Should You Do a First Look on Your Wedding Day?
Should You Do a First Look? Pros, Cons & Tips for Making the Right Decision
As your wedding day draws near, one decision many couples face is whether or not to do a first look—the private moment when the bride and groom see each other before the ceremony. While the tradition of waiting to lock eyes at the altar is still cherished by many, first looks have become increasingly popular—and for good reason.
If you’re feeling torn about which path to take, you’re not alone. Below, we break down the pros and cons of a first look vs. waiting until the ceremony, so you can choose the experience that feels most meaningful (and logistically sound) for your big day.
What Is a First Look?
A first look is a planned moment before the ceremony when the couple sees each other for the first time on their wedding day—often captured beautifully by their photographer. This private reveal typically happens in a quiet, scenic spot and allows for emotional connection, uninterrupted time together, and stunning portraits before the day officially kicks off.
Reasons to Consider Doing a First Look
1. Ease Pre-Ceremony Nerves
Many couples find that a first look helps calm pre-wedding jitters. If you or your partner tend to be emotional or anxious, seeing each other beforehand can bring a sense of peace before standing in front of your guests. It also gives you time to be present with each other—just the two of you—before the whirlwind begins.
Bonus: If emotions run high, you’ll have time to fix your makeup before the ceremony!
2. More Time for Photos
Doing a first look opens up valuable daylight hours for photography, especially if you’re getting married in the winter when sunset comes early. It also means your photographer can capture:
Romantic portraits
Wedding party photos
Immediate family group shots
All before the ceremony. This helps streamline the timeline and ensures you're not rushed trying to squeeze it all in during cocktail hour.
3. Ability to Attend Cocktail Hour
Couples who opt for a first look often have the chance to join their guests at cocktail hour—a rare treat on a wedding day. Without the pressure of fitting in all the portraits post-ceremony, you’ll have more time to celebrate and enjoy those precious in-between moments with loved ones.
4. Flexibility for Larger Photo Lists
If you have a long list of family combinations, bridal party pairings, or want to visit a separate location for some creative photos, a first look gives you the time and freedom to make it all happen. Otherwise, you’ll be limited to a tight post-ceremony window—usually an hour.
Reasons to Wait Until the Aisle
1. Preserve the Traditional Aisle Moment
There’s something incredibly emotional and cinematic about seeing your partner for the first time as you walk down the aisle. Waiting can heighten anticipation and create a more powerful moment in front of your guests. If you’re drawn to tradition, this may feel like the most meaningful choice.
2. Simplified Morning Schedule
Choosing not to do a first look means you’ll have a more relaxed getting-ready timeline. There’s no pressure to be photo-ready several hours before the ceremony, which is especially helpful for larger bridal parties or if you're not a morning person.
3. Manageable Photo List
If your family and wedding party are small, and you don’t have a long photo wish list, you can easily complete all the portraits after the ceremony during cocktail hour. You might consider extending cocktail hour by 15–30 minutes to give yourself a bit more breathing room.
Special Considerations That Might Sway You
Winter weddings: If natural light is important to you and your ceremony is in the late afternoon or early evening, a first look is often necessary to ensure portraits are well-lit.
Tight timelines or multiple photo locations: If you're changing venues, doing family portraits off-site, or have a packed day, a first look gives you time to do it all.
Can’t Agree? Try These Compromises
If you and your partner have different opinions, here are two thoughtful ways to meet in the middle:
1. Do a “First Touch” Instead
Stand on either side of a door, wall, or corner and hold hands without seeing each other. It’s a powerful way to connect emotionally while keeping the reveal for the aisle.
2. Save Certain Accessories for the Aisle
Still want a first look but preserve some mystery? Do a first look without certain elements like your veil, jewelry, or final hairstyle, so there’s a small surprise waiting at the altar.
Trust Your Vendors to Guide You
At the end of the day, there’s no right or wrong choice—only what feels right for you as a couple. Your wedding planner and photographer are there to help you build a timeline that flows naturally with your vision and ensures you get the moments and photos you’re dreaming of.