Our clients are #1. That’s why we never force any of our couples to do a first look. Sure, first looks help with the timeline but many of our couples want to stick to seeing each other for the first time when they walk down the aisle. Whatever you choose to do on your wedding day, we are 100% going to stand by your side and support every decision! And if you’re looking for some fun and unique first look alternatives, keep reading!
Steven and I also didn’t want to have a first look, so we totally get it. We always pictured the magical moment of me walking down the aisle and locking eyes with Steven for the first time. And I have to say, I am SO glad we stuck to what we wanted to do – I wouldn’t change a single thing. That moment was so special to both of us, and we still got all of the photos we needed!
So if you’re like Steven and I (and many other couples also wanting to refrain from a first look), we have some amazing alternatives that are just as sweet and meaningful! Honestly, we love some of these even more because they create that added ounce of anticipation that gets you ready to sprint down the aisle to your lover.
First Look Alternatives
Ready for your inspo? We’ve got four amazing ideas for you and your boo. These first look alternatives are the best way to kick-start all the wedding photos and festivities, we know you’ll love one of them!
First Touch
Sharing a first touch is a beautiful substitute to a traditional first look. We’ve had couples stand back-to-back and hold hands, or even reach out to touch each other’s faces while the other closed their eyes. This intimate moment allows couples to be close physically and feel their connection before they see each other. There is always so much anticipation that fills the air during a first touch and often our couples want to just run around the corner of the building or open their eyes to see each other! But they all say the wait was so worth it. Plus the pictures are SO sweet!!
Love Letters
So, this one usually makes me cry! Watching couples exchange love letters to one another before their ceremony is so romantic, and such a meaningful way for them to share their what’s on their heart. Although I never read their personal love notes I can feel the emotion in the air. Our couples of course always shed a happy tear or two as they read their partner’s expression of love and gratitude. Love letters are often a very touching moment for the couple and I just adore this idea so much!
Praying Together
Another heartfelt and sentimental first look alternative is to pray together. I always recommend this to couples who are looking for a simple way to acknowledge the spiritual aspect of their wedding and relationship. It’s an intimate moment for the couple and often means a lot to them to spend time praying together before getting whisked away into the wedding festivities. I love how couples use this time to express gratitude for each other and the love that they share. Couples can hold hands and bow their heads in prayer, it creates the most beautiful moment of intimacy.
Blindfolded Hug
Couples who want a physical moment but aren’t comfortable with a traditional first look can opt for a blindfolded hug. I love these! Both the bride and groom can be blindfolded and led to meet in the middle for a hug. It’s such a fun and unique way to create a special moment together without either of them seeing the other. Blindfolded hugs also make for some ADORABLE pics! Like, just imagine a cute photo moment of you lifting the side of the blindfold to pretend to steal a peak… Alright I may need to make sure that one happens haha. I just love helping couples come up with sweet, fun, and unique photo opportunities!
There are many first look alternatives for couples to consider, these are just four of our favorites! Whatever you choose, we know you’ll find the perfect way to connect and share an intimate moment with your love before the ceremony. So, take a breath and let the pressure roll off of your shoulders! Enjoy the sweet moments of anticipation leading up to seeing each other at your ceremony, and know that your unique and personal moment will make your wedding day all the more special.
For more wedding planning tips, head to our blog!
