7 Reasons you Should Do a First Look on your Wedding Day


Your wedding day is one of the most significant days of your life, filled with laughter, tears, and endless memories. But have you ever considered doing a "first look" with your partner before the ceremony? Traditionally, it's believed that seeing each other before the big moment is bad luck, but nowadays, more and more couples are choosing to break this tradition and opt for a first look instead. While the benefits of a first look are widely known, such as capturing stunning photos in perfect lighting, there are also surprising benefits that go beyond that. In this article, we'll explore the unexpected advantages of a first look and share how this small detail can make a big difference in your wedding day experience.

what is a first look


For those who may be unfamiliar, a first look is a pre-ceremony photo shoot where the couple sees each other for the first time in a private setting. It's a chance for the couple to have an intimate moment together before the hustle and bustle of the wedding day begins. Instead of waiting until the ceremony to exchange the first glance, the first look can be scheduled hours before the actual ceremony, giving the couple ample time to take photos and soak up the moment.

A First Look Reduces Nerves and Anxiety


One of the most significant advantages of a first look is that it can significantly reduce nerves and anxiety on the big day. Weddings can be stressful, and all of the anticipation leading up to the ceremony can create a sense of nervousness that can be hard to shake off. By having a first look, the couple can spend some quiet time together, exchange pleasantries, and connect on an emotional level. This reduces the anxiety and allows the couple to relax and enjoy the wedding day to the fullest.

Another benefit of a first look is that it can help to improve the overall flow of the day. By scheduling the first look before the ceremony, the couple can take all of the photos they need in one go, freeing up time later in the day for other activities. This means that the couple can spend more time interacting with their guests, enjoying the reception, and making memories that will last a lifetime.

In conclusion, while a first look may not be for everyone, it is undoubtedly worth considering. It can be a beautiful moment for the couple to share before the ceremony, and it can also help to reduce nerves and anxiety on the big day. Plus, it can significantly improve the overall flow of the day, giving the couple more time to enjoy their special day with their loved ones.

Having More Time for Photos


By having a first look, couples can actually have more time for photos. Since they have already seen each other and taken some photos together before the ceremony, they can use the time after the ceremony to capture more photos with their wedding party and family. This can include fun and creative shots that they may not have had time for otherwise.

With the pressure of the first look out of the way, couples can relax and enjoy the rest of their day, knowing that they have already taken some beautiful photos together. This allows for a smoother flow of events and more time to be present with their guests.

Creating a more intimate moment during the first look can lead to a deeper emotional connection between the couple, which can be captured beautifully in photos. But it also allows for a more enjoyable wedding day experience overall, as couples can spend more time enjoying the day and capturing memories with loved ones.

Royal Ottawa Golf Club first look
Royal Ottawa Golf Club first look
Royal Ottawa Golf Club first look
Royal Ottawa Golf Club first look

Creating a More Intimate Moment


With the pressure of the first look out of the way, couples can relax and enjoy the rest of their day, knowing that they have already taken some beautiful photos together. This allows for a smoother flow of events and more time to be present with their guests.

Not only does a first look allow for a more stress-free wedding day, but it also creates a more intimate moment between the couple. The privacy of the first look allows for a deeper emotional connection, and this can be beautifully captured in the photos. By taking the time in advance to connect with one another, couples are better able to enjoy the rest of their day in the company of their guests.

Creating a more intimate moment during the first look is just one of the many benefits of doing a first look on your wedding day. With the pressure of the photos out of the way, couples can truly relax and enjoy the rest of their day, including the cocktail hour.

Enjoying Your Cocktail Hour


With the first look completed, couples can breathe a sigh of relief and enjoy the rest of their wedding day. One of the best parts of this is being able to fully immerse themselves in the cocktail hour. This is a time to mingle with guests, enjoy some delicious drinks and appetizers, and bask in the joy of the moment.

Without the stress of worrying about getting enough photos in before the reception starts, couples can truly relax and soak it all in. This is a chance to connect with family and friends and celebrate the start of a new chapter in their lives. Plus, the photographer can capture candid moments of the couple enjoying their cocktail hour, adding to the memories of the day.

In essence, doing a first look allows for a smoother wedding day and a more intimate moment between the couple. The benefits of this extend beyond the emotional connection and beautiful photos; it allows for a better overall experience for everyone involved. By taking some time to prioritize themselves and each other before the ceremony, couples can fully enjoy the rest of their special day in the company of those they love.

Ottawa streets first look wedding photographer
Ottawa streets first look wedding photographer
Ottawa streets first look wedding photographer
Ottawa streets first look wedding photographer



In summary, a first look on your wedding day can offer more than just a glimpse of your partner before the ceremony. It can provide a moment of calm and connection, more time for capturing memories, and a chance to fully enjoy your cocktail hour. Don't be afraid to discuss the possibility with your partner and weigh the benefits. With a first look, you can make your special day even more memorable. As the saying goes, "first looks are not just for photographs, they're for memories."



Happy wedding planning, Ottawa!


More resources on planning a wedding below:

How to Plan an Intimate Wedding

Preferred Wedding Vendors in Ottawa