First look? or no first look? That is the question.

Melanie Zacek Photography

First things first, what is a First Look? A First Look is a moment typically a few hours prior to the ceremony, where the couple see each other for the first time. It is typically arranged by the photographer, who then is able to capture their reactions to one another.
 
Why is a First Look a great idea?

• Logistically, it allows couples to get many of their pictures done prior to their ceremony, allowing them to likely be able to join social hour. 
• It can be a great chance to have a sweet and quiet moment together before things start to get busy and swept up in the hustle and excitement of the day
• It will capture both of your reactions to one another at the same time in the same screen
• If you or your fiancé are nervous, this can be a way to calm the nerves and connect before the big moment. It also may allow for shyer couples to feel comfortable with the intensity of the feelings this big moment can bring up
• This may help get some of your tears out of the way prior to your ceremony which could lead to a smoother reading of vows

 
Reasons to wait until your ceremony:

• Tradition says to wait to see each other until the ceremony. There is nothing quite like the moment when the bride and groom to be see each other for the first time as they come down the aisle. With music to back it up, this can be a pretty magical and intense moment
• You will need to be ready earlier if you do not wait until your ceremony to see each other, which will involve getting up earlier in the day
• There can be a lot of pressure for a big reaction. If you choose to go with a First Look, make sure you’re comfortable with your photographer’s instructions
• You may cry! Which will require touching up make up before the ceremony
• Sure, in doing a First Look you can get many of your portraits done ahead of time, but inevitably you will still need to take some after the ceremony once you’re officially married anyways!

 
Are you and your fiancé having a hard time agreeing? There are a few ways you can compromise! 
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-Do a first touch. Place yourselves just out of sight around the corner from one another and reach for the other’s hand. This can make for a cool picture but also can be a comforting support to be near the other before the big moment without having the big reveal.
-Read your letters to one another (out loud or silently) back to back. This one may take a little orchestration from your photographer to make sure you don’t accidentally turn and see each other!
-As a bride, are you super close with your dad? Do a first look with one or both of your parents! It is still such a fun moment without revealing the bride to the groom.
 
Interested in a few more alternatives to a traditional First Look? Check out this article on Wedding Wire for more suggestions!

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