If you’re planning a wedding, you may be wondering whether or not to do a first look. Many couples choose to do one, but some opt to skip it and wait to see each other until the ceremony. So what exactly is the point of a first look? And is it worth doing? In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at what a first look is and explore some of the reasons why couples choose to do one.
What is a first look?
A first look is a private moment where the bride and groom see each other before the ceremony. Typically, a photographer or videographer will capture this moment, creating a beautiful and intimate memory that the couple will cherish for years to come. The first look can take place just between the bride and groom, or it can include parents, siblings, or other close family members.
Why do couples choose to do a first look?
There are several reasons why couples choose to do a first look. Here are a few of the most common ones:
1. Create a special moment
One of the main reasons couples choose to do a first look is to create a special moment that they’ll remember forever. It’s an opportunity to see each other for the first time without the distraction of guests or the pressure of the ceremony. Many couples find that the first look is one of the most emotional and intimate moments of their wedding day.
2. Get rid of pre-ceremony jitters
Weddings can be nerve-wracking, and many couples feel anxious or nervous before the ceremony. Doing a first look can help ease those jitters and calm nerves. Seeing each other beforehand can be a grounding and soothing experience, allowing couples to feel more relaxed and present during the ceremony.
3. More time for photos
Another reason couples choose to do a first look is that it allows for more time for photos. By taking photos before the ceremony, couples can avoid the rush and stress of trying to get all the shots they want in a short amount of time. Instead, they can take their time and get the shots they want, without feeling rushed or pressured.
4. Enjoy cocktail hour
When couples do a first look and take photos beforehand, they have more time to enjoy their cocktail hour. They don’t have to spend as much time taking photos during that time, so they can mingle with guests, enjoy a drink, and relax before the reception.
5. Include more family members
Finally, doing a first look can allow for more family members to be included in photos. If the couple chooses to do a first look with parents or siblings, they can take family photos beforehand, so they don’t have to worry about rushing through them after the ceremony. This can be especially helpful for large families or those with elderly family members who may not want to stand around for a long time.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are several reasons why couples choose to do a first look. Whether it’s to create a special moment, calm nerves, have more time for photos, enjoy cocktail hour, or include more family members, the first look can be a beautiful and meaningful part of your wedding day. If you’re still deciding whether or not to do one, consider your priorities and what would make your day feel most special and memorable to you. Ultimately, the decision is yours!
FAQ
What percent of people do a first look?
A first look is a photography session where the bride and groom see each other for the first time before their wedding ceremony. Historically, it was common to wait until the ceremony for the first look, however, more and more couples are choosing to do a first look for a variety of reasons.
According to wedding photographers and planners, around 85 percent of couples who they work with opt for a first look. The trend has been steadily increasing over the years, and it appears that more couples are choosing this option.
There are several reasons why a couple may choose to incorporate a first look into their wedding day. For one, it provides an opportunity for an intimate moment between the bride and groom before the ceremony. It offers a private opportunity to see each other when they look their best and to take in the emotions together. It also allows for more time for photographs and can help keep the day’s schedule more organized.
On the other hand, some couples may choose not to do a first look in order to stick to more traditional practices or to maintain the surprise factor for their guests during the ceremony. the decision to do a first look is a personal one that should reflect the couple’s individual priorities and preferences.
Who should be at the first look?
The first look is a special and intimate moment between two people – the bride and groom. Thus, it is recommended that only the couple should be present during this moment. This means that no one else, not even immediate family members or the wedding party, should be present at the first look.
Having a private first look with just the couple is a modern wedding trend that has become increasingly popular. The idea behind a private first look is to create a personal and emotional moment between the couple. This intimate moment allows both the bride and groom to share their emotions, take a deep breath, and connect with each other before the wedding ceremony.
When there are no other people present, the couple can fully immerse themselves in the moment and share their authentic reactions and feelings without feeling self-conscious or awkward. A private first look also allows the couple to release any pre-wedding stress and high emotions.
Moreover, having a private first look eliminates the pressure of having to perform in front of others. A first look is a highly emotional moment that can trigger a range of feelings such as tears, laughter, and joy. These emotions are unique to each couple and having an audience can sometimes make the moment feel forced and unnatural.
A private first look between just the bride and groom is highly recommended. This intimate moment allows the couple to connect with each other, release their emotions, and create a personal and authentic memory that they will cherish forever.
Where did the first look tradition come from?
The traditional first look, also known as the time when the groom first lays eyes on the bride in her wedding dress, is a special moment in any wedding ceremony. However, have you ever wondered where this tradition originated from? The history of the traditional first look is quite interesting, as it is rooted in the past practice of arranged marriages.
In the past, marriages were often arranged for practical reasons, such as connecting families for financial or strategic purposes. The bride and groom may not have ever met each other before the wedding day. It was believed that seeing each other before the wedding day could cause the groom to back out of the marriage if he did not like the bride’s appearance. Therefore, it was customary to keep the couple separate until the wedding day.
As time passed, the practice of arranged marriage began to decline, but the idea of keeping the bride and groom separate until the wedding day remained. It became a symbol of the old tradition and a way to honor the sanctity of marriage.
Today, many couples choose to do a first look before the ceremony for different reasons. For some, it is an opportunity to share an intimate moment alone before the ceremony and calm their nerves. For others, it is a way to capture the moment on camera without the distraction of guests and family members.
The traditional first look is a beautiful tradition that has its roots in the practice of arranged marriages. Although the reasons for this tradition have changed over time, it remains an important part of many wedding ceremonies today. It is a reminder of the past while also serving as a symbol of love and an opportunity for couples to share a special moment together.