Heartfelt First Looks: Everything you need to know about seeing each other before your ceremony
In the midst of all your wedding day excitement, the First Look can be a beautiful way for you to take it all in... a sneak peek into the magic that's about to unfold! It may not be everyone's vision for their wedding day, and that's ok! We're all for you making your wedding your own. But if a First Look is something you're considering, here's everything you need to know to make your decision and plan a First Look to remember.
Erin and Megan enjoyed their First Look with the stunning Villa Terrace Decorative Arts Museum as the backdrop!
The Benefits of a First Look: Making Memories Before the Ceremony
While tradition has you seeing each other for the first time during your ceremony, there are compelling reasons to consider flipping the script. Embracing a First Look can bring about several advantages:
Private Intimacy: A First Look provides an intimate, private space for you and your partner to connect before the whirlwind of the ceremony and celebrations. It allows you to share a quiet moment, express your emotions, and savor the anticipation together.
Emotional Unveiling: Experiencing your First Look is such a tender moment. For those who get a bit nervous in front of crowds, revealing your genuine reactions and expressions might be a little challenging in a crowded ceremony setting. These authentic moments are so beautiful to experience fully... and to have photos of to relive over the years.
Extended Celebration: By opting for a First Look, you extend the celebration of your special day because you get to see each other for a longer period of time. It's an additional chapter, a precursor to the grand ceremony, and a chance to revel in the joy with your partner, family, and friends both before the ceremony and during cocktail hour.
Optimal Photography Time: From a practical standpoint, a First Look may allow more time for your couple's portraits, wedding party shots, and even family photos before the ceremony instead of feeling rushed during cocktail hour. You'll be able to mingle and make your rounds to have fun with all of your guests!
Reduced Nervousness: The nerves and jitters often associated with the walk down the aisle can be alleviated by sharing a First Look. Seeing your partner beforehand can provide a sense of calm and reassurance, making the ceremony entrance a more relaxed and joyous experience.
Flexible Timeline: Incorporating a First Look can create a more flexible wedding day timeline. It allows for a smoother transition between portraits, your ceremony and reception, giving you more control over your schedule. For those having guests coming in from out-of-town, this is especially helpful because you won't need to schedule a break/entertainment for them while you take portraits between the ceremony and reception. It's also great for couples who are having their ceremony and reception at the same location; there's no interruption in the flow of events.
Daniel and Margaret were all smiles during their First Look at Lake Windsor Country Club.
Seven Ways to Customize your First Look
Your wedding day is a celebration of love, commitment, and your beautiful journey together, while you have a blast celebrating with your nearest and dearest. Among the myriad of moments that will make up this special day, the First Look stands out as a cherished and intimate experience. How you choose to share it can be as unique as your love story. Here are seven delightful ways to savor that First Look on your wedding day:
Anna and Pete enjoyed First Looks with each of their children after they shared their own First Look with each other. It was so sweet!
1) Include your children: Infuse warmth and inclusivity by involving your children, uniting two individuals and symbolizing the formation of a blended family. Witness the joy on their faces, setting the tone for the beautiful journey ahead.
Theresa was greeted with applause, gasps and tears of joy when she shared a First Look with her bridesmaids after they all got ready at The Westin Milwaukee!
2) After getting dressed, share a First Look with your wedding party: Surround yourself with allies for a group first look, adding an extra layer of emotion and shared excitement. Experience laughter, anecdotes, and revel in the collective joy that envelops your union.
Emma and her dad shared a First Look at Milwaukee Marriott Downtown, where she got ready for the day. The tears of joy were contagious!
3) Share an emotional moment with your parent(s): Start your day with a tender moment by including your parents. Their expressions witnessing you in your wedding attire become a treasured memory, forming a bridge between generations.
Ethan and Paige taking each other in with the biggest smiles, sweetest hugs, and Paige showing off the slit in her dress while they enjoyed their First Look on Milwaukee’s RiverWalk in the Historic Third Ward.
4) Show off all the details of your attire that you've kept secret for months: For a stunning gown reveal, consider an intimate moment with your partner or a small gathering with loved ones. Let anticipation build as you make your entrance, sharing the excitement of your bridal glory.
