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The Pros and Cons of Doing a First Look on Your Wedding Day



Are you feeling a little nervous about your wedding day?


All too often I see couples stressing about the logistics and some of the "small stuff" that they sometimes forget the entire reason why they are planning this monumental day. While there are many ways to realign and center yourself on the big day, one of the trending decisions couples face is whether to have a "first look" — a private moment where the bride and groom see each other before the ceremony.


This intimate reveal can be magical, but it's important to weigh the pros and cons to decide if it's right for you.


Pros of Doing a First Look with Your Spouse


Intimate Moment Together:

A first look offers a private moment for just the two of you amidst the chaos of the day. It's a special opportunity to share your excitement, emotions, and even some tears without an audience.


Calms Nerves:

Seeing your partner before the ceremony can significantly reduce anxiety and jitters. It's a chance to reassure each other and start the day feeling connected and calm.


Better Photos:

Photographers love first looks because they can capture genuine, candid emotions without the time constraints of the ceremony. The lighting is often better, and there's more creative freedom for stunning portraits.


More Time Together:

Wedding days fly by, and a first look allows you to spend more of it together. You can enjoy more of the cocktail hour and reception without the pressure of taking photos immediately after the ceremony.


Perfect Makeup and Hair:

By doing a first look earlier in the day, your makeup and hair will be fresh and flawless for the photos, ensuring you look your best in those cherished memories.


Cons of Doing a First Look with Your Spouse



Breaks Tradition:

For some, the tradition of not seeing each other until the ceremony is a cherished aspect of the wedding. A first look can feel like it diminishes the impact of the aisle reveal.

Less Dramatic Aisle Moment:

The emotional impact of seeing each other for the first time as you walk down the aisle can be powerful and memorable. A first look might reduce the intensity of that moment.

Personally, we love the raw emotion we witness across both the bride and groom's face when they see each other for the first time at the aisle.


Additional Planning:

Coordinating a first look requires extra planning and time in your schedule. It can add stress to an already busy day and may require starting your preparations earlier.


Logistical Challenges:

Depending on your venue and timeline, finding a private, picturesque spot for a first look can be challenging. It might not always be feasible, especially if the venue is far from where you're getting ready.


Who Else Can You Do a First Look With?

If you’re unsure about a first look with your spouse, consider these alternatives:



1. First Look with Bridesmaids:

Reveal your wedding attire to your bridesmaids in a special moment filled with cheers, tears, and lots of love. It’s a great way to celebrate your friendships and capture their genuine reactions.

2. First Look with Parents or Grandparents:

Share a heartfelt moment with your parents or grandparents. Their reactions can be incredibly touching and create beautiful memories. It's a lovely way to honor their role in your life.


3. First Look with Siblings:

Siblings often share a unique bond, and a first look with them can be a wonderful way to acknowledge their support and love. It’s a chance to create a special memory with your closest family members.


Deciding whether to do a first look on your wedding day is a personal choice with both benefits and drawbacks. While it offers a private, intimate moment to calm nerves and capture beautiful photos, it might also detract from the traditional aisle reveal. If you’re hesitant, consider doing a first look with someone else special in your life.


Whatever you choose, make sure it aligns with your vision for your wedding day, ensuring it’s as magical and memorable as you’ve always dreamed.


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