I’ve been wanting to do a blog post all about first looks and how they can truly play a huge role in your wedding day. It’s also not only because of seeing the grooms reaction, either. Doing a first look on your wedding day as a bride and groom is, dare I say, the best way?

Hear me out. This is NOT to “shame” you or to say that your wedding day will not be JUST as enjoyable if you did not do a first look. Of COURSE it will be amazing and beautiful and wonderful – it’s your wedding day!! However, by opting to do a first look, you’ll actually be having these benefits as well:

Fresh hair and makeup

The biggest thing that girls look for in photos of themselves is “how does my hair look? or my makeup?”. Am I right? Your hair and makeup look the best soon after it’s finished, so it’s the perfect time to get your photos taken! Not to mention, your hair/makeup artist will thank you for it, too. :)

More time together

If you plan for a first look, you’d be together the whole morning up until your ceremony. You’re also able to schedule in at least 45-60 minutes of bride and groom portraits! Without a first look, this pushes your B&G portraits to after the ceremony which typically only ends up being 15-30 minutes (or less!).

Better timeline flow

I think this is solely the biggest reason why I love first looks so much! You eliminate the need of “hiding” all morning from each other and then cramming all of your photos into the 60 minute cocktail hour (along with family and bridal party photos!). With a first look – you’re able to spend your mornings getting ready and then you start your day with the two of you! (isn’t that the point?).

No sweaty images

This is super important if you’re planning a summer wedding and can expect super warm temperatures and humidity! No one likes images where they look sweaty and oily, right?? The best way to avoid this happening is to get all of your formal photos taken care of in the morning so that you don’t have to worry about it later.

Enjoy the surprise privately

And all the groom’s said AMEN! haha! This is a great option if you don’t enjoy having all of the attention on you. You can just enjoy the surprise and reactions by yourself (and the photographers) so that when the ceremony rolls around, you’ve already had time to soak it it! The aisle is just a bonus!

Can attend cocktail hour

This tip alone is typically the one that “seals the deal” to do a first look! The more formal photos that you can do in the morning (bridesmaids, groomsmen, bridal party, bride and groom, and immediate family photos) means the less you’ll need to accomplish during cocktail hour. (Typically since cocktail hour is only 60 minutes, you then have to beat the clock to try and accomplish so much!) After the ceremony (and once you bustle your dress!) you’re able to enjoy your full cocktail because all of your formal photos are done! Win!

Helps diminish nerves

Most bride and grooms that I’ve worked with have said, “Oh! I feel SO much better!” or “Okay! I’m ready for the ceremony now!” after doing a first look. Why? Because you’re able to let out the emotions that you’ve built up all morning! Sure, you might still have some nerves walking down the aisle, but it’s different! You’re able to relax, knowing that the rest of the day is just a party!!

Here are some other tips when planning your wedding day:

3 Types of first looks to consider on your wedding day

Wedding Planner Vs Coordinator – Which is the right fit?

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