I have 7 reasons why you should have a first look at your wedding. So, if you are on the fence make sure to keep reading. A first look allows you and your partner to share an intimate, private moment before the ceremony. I encourage you to break away from tradition and have a first look. It is one way to make the most out of your wedding day. But first let’s talk about the reason why you might not want a first look.
Are you hesitant about having a first look?
I know there is one main reason why brides do not want to have a first look. It is because you don’t want to take away that special moment you have been dreaming about your whole life. You walking down the aisle and your special someone on the other end seeing you for the first time. I’m here to tell you that moment can and will still happen even if you have a first look.
I had a first look with my husband and he still cried when I walked down the aisle. That moment is still special because it will be the first time you are both surrounded by all your loved ones. The moment right before you walk down the aisle to marry your best friend. That’s the moment it actually becomes real! Which will create an overwhelming feeling for both of you.
Here are 7 reasons why you should have a First Look
You will have to make a lot of decisions about your wedding day. Having a first look was one of the best decisions I made for mine and here is why.
1. Capture the moment: The beauty of a first look is its ability to capture genuine, raw emotions between just you and your partner before the guest arrive. That initial glance of your partner seeing you in your dress for the first time is so special. All these emotions will be captured and create candid photographs that you will cherish forever.
We had our first look about an hour before the ceremony began. My makeup was fresh and no guests had arrived yet. I knew once they arrived there would be little time for my husband and I to be alone and really soak in what was about to happen.
2. More Time for Photos: Choosing a first look provides more time and opportunity to capture wedding portraits. I’m sure you’ve heard that your wedding day is going to fly by and that is so true! So do not sacrifice getting all the photos you want because of time.
Having a first look means more time for creative, artistic, and breathtaking photos. You’ll have the chance to explore different settings, angles, and lighting conditions without the pressure of your guests there.
All of my favorite and best photos were taken before the ceremony started. I assume you are paying a lot of money for your photographer, so make sure to get the most out of them.
3. Intimate Moment for Two: Amidst the chaos and excitement of your wedding day, a first look carves out a private space for just you and your partner. Away from the gaze of your guests, you can share your thoughts, feelings, and excitement without any distractions. It’s the last moment for just you two before exchanging vows in front of your loved ones.
We spent so many months planning our wedding so having time for just us was necessary. Especially, because I didn’t see him the night before. Plus, we are both a little shy so I wanted time with him to calm both of our nerves and remind him we are in this together.
4. Enjoy Cocktail Hour: Traditionally, couples spend cocktail hour taking photos after the ceremony. A first look can grant you the luxury of participating in this part of the day. This creates an opportunity to have drinks, appetizers, and laughter with your loved ones. This is especially great if you have guest that flew in from out of town. Or who you haven’t seen in a long time. There is little time to have quality moments with each guest once the reception starts.
We still needed to take photos with our bridal party so we didn’t get to enjoy cocktail hour. Some brides take all their photos before the ceremony so they can enjoy cocktail hour. If I had more time I would have done this as well. My ceremony was at 4pm so we were up pretty early already.
5. Beat the Weather: While you can’t control the weather, you can certainly plan around it. Opting for a first look earlier in the day increases the likelihood of enjoying better weather conditions for your photoshoot.
It started raining after my ceremony so I was so grateful I got the photos I did at my first look. I still took photos with my bridal party after the ceremony but my bridesmaids dresses had water drops on them and my hair got a little frizzy. Not the end of the world but on your wedding day it sure does feel like it!
6. Slow Down and Soak It In: As I mentioned before your wedding day is like a whirlwind. One minute you’re getting ready, and the next, you’re saying “I do.” Before you know it your big day is over! A first look gives you a moment to slow things down, breathe, and take it all in. It’s like hitting the pause button on time, letting you create a memory that’s all about the two of you.
7. Looking Your Freshest: From your perfectly styled hair to your immaculate makeup, the start of the day is when you’re looking your absolute freshest. By choosing a first look, you ensure that your radiance is captured in its prime, resulting in great photographs.
The Modern Bride
Your wedding day is going to be incredible and having a first look is the secret ingredient that’ll make it even sweeter. At the end of the day whatever decision you make will be the right one! I love pictures so I knew I wanted to make the most of my time and photographer by having a first look. Plus, it was important to have a moment with just my fiancé before the big event.
Happy Wedding Planning! I know it is stressful but try too enjoy it. Soon it will all just be a memory.
Did you know you can get so many wedding items on Amazon? Check out my store front for some of the best deals I found including my veil here Wedding Amazon Favorites . Tell me in the comments how your wedding planning is coming along. Are planning a first look or not?
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