The First Look on Your Wedding Day: To See or Not to See?

One of the most anticipated moments of any wedding is when the bride and groom first lay eyes on each other. Traditionally, this special moment happens at the altar during the ceremony. However, an increasingly popular alternative is the "first look" - a private and intimate moment where the couple sees each other before the ceremony. In this blog post, we will explore the reasons for and against doing a first look on your wedding day, helping you make an informed decision that aligns with your desires and vision for your big day.

Reasons for Doing a First Look:

1. Emotional Connection: The first look allows couples to share an incredibly emotional and intimate moment before the chaos of the wedding day begins. Seeing each other in private can create a profound connection and a safe space to express your emotions without the pressure of an audience. It can be a beautiful opportunity to cherish a moment together before the whirlwind of the ceremony and reception.
2. Time Alone: Weddings can be hectic, with schedules tightly packed and little time for the couple to be alone. A first look grants couples a precious moment to soak in each other's presence, exchange private words, and take a deep breath together. It can help calm nerves and set a relaxed tone for the rest of the day.
3. Enhanced Photography: From a practical standpoint, a first look provides an opportunity for your photographer to capture stunning, candid moments in a controlled environment. The lighting and ambiance can be carefully planned, resulting in beautifully composed photos that reflect your emotions and love. It also frees up time during the post-ceremony photoshoot, allowing you to spend more time with your guests.

Reasons Against Doing a First Look:

1. A True Surprise: For some couples, the tradition and surprise of seeing each other for the first time at the ceremony hold immense sentimental value. They cherish the anticipation and the raw emotions that come with that particular moment, shared with their loved ones as witnesses. If upholding tradition is important to you, foregoing the first look may be the best choice.
2. Maintaining Tradition + Etiquette: Some couples prioritize adhering to traditional wedding etiquette, which emphasizes the anticipation and excitement of the first look happening at the ceremony. If you envision a more traditional wedding or come from a culture where this moment holds particular significance, it may be best to keep the first look at the altar.
3. Time Constraints: Depending on your wedding timeline, incorporating a first look may require additional time and planning. If you have a tight schedule, adding a first look might add complexity and stress. In such cases, it may be more convenient to stick to the traditional order of events.

Deciding whether or not to have a first look on your wedding day is a personal choice that depends on your preferences, values, and the overall vision for your special day. Consider the emotional connection, the opportunity for intimate moments, and the enhanced photography that a first look can offer. Equally, weigh the value of tradition, surprise, and the desire to maintain an element of anticipation during the ceremony. Discuss your options with your partner and photographer to ensure that your decision aligns with your unique preferences and creates a memorable experience for both of you. Remember, there is no right or wrong choice - only the one that feels right for you!