The first look is a modern tradition that has been gaining popularity over the years, and many couples are opting for it rather than the traditional walking down the aisle moment. So why exactly are couples choosing to do a first look at their wedding? In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the reasons why people are choosing the first look and the benefits it can bring to your big day.
What is a first look?
A first look is a private moment between the bride and groom before the ceremony where they see each other for the first time. Typically, it’s a staged moment where the couple is alone, or with their photographer, away from the hustle and bustle of the wedding day. The groom waits for the bride in a secluded area while the bride sneaks up behind him, taps him on the shoulder, and then they turn around to see each other for the first time in their wedding attire.
Reasons to do a first look
1. More time together
Weddings can be hectic, and the day can quickly slip away from you, leaving you with little time to spend with your new spouse. A first look allows you to schedule in some quality time together before the wedding, which not only gives you a moment to connect but also calms your nerves before the big ceremony.
2. Get the photos out of the way
One of the biggest advantages of doing a first look is that you’ll have more time for photos after your ceremony. Rather than keeping your guests waiting while you take your photos, you can get most of them out of the way before the ceremony, so you can spend more time with your guests.
3. Calm your nerves
Wedding days can be stressful and nerve-wracking, and a first look can be a great way to ease some of that tension. When you see each other for the first time before the ceremony, it can help you calm your nerves and remind you of the love and support you have for each other.
4. Have more flexibility with your timeline
Another advantage of a first look is that it gives you more flexibility with your timeline. Rather than rushing through photos during cocktail hour, you can choose to take your time and enjoy your day. You’ll feel less rushed and stressed, knowing that you’ve already taken some of the essential photos.
5. It’s a more intimate moment
With all the guests at the wedding, the first look is one of the few moments you’ll have alone with your spouse. It’s an incredibly intimate and emotional moment that you’ll cherish forever.
What are some potential downsides to doing a first look?
While there are many benefits to doing a first look, there are also a few potential downsides that you should consider.
1. It breaks with tradition
If you’re a couple that values tradition, a first look may not be for you. The traditional walking down the aisle moment is a significant part of wedding ceremonies, and some couples want to stick to that.
2. It may feel less emotional
Some couples worry that if they see each other before the ceremony, it may take some of the emotion out of the walking down the aisle moment. However, many couples find that the first look actually enhances the emotions, as they can have a private moment together before the ceremony.
3. It requires more planning
A first look does require more planning, such as finding a secluded spot for the couple to meet and scheduling enough time for hair and makeup. Some couples may prefer to keep things simple and skip the first look.
Conclusion
A first look provides a unique opportunity for couples to connect, reflect, and celebrate before their ceremony. While there are some potential downsides, the benefits of a first look are plentiful. Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to do a first look comes down to you and your spouse’s personal preference and values. If you decide that a first look is right for you, be sure to discuss it with your photographer and wedding planner to ensure that it’s seamlessly integrated into your big day.
FAQ
Does the father of the bride do a first look?
Traditionally, a father walking his daughter down the aisle is seen as one of the most emotional moments of a wedding day. However, in recent years, many brides have added a modern twist to this tradition by opting to have a first look with their father before the ceremony even begins.
A first look with Dad is an intimate moment shared between the bride and her father. The moment is captured by the photographer and entails the bride revealing her final look to her father for the first time. The purpose of this special moment is to allow the bride and her father to have a quiet, emotional moment before the bustle of the wedding day takes over.
The first look with Dad usually takes place after the bride has finished getting ready and is dressed in her wedding attire. The father is then escorted to a private area where the bride awaits him. The bride then slowly turns around, showing her father her dress and makeup, and they share a hug and perhaps a few words.
While it’s not a requirement for a father of the bride to have a first look, it’s definitely a beautiful moment that many brides cherish. It allows the bride to have an extra special moment with her father, who might be overwhelmed with emotions during the ceremony and reception. A first look with Dad can help calm both parties and help them enjoy the rest of the day without being distracted by overwhelming emotions.
It’S not mandatory for the father of the bride to have a first look. However, it’s a beautiful opportunity for both the bride and father to share an intimate and emotional moment that they will cherish forever, and can be a lovely addition to the wedding day festivities.
Can you kiss during first look?
The “first look” is a special moment before the wedding ceremony where the couple sees each other for the first time on their big day. It’s an intimate, emotional, and joyous moment that captures the essence of the wedding day. One of the frequently asked questions about the first look is whether it’s appropriate to kiss during this moment. The answer to this question is yes, you can kiss during the first look.
The first look is a private moment, and the couple can take their time with one another and truly speak what’s on their heart. They can hug, kiss, and fully take in the moment without being rushed or feeling self-conscious in front of family and friends. In fact, many couples choose to kiss during the first look because it’s a moment of pure intimacy and connection.
Furthermore, during the first look, when the groom sees the bride for the first time, he’s actually seeing his future wife! This is a powerful moment for many individuals as they realize they are about to commit their life to someone they love. A kiss on the cheek or lips during the first look can help to reinforce the love and bond between the couple and can make the moment even more significant.
The first look is a unique opportunity for couples to connect and share an intimate moment together before the wedding ceremony. Whether or not they choose to kiss during the first look is entirely up to them, but the moment is designed to help them feel comfortable, supported, and in love with each other, so they should feel free to express their emotions. The first look is a special moment that is all about the couple, and a kiss can help to make it even more memorable.