First Look: What Is It and Should You Do One?

What Is a First Look?

A first look is a private moment between you and your partner to see each other for the first time on your wedding day. It gives them both the chance to take the other one in without the distraction of the other guests before the ceremony. This typically happens in a secluded area of the venue with only the couple and the photographer and/or the videographer.

Why Did First Looks Become So Popular?

To put it simply, First Looks were created to give couples the opportunity to spend more time with their guest (and each other).

In a traditional timeline, the couple does not see each other until the ceremony. Afterwards, the couple would be swept away to take couple portraits, wedding party photos, and family photos while their guests are enjoying appetizers and drinks at Cocktail Hour. The Cocktail Hour is really just a way to distract the guests with food and booze while the guests of honor are off getting their pictures taken. However, cocktail hour is fun! It's a time when everyone gets to mingle, talk about the event, and of course, eat and drink! As weddings have become more flexible and less traditional, couples decided that they want to spend time with the people that they invited and to not miss that time to socialize and chat with their friends and family.

In a First Look timeline, the couple is able to see each other earlier in the day, so they can take care of as many pictures before the ceremony as possible. Depending on your schedule, couple portraits and wedding party photos can be taken before the ceremony, and family photos will be done quickly following. If you have a lot of time, and your family is able to arrive early - you can get them all done beforehand!

Then, you can make sure to talk and thank all of those who made the effort to come and support you on your wedding day. And don't forget, that you'll get to enjoy the food and drink that you paid for!

What Kind of First Looks Are There?

The typical first look is between the two people that are getting married.

However, each family and couple are unique and certain relationships call for more attention than others. Here are all the other first looks that can be incorporated into a wedding timeline:

• Bride and Father
• Bride and Mother
• Groom and Mother
• Bride and Parents
• Groom and Parents
• Bride and Bridesmaids
• Bride and Wedding Party
• Bride and Dog/Pets

If you have a relationship with someone that you feel would be perfect for this type of moment - don't hesitate to tell your wedding planner and photographer.

My advice is to limit your number of first looks to no more than two. For time sake.

Should You Do a First Look at Your Wedding?

Well, now you know what a First Look is and the functionality it can have for your wedding timeline. Here are some signs that you should or shouldn't do a First Look:

You Should Do a First Look:

• You don't want to cry in front of your guests when you see your partner for the first time
• You want to read private vows together beforehand (you can do this without seeing each other, by the way)
• You want to get photos done early
• You want to be at your reception as early as possible
• You have a gift you want to give your partner (you can also do this without seeing them)
• You feel that it will calm your nerves to see your partner early
• You want to spend more time with your partner on your wedding day
• You won't be taking a very long time to get ready

You Shouldn't Do a First Look:

• You want a dramatic entrance when you walk down the aisle to your partner
• You don't mind showing emotion in front of others
• You're okay with getting photos taken after the ceremony
• You have a longer reception time
• You want to take your time getting ready
• You want to have a longer, relaxing morning
• You want to prioritize "getting ready" photos