Have you been wondering if a first look is right for you and your wedding?

Traditionally, the bride and groom didn’t see one another until walking down the aisle. However, in recent years, that has changed as first looks have become more popular.

First, what is a first look? A first look is an intimate moment before the couple gets married where just the two of them see one another. The moment is typically photographed and some couples may even read their vows to one another at this time before the ceremony.

Let’s dive into the reasons you may or may not want to add this into your wedding day.

Some reasons you may consider doing a first look could be the following.

1. It is a special moment you share with just your soon to be spouse. 

Your wedding day will go faster than you can imagine and a first look is a good way to pause and spend some special time together.

2. You end up with more photos!!

Your wedding photos are one of the few keepsakes you’ll actually take away from the wedding, so having even more is an extra bonus! 

3. You have time to calm your nerves.

Seeing each other before the walk down the aisle gives you a moment to calm your nerves. When you see one another before the wedding, you don’t have to worry as much about a room full of people staring at you.

4. You get to have a longer wedding day and spend more time with loved ones.

After spending time as a couple, you can get all the wedding party photos in and not have to worry about it after you exchange vows. This gives you more time to spend with your wedding party and enjoy your cocktail hour. 

5. Your wedding timeline can be more relaxed.

Instead of having to rush off to take all the photos with your bridal party and families after you are married, you can take fewer photos after the ceremony and head straight to the reception. 

There may also be reasons you decide you don’t want to do a first look together. Some reasons you may decide against the first look could be:

1. It isn’t traditional.

While more and more people are opting to do a first look, it isn’t the old tradition of waiting to see your spouse until you walk down the aisle. Many couples still want that reaction captured when seeing each other for the first time at the aisle.

2. A first look will make your wedding day start earlier.

You need to find time to fit in the first look and since you are doing it before the ceremony, you will need to start earlier to fit it in. This means you and the bridal party need to be ready earlier so you can take all the photos. Typically a first look is about 1.5 to 2 hours prior to the ceremony start time to give you time for both couples photos and family photos.

3. A first look may feel awkward.

Seeing your spouse before the ceremony may feel awkward and you may feel the photos feel too staged (the right photographer will help with this.)

There is no right or wrong decision when it comes to a first look. Ultimately, a first look is a decision you will make as a couple. No matter what you decide, we know your day will be amazing.

If you are ready to start planning your wedding and need a guide to help you make the most of your dream weekend contact us to get started.