Today more and more couples are opting for a first look. Some for the sake of efficiency, and some who just want those dreamy, romantic portraits. No matter the reason, they never regret the decision because, in the end, it achieves both and so much more. I would never want to pressure anyone into a first look, but if you are on the fence or the least bit curious, keep reading for some of the amazing benefits of sharing a first look.

Savor The Moment

When a groom sees his bride at the end of the aisle for the first time, he can’t hug her or tell her how beautiful she looks. He may even be embarrassed to show how he really feels in front of a crowd and hold back some of the reactions that the bride WANTS to see from her groom.

When a bride and groom share a first look in private, they can show genuine and unfiltered reactions. They may share a sweet embrace or shed tears of joy. The bride may even choose to do a twirl to reveal the back of her gown in all its glory. 

Each first look is unique, allowing the couple to truly enjoy the reveal in their own way.  This sets the tone for some incredibly romantic portraits while the excitement is still fresh!

Calms the Nerves

The anticipation of seeing your partner in front of your friends and family can be a lot of pressure. A first look is a perfect remedy for someone who may be shy or anxious to calm those pre-ceremony nerves.

Doubles the “Aisle Moment“

Many brides are afraid that a first look will spoil the groom’s reaction at the aisle. That is not the case! Grooms will still have an emotional reaction at the alter even after sharing a first look. As a bonus, the bride gets to see it twice!

More Portraits

One of the benefits of sharing a first look is that it gives you more opportunities in your timeline, which naturally will result in more bride and groom photos overall. And who doesn’t want more bride and groom photos!?

More Time With Your Guests

When you take care of some of the bride and groom portraits during the first look, you can spend less time taking photos after the ceremony. Enjoy cocktail hour and dance the night away, knowing you had ample time to greet all of your guests.

Extra Layer of Insurance 

What if it rains after your ceremony? Having a first look at the beginning of the day ensures more probability that you will take bride and groom portraits outside!

Words From a Past Bride

“I really didn’t think much of the first look until our wedding day actually arrived. Prior to that day, I just thought it was a way of taking care of bride and groom photos before the ceremony to help facilitate the flow of the day. However; as I was getting into my gown I was shaking. I’m not sure why but I was so anxious to go and see Todd. It seemed so strange because we see each other everyday, but something about seeing him in his tux moments before we were to be married really just made me stop and appreciate how much the day meant for both of us. My sister and I were both sobbing as she walked me out to meet Todd. I walked around the corner, tapped Todd on the shoulder and instantly felt more at ease when I saw him. The first look was such a nice moment with just the two of us before the rest of the day unfolded.” – Addie N.