tips from a wedding photographer
5 Reasons to consider a First Look
Planning your wedding day is a joyful and exciting experience. There are many details and decisions to make throughout your planning process. and it's possible you're trying to find the answer to the question "Should I have a first look?" It's a very personal decision, but there are pros and cons to deciding whether or not to have a first look before your ceremony on your wedding day.
What is a first look?
A first look refers to a private moment where the couple sees each other for the first time on their wedding day, before the ceremony. Traditionally, couples wait until the alter to see each other for the first time on their wedding day, but with a first look, you reveal yourselves to each other in a private, intimate moment.
- More time together on your special day
- Reduced anxiety and nerves
- Creates time to enjoy cocktail hour
- Provides a quiet intimate moment alone
- More portraits!
More time together on your special day:
One of the main advantages of having a first look is the additional time you get to spend with your partner. Weddings can be a whirlwind, and a first look allows you to slow down and share a special moment together. It sets the tone for the rest of the day, allowing you to soak in the love and excitement while cherishing each other's presence
Reduced Anxiety and Nerves:
Wedding days can be filled with nervous anticipation. Seeing your partner before the ceremony can help alleviate some of that anxiety. By sharing this intimate moment, you can find comfort and support in each other's presence. It's a beautiful opportunity to calm nerves and create a sense of serenity before walking down the aisle.
More Time to Enjoy Cocktail Hour with Guests:
Traditionally, couples who don't have a first look spend most of their cocktail hour taking formal portraits. Opting for a first look frees up time during cocktail hour, allowing you to mingle, greet your guests, and enjoy the festivities. By maximizing your time together, you can fully immerse yourselves in the celebration and create lasting memories with your loved ones.
A Quiet Intimate Moment:
Your wedding day can be a whirlwind of activity, making it challenging to find moments of privacy. A first look provides you with a precious and intimate opportunity to connect with each other before the formalities of the day begin. This private moment allows you to express your love, exchange heartfelt words, and share the excitement of the upcoming ceremony in a personal setting.
Capturing More Portraits:
For couples who value portraits, a first look offers a chance to capture additional portraits. These images will serve as cherished mementos, beautifully showcasing your love and capturing the essence of your wedding day.
If a traditional first look doesn't align with your preferences, there are alternative ways to create meaningful moments before the ceremony. Consider a first look with a parent and/or sibling, where you share a heartfelt moment with a loved one before seeing your partner. Another option is a "first touch," where you hold hands or exchange gifts while remaining hidden from each other. Additionally, a private vow reading allows you to express your love and commitment in a personal, intimate setting, creating an emotional bond before the ceremony.
Whether you choose to have a first look or explore alternative options, the most important thing is to create a wedding day experience that reflects your love and values. A first look can provide numerous benefits, such as more time together, reduced anxiety, an opportunity to enjoy cocktail hour, a quiet intimate moment, and the chance to capture beautiful portraits. Ultimately, the decision should be based on what resonates with you as a couple and what will make your wedding day a truly memorable and special occasion.
