As you plan your wedding, one question that will inevitably come up is whether or not you want to do a first look. You will probably hear a lot of opinions on this, but it really is a decision that is up to you and your partner.
You also might think that having an elopement means you can’t have a first look. However, the good news is that a first look isn’t something that is only reserved for a standard wedding. If you love the idea of having a first look during your elopement, all it requires is a little extra planning beforehand to make it happen.
As an elopement photographer, I personally am a fan of first looks as many of my couples who have one are happy that they did and they love this special part of their elopement day.
Let’s dive into more about the pros and cons of having a first look during your elopement and if you should have one or not.
What Is a First Look?
A first look is an intimate and significant moment you share with your partner before your ceremony. It is your chance to capture a raw, genuine moment and emotions between you and your partner as you set eyes on each other for the first time.
However, some couples prefer to wait until the ceremony to see each other for the first time. What it all comes down to is what feels best for you and your partner. Remember, this is your day, and you get to decide what it looks like.
Also, if you want to do something similar to a first look but want to put a slightly different spin on it, there are some other options you can choose from.
For example, you and your partner could do a first touch instead. Your photographer can still capture a first touch, but you and your partner won’t actually see each other. Rather, you and your partner might stand on opposite sides of a door and touch hands, or maybe you both choose to stand with your backs against opposite sides of a wall and read a sweet note to each other.
Another option you could choose is to exchange a first gift. You can both exchange gifts and listen to each other’s reactions and responses to the gifts that you both give each other.
Even if you don’t do a first look with your partner, you can still do one with other important people in your life. Whether this is your parents, your grandparents, your wedding parties, or your chosen families, you’ll still have that emotional moment with them and get to see your partner’s face as they see you for the first time walking down the aisle.
Pros and Cons of Doing a First Look
Pros of doing a first look
-
A chance to share a special moment together that will be documented and tell a one-of-a-kind story
-
An opportunity to share your thoughts, emotions, and maybe a few tears with each other before your ceremony. A first look can also include reading a letter to each other or just sharing a few thoughtful words.
-
You can have a more relaxed timeline. If you plan a first look, you and your partner will have more time to take portraits together before your ceremony. This is a great option, especially if you’re planning a sunset ceremony.
-
Calm your nerves. You might think that you’ll be super calm and zen on your wedding day, but it’s very common to get nervous on the day of. A first look will help provide you with some relief and put you at ease for the rest of the day.
-
Gives you a time just to yourself. Your wedding day is going to be surrounded by your loved ones, but a first look is just for you and your partner. It’s probably one of the few times you’ll be completely alone and really just able to take in the moment.
Cons of doing a first look
-
You and your partner can’t get ready together. Even if you wanted to spend your whole wedding day together, with a first look, this wouldn’t be possible.
-
You will have to start your day earlier. To make sure that you have enough time for a first look without it feeling rushed, you and your partner will both need to set aside extra time to get your day started sooner. This is especially true if you’re going to have a sunrise elopement as you’ll need to be ready sooner so that you can still catch the best lighting for your ceremony and portraits.
-
You won’t have the “big reveal experience” at your ceremony. First looks aren’t for everyone – especially if you know for certain that you want your partner to see you for the first time at your ceremony.
Should You Do a First Look?
There is no right or wrong answer to this question. At the end of the day, if you should or shouldn’t do a first look during your elopement comes down to what feels right for you and your partner.
Every wedding day is going to look a little different and each couple is going to want to prioritize different things. At the end of the day, you are going to marry your best friend so either way, first look or no first look, you are still getting your happy ending.
How You Can Do a First Look With Your Partner During Your Elopement
If you know that you want to have a first look, there are a few different ways that you can plan to incorporate one into your day.
First, you need to think about where your first look will happen, where you will get ready, and how it will fit into your overall elopement timeline.
If we work together, I help my clients with this, as well as plan out how we are going to execute a successful first look so that the “big reveal” is truly a surprise for both of you.
Some options for where you can plan to have your first look are at your Airbnb or at your ceremony location, but again, this decision depends on what you and your partner want.
The next thing you’ll want to think about is how you want this moment to unfold – is one of you going to walk up to the other and tap on their shoulder? Are you going to call out your partner’s name? Something different? Also, are you going to do anything else during your first look, such as exchange a gift, read letters to each other, share private vows, etc?
Finally, you want to think about the actual logistics of getting there. Were you and your partner planning on taking the same car? Are you getting ready in the same area where you can just walk out to meet each other or do you need to drive to a different location?
If you are doing something more intimate, definitely talk to your photographer and see if they are able to help plan and coordinate some of this so you and your partner don’t have to ruin the surprise just to make sure you’re both in the right place!
Ready to Plan a First Look During Your Elopement?
I hope you found this guide helpful in deciding if you want to have a first look at your elopement. A first look is an exciting part of your wedding that you and your partner can both look forward to. I love first looks, as this is a beautiful, unique moment where you and your partner can both fully express yourselves and spend time together.
And…if you are still looking for an elopement photographer, I’d love to chat! You can look at my elopement photography services here or head over here to get in touch and start chatting about your dream wedding day!
Check out these blog posts next:
LGBTQ+ Elopement Tips for Your Dream Wedding
Want to Elope in Iceland? Avoid These Iceland Elopement Mistakes
