The first time you see your spouse-to-be on your wedding day all decked out in their dress or fancy suit is a momentous occasion. It’s arguably one of the most memorable parts of the day, and a moment you’re sure to want to share with future generations. Capturing that moment can be done in a variety of ways. There are a few decisions you and your fiancé need to make together beforehand to make it the picture perfect day you wanted. Here’s what you should know when arranging your first look. 

What are your first look options? 

There are two ways to do your first look: during the ceremony and before the ceremony. There’s no right answer when it comes to which type of first look is better, it’s just important to pick what’s right for you and your future spouse. For our weddings, I'd say 75% of the couple opt to have the first look the traditional way and have it at the ceremony.  The rest decide to have the first look between just the two of them. Let's take a look at the benefits of both.

A first look at the ceremony 

Traditionally, the first look would be done when the bride walks down the aisle. The groom is up at the front of the ceremony waiting for his bride.   All of your friends and family will be there to witness as you and your partner see each other for the first time. It’s a beautiful, emotional moment to share with all of the ones you love. This powerful moment carries nicely into the wedding itself. 

We capture this moment with the photos from your wedding.  We will coordinate the first look at the ceremony. 

Having a first look at the ceremony is the more traditional way for the couple to see each other for the first time.

Can you have a first look if it is just the couple and no guests? 

Of course! Many times, for elopements with just the couple, a first look is easily done at the ceremony location.  It helps to create an even more intimate wedding ceremony.

What are the benefits of a first look before the ceremony? 

Forget what you’ve heard about it being bad luck to see your spouse before the wedding. We've coordinated many happy couples who've had first looks before the ceremony and they’re still going strong. One of the biggest benefits of doing the first look beforehand is that it truly is a memorable moment with just the two of you. If you have guests are your wedding, a first look before the ceremony allows for a private moment between the two of you to experience the surprise of you dressed your best!  Some options for the first look include: the hotel where you’re getting ready, at another location, or anywhere with a beautiful backdrop.

If you are having your wedding ceremony overlooking the ocean, consider a first look on the beach.  There are a lot of beach front hotels in Pismo Beach where you can get ready and then have a first look on the beach. Since the first look also includes photos of the two of you, maybe choose a first look location with a different backdrop as your wedding ceremony. It's always nice to get a variety of photos on your wedding day.

Doing the first look before the ceremony gives you more time to live  in that moment with your spouse. It’s longer than just a few seconds, so you’ll get even more photos of this event. Some couples also use the first look as a time to exchange wedding gifts or even say something to each other. Many times, the couple doesn't want to say something to each other during the wedding because they are nervous, the first look may be a great time to say those words in private.

When it’s beforehand you have complete control over who else is there to watch. If you just want it to be the two of you, that's great. If you want your parents or the wedding party there to witness the first look, that can be done, too. After the first look, you can proceed with more pictures with the wedding party, so all you have to do after your wedding is take a couple of extended family photos and then party at your reception! 

Together, I’ll help you pick the first look that makes the most sense with your wedding day schedule and your vision of that all-important moment. I want you to look back on those photos and feel the joy of that moment for many years to come.

Do you have to have a first look?

No, you do not have to have a first look. We also have couples who arrive to the ceremony together.