7 Reasons to Include a First Look in Your Wedding Timeline

Your wedding day is filled with anticipation, excitement, and the joy of celebrating your love with family and friends. Among the many decisions you’ll make while planning, one that’s increasingly popular is whether to include a "first look" before the ceremony. This special moment, where the couple sees each other for the first time before the ceremony begins, offers a range of benefits that can enhance your wedding experience in meaningful ways. Here are compelling reasons to consider including a first look in your wedding timeline:

1. Intimate Moment Between You and Your Partner

A first look provides a private, intimate moment for you and your partner to share before the whirlwind of the day begins. It’s a chance to soak in each other’s presence, exchange heartfelt words, and calm any nerves in a tranquil setting away from the crowd. This quiet moment together can set a tone of relaxation and connection for the rest of the day.

2. Capture Genuine Emotions

The first look allows your photographer and videographer to capture genuine emotions as they unfold. The expressions of joy, surprise, and love on your faces are authentic and unscripted, creating powerful images that you’ll cherish forever. These photos often become some of the most treasured memories of your wedding day. See the highlights of Nathan + Rebecca’s emotional first look captured in both photos and video:

3. Extend Your Celebration

Including a first look extends the celebration of your wedding day. By seeing each other earlier, you have more time together to enjoy the festivities. It also frees up your schedule after the ceremony, allowing you to mingle with guests during cocktail hour or spend a few quiet moments alone before the reception begins.

4. Maximize Natural Light

For outdoor weddings or venues with beautiful natural surroundings, a first look earlier in the day ensures you can take advantage of the best lighting conditions. Natural light enhances photographs, making them more vibrant and flattering. This timing can be especially beneficial for capturing outdoor portraits or scenic backdrops. See how Michael + Meagan’s first look went:

5. Reduce Ceremony Nerves

Seeing your partner before the ceremony can help alleviate nerves and anxiety. It’s a comforting moment that reminds you why you’re about to embark on this incredible journey together. Feeling more relaxed and composed during the ceremony allows you to fully enjoy and savor the experience.

6. Efficiency in Photography

From a logistical standpoint, a first look can streamline your wedding day timeline. It allows you to complete bridal party and family portraits before the ceremony, reducing the need for extensive photography sessions during cocktail hour. This means more time spent celebrating with your loved ones and less time away from the festivities. Michael + Christine chose to do a first look followed by their wedding party and family photos:

7. Personalize Your Wedding Day

Including a first look is a chance to personalize your wedding day and make it uniquely yours. Whether you choose a private setting, a meaningful location, or incorporate personal touches into the moment, it adds a personal and memorable touch to your overall wedding experience. Check out how we captured Richard + Catherine’s first look:

Incorporating a first look into your wedding timeline offers numerous benefits that enhance both the practical and emotional aspects of your day. From capturing genuine moments and reducing nerves to extending your celebration and maximizing photography opportunities, it’s a decision that can elevate your wedding experience in profound ways. Consider discussing with your partner and wedding planner to see if a first look aligns with your vision for the day. Embrace the opportunity to create lasting memories and start your wedding day off on a beautifully intimate note.