Deciding on whether or not to do a first look on your wedding day is a big decision believe it or not. Because, it affects how you will plan and structure your day. Some couples love the idea of a first look and others are a bit more on the fence due to its unconventional nature. But before you make your decision, let’s talk about what exactly a first look is and why I think more couple’s should include them in their day! 

A First look is a time for you and your significant other to see each other before the ceremony. During this time you are pulled away from your parents and bridal party into a quiet space where you two can be alone for a moment to enjoy each other and prepare for the rest of your day together. These unposed moments are some of my favorite moments of the day, because they are filled with love and emotion. 

Those couples who love the idea of a first look.. I know you’re already on board and imagining the moment in your mind! For those of you who aren’t too sure. Let’s talk about some of the benefits of having a first look. Keep an open mind and remember at the end of the day it’s your wedding, so if you prefer to not have a first look, then we love that too! 

ENJOY THE SURPRISE FREELY

You actually get to have intimate time on your wedding day with your man. Most brides don’t realize that when you come down the aisle and totally SHOCK him with your gorgeous-ness… he can’t even tell how amazing you look. He can’t touch you, embrace you or even SPEAK to you. You have to wait 30 minutes later when the ceremony is over for him to react and tell you how amazing you look. And after 30 minutes of the ceremony, the reaction isn’t always the same as the initial first glance.

I’d also like to take a minute to say that the first look in no way replaces the aisle moment. Instead the first look is another amazing moment of your day that is completely it’s own. I’ve heard from some grooms that it actually made their aisle moment better, because they were less nervous! If you are worried about taking away from the aisle moment consider making this a special time for another reason: read personal vows to each other or exchange gifts.

DIMINISHES Nerves 

Speaking of nerves, this is a great opportunity for the both of you to come together for your day. To see each other and talk before the biggest moment of your lives together. Being able to spend time together before your ceremony is a great way to calm the nerves and enjoy your day! I can personally attest to this. I was so nervous on my wedding day, but after our first look most of my nerves were gone and I was really starting to enjoy every minute of our day together. I can remember in the morning, I just kept saying, “I just can’t wait to see him.” Being with the one you love on the biggest day of your lives just makes it that much more special! 

EXTEND YOUR DAY BY 3 HOURS

First looks allow 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 introductions and then it’s reception time. Instead of being rushed for your bridal party portraits, you can enjoy them and have fun hanging out with your BEST friends on your wedding day. 

And bridal parties LOVE a first look because this means they can get photos done when they are freshly ready, which means they aren’t too hot, too hungry, or too tired for pictures. They love getting their photos done and out of the way so this way when the ceremony ends they can join their friends for a drink and an hors d’oeuvre during cocktail hour! 

40% MORE PORTRAITS

You’re investing a lot into your wedding photography. With a first look, you’ll receive 40% MORE portraits of the two of you… and those are the images you will decorate your first home with! With a first look, you make the most out of this large investment and get the most for your money.

YOUR ONLY ALONE TIME

First looks allow you to be TOGETHER and alone on your wedding day and this may be your only chance to be alone together all day! In these special moments together you can cry and share a laugh and maybe even cry some more. It is the PERFECT way to get in the mood for some romantic portraits. 

Read more about why couples and photographers agree that first looks are an amazing addition to any wedding day over on AER Weddings blog here. 

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