What is a First Look – Why Every Couple Should Pause to Connect on Their Wedding Day
Your wedding day will be filled with activity, love, and moments you’ll cherish forever—but it can also feel like a whirlwind. Between getting ready, family photos, and greeting guests, the day flies by. Have you thought about how you and your partner can take a moment to just be together amidst it all? Whether it’s through a first look, a first touch, or waiting until the aisle for that big reveal, finding a way to connect can ground you and allow you to soak in the day together. Let’s dive into the differences between these three options, the pros and cons of each, and why I highly recommend carving out intentional moments to focus on each other.
What Is a First Look?
A first look is a private moment where the couple sees each other before the ceremony, typically captured by a photographer. It’s an intimate, emotionally charged experience, often taking place in a secluded location away from the hustle and bustle of the day.
Pros of a First Look:
- Private Connection: You get uninterrupted time to share your feelings and excitement.
- Eases Nerves: Seeing your partner beforehand can help calm wedding-day jitters.
- Timeline Flexibility: A first look allows you to complete portraits early, giving you more time to enjoy cocktail hour or relax.
Cons of a First Look:
- Breaks Tradition: For some couples, the idea of seeing each other before the ceremony feels less traditional.
- Early Start: You’ll need to begin your day earlier to make time for this moment.
What Is a First Touch?
A first touch is a beautiful alternative where the couple doesn’t see each other but connects in another meaningful way—such as holding hands around a door or standing back-to-back to exchange letters or prayers.
Pros of a First Touch:
- Keeps Tradition Intact: You don’t see each other before the ceremony but still share a private connection.
- Emotional and Intimate: Exchanging words or holding hands can help you feel grounded and connected.
- Quick and Simple: A first touch doesn’t require as much time as a full first look.
Cons of a First Touch:
- Limited Interaction: Since you can’t see your partner, it may not feel as emotionally satisfying for some couples.
- No Photos Together: You’ll still wait until after the ceremony for portraits.
Traditional Wedding Timeline
The most traditional approach is to save the big reveal for when the bride walks down the aisle. This moment is often highly anticipated and emotionally impactful, especially for the couple and their guests.
Pros of a Traditional Timeline:
- Keeps the Magic: There’s something magical about that first glimpse happening during the ceremony.
- Family and Guest Excitement: Everyone gets to witness the raw emotions of seeing each other for the first time.
Cons of a Traditional Timeline:
- No Private Connection: You don’t get a quiet moment alone before the day’s demands take over.
- Time Constraints: All portraits must be taken post-ceremony, which can feel rushed.
Other Ways to Connect on Your Wedding Day
If you decide against a first look or first touch, there are still ways to pause and connect:
- Exchange Letters: Write heartfelt notes to each other and read them privately before the ceremony.
- Post-Ceremony Escape: After the ceremony, take 10-15 minutes to sneak away together before joining the reception.
- Private Last Dance: End your evening with a dance, just the two of you, before your grand exit.
No matter how you decide to structure your day, I always recommend finding a way to pause and take each other in. Wedding days are filled with so much love and energy—it’s important to remember why you’re there: to celebrate your love and start your life together. Whether it’s through a first look, a first touch, or another intentional moment, make sure you take time to focus on what truly matters—each other.
Want to talk more about how JAM&CO Studios works with you to make sure you and your fiancé get the most of your day?? Use the link below to connect, and talk more about creating and capturing these moments.
