March, 2023

First Looks

Imagine, knowing you are about see your bride to be in her dress for the first time. You’re both dressed in wedding attire, the bustle of the day coming to a pause, the excitement of preparing to be married. All the buildup of the preparation of the bride and groom is about to be worth it!

First looks are a great way to calm nerves, spend time with your partner on your wedding day and get some great photographs in the process.

 So, where to begin in planning a first look? We’ve got you covered!

 First looks are a beautiful time, and you want to ensure you have plenty of time to enjoy it and not be rushed. Ensuring there is at least 30 minutes allowed per first look is key. It might only take 10-15 for the actual first look but allowing 30 will give everyone time to get in place.

 They are also a time for a lot of hugs! Whether it’s with bridesmaids, the groom, parents, or siblings, you can be sure there will be lots of hugs happening. A big way to save time is to wait until after the first looks to place your veil! Everyone gets so excited the last thing they think about when hugging the bride is keeping her veil intact. Waiting to place the veil will ensure you won’t have to redo your hair. It will also keep the veil special so the first time it is seen is when the bride is walking down the aisle. If you want your veil during the first look, there is no rule saying you can’t wear it! This is just a tip we’ve found helpful over the years.

 First looks can be emotional. The last thing a loved one will want is a surprise first look! Whoever you are doing a first look with, let them know to prepare. That way, they can be dressed and ready (physically and emotionally). The last thing you want is your timeline to fall behind because someone was not ready in time for their first look!

 Bring the tissues! No matter how stoic or “unemotional” someone is, first looks have a way of bringing on the tears. Delegate someone to have tissues on standby and mascara at the ready.

 First looks allow for a lot more photographs! In a traditional timeline there is typically only one time allowed for romantic portraits. The first look between bride and groom gives two opportunities for romantic portraits.

 Enjoy the moment. The wedding day is such a rush! It will go by in a blur. The first look is a great way for the bride and groom to slow down and enjoy each other. In most cases, it is the last time they see each other before the walk down the aisle!

 Whether your first look is with the bride and groom, dad and bride, or anyone else, it will be a beautiful and special experience you won’t forget!