Should you do a first look on your wedding day? There are many viewpoints on this. I’m seeing more and more people not wanting a first look. They want that magical experience of seeing each other as they walk down the aisle. I am always on the team of “I never want to force anyone to do something for my benefit on YOUR day” and don’t let any other vendor convince you either.
There are stills lots of weddings with first looks, and if you’re having a wedding in the winter I highly recommend it! More on this later in this post.
In this post, I talk about the top pros and cons of doing a first look on your wedding day.
Pro’s of a First Look
You can get so much done before the ceremony and truly get to be at cocktail hour and talk to your guests.
I have so many past clients and friends who wish their wedding could have been longer as it’s so hard to talk to everyone. Being free for the cocktail hour allows you to get to mingle more and enjoy your reception and dance floor!
You can travel to a few locations for photos!
If you had your heart set on downtown or a park then a first look is a great way to make this happen and then you won’t have a long break of time for your guest between the ceremony and reception!
PRO TIP – To make the moment you walk down the aisle even more special if you do a first look, wait to wear your veil (if you choose to have one) until the ceremony, it changes your look a little! The moment you walk down the aisle is still so special, the music is playing, the doors open, and your guest stands. I’ve still seen plenty of tears from both the bride and groom during this moment that had a first look.
Con’s of a First Look
These points are relative and about what YOU want on YOUR day! If you don’t want a first look, then don’t have one.
Going back to tradition is important for a lot of couples and waiting to see each other until you walk down the aisle is incredibly special. I would suggest taking as many photos as you can beforehand to make it fun and easy after!
PRO TIP – If you’re having a winter wedding and do not want to have a first look, that’s fine but please keep in mind when the sun is setting. For example, if you’re having a 4 pm ceremony in December with no first look, all your photos and video of you as a couple will be in the dark or inside. It limits what we can do as your vendors.
