Should You Have a First Look if You're Eloping?
If you're considering an intimate wedding, you may be wondering whether or not you should have a first look if you’re eloping.
In this blog post, we'll break down the pros and cons of having a first look on your wedding day so that you can make the best decision for you and your fiance’.
One key factor to consider is whether or not you'll have guests present on your big day.
If it's just the two of you, then you'll likely have plenty of time to spend together during the day.
In this case, saving the first look for the altar can add an extra element of romance and suspense.
However, if you'll have guests with you throughout the day, then it might be nice to have a first look so that you can get some quality time together without having to entertain your guests.
What is a First Look?
A first look is simply when the bride and groom see each other before the ceremony.
This special moment can take place anywhere from a few hours to just minutes before you walk down the aisle.
Seeing each other before the ceremony has become increasingly popular in recent years as couples have realized that it allows them to spend more time together on their big day.
Plus, it gives you a chance to get all of those pre-ceremony jitters out of the way!
The Pros of Having a First Look
If you opt to have a first look, there are definitely some advantages especially if you have guests.
First and foremost, it allows you to have some time alone together on what can often be a busy day. Once the ceremony starts, you probably won't get much time to talk to each other since you'll be greeting guests and posing for photos. Having a first look gives you the chance to chat and exchange any final words before the ceremony begins.
In addition, many couples find that seeing each other before the ceremony helps to calm their nerves. If you're feeling nervous about getting married, spending a few minutes alone with your partner can help you relax and feel more comfortable.
Moreover, having a first look means that you'll get all of your formal photos out of the way before the ceremony starts. This means that after the wedding, you can immediately begin enjoying your reception without having to worry about taking photos.
The Cons of Having a First Look
On the other hand, there are also some drawbacks to having a first look. If you're eloping (just the two of you), we think there are some definite benefits to waiting until you see each other at the altar.
Here's why:
One of the great things about eloping is that you'll have the whole day together. There's no need to hurry off to take photos with your wedding party after the ceremony. Instead, you can savor every moment of your special day and spend quality time together as husband and wife. All day long.
If on the other hand, you have guests, then you might want some quiet time alone. If you don’t have the first look, then consider having some newly-wed time after your ceremony.
Your wedding day should be exactly what you want it to be, so if seeing each other beforehand doesn't fit into your vision, then don't force it.
In addition, some couples feel that seeing each other before the ceremony takes away from the impact of meeting at the altar. If this is something that's important to you, then forego the first look and wait until you're standing at the altar together to lay eyes on each other.
There's no right or wrong answer when it comes to whether or not you should have a first look on your wedding day.
It ultimately comes down to what will make YOU feel most comfortable on your big day.
If you decide not to do a first look, that's totally fine! And if you do decide to do one, great! Just make sure that whatever decision you make is one that YOU are happy with—because after all, this is YOUR special day.
