Your wedding day first look could be one of the most magical moments you’ll experience together! If you’re on the fence about this beautiful tradition, let me share why so many couples are choosing this intimate option – and why over half of my couples absolutely adore their first look experience. ❤️
I want to be crystal clear: there’s absolutely no pressure to include a first look in your wedding day timeline. Every couple is unique, and your day should reflect what feels right for you both. However, I’m passionate about sharing the incredible benefits because once couples understand what makes first looks so special, they often can’t imagine their day without one! Let me help you create a magical first look for your wedding day!
Breaking Down the “Tradition” Myth
Let’s be honest – first looks get dismissed pretty quickly because they feel “non-traditional.” Trust me, I get it! I was once that bride who dreamed of my groom’s jaw-dropping reaction as I walked down the aisle. We all want that movie-moment where our partner is so overwhelmed with emotion that happy tears start flowing, right? 🥹
Here’s what I’ve discovered after photographing countless weddings: brides who love traditions often think they want to preserve that aisle moment above all else. But what you’re really craving is that genuine, heartfelt REACTION from your person. The concern is usually that seeing each other beforehand might somehow diminish the emotional impact or make the ceremony moment feel less special.
The Reality of Wedding Day Nerves
Let’s talk about what typically happens on wedding mornings. Even the most relaxed couples feel the weight of their big day. There’s so much focus on looking perfect, staying on schedule, and managing all the little details (seriously, which side does the boutonniere go on again?).
Picture your groom just hours before the ceremony. Maybe he was calm and collected playing golf that morning, but now? The reality of what’s about to happen is hitting him, and those butterflies are starting to flutter. He’s whisked away to wait in some little room, checking his watch, wondering what’s taking so long. When the wedding coordinator finally gives him the signal, he walks out to find 80, 150, maybe 300 faces all turned toward him, waiting to see his reaction. That’s a lot of pressure for what should be an intimate moment between two people in love. The bride may have some jitters too!
The First Look Alternative: Pure Magic
Imagine instead that your groom is taken to a quiet, private location with no expectations from anyone except you two. You softly call his name, he turns around, and there you are in all your wedding day glory.
This moment belongs entirely to you both. He can take you in his arms, tell you how stunning you look, maybe shed those happy tears, and you can savor every second together. You can show off your dress, do a little twirl, and ask what he thinks, all while his nerves melt away because he’s with the one person who makes him feel most at ease. ❤️
Including a first look in your wedding day timeline takes all of the pressure off for both of you. You can relax, practice your vows (or even say your private vows), and have a private moment before the start of the ceremony. By choosing this option, you’ll have TONS of pictures documenting the sweet emotions.
The Ripple Effect of Relaxation
Here’s where the magic really happens: because you’re not rushed, you can flow naturally into your first set of couples portraits. Your coordinator isn’t calling “15 minutes left!” and the wedding guests aren’t checking their watches. Its just you, your love, and your photographer capturing the pure joy and excitement of your wedding day.
When do you get this kind of alone time on your wedding day otherwise? Without a first look, the honest answer is… you don’t.
After these romantic pictures, you’ll meet up with your wedding party, and the beautiful thing is, everyone’s relaxed! The bride can touch up her makeup while the guys joke around, and when it’s time for bridal party photos, they’re actually fun because there’s time to make them fun. There won’t be impatient guests at cocktail hour or the DJ tapping the photographer for time checks.
Ceremony Time: The Best of Both Worlds
When it’s finally time for the ceremony, something wonderful happens. Your groom takes his place at the altar, and his hands aren’t clasped from nerves. Instead, they’re steady with excitement. *However I have been told by some grooms, it can STILL be JUST AS nerve wracking. 🥹 As the processional music begins and each bridesmaid makes her way down the aisle, he’s ready to fully experience this moment.
The music swells, your mom stands (followed by all your guests), and here you come – his best friend, his partner, his everything. He’s already seen how beautiful you look, but when he sees you walk toward him to become his wife, that smile just keeps growing wider.
No Pressure, Just Possibilities
I want to emphasize again that first looks are absolutely optional! I never want couples to feel pushed toward any choice that doesn’t feel right for them. I share these benefits because I’ve witnessed the magic so many times, and I want every couple to have all the information to make the best decision for their unique love story.
If a first look isn’t for you, that’s completely fine!! We’ll work together to create a timeline that captures every important moment beautifully, no matter what you decide to do.
Setting Up Your Perfect First Look
If you’re thinking a first look might be right for you, here’s what makes them truly spectacular:
The Perfect Private Location
Don’t stress about finding the ideal spot. One of the first things I do when I arrive on your wedding day is scout out the most beautiful, private area that suits your venue. *Please remember your “private first look” includes, bride, groom and myself (your photographer). 😉
Clean, Clutter-Free Space
Whatever location we choose needs to be picture-perfect. This means no bags, shoes, random items, or people in the background. If we need to temporarily move furniture (and yes, I’ve relocated coffee tables and TV stands before!), I’ll handle it and put everything back exactly where it belongs. 👌🏼
Wedding-Ready Perfection
Both of you should be completely ready before your first look – hair done, makeup perfect, groom looking dapper. This way, we can seamlessly transition into portraits afterward. The only decision you’ll need to make is whether you want your veil on for the first look or saved as a surprise element for the ceremony walk. 👰🏼
The Perfect Setup
Once I find your ideal spot, I’ll position your groom facing away while you approach from behind. A gentle tap on his shoulder followed by a soft “hey, handsome” is his cue to turn around to see his beautiful bride. From that moment on, the emotions flow naturally. 🥹
Managing Expectations (In the Best Way)
Here’s something important: don’t expect specific reactions like tears or particular words. Instead, expect to see love, wonder, and pure joy in your partner’s eyes. Every person expresses emotion differently, and your groom’s reaction will be perfectly, authentically him. 😉
Your Day, Your Choice, Your Magic
Whether you choose a first look or stick with the traditional aisle reveal, your wedding day will be absolutely beautiful. The most important thing is that it feels right for you as a couple. I’m here to capture every precious moment, support your vision, and make sure your love story is told exactly as you want it to be.
Ready to chat about your wedding day timeline? Let’s talk about we can create a magical first look for your wedding! ✨ Inquire with me to see if I have your date available!
comments +