Why do I recommend a first look?

I know, I know, you've been dreaming of your wedding day your whole life, and one of the iconic visions you have is when the groom sees the bride for the first time, walking down the aisle, he tears up with emotion, the bride can barely keep herself upright, and everyone swoons at the sweetness of the moment.  

Aww, I love this moment too!

But what if I told you that you CAN have this moment AND have all the advantages of a first look?

Listen, I've photographed dozens of first looks, and I promise you, the magic of walking down the aisle still happens, even when the bride and groom have already seen each other.  In fact, I'd argue that sometimes a first look enhances the aisle moment because the pressure is off and there is freedom to react naturally.

So, what is a first look exactly? 

A first look is when the bride and groom plan to see each other for the first time before the ceremony.  It's usually a private moment shared between the couple, although sometimes close family or the bridal party are invited to be present.  The first look is typically set up with the bride hidden away, while the photographer sets the groom in a position where he won't be able to see the bride approach.  Then, once the groom is in place, the bride walks up behind her groom, taps him on the shoulder, and he turns around to get a look at his stunning bride for the first time!   

What are the advantages of a first look?

• The couple gets to spend more time together on their wedding day. 

Think about it- you've spent months planning this special day, and if you wait to see each other at the ceremony, you won't be together until 4:00 pm (or whenever your ceremony starts!).  If you have a first look, you can spend several more hours experiencing the day with your soon-to-be spouse!

• You can share your reactions.

When you see each other for the first time, I know you'll have plenty to say!  You'll want to tell each other how beautiful (or handsome!) they look, and you will definitely want to hug each other!  The groom can spin the bride around and see all her stunning details. The bride will check up on the groom's details, too, and make sure everything is just right.  There are usually a few tears and lots of laughs and hugs.  Some couples sneak in a kiss, but usually they hold back and wait for the ceremony. None of this interaction is possible if you wait to see each other at the altar.  

• Less time is needed between the ceremony and reception.

One of the biggest advantages of a first look is the time that can be saved between the ceremony and reception.  After the first look, we can take a majority of the photos before the ceremony. Bride and groom photos, bridal party photos, and even family photos can be taken during this time. With fewer photos to take after the ceremony, couples can attend their cocktail hour or start their reception sooner.  Believe me, your guests will thank you for this!

First looks can be special, fun, and creative.  Some couples read letters or exchange gifts.  Some couples have teased each other with a fake first look- sending a groomsmen dressed in a funny costume to tap the groom on the shoulder.  You can make your first look anything you want it to be.  It's a dedicated moment for the couple, tailored to reflect your unique bond and the kind of experience you envision.

I get it. First looks aren't for everyone, and at the end of the day, I will always defer to the couple's wishes for how they want their wedding day to flow.  After all, it is YOUR wedding and I want to help document your dream wedding exactly how you hope it will be!  Deciding to have a first look or not can be a tough decision.  I recommend that you consider the advantages I've mentioned above and think about your timeline and how you want to spend each precious minute on your wedding day. Most importantly, think about how you feel about having a first look.  I know that you'll make the perfect decision that fits you best!