Wedding Resource

The First Look. It can be a big source of contention for couples in the modern era of wedding planning. You love the idea of the traditional route of not seeing each other before the ceremony, but you are totally intrigued by what everyone is talking about when it comes to the first look. I personally feel like there are overwhelming reasons to do a first look. Yet, I’m here to explain a few of the BEST reasons why a first look may be a wonderful option for you and your fiancé!

This May Be The Only Time You Two Are Alone

On your big day, you are surrounded by many loved ones who are there to help you celebrate your union. And although your family and friends are what make your wedding so special, wouldn’t it be nice to share this incredible moment of seeing one another for the first time…alone?! Without having so many eyes on your reactions and emotions. A first look is an intimate moment you two will remember FOREVER. Having the ability to take in this time together without worrying about guests’ interruption is so unique.

40% More Portraits

Who wouldn’t want more portraits at the end of your biggest day? You are investing a lot in your wedding photography so why not receive as many memories back from your day as possible? A first look gives us more time together, which in turn means more beautiful photos to hang up in your home! And speaking of more time, this leads me to the next reason.

Extend Your Day By 3 Hours

A first look allows you to extend your wedding day. Normally the wedding day would start when you come down the aisle, then the ceremony would end, you would rush through portraits so that you’re not late for the introductions and then it’s reception time. With a first look, your wedding day is extended by almost 3 hours! Instead of being rushed for your bridal party portraits… you actually get to enjoy them and have fun hanging out with your BEST friends on your wedding day.  Plus if we have any weather to worry about, having a first look is like adding a second chance to get the portraits we may need after the ceremony as well! Because we took a bunch before already, but if the weather prevented us from using your favorite outdoor spot before the wedding, if the weather dissipates later in the day, we have another opportunity for exactly the shots you wanted! 

Diminishes Nerves

You get rid of your nerves! I’d say, literally 1/2 of my couples who have decided to do a first look, the grooms were not fans of it at first. However, because they have never experienced their wedding day before, they didn’t know how nerve-racking it can be. I have testimonials from so many grooms who initially weren’t a fan of the first look… but afterward admitted to being SO much more relaxed and ready for the ceremony! 

Want to Hear from The Grooms?

Many of my LWP Grooms are so pumped to see their brides on the wedding day, they would rather do it sooner rather than later. I personally love a first look and what lovely emotions it can bring to your day. However, don’t take it from me. Here are what some of the grooms I’ve worked with have to say about the experience.

“I was very skeptical of the first look originally because tradition always said you do not see the bride until the wedding, but to be able to see Caitlin before the wedding without everyone else surrounding us (as I was half expecting to break down and cry) was a comforting thought. When Lauren came in and got me for the “first look”, she assured me Caitlin looked beautiful and told me it was finally time to see my bride.  I’m pretty sure my heart skipped a beat as Lauren started to give Caitlin directions on how she wanted her to approach and tap me on the shoulder.  It was finally time to see my bride-to-be! Once I turned around, it was an instant moment of both shock and relief.  She looked unbelievably amazing, and for a moment, I could not even form words.  I was so happy we were able to have a moment together before all of the craziness of the wedding began, and were then able to relax and enjoy the rest of the day together.”   – Mitch Flowers  

“I had an image of what I thought she might look like, standing there in her wedding dress, but seeing her smiling in front of me at that moment blew all of my expectations out of the water. All of the waiting and planning and desire to begin my life with her became real in front of me in the form of this stunning woman I get to call my bride. I was beyond excited at her beauty and I was humbled that this incredible woman chose me to spend her life with.” -Jake Miller

Now as a disclaimer, this does not mean you MUST do a first look if you are an LWP Couple. However, as your photographer and the lady capturing all of your most important moments I feel like it’s my job to explain why I adore this option. If you have additional questions about the first look, feel free to comment below and I will answer the best I can!

Warm Regards,

If you are an engaged couple looking for your wedding photographer I would love to hear from you to see if we are a good fit for this journey together! Contact me today!