What is a first look?

The first look is when a couple sees each other for the first time on their wedding day. Traditionally the groom will stand facing away while the bride walks up behind him and taps him on the shoulder so he knows to turn around, and they share their first look*. The first look takes place after the couple is done getting ready and before people start arriving for the ceremony so that none of the guests sees the bride and you still get the wow factor of walking down the aisle.

*A first look can be done with a couple of any gender.

Why do I personally love first looks?

First looks are one of my favorite parts of the day for a couple of reasons…

1) There are so many pure emotions that come out when you see the love of your life in their wedding finery for the first time. And you get to experience that together just the two of you. It makes it more intimate. It also gives you a chance to be alone together as a couple before you meet and greet a million guests. 

2) It relieves all the stress. I was a ball of nerves on my wedding day because I had put so much time and effort into this day and I wanted everything to go to plan. Seeing Jason made all that melt away, I had my person and none of the rest mattered anymore.

3) It makes for great photos.

4) From a practical stand point you can get more photos done before the ceremony, which means you will spend less of cocktail hour taking photos, and more of it celebrating with your guests. Or, it can give you more time in your schedule to have another quiet get away moment with your new spouse, and maybe sit and eat and drink something, and catch your breath.

Variations of first looks

Did you know that first looks aren’t just for partners anymore? There are some fun variations on the first look that you might want to consider. For example, you could do a first look with your father or keep your dress a secret from your bridesmaids and do a grand reveal for them. And last but not least, one of my favorites is a first look with your dog. No matter whom you choose to do a first look with, you’re guaranteed to experience big emotions from all involved, and it will be a moment you’ll always remember.