Inevitably at some point your planner and/or photographer are bound to ask you if you plan to do a first look!

If you’ve never heard of a first look, it is when the couple plans to see each other before the ceremony. It is typically documented by the photographer and it gives the (almost) newlyweds a chance to get a few things out of the way before saying “I do.”

As I am sure you are familiar...traditionally, the bride and groom are not supposed to see each other before the wedding ceremony. Although the idea of this tradition has a romantic aire to it, the history is well...less than romantic.

This tradition emerged back when arranged marriages were the norm. Families of the bride and groom thought that if the groom were to see the bride before the wedding, he might back out if the bride wasn’t attractive. Kind of off putting right?! Luckily, this isn’t the norm anymore and first looks are just as popular as sticking with tradition.

With that being said, sometimes it can be difficult to decide if you want to have a first look or not.

Not to worry! We have come up with some pros and cons to help you make the right decision for you.

Pros

Get alone time before the wedding

As you can imagine, it can be nerve wracking leading up to the ceremony. Instead of waiting to see each other with a captive audience, you can use the first look to have some alone time and get centered before all the craziness starts!

Attend your cocktail hour

If you opt not to do a first look, the only time to take photos would be during the cocktail hour. Many couples look forward to mingling with their guests and loved ones during the cocktail hour. If joining the cocktail hour is your preference, we recommend taking your newlywed, wedding party, and family photos prior to the ceremony.

Get your tears out before the ceremony

The first look can help get all the waterworks out before you are standing in front of a crowd. This can be good for those who are kind of shy to show their emotions to their family and friends. It also gives you an opportunity for any makeup touch ups before the ceremony versus going straight from the ceremony into family photos.

Cons

Take away that special moment

Some couples are scared that if they do a first look, the walk down the aisle will be less emotional. They want the first time to see each other to happen during the ceremony.

Start the day earlier

Because the first look will happen before the ceremony, you would have to start your day earlier. This means getting ready a little earlier in the morning so that there is time for pictures before the ceremony.

Could be awkward

The first look isn’t just going to be you and your partner. In reality, the photographer and videographer (if you have one) will be there too. It can be awkward trying to have a sentimental moment before the craziness starts when you have others around.

In the end, the decision to have a first look is totally up to you and your partner. Hopefully the list of pros and cons we created can help you decide.

First Looks