“What are your thoughts on first looks?” This is something I get asked all the time and the answer is, it’s totally a personal choice! My clients are not required to do a first look but, I want to share the benefits a first look because I want my couples to have all the facts! Let’s talk about some reasons you should consider a first look on your wedding day.
On their wedding day, brides dream of having their groom be so surprised and overcome with joy when they walk down the aisle. Those who are not interested in a first look usually think that by seeing each other beforehand, they will lose part of that reaction and that it won’t be as emotional as it would be if they were coming down the aisle. But from what I’ve seen, it seems to be the opposite. You’ll have the best of both worlds when you decide to share a first look moment on your wedding day.
The whole day is focused on you, the bride and groom. There’s pressure to look your best, be on time, and the groom has no idea what side the boutonniere is supposed to go on. Grooms normally become so nervous on their wedding day, no matter how cool and collected they seem to be. For most, the nerves kick in right before they see their bride because that’s when everything becomes VERY real.
So when the nerves start creeping up, instead of keeping the groom in a secluded space until time for the ceremony, what about taking him to a private place and letting his beautiful bride quietly call his name and have him turn around to see her for the first time?
He could turn around, get a first peek at his bride and in that time, he could embrace her, cry with her, kiss her, and enjoy that moment with her for as long as they wanted. After she shows him her dress, twirls a few times, and asks what he thinks, his nerves will start to disappear.
Because there’s not a time crunch, the couple can casually move into their bride and groom portraits. It’s just the two of them and their photographer capturing the excitement and joy of their wedding day. This is the perfect time for a couple to steal some alone time which rarely happens without a first look.
After some fun wedding party pictures, the ceremony begins! When the groom looks up he’ll see his best friend coming down the aisle and the closer she gets, the bigger he’ll smile. Believe me, the reaction you get when he sees you coming down the aisle to become his WIFE will be just as beautiful.
So why should you consider a first look?
More Portraits
With a first look, you’ll receive 40% more portraits of the two of you. Those are the images you will decorate your home with!
Enjoy the Moment Freely
Most brides don’t realize that when you come down the aisle and totally shock him with your gorgeousness he can’t even tell you how amazing you look. He can’t touch you, embrace you, or even speak to you. You have to wait until the ceremony is over. And after 15-30 minutes of ceremony, the reaction isn’t quite the same as that initial first glance.
Some Time Alone
First looks allow you to be together and alone on your wedding day! When you see each other, not only is it intimate, it’s usually your only time to be alone for the whole day! Normally portraits are a little rushed after the family photos and it can be hard to get back into that “lovey dovey” mode. When you’ve just shared your first look, you’re ready to love on each other and I always capture some super sweet images during those moments!
Less Nervous at the Ceremony
You get rid of your nerves! Many couples who initially weren’t a fan of the first look admitted to being so much more relaxed and ready for the ceremony afterwards.
Want to consider a first look but need more information? Contact me! I’d be glad to help you make the right decision for your wedding day!
