One of the many decisions you’ll make when planning your wedding day timeline? Whether to have a “first look” – a private moment between you and your partner before the ceremony.
While some couples love the idea of sharing this intimate experience, others may prefer to wait for the traditional aisle reveal. It really comes down to your wedding timeline and personal priorities for the day!
Not sure which option is right for you? Keep reading as we weigh up the pros and cons of having a first look for your wedding.
What is a First Look?
A first look is a planned moment before the ceremony where the couple sees each other for the first time on their wedding day.
Unlike the traditional aisle reveal, a first look is typically a private experience shared only between the couple (and usually their photographer and videographer to capture the moment).
A first look can take place at your getting ready venue, your wedding venue, or any other location that holds a special meaning to you both.
Pros of Having a First Look
A first look can be a beautiful experience before the excitement of the ceremony begins! Here are a few reasons why first looks are becoming increasingly popular with couples:
Share a Private, Intimate Moment
Planning a first look allows you to have a meaningful, private moment with your partner before the ceremony. If you’re feeling emotional, this can be a special way to soak it all in together without hundreds of eyes on you.
Eases Pre-Ceremony Nerves
If you or your partner tend to get nervous in front of a crowd, a first look can help you feel more relaxed before walking down the aisle. Seeing each other beforehand can ease those ceremony jitters and make you feel more grounded.
Spend More Time With Guests
A first look gives you the opportunity to take photos before the ceremony, freeing up more time to spend with guests later in the day. Without a first look, most of your formal portraits will need to be taken during cocktail hour. If you have a first look, you can wrap up most of your photos beforehand, giving you more time to enjoy your reception and celebrate with your loved ones!
Cons of Having a First Look
Although a first look can work beautifully for some couples, there may be some potential downsides. Here are a few things you might want to consider when deciding whether to have one:
Breaks Tradition
Many couples love the anticipation of seeing each other for the first time at the ceremony. If you’ve always dreamed of sharing that special “aisle moment” together, you may prefer to wait and experience it the traditional way.
Less Emotional Impact at the Ceremony
For some, the first look can take away some of the emotional intensity of the aisle reveal. If you want that once-in-a-lifetime reaction in front of your friends and family, skipping the first look might be the way to go.
Requires an Earlier Start
If you want to do a first look, you’ll need to start your day a little earlier to allow time for photos before the ceremony. This might mean waking up at sunrise for hair and makeup, which can feel like a long day ahead. Read our tips for planning your wedding day timeline here!
Making the Right Choice for You
There’s no right or wrong answer when it comes to having a first look – it all depends on what feels best for you as a couple! If you’re still torn between the two, consider talking to your photographer about the logistics and how it will impact your timeline.
Ultimately, whether you choose to have an intimate moment before the ceremony or stick to tradition, the most important thing is that your wedding day feels authentic and special to you. Need some help narrowing down your wedding vision and priorities? Download our free printable wedding vision worksheet here.
