First look

"A pre-ceremony private moment between the couple, alone or with the photographer present, where they see each other in wedding attire for the first time before walking down the aisle."

Why it matters

The first-look choice has cascading effects on the entire day's timeline. A first-look couple can do family portraits, wedding party portraits, and most romantic couple portraits BEFORE the ceremony, then go directly into cocktail hour with their guests. A no-first-look couple does most portraits between the ceremony and reception, which usually means missing some or all of the cocktail hour.

Neither approach is wrong. The first-look approach is more efficient and produces more relaxed photos. The traditional approach preserves the surprise of seeing the partner walk down the aisle.

Best practices

Decide on first-look in the early planning stages because it sets the entire day's timeline. Discuss with the photographer; they will have a strong opinion based on what works for the venue and lighting. If you choose first-look, schedule it 30 to 45 minutes before the ceremony with a private location.

Frequently asked

Will guests notice if we did a first look?

No. The processional reveals are emotionally identical from the guests' perspective whether or not the couple has already seen each other. The reveal moment for guests is the bride or partner appearing at the aisle entrance, not the partner's first reaction.