A Wedding Planner’s Thoughts on the ‘First Look’

What is it and why?

Image: White Lotus Studios

As a Regina wedding planner, I’ve seen all kinds of weddings, ceremonies, receptions and events. One thing rings true to nearly everyone I work with: your wedding day is all about those special moments with your partner, family, and loved ones that you remember forever.

Florals are beautiful, a delicious dinner is memorable, and the big moment will get everyone teary-eyed. But what matters most are the little moments of connection when we come together to celebrate love, commitment, and annoying your partner for a lifetime (ha).

What’s one meaningful way to do that? The first look. It’s a wedding trend rising in popularity, so let’s talk about it.

What’s a first look at a wedding?

The first look is an intimate moment between you and your partner. Typically, before the ceremony, you take a moment to see each other for the first time that day — wedding dress, tux, soon-to-be-married vibes and all. Usually, couples will bring their photographer along to capture perfect forever-snaps to hang on the wall.

This means that, instead of seeing each other for the first time down the aisle, you share a moment with your partner before it all begins. This gives you space to block out the rush of the day, pause the noise of the world, and exist together for a moment. You can even give a “Damn, you look good” to the person who matters most.

Am I into it? Absolutely, and here’s why.

It’s a special moment of alone-together time

Although your wedding day is all about you and your fiancé, you might not spend much time with them. You’ll likely be swept into the rush of hugging friends, kissing family, running through your timeline and tackling wedding traditions (not to mention a big photo sesh). The first look might be the only time you spend together, just the two of you, through the whole beautiful ordeal.

That is… until you crash in bed at the end of the night, stuffing your mouths full of leftover cake and giggling at the words “husband” and “wife”.

It calms the nerves and reconnects you both

So many brides and grooms feel fear at the thought of walking down the aisle! All those eyes on you… it can make you feel uneasy. Who better to comfort you than the one who’s been by your side all this time? The first look is such a sweet moment to hype each other up and say, “Let’s do this thing.”

You can attend your own cocktail hour

This one is for all the party animals out there! If you get FOMO at the thought of swapping cocktail hour for photography hour (relatable), this is your sign to schedule a day you love. It is totally fine to skip or reduce time spent on photography after the ceremony, and instead snap most of your photos during first look. Just remember to actually schedule the first look into your wedding timeline… and coordinate your photographer to come along!

Plus, fresh hair and makeup. Need I say more?

It’s great for the guest experience 

How many weddings have you been to where the bride and groom disappear after their vows… and it feels like hours until the reception finally kicks off? It’s kind of yawn-worthy and makes Great Uncle William confused. When you take time for a first look before the festivities begin, you keep the day rolling smoothly, no hours-long wait involved.

Planning a wedding in Saskatchewan? Take a peek at my wedding planning and coordination services here!