The Pros & Cons of First Looks

First looks are trending in the wedding world! Couples can’t help but sneak-a-peak at each other before the ceremony and soak in a special moment for themselves. But, some couples opt for the traditional option of waiting until the ceremony doors open before seeing one another for the first time on their wedding day. This gives an overwhelming feeling of emotion as they take each other in. So, what’s your decision?

Melissa Alderton Photography

First Look Pros

1. Lose the Nerves – If you’re a very emotional, jittery person then you may want to consider this option. Couples feel more at ease when they get to see each other before the ceremony. They’ll also be less distracted and can share an intimate moment together. Having some quiet time alone gives the couple a chance to reflect on the day and what’s to come. These moments together will be nice as you may not get many of these later on.

2. Special Gifts – If you decided to give each other gifts, this could be a great time to exchange them. Plus, you get to see your significant other’s reaction! 
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3. More Time – Having a first look allows you more time to take photos together before the ceremony instead of having to take them all after the ceremony. This will also give you more time to interact with your guests during cocktail hour.

Uttke Photography

First Look Cons

1. Lose the Special Moment at the Altar – The moment of excitement and nerves leading up to the ceremony, building the suspense of seeing one another, and having those church doors open UP to reveal you to your significant other is a moment couples cherish forever. Doing a first look before the ceremony could take just a bit of this emotion away.

2. Earlier Start – If you have a first look, then you’re going to have to get up earlier. This means hair and makeup will have to begin sooner and can cut into your time to relax before the ceremony. If you aren’t an early riser or prefer to not rush in the morning, then you may want to reconsider having a first look.
3. Could Make You More Nervous – Some couples feel that a first look eases their nerves, but for some it could do just the opposite. The pressure of having the perfect first look expression for your photographer, videographer, or even nearby wedding party watchers can be stressful and overwhelming.

Ultimately, we support whatever the couple decides to do. Doing a first look or waiting to see each other at the altar, either way the moment will be special for both of you!

** What if one of you wants a first look and the other doesn’t? Well we’ve thought of a couple compromise options for this as well so you and your sweetie can have the best of both worlds!

1. Parent / Wedding Party First Look – We’re a sucker for these types of first looks. When a parent, sibling, or best friend get to see you all dressed up for the first time on your wedding day the moment can be so magical.

2. First Look Without All Accessories – You can still do a first look, but by not having all your accessories on (veil, special jewelry, etc.) you can still surprise your significant other at the altar.
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3. First Read / Touch – Have a special, intimate moment together before the ceremony without seeing each other by doing a first reading or touch. Go back to back or be around the corner from each other so you can talk, touch, and listen to each other before your wedding.

KluzB Photography