The First Look is such a special and intimate moment shared between a bride and groom on their wedding day, before the ceremony. It’s a private time where they get to see each other for the first time in their wedding attire. Sometimes, they’ll pray together, exchange gifts, or even read their vows, making it a truly emotional experience. Photographers are there to capture every heartfelt expression and reaction, preserving the beauty and significance of this precious moment forever.

Deciding whether to break tradition by seeing each other before the aisle or to implement a private First Look moment with your groom is entirely up to you, and it’s a deeply personal choice. I truly respect whatever decision you make. I don’t believe in pushing anyone one way or the other because it’s a moment that should feel right for both of you.

From my own experience, and from witnessing others, I can share what it was like for me. My husband and I chose to have a First Look on our wedding day, and we have no regrets. It provided a wonderful moment of calm amid the whirlwind of the bridal suite. Stepping outside to see the one person who brings me the most comfort allowed us a private moment to gather ourselves before the ceremony. And getting both of our reactions in one framed image was truly invaluable.

I remember walking nervously up a grassy lawn toward the back of my groom. He was dressed in a dark grey suit facing the log cabin event space that our Reception would be held at, waiting for me. I hugged him from behind and asked, “What do you think my dress looks like?”… He paused, then said “White?” His simple and vague answer made me laugh out loud! He turned around to the biggest smile on my face. Suddenly everything I had stressed about moments before (where to put the decorations, how to steam all our bridesmaids’ dresses with one steamer, when to sign the marriage certificate, etc.) all vanished.

Beyond the logistics, the First Look also gave us a rare opportunity to connect before the day’s events truly began. Weddings can be a whirlwind, with so much attention, excitement, and emotion packed into a few hours. That brief moment, just the two of us, reminded us why we were there in the first place—each other. It gave us a chance to breathe, laugh, and just be together before the official ceremony, which made the rest of the day even more special.

Additionally, being able to take pictures before the ceremony was a huge help. We wanted to start our reception as quickly as possible, and having all of our group portraits done beforehand made our day flow smoothly without feeling rushed. It allowed us to enjoy each moment and plan our day without a hitch.

Even though we had our “moment” before, I still cried like a baby walking down the aisle of our church sanctuary. I still got giggly during exchanging our vows. I still married my best friend. And we’re still happily married over a decade later. For us, having a First Look did not take anything away from our ceremony.

Ultimately, whatever you choose should feel right for you. If the idea of maintaining tradition and waiting until the aisle excites you, go for it! If a First Look sounds like the perfect way to calm any nerves and share an intimate moment before the ceremony, then embrace that. After giving it some consideration, you’ll know which path is right for both of you.

Remember, this day is about celebrating your unique love story, and whatever decision you make will add to the beautiful memories you’ll cherish forever.