Why You Should Consider Doing A First Look On Your Wedding Day
Why You Should Consider Doing A First Look On Your Wedding Day
Understanding the First Look
A first look is a modern wedding practice where couples see each other before the ceremony, allowing for an intimate moment away from the crowd. This trend has gained popularity, with approximately 56% of couples choosing to incorporate it into their wedding day. According to The Knot, couples often find that this private moment enhances the overall wedding experience.
Benefits of a First Look
1. Capturing Authentic Emotions
A first look provides a private setting for couples to express their genuine emotions upon seeing each other, leading to heartfelt and candid photographs. Brides highlights that first look photos often become some of the most cherished images from the day.
2. Calming Nerves
Seeing your partner before the ceremony can alleviate pre-wedding jitters, allowing both to feel more relaxed and present during the vows. Wedgewood Weddings suggests that many couples feel a sense of relief after their first look, making the ceremony itself more enjoyable.
3. Maximizing Time Together
By scheduling a first look, couples can spend more time together on their wedding day, extending their shared moments by nearly three hours. Lindsey Taylor Photography emphasizes that this additional time allows for a smoother and more relaxed schedule.
4. Efficient Photography Schedule
Completing couple and bridal party portraits before the ceremony frees up time during the cocktail hour and reception, enabling couples to mingle with guests without feeling rushed. According to WeddingWire, a first look creates a more seamless photography timeline.
5. Enhanced Ceremony Experience
Having already shared an intimate moment, couples often feel more at ease during the ceremony, allowing them to focus entirely on the significance of the event. WedSites notes that couples who do a first look tend to be more emotionally engaged in the ceremony itself.
Considerations
Tradition vs. Modernity: Some couples prefer the traditional route of waiting until the aisle reveal, cherishing the classic moment of first sight during the ceremony.
Personal Preferences: It's essential to discuss with your partner what feels right for both of you, ensuring the decision aligns with your personalities and expectations.
Venue & Lighting: If your ceremony is at sunset, a first look ensures that portraits can be taken in optimal lighting conditions.
FAQ: Everything You Need to Know About First Looks
Q: Does a first look ruin the ceremony moment?
A: Not at all! Many couples say that having a first look actually enhances the aisle moment because they feel more relaxed and emotionally present.
Q: Is a first look bad luck?
A: The "bad luck" superstition comes from old traditions, but today, many couples embrace the first look to create a private, intimate memory before the ceremony.
Q: What are some alternatives if I want a first look but still want a big aisle reveal?
A: You can do a first touch, exchange private letters, or do a first look with parents or the bridal party instead!
Q: Does a first look save time on wedding photos?
A: Yes! A first look allows you to complete portraits before the ceremony, freeing up time for guests and cocktail hour fun.
Q: Should I do a first look if I have a religious or traditional wedding?
A: It's completely up to you! Some couples who want to honor tradition modify the first look by having a blindfolded moment or holding hands behind a door.
Final Thoughts
Choosing to have a first look is a personal decision that offers numerous benefits, from capturing genuine emotions to creating a relaxed timeline. By considering this option, couples can enhance their wedding day experience, making it both memorable and stress-free.
📅 Considering a first look for your wedding? Contact Shoreline Weddings to discuss how we can beautifully capture every moment of your special day.