So why do we love when our couples have a first look? Below is our explanation of why we recommend it and how it makes your wedding day even more magical.

But first, what is a first look?

The first look is a moment before the ceremony when the couple see each other for the first time. This special moment typically takes place in a more private setting where the couple, photographer, and videographer are present. This is in contrast to traditional weddings. The couple would normally see each other for the first time at the ceremony. From our experience, I’d say on average about 80% of our couples do a first look. There are a handful of reasons why it is becoming such a popular trend.

Over the past six wedding seasons, weddings that have a first look tend to go a lot smoother. Now, we love photos, so we are a little biased in this. But, no matter how we feel about doing a first look, serving our clients is our top priority. We will create a wedding day timeline focused on what is most important to you and your partner.

Our Top Four Reasons Why You Should Consider Doing A First Look

1. You get to spend at least 2 hours more with your favorite person on YOUR WEDDING DAY! If you wait to see your partner for the first time at the alter, then you won’t even be able to talk to them until after your recessional. And then your bridal party will follow shortly after and all the congratulations come flooding in. During your first look, you can spend upwards of 15 minutes together. Couples enjoy talking, crying, sharing how they are feeling, and how excited you are to get married in just a couple of hours. Just the two of you. This is the whole reason you’re having this big celebration, so why not savor some intimate time together?!
2. You can Enjoy your Cocktail Hour! Instead of taking an hour for photos with your bridal party and your family, we can do just a few remaining large family photos. Then we send you off to your cocktail hour to drink, mingle and celebrate with everyone. Your bridal party will thank you!!
3. You get MORE PHOTOS! We want you to have the opportunity for as many photos as possible. At the end of the day, all that is left are your photos and film (if you have videography). We also can utilize multiple spaces of your venue, get variety in your couple’s portraits, and get all your bridal party photos done early while everyone looks their best and is less intoxicated. Win-win!!
4. You can Calm Your Nerves. If you’re the type of person that gets nervous around crowds, doesn’t like to be the center of attention, or gets anxious rather easily, then this is a great option for you. Face it, that is pretty much everyone! From all the planning to all the getting ready business to making sure everyone has everything, things get a bit stressful. Your wedding day is big deal and a lot of effort has gone into creating the wedding of your dreams. You can definitely get through it. However, doing a first look will give you peace of mind knowing that your significant other will be there for you to help calm those nerves. You will feel more present and less-stressed for the rest of the day.

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Still not interested in a First Look? No worries!

We are here to support and serve you in any way we can. There are still a couple of options we have that don’t include seeing each other before the ceremony. You can do a first touch. You stand on either side of a door, hold hands, share notes, say a prayer. It is super special and he still has no clue what you look like! Or, we can blindfold him.

Looking for some other advice? Check out these articles! Want us to explain another topic about weddings, comment below!

• 5 Simple Tips When Planning Your Wedding Day
• Why Hire a Videographer?
• Do I hire a wedding coordinator or use the venue coordinator?