I recently read a blog of a fellow photographers, Jasmine Star , that was fantastic. It was talking about first-looks. One of the reasons why I liked this blog so much is because it is written by a woman who had a first look for her own wedding.

Men are wonderful creatures and knowledgeable about many of life’s mysteries, but my wife will agree that there are somethings men are just clueless on. So I encourage you to check out Jasmine’s article, plus her photography rocks.

When I talk about first looks in the studio with clients, I get some of the yes head nodding followed by a “No I really want to see my fiancée for the first time when I walk down the aisle.” Which is great and can be just as meaningful but I wanted to write a bit about why I love the first look so much and why you may want to consider it.

For those that don’t know what a first look is, it is a moment taken out of the busy wedding day where the bride and groom see each other for the first time in a private and meaningful manner. When walking down the aisle you may be focused on a number of non groom things. “how do I look” “Dad hurry up” “Dad slow down” “Is there something in my teeth” “Left, right, left, right”
Before you know it you are down the aisle, you say I do, big kiss and back up the aisle “how do I look” “-insert new husbands name- hurry up” “-insert new husbands name- slow down” “Is there something in my teeth” “Left, right, left, right”

When you plan a few minutes prior to the wedding to see your groom for the first time you do a couple positive things:
1) You have a few memorable moments together just the 2 of you away from friends and family  
2) Weddings are made up of little events (or chapters) its these events that you flash back to later on. The ring exchange, cake cutting, saying I do. The more events you can create the more memorable you make the day
3) It can slow the pace down and centers you a bit. In the mad rush of planning and making sure every detail is perfect you can lose track sometimes of what is important until it is gone. The first look is a calm in the storm and a time to just say I love you and see you in a bit.

I hate long blogs but here are a couple quick tips to have a successful first look
1) Talk to your wedding crew (photographer, planner, bridal party, officiant etc.)  about it and make sure they know it’s happening so they can alter the sequence of events so it flows seamlessly.
2) Have a pre-arranged spot picked out where the ceremony will take place for it to happen. Make sure it is away from prying eyes and guests.
3) Have the spot you pick be picturesque, don’t rule out doing it outside.