Should you see each other before the ceremony?

THE FIRST LOOK:  It's a new age, so it's no longer considered bad luck for the groom to see the bride before the wedding. What's more, there are actually some pretty big advantages to a first-look session prior to the wedding. Not only are the bride, groom, bridal party and family in top form, the bride and bridesmaids' hair and makeup are fresh, and the groom and groomsmen are still comfortable in their tuxes.

If you do decide to go with a pre-ceremony formal portrait approach, be sure to set aside 15 minutes of private time for just the two of you. These private moments, before you start taking more formal, posed portraits, are often the most special for the bride and groom. You are able to hold each other or exchange gifts, relax and think about the moments to come. This time together also serves as a break to calm your nerves. This pre-ceremony atmosphere creates a smooth, steady flow through your day's events. Getting this step out of the way early in the day frees up the rest of your time to spend with your guests.

On time and terrific: Because I prefer to shoot these group shots when everyone is ready and fresh, right before the ceremony, meeting at the designated spot 15 minutes before formals ensures an on-time arrival. Since our most important goal is getting you to your wedding on time, please set aside 60-90 minutes for group pictures to ensure maximum results.

Adorned and fabulous : Make sure all flowers and boutonnieres are delivered on time and affixed to family members and to the wedding party 30 minutes before scheduled group pictures. Have hair and makeup teams arrive extra early since those tend to cause a delay more than anything else.

Formal then fun:  Because I prefer to keep the number of groups to 20 or less for more intimate group shots, we always start with the largest groups of family and break it down after that to allow for mingling. As time permits, I love to include a picture of the bride with each of her bridesmaids and the groom with each of his groomsmen.

If you have ideas for any can't-miss portrait groupings you would like to see photographed during this time, make sure to include them on your group shot list and give me that list 2 weeks prior to the wedding. I'm happy to work with you to capture all of your special moments!

by Chauntelle Janzer