If you’re battling with whether or not a first look is right for you, you’re not alone! While waiting until the ceremony to see each other is the most traditional option, the first look is favored by many brides and grooms for plenty of good reasons. Here are a few reasons why brides often say “Yes!” to a first look.
You’ll have more time for pictures
It’s totally possible to squeeze in portraits post-ceremony, but if you want to try out different backdrops, locations, angles and poses, the first look will buy you more time to play around with your photography. No bride or groom wants to feel rushed taking photos, especially when things like daylight and weather are out of your control. Opting for a first look will give you more time to explore your surroundings for gorgeous photo locations, and you can relax a bit knowing you’ve carved time in your day specifically for that.
It adds another beautiful moment to the day
Many couples worry that the first look will take the “wow!” factor out of the ceremony – but that couldn’t be further from the truth! The first look is an intimate moment that holds a certain sweetness to it: it’s just you and your significant other sharing a special moment together. The ceremony brings on an entirely different set of emotions; there’s a certain power of the music, people and significance of the occasion. Both moments are equally as impactful and special! Instead of the first look taking away from the power of the ceremony, we actually think it adds an additional special moment to your wedding day that you’ll cherish for a lifetime.
Your wedding planner will thank you
Keeping the bride and groom separate before the ceremony starts is hard work, especially if you’re getting ready on-site like many Red Gate Farms brides do. If you’re looking to keep the day a bit more relaxed for your wedding party, your fiancé, and especially your wedding planner, opting for a first look is an easy way to accomplish that! This way, group shots can be scheduled directly after the first look, and everyone can focus on having fun instead of shielding the bride from the groom!
You’ll Get to the Party Faster
If you’re the type of person who can’t wait to get out on the dance floor, doing a first look is the perfect strategy to get to the reception faster! Since you won’t be tied up taking photos directly after the ceremony, you’ll have free time to take a breather or even attend your own cocktail hour.
If you want to wait to see each other at the altar, there’s no shame in that! We think the traditional route is special too. But there are plenty of reasons why modern couples opt for a first look. If you’re still unsure which option is best for you, our team of wedding experts at Red Gate Farms are happy to help! Contact us to schedule a tour at one (or all!) of our gorgeous wedding venues.