First Looks - Should you do one?!

Okay brides, let’s chat. One of the biggest decisions you'll make about your wedding day (aside from the dress, duh) is whether or not to do a first look. It’s one of those things that affects literally everyone—your photographer (hi 👋), your planner, your DJ, the timeline, your guests…even the caterer probably has opinions.

So let’s break it down real cute, real easy—with some good ol’ pros and cons 💅

💖 Pros of Doing a First Look

 It takes the stress off

You’re not spending the entire day dodging each other like you’re playing hide-and-seek with your soulmate. You get to be together, breathe, and soak it all in before the chaos kicks off.

 It’s private + emotional

You can have your moment without a hundred eyeballs on you. No pressure, just you two and your feels (and us silently crying behind the lens 🥹). You also have TOTAL control!

Photos, photos, photos

We get ALL the dreamy couple shots + wedding party photos knocked out before the ceremony, so you’re not MIA from your own cocktail hour. After the ceremony, we just do a few family pics and BOOM—party time 🪩

Better timeline control

Less rushing, more calm. You’re not cramming all your photos into a tiny post-ceremony window when you’re already tired and hangry.

Vendors LOVE it

Not even gonna sugarcoat it—most of your vendors are doing a happy dance when you choose a first look. It just makes everything run smoother behind the scenes.

Cons of Doing a First Look

🚪 You lose that aisle moment

There really is something magical about the anticipation of that first look being at the altar. You don’t get that gasp + dramatic tear combo when the music swells and everyone stands.

🎭 Less suspense for the ceremony

Without the big reveal at the aisle, the ceremony might feel less dramatic. If you’re going for classic, traditional vibes, this could be a dealbreaker.

🎯 Final Thoughts from Your Fav Wedding Bestie

At the end of the day, it’s YOUR day, babe. Whether you want the big gasp moment walking down the aisle or a private tear-filled hug pre-ceremony, we’re here for it.

But between you and me (and literally every other wedding vendor)...

👉 First looks just make the day smoother.

And we love a smooth, stress-free, glowing goddess kind of bride ✨

Need help building the perfect timeline for either option?

Slide into our inbox—we’ll help you plan the dreamiest day ever (first look or no look at all).

XOXO,

Ash & Tay

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