Is a first look on your wedding day right for you?

The wedding industry as we know it has dramatically modernized over time. This change has led to the popular trend of skipping tradition and opting doing a first look. As a wedding photographer, I often get asked by my clients whether or not they should do a first look on their wedding day. If you’re looking for answers, you’re in the right place! This blog post will help you decide if this option is right for you!

But wait… what is a first look?

For those who aren’t familiar, a first look is when the couple sees each other for the first time on their wedding day before the ceremony. The more traditional route is waiting to see each other walking down the aisle. In both cases, this is a core-memory moment that your photographer can capture and is often a highlight of your wedding day!

What are the advantages to seeing each other before the ceremony?

• Alone time on your wedding day is limited!

One of the biggest advantages of doing a first look is that it allows you to have a more relaxed and intimate moment with your partner before the ceremony. This can be a great opportunity to share a special moment together and to calm any nerves before the big event.

• Get your family photos out of the way.

A first look allows you to take care of some of the formal photos before the ceremony. This means that you won’t have to rush to take these photos after the ceremony.

• Enjoy your cocktail hour and reception with your guests.

Because you have gotten most (if not all) of your family photos done before the ceremony, you won’t have to miss cocktail hour doing these photos.

• A first look opens up your wedding timeline.

Doing a first look can also help to make your wedding day timeline more efficient. Since you’ll be taking some of the formal photos beforehand, this can free up more time during the reception. This gives more time for candid photos of you and your guests enjoying the celebration.

If you need more convincing, read this blog post about why you should do a first look!

What are the disadvantages to doing a first look?

• Some family members may disagree with breaking tradition.

One disadvantage of doing a first look is that it goes against traditional wedding customs, which may not be appealing to some couples or their families.

• Some of your family will see you before the ceremony.

If you do a first look, it’s important to keep in mind that family members will see you in your dress before the ceremony. While some couples may not mind this, others may feel that it takes away from the special moment of seeing the bride for the first time as she walks down the aisle.

• It can add extra time and logistics to the wedding day schedule.

Doing a first look can be logistically challenging for several reasons. It requires extra coordination to ensure that the couple are ready at the same location at the same time. This could also mean additional transportation if the couple are getting ready at separate locations.

Traditional wedding timelines are often structured around the ceremony, and a first look may require rearranging the schedule. This can affect other vendors such as hair and makeup or the DJ. Overall, it’s important to carefully consider the logistics of doing a first look. Communication with your wedding planner and vendors is key to ensure that everything runs smoothly.

• It may diminish the emotional impact of seeing each other for the first time at the ceremony.

A first look may diminish the emotional impact of seeing each other for the first time at the ceremony. This isn’t always true, but sometimes having this intimate moment before hand lessens the heightened emotions walking down the aisle. This may also be a good thing for our anxious friends!

Do what feels right for you and your partner!

A first look on your wedding day is a personal choice that depends on your preferences and priorities. Doing one can provide a special and intimate moment between you and your partner. However, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons and consider the logistics and timing of your wedding day. Ultimately, the decision should be based on what feels right for you as a couple. Whether you choose to do a first look or not, remember that your wedding day is about celebrating your love and commitment to each other, and the most important thing is to cherish every moment together.