This may possibly be the most talked about wedding-day decision in the bridal world. I am talking about the first look! What is a first look you may ask? A first look is when the bride and groom see take a moment after they are both fully ready to see each other for the first time that day. Not everyone is aware of how awesome first looks are, because they get caught up in how “non-traditional” it is, and then it gets written off. However, I am here to share just a few of the big reasons why a first look is always worth considering!

40% More portraits

You’re investing a lot into your wedding photography. With a first look, you’ll receive 40% more portraits of the two of you… and those are the images you will decorate your first home with! With a first look, you make the most out of this large investment and get the most for your money.

Enjoy the surprise freely

You actually get to have intimate time on your wedding day with your man. Most brides don’t realize that when you come down the aisle and totally shock him with your gorgeous-ness… he can’t even tell you how amazing you look. He can’t touch you, embrace you, or even speak to you. You have to wait until 30 minutes later when the ceremony is over for him to react and tell you how amazing you look. And after 30 minutes of the ceremony, the reaction isn’t the same as the initial first glance.

Extend your day by 3 hours

First Looks allow you to extend your wedding day. Normally the wedding day would start when you come down the aisle, then the ceremony would end, you would rush through portraits so that you’re not late for the introductions, and then it’s reception time. With a first look, your wedding day is extended by almost 3 hours! Instead of being rushed for your bridal party portraits… you actually get to enjoy them and have fun hanging out with your best friends on your wedding day.

Some of your only alone time

First Looks allow you to be together and alone on your wedding day. First Looks are not only intimate, but they are also the only time to be alone as a couple the whole day! Couples cry and laugh and cry some more… and then that puts them in the perfect mood for the romantic portraits. Normally portraits are a little rushed after the family formals, and it can be hard to really get back into that “lovey-dovey” mode…. especially with family around! When you have just shared your first look, you’re ready to love on each other, and I always capture some super sweet images during those moments!

Diminishes nerves

You get rid of your nerves! I’d say, literally 1/2 of my couples who have decided to do a first look, the grooms were not fans of it at first. However, because they have never experienced their wedding day before, they didn’t know how nerve-racking it can be.

What are your thoughts? Are you for or against first looks? I would love to know what you think in the comments below!