Alex and Katie exchanged letters privately after enjoying their First Look at Brewhouse Inn & Suites, where they got ready for their big day.
5) Exchange love letters: Before the whirlwind begins, exchange heartfelt love letters for a personal touch. Reading these letters during the first look adds a deep sense of connection to the occasion.
Paige shared a First Look with their dad while a couple of loved-ones watched from the corner. There wasn’t a dry eye in the room!
6) Include close family and friends: Expand the circle of joy by involving a select group of close family and friends to watch your First Look, whether with your partner or another loved-one. Their presence enhances the joy and emotions of the moment, making it even more unforgettable.
Christopher and Emily enjoying the sunshine, snuggles and twirls during their First Look at the Sharon Lynne Wilson Center for the Arts
7) Just be in the moment: Savor the unscripted joy of the first look. Twirl, kiss, or snuggle, and relish the excitement without distractions, realizing you're about to embark on a lifelong journey together.
Karli made her way down the staircase to Luke who was waiting at the bottom for them to share in their First Look.
Choosing the Perfect Setting: Location Ideas for your First Look
Selecting the right location for your First Look adds an extra layer of magic to this already special moment. Here are some unique location ideas that can enhance the experience and provide a picturesque backdrop for the beginning of your wedding day story:
•Make a grand entrance on a staircase: Imagine a grand staircase – it's like the red carpet to your love story. Whether it's a historic venue or the entrance of your home, let's capture that Hollywood glamour as you ascend or descend.
Mandi took Ravi’s breath away during their First Look, and we love how he even took in the details of her jewelry during their First Look at the Turner Hall Ballroom.
•Keep things easy by doing your First Look at your venue: Why not share your First Look right where the magic happens? Wander through the ceremony and reception spots, getting a feel of the space where your love will take center stage.
Elise and Sean showcased one of their favorite views in MKE - the Milwaukee Art Museum - as they shared their First Look on its bridge!
•Bring the romance with a First Look on a bridge: Bridges are not just for getting from A to B; they're the symbol of your journey ahead. Whether it's part of your venue or a nearby picturesque structure, a bridge adds that romantic touch to your First Look.
Kyle and Rachel took in every moment of their First Look while surrounded by nature at Lion’s Den Gorge, where they also held their elopement.
•Keep things private and surround yourselves by nature: For the nature-loving souls, how about a First Look surrounded by greenery? Picture a lush garden, a serene forest, or a scenic park; nature's backdrop adds peaceful beauty that can’t be beat.
Amanda and Jenn both got ready at Saint Kate - The Arts Hotel, and they took in their First Look on the picturesque staircase.
•See each other ASAP by sharing a First Look at your hotel: When you're getting ready at a hotel and want to see each other as soon as you can, it doesn't make sense going to another location! Choose a hotel with unique architecture, interior design or history for eye-catching ambiance.
Lexi and Mitch walked toward each other on the rooftop of The Atrium for their First Look.
Perfecting Your First Look: Logistics to Enhance the Moment
While the location sets the stage, the logistics of your First Look can further elevate the experience. Here are three creative approaches to consider, each adding a unique twist to the moment you lay eyes on each other for the first time:
•Walk toward each other: Build excitement with every step as you approach each other, capturing the anticipation in photographs.
M and Sara held hands back-to-back before transitioning to their First Look at Hotel Retlaw in Fond du Lac, WI.
•Hold hands and stand back-to-back: Create suspense by standing back to back before turning around for an intimate moment of surprise and joy.
Erin + Tim just holding each other forehead-to-forehead during their First Look was such an amazing moment. They coordinated their First Look with Erin walking up behind Tim as he waited for her outside of their venue, Davians.
•Surprise your partner by walking up from behind: Approach your partner from behind for an unexpected and tender First Look, adding an extra layer of intimacy.
Remember, your wedding day is all about creating moments that reflect your unique love story. Whether you choose a traditional first look or opt for something more unconventional, the key is to embrace what feels right for you and your partner. After all, it's these genuine and personal touches that will make your wedding day truly unforgettable!