Should you have a “first look” at your wedding? 

I give an emphatic YES! Here’s why.

I’ve been fortunate enough to attend many weddings over the years, and I’ve seen this question pop up over and over from couples lamenting which way to go: “Should we have a ‘first look?’”

If you’re not familiar with the term, a first look is an intimate moment sometime before the ceremony when the couple sees each other for the first time. Traditionally, many couples have reserved that special moment for when they walk down the aisle. With a first look, couples have that moment to themselves, “behind the scenes” and away from their guests. 

There are many reasons why I suggest having a first look, so let’s dive in. 

3 Reasons Why I Highly Recommend Having a First Look at Your Wedding

1. It’s an amazing de-stressor

It’s not uncommon for couples to feel nervous on their wedding day. What I’ve witnessed over and over is how a first look can instantly relax brides and grooms. In that moment, the atmosphere changes. It’s almost like a pressure-release valve; after so many months of planning and looking forward to the special day, a first look allows for an intimate, sweet moment away from guests where you can just be yourselves and connect on how you’re feeling. Having some anxiety melt-away before the festivities begin can do a lot to make the rest of the event go smoothly, and for it to be filled with joy instead of nervousness.

2. It’s a beautiful, genuine moment that re-focuses the day on the couple – and what’s really important

When it’s time to see guests, have the ceremony, and party, the attention of brides and grooms can easily be pulled into a million different directions. It can be easy to get swept up in the details or what may not be going exactly as planned. A first look is a great moment to ground you and your partner in why you’re really there: to celebrate your love, companionship, and commitment. It’s a moment that can be crucial to letting you refocus on what’s most important, and to let any worries melt away.

3. It offers another period for incredible photography

As a photographer, I love the extra opportunity to take photos of the couple that the first look allows. Traditionally, most of the portrait photography on a wedding day has to be squeezed in after the ceremony. A first look gives ample time to get a lot of these portraits out of the way early so that you’re not having to pull yourself away from guests and partying later on. A first look can be the most intimate photo session of the evening. I’ve seen so many couples relish not only in that special time away from the crowds, but also in the beautiful photos that were produced in that moment. 

Right now, about 70% of my clients chose a first look, and I can’t say I’ve had a single couple regret the decision. I hope this article gives you some useful info to help you decide whether a first look is right for you. 

Looking for a wedding photographer in Colorado? I’d love to connect with you! 

Being with couples on their wedding day is my honor. I’d love to get to know more about your vision for your wedding and whether I can help capture your special day. Give me a call at 520-891-3805 or email me at cgarnerphotography@gmail.com to set up an appointment. I look forward to speaking with you!