Let’s talk “first looks”
At this point in my career I’d say 90% of my couples are doing first looks. I think there’s good reason for that – our photography style is so moment driven, people want to spend as much time with their friends and family NOT posing for the camera as possible. Seeing each other before the ceremony frees up time to do those photos before guests arrive so you can just be in the moment, taking it all in.
but the first look has more value than just logistics…
I want to talk about the first look from another perspective – the emotional perspective. Whenever couples are on the fence about it, it’s because they don’t want the moment they walk down the aisle to have any less weight. I can tell you right now IT DOES NOT.
Jonathan and I did a first look at our wedding. It wasn’t even a conversation, with the logistics of our wedding it just made sense. But having been on the other side of it I can tell you, those two moments were two VERY different things.
For me, the first look was a chance to see him looking handsome in his custom made suit that I had not yet seen on him, and for him to see the dress I was so excited about and the full bridal look I’d been dreaming of. I’d never felt more beautiful in my life, and I was just excited to share that! This moment was more happy and giddy and “Yay! It’s our wedding day!”
The “aisle moment” was still emotional and beautiful.
As soon as I heard the music start for me walking down the aisle (I had Jonathan’s best friend learn ‘Honeybee’ on guitar and finger pick it as a surprise to Jonathan) I started sobbing. And it didn’t stop. I walked myself down the aisle so I could look at the faces of all the people we loved gathered together. I took my time. I took it in. I cried harder (lol). I hugged my parents, the kids, and Jonathan when I got to the front of the aisle. That was just the beginning of the tears.
Our ceremony carried emotional weight because it was important. It was the moment we committed to each other in front of all the people we love most. Nothing can take that away.
Ultimately your wedding day is going to be what you make of it.
It’s the one time in your life everyone you love comes together to celebrate YOU. That’s beautiful and special no matter what choices you make regarding first look or no first look. But from hundreds of weddings of experience, and my own experience as a bride, the more in the moment you are, the better the experience… and the better the photos because they remind you of that beautiful experience. Do things the way you want. Whatever that looks like.
Even if that means hugging everybody because you love them so much, even if that’s not “normal” :)
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