  3. Vegetable Crudités: Healthy and colorful.

  4. Charcuterie board with cheeses and meats


Spread by Ju Ju's catering
Spread by Ju Ju's catering

 Entertainment Options


Beyond food, providing some form of entertainment can keep your guests engaged:

  1. Live Music: A string quartet or acoustic guitarist can create a lovely ambiance.

  2. Games: Lawn games like cornhole or giant Jenga can be fun and interactive.

  3. Photo Booth: A photo booth with props can entertain guests and provide keepsakes.

Photo booth with Encanto moments
Photo booth with Encanto Moments

Comfortable Seating Areas


Set up cozy seating areas where guests can relax, chat, and enjoy their appetizers. Adding some stylish decor, such as floral arrangements or lanterns, can enhance the atmosphere.


Patio set up at SpringHaus Farm
Patio set up at SpringHaus Farm

At SpringHaus Farm, we are dedicated to making your wedding day comfortable for you and your guests, whether you choose to have a first look or not. By providing appetizers, entertainment, and comfortable seating for your guests, you can ensure that everyone enjoys the time while you capture those cherished moments in your wedding photos. Ultimately, the best choice is the one that feels right for you and your partner. First looks or not, SpringHaus Farm can help you in deciding when to take wedding photos



SpringHaus Farm, an outdoor and rustic barn wedding venue near Athens, GA
SpringHaus Farm, an outdoor and rustic barn wedding venue near Athens, GA

We are dedicated to using our platform to support locally owned wedding venues. In every blog we write, we will include 5 to 10 locally owned wedding venues who use their articles to support their colleagues and the wedding industry in ways that are not always recognized but are essential. If you are searching for a wedding venue, please consider a locally owned venue, you can find locally owned wedding venues featured on this wedding venue map.


 
 
 

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