Why 95% of TRP Couples Choose a First Look!

Sure! Here’s a revised version with shorter sentences:

Had someone explained to me eighteen years ago, or even suggested a First Look for my wedding day, I would have absolutely done it! It wasn’t until I entered the wedding photography industry that I learned more about First Looks and their benefits. If you’re unsure about this tradition, this blog will explain why it can be a romantic addition to your celebration that enhances the experience and reduces stress. Please know that I would never want my couples to feel pressured to choose this option. However, I want to share the benefits of a First Look because there’s a reason couples do this and LOVE it!

I’ve expressed my love for First Looks many times on my blog, and I highlight them in every post. They’re AWESOME! However, not everyone sees their value. Some get caught up in how “non-traditional” it is and dismiss it, while others, like I was 11 years ago, may not even know it’s an option. From what I’ve gathered, brides who choose the traditional route want a REACTION. They dream of their groom being surprised and overwhelmed with joy when they walk down the aisle. Who doesn’t want that reaction?

After experiencing my own wedding and shooting First Looks, I’ve concluded that while some brides love “traditions,” what they really want is a REACTION. Those who skip the First Look often believe that seeing each other beforehand diminishes that moment. They think it won’t be as emotional or intimate as walking down the aisle. Ironically, everyone knows wedding days are stressful for the bride and groom.

The day is all about them; they need to look their best and be on time. The groom may not even know where the boutonniere goes, and tension builds.

Before the ceremony, the weight of what’s about to happen sinks in. The calm groom who was playing golf hours earlier now feels anxious. So what happens next? He waits in a small room for his cue from the coordinator. It feels like it’s taking FOREVER. Finally, the coordinator hurries him to get ready. With clammy hands, he enters the ceremony, facing 80 to 300 people all focused on him. Everyone expects a strong reaction. This is far from a private moment. Yes, walking down the aisle is powerful and wonderful, but for couples who do a First Look, the groom is not a nervous wreck. He has spent time with the bride and friends, so the pressure is OFF. By the ceremony, he’s ready to ENJOY the day!

When nerves vanish, true emotions emerge. To condense my point: grooms often feel nervous on wedding days, even if they appear calm.

For most grooms, nerves kick in before they see their bride because then everything becomes REAL! Instead of keeping the groom secluded until the ceremony, consider taking him to a private place—no people, no distractions. Let his bride quietly call his name and turn around to see her for the first time. He would embrace her, cry with her, kiss her, and ENJOY that moment for as long as they wish. As she shows him her dress and asks what he thinks, his nerves start to fade. After all, she’s the one who makes him comfortable.

Without a time crunch, they can move into their romantic portraits. No one is around, and there’s no pressure. It’s just the two of them and their photographer, capturing the joy of their wedding day. This is their time to be together—and to be alone. When does that happen on a wedding day? Without a First Look, it doesn’t. After their portraits, they meet with their bridal party. Because they have time to spare, the bride can touch up her makeup while the guys relax.

When the ceremony begins, the guests arrive, and the ushers are in place. The processional music starts, and the bridesmaids walk down the aisle. The groom clasps his hands—not from nervousness, but from excitement. The music builds, and when the mother of the bride stands, all the guests follow her lead. The groom looks up, and here comes the BRIDE! His best friend, his sweetheart—she’s absolutely stunning. The closer she gets, the bigger his smile.

Now, let me add a disclaimer: my clients are not required to do a First Look! I’ve seen the benefits over and over, and I only share this because I want the BEST for my couples! It’s perfectly fine if some choose not to do a First Look; it’s just my preference for many reasons….. click here for 5 reasons why a First Look is SO worth it!

For brides not interested in a First Look, I recommend discussing a special timeline with your Wedding Photographer soon to fit everything in. You might also consider a “Daddy/Daughter First Look.” This is a touching moment for brides who have a special bond with their dads. I must admit, these moments often bring a tear to my eye. For many dads, it’s when it really hits them: “My baby girl is getting MARRIED!” These are precious moments to capture, and I encourage any daddy’s girl to include this in her timeline. It doesn’t take long at all; the hardest part is ensuring dad shows up on time! If he’s late, it can throw off the schedule or even mean skipping the moment altogether. Another sweet idea is for the father of the bride to escort her to her First Look!

To see what a Wedding Day timeline would look like with a First Look scheduled in, click “How to Plan a Photography Based Wedding Timeline”.

Daddy Daughter First Look 🙂

Bridesmaids first look

P.s. Check out more wedding planning tips below!

Why a Wedding Album Should Be Your #1 Product

Things I wish My Client Knew

How to plan a Photography Based Wedding Day Timeline

SaveSave