These days, not all couples are choosing to adhere to the tradition of not seeing each other before the ceremony. Many brides and grooms find this tradition and others not to be very practical, and so they are choosing their own paths. There is no right or wrong way to go; you just need to decide what will work best for you.

Some of us hold this tradition dear and actually enjoy the anticipation, waiting excitedly to see each other as the bride takes those first few steps down the aisle. Others like the option of spending some time together before the ceremony with the photographer, so that less time has to be set aside between the ceremony and reception for pictures.

In the months leading up to their big day, Kelsey and Tommy had decided not to see each other before the ceremony, but as the day drew closer and closer, they started to waiver. In the end, they decided that spending a few moments together beforehand would help calm some nerves and give them both that peaceful easy feeling they were hoping for on their wedding day.

And so it went...

The wedding was near Tommy's family's home, and so we had the luxury of this beautiful country setting. On the day before the wedding, Meredith and I went out to the Adams home and found the perfect spot. 

Take a look at their faces - pure happiness! During our post-wedding consultation a few weeks later, Kelsey and Tommy both agreed that having a "first look" was the right decision for them. They felt happy, calm, and ready to tie the knot! That's not to say that a few tears weren't shed during the ceremony (right, Tommy?). :) And then we had some time to focus on getting some beautiful portraits of just the two of them.

Tommy and Kelsey

We even had some time to spend with this sweet thing...

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And the rest of the day was just as sweet!

If you haven't considered a "first look" before the wedding, you might want to think about it. It could calm some nerves, allow for more time with friends and family after the ceremony, and result in some special memories just for the two of you.

Or maybe tradition and anticipation is the right path for you. Just remember your something borrowed and something blue!