My fiancé wants to take our formal pictures before our ceremony. I always thought that we shouldn't see each other until I walk down the aisle. I want to have more time at the reception, so taking the photos before is a good idea. But, I also was looking forward to the excitement of seeing each other for the first time as I walk down the aisle. Help! What should I do?

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Question:
My fiancé wants to take our formal pictures before our ceremony. I always thought that we shouldn't see each other until I walk down the aisle. I want to have more time at the reception, so taking the photos before is a good idea. But, I also was looking forward to the excitement of seeing each other for the first time as I walk down the aisle. Help! What should I do?

Answer:
Yes, there is the tradition of not seeing each other (the day of the wedding) before the ceremony. And I share your excitement of seeing each other for the first time as you walk down the aisle. Here's what happened with a friend of mine who just got married and had the same dilemma. She decided to take her formal portraits before the ceremony. Her reasoning was that everyone was just made up, the flower girl and ring bearer were wide awake and the atmosphere would be relaxed because there were no time restraints. Well, all went better than she imagined. Her fiancé picked her up in a limo (all to themselves) so they had some private time together. She said it was one of the best decisions she made. Instead of being so nervous and not remembering the ceremony she said that being relaxed has made it a lasting memory. So, you have tradition on the one hand and a relaxed and memorable wedding on the other. What will your decision be?