Incredible Wedding Day First Look | Wedding Planning Guide

The wedding day first look — It’s the moment where time seems to pause, the butterflies get real, and your soon-to-be spouse finally sees you in all your wedding day glory. Some couples swear by it, others prefer to keep things traditional. So, should you plan a first look or wait for the big reveal at the ceremony? Let’s break it down so you can decide what works best for your day!

What Exactly Is a Wedding Day First Look?

A wedding day first look is a private moment before the ceremony where the couple sees each other for the first time on their wedding day. Unlike the traditional “walking down the aisle” reveal, this intimate meeting happens away from the crowd, with just the two of you (and your photographers, of course) capturing the magic.

Typically, first looks take place in a quiet, scenic spot, and the reactions are nothing short of priceless. Whether it’s happy tears, jaw-dropped awe, or uncontrollable giggles, the emotions are raw, real, and completely unscripted. As Tacoma wedding photographers and videographers, we’ve captured some of the most unforgettable wedding moments during first looks—moments couples cherish forever.

Why Choose a First Look? (Besides Avoiding the Ugly Cry in Front of Everyone)

We totally get it—there’s something special about the anticipation of seeing each other at the altar. But a wedding day first look comes with some pretty sweet perks that might make you reconsider:

1. More Time Together

Wedding days fly by faster than you’d ever expect. With a first look, you get a quiet moment just for the two of you before the whirlwind of the day sweeps you away. Many couples tell us that their first look was one of the only moments they had alone together on their wedding day.

2. Genuine, Unfiltered Reactions

At the altar, you’re standing in front of a crowd. Some couples feel pressured to hold back their emotions (or, let’s be honest, avoid the full-on ugly cry). But in a private wedding day first look, you can let the emotions flow, hug, kiss, and truly soak in the moment without hundreds of eyes watching.

3. More Flexibility for Photos

First looks allow you to get some of your portraits done before the ceremony, meaning you won’t have to cram everything into cocktail hour. You can take your time, explore different locations, and ensure you get those dreamy wedding portraits without feeling rushed.

4. Eases Pre-Wedding Jitters

If you’re feeling nervous about the ceremony, a first look can be the perfect way to calm your nerves. Seeing your partner before the ceremony can be a grounding, reassuring moment, reminding you that at the end of the day, it’s just about the two of you.

What If You’d Rather Wait Until the Aisle?

If you’re set on the tradition of waiting until the aisle for the big reveal, that’s totally okay! Some couples love the drama and anticipation of that first ceremonial glance, and that’s just as magical. But if you’re skipping the first look, consider these ways to build connection and excitement before the ceremony:

• A “First Touch” Moment – Hold hands around a door or a wall, but don’t peek! You can exchange sweet words, pray together, or simply feel each other’s presence without seeing one another.
• Exchanging Letters or Gifts – Reading a handwritten note from your partner can be just as emotional as seeing them.
• First Looks with Family – If you’re skipping the first look with your partner, consider a first look with your dad, mom, or bridesmaids for some extra sentimental moments.

Making the Choice That’s Right for You

At the end of the day, whether or not to have a first look is entirely up to you. There’s no right or wrong way to experience your wedding day first look—it’s about what feels best for you as a couple. If you need help deciding, we’re more than happy to talk through the timeline with you and make sure you get the best of both worlds!

So, first look or traditional aisle reveal? Either way, we’ll be there, cameras ready, to capture every beautiful moment. Let’s make it unforgettable!

Ready to plan your dream wedding photography and videography? Check out our work at www.markiejonesweddings.com and follow us on Instagram @markiejonesphotographyllc and Facebook www.facebook.com/mjpllc. Let’s make magic together!