One of the hardest decisions a couple has to make when planning their wedding is whether or not to do a First Look.  A First Look, is where the couple makes the decision to break with wedding tradition, and see each other before the ceremony. This is usually done in a private setting, with yourselves and your photographers, to ensure that this precious moment is capture.

It is a never ending debate between brides, whether they would like to incorporate the First Look, or keep to tradition see each other as the bride first walks down the aisle.

Below are the top Pro’s and Con’s for the First Look, and how to choose what works best for you.

The Pro’s For Doing A “First Look”

1. Gives You Privacy on Your Wedding Day (Which is Normally a Rarity)

Having a private moment between you and your husband-to-be is almost unheard of on your wedding day (believe it or not.) The First Look has become the most private part of your day (away from wedding party or hovering mothers.) It is quiet and peaceful and allows time to LOVE on each other (with your photographer there to capture it all so that you can always remember this moment and the expressions that go with it.)

2. Calms Your Nerves

Coordinate with your photographer or wedding planner to make sure that there is enough time after your “first look” that you are able to leave the premises to give yourself at least 30-45 minutes before your ceremony to digress and relax (and also allows time for the adrenaline to build back up until you see your hubby-to-be again as man and wife!) This also hides you from your guests!

3. Allows Formal Portraits to Occur Before the Ceremony

Planning the First Look usually allows for planned time to do all family photos before the ceremony.

The benefits you ask?

After the ceremony (and all the nerves that go with it) you are now free and clear to relax and enjoy the FUN! Rejoice in the moment and live it up with your hubby and bridal party! It also shortens your time in between your ceremony and reception, so your guests aren’t waiting so long and you can look forward to an earlier dinner!

TIP: This also cuts down on cocktail drink expenses if you are on a budget!

The Con’s of a “First Look”

1. Breaks Wedding Tradition

The famous “groom crying” picture when he first sees his bride walking down the aisle is one of the most coveted moments of the wedding day (and makes for a beautiful wedding photo as well.) Although you can achieve a similar look when you do a First Look, wedding tradition upholds the value of seeing each other when you are in the process of saying your vows. If you are planning a wedding where tradition is very important to you or your family, it would be advised to stay with this decision.

2. You Will Need to Start Your Day Earlier

If you are going to fit in a First Look (approx 30 minutes) and do your formal portraits (approx 45 min) before the ceremony, you can either:

A. Start your day earlier, which means a longer day for you and your wedding party

B. Shorten the time in between your ceremony and reception

Although it is entirely possible to create a workable timeline to incorporate a First Look, it is important to indicate this to all of your vendors, so that everyone stays on time.

The Conclusion

The newest wedding trend is for couples to do a First Look. Many brides are picking this because they love the authentic, captured pictures of their groom’s facial expression when he first sees her, and allowing themselves time to enjoy each other’s company (without all their guests watching them.) Either way, you will both love this moment, regardless if it is together, or during your ceremony!

Tell me: Will you do a first look before the ceremony? Why or why not? Comment below to share your thoughts and questions!

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