The pros and cons of a first look
In case you’re unfamiliar, the ‘First Look’ is an alternative to the tradition of a couple seeing each other for the first time at the end of the aisle on the wedding day. Usually, this means that you’ll be ready a couple of hours prior to the wedding, and you and your partner will find a secluded area where you can orchestrate a surprise reveal, seeing each other privately before the wedding ceremony.
The decision whether to do a first look or to stick with the traditional ‘end of aisle’ reveal can be a challenging one. There are lots of factors that play into the decision. As a wedding planner, I've seen both sides of the coin. Some couples swear by the intimacy of a first look, while others cherish the anticipation of meeting at the altar. From the perspective of a wedding planner, here are some things to consider:
The Intimacy of a First Look
One of the biggest advantages of opting for a first look is the opportunity to share an intimate moment with your partner away from the prying eyes of your guests. Imagine this: just you, your soon-to-be spouse (and your photographer), capturing the genuine emotions of seeing each other in your wedding attire for the first time. This private moment allows you to express your feelings freely without the pressure of an audience. It's a chance to connect, breathe, and soak in the reality of the day ahead. Plus, having your photographer there means you'll have those precious, candid moments immortalized in your wedding album.
Easing the Nerves
Let's face it—weddings can be nerve-wracking. The anticipation, the excitement, and the pressure to look perfect can all contribute to pre-ceremony jitters. A first look provides a calming effect, allowing you to see your partner sooner and ease any tension you might be feeling. Many couples find that this private encounter helps them feel more relaxed and grounded before the ceremony. It's like a little emotional buffer that sets the tone for the rest of the day.
Picture-Perfect Timing
Another pro of having a first look is the opportunity to capture stunning photos while you're fresh from hair and makeup. Let's be honest, after a few hours of mingling and celebrating, you might not look quite as pristine as you did when you first stepped into your gown or suit. A first look allows you to take advantage of that initial glow, ensuring your photos reflect your best selves.
Joining the Festivities
One of the logistical benefits of a first look is that it frees up your schedule later in the day. By taking photos before the ceremony, you can join your guests during cocktail hour, rather than spending that time posing for pictures. This means more time to mingle, celebrate, and enjoy the company of your loved ones. While you’ll likely still want to do extended family photos following the ceremony, your couples’ photos and wedding party pics will be done, allowing you to attend cocktail hour. Added benefit? The cocktail hour can be shorter, which may help prevent excessively inebriated guests due to the traditional long cocktail hour that results from needing about two hours between ceremony and reception to take photos.
Embracing Tradition with No First Look
On the flip side, some couples prefer to stick with tradition and forgo a first look. There's something undeniably romantic about the anticipation of seeing each other for the first time at the end of the aisle. It's a moment filled with emotion, and for many, it's the highlight of the ceremony. By choosing to wait, you preserve the traditional element of surprise, which can be incredibly meaningful for you and your guests.
A More Relaxed Timeline
Skipping the first look also means you don't have to be ready as early in the day. This can be a blessing for those who want a more leisurely start to their wedding morning. Without the need to coordinate a first look, you can take your time getting ready, savoring the process without the added pressure of a tight schedule. This relaxed timeline can contribute to a more enjoyable and stress-free experience for you and your wedding party. HOWEVER, the need for a couple of hours in between ceremony and reception for photos if you choose no first look means that your ceremony time may need to be earlier with this option.
The Grand Reveal
For some, the grand reveal at the ceremony is what dreams are made of. Walking down the aisle, seeing your partner's reaction, and feeling the collective joy of your guests can be an incredibly powerful experience. It's a moment that many couples cherish and remember fondly for years to come. By choosing to wait, you create a sense of anticipation and excitement that's hard to replicate with a first look.
Ultimately, the decision to have a first look or not is a deeply personal one. It depends on your priorities, your vision for the day, and what will make you feel most comfortable and joyful. Whether you choose to share a private moment before the ceremony or wait for the traditional aisle reveal, the most important thing is that it feels right for you. At Unmistakably You, we're here to support you every step of the way, ensuring your wedding day is as magical and stress-free as possible.
