Why I Love & Highly Recommend My Couples Do A First Look Before Their Ceremony

Photo by Stylish Hip Weddings

As a Wedding Planner, I am definitely partial to opting for “First Looks” for a number of different reasons. Why do I love them? Well for one, once your Ceremony starts, your wedding day becomes a whirlwind of events. You’ll be pulled in many different directions and will find yourself at the end of the night wondering where the day went. I’m sure you’ve heard the, “your wedding day goes by so fast” line a million times and I know it sounds cheesy and cliche but, I am here to tell you that it’s 1000% true! “First Looks” are a perfect opportunity for you and your fiance to snag some quality, uninterrupted time together on your wedding day!

Another reason why I love a “First Look” is the reactions. There is something so sweet about being in the moment together, without everyone else around, being able to soak in and cherish the moment when you see each other for the first time. No distractions. No background noise. A real and genuine moment of joy and excitement being captured on photo and video from different angles. This will be a moment that you can look back on 20 years from now and remember how you felt when you saw them standing there about to be your whole world in a moment that is just for the two of you. No one else.

Photo by Elizabeth Hasier Photography

Don’t get it wrong, I love a great aisle reaction. Especially when it comes with all those happy tears. I am such a sap and a sucker for the tears! Hahaha! But, there is just something so authentic and pure about that moment being sacred and reserved for just you as a couple.

It’s also a great time to talk through your nerves and anxiety with the person who loves and understands you the most. All the butterflies will be all worked up that day and being able to hug, kiss and be close to the person who makes you feel calm will definitely help you relax and enjoy the day. When the photographer has you pull each other in for a sweet forehead kiss or a close snuggle, talk to each other. Not only will that help you feel better and more comfortable as your photos continue but, it will make for some beautiful and intimate pictures.

Photo by Amanda Iris Photography

Another plus to doing a “First Look” is the opportunity to get your photos together as a couple done before your Ceremony and Reception take place. This way you can get the formality of the photos out of the way so that you can relax and actually enjoy your Cocktail Hour and Reception with your family and friends. You want to be able to present for every bit of this exciting day that you created!

Of course, “First Looks” are not everyone’s cup of tea. If you opt not to do one and stick to the tradition of seeing each other for the first time when those doors open and you make your way down the aisle, then go for it! This is definitely an individual personal preference and couples should make this decision together based on what feels right for the two of you. It’s your day and your memories to capture! Do it your way!