So, you booked your venue, hired a coordinator, locked down a caterer, videographer, photographer, hair, and makeup, and found the wedding gown or suit of your dreams. Awesome! Yet, you still cannot decide if you want to do a first look or wait for the big reveal when your spouse sees you walking down the aisle. Well, hopefully, this blog will help you decide if a first look is for you or not.

A first look is when a couple sees each other on their wedding day before the ceremony to share a more intimate moment together. Typically, the groom is faced away from the bride while she approaches him from behind and does a subtle tap on his shoulder. As this is all happening, photo, video, or both, are capturing this intimate moment. A first look moment is a great option for couples who do want to have a few private moments to share emotions together before the ceremony.

You’re probably thinking, “doesn’t this spoil that emotional moment walking down the aisle?” Absolutely not. There’s still that surreal moment of “this is happening,” “here I go walking down the aisle to my forever partner.” That emotion is not minimized because you did a first look. Emotions will be at an all-time high on your wedding day, regardless. Having a first look is just an opportunity to have a much more private moment with your partner before officially saying I do in front of your family and friends. And, it also allows you both to be fully present to each other on your wedding day and help to calm the wedding day jitters.

If you’re still wanting that big reveal walking down the aisle, yet still want a private moment with your partner, there are other options. Maybe a first touch moment, secret encounter, love note or gift exchange are better ideas for you!  You may choose one of these if you still want an intimate moment together before the ceremony but aren’t ready to break the tradition of seeing each other for the first time at the altar. There are many creative ways to share some personal vows, have an intimate moment praying with each other, exchange gifts or even just share a simple touch to calm down the wedding day jitters and have a moment with your person before the day begins.

Whatever you decide to do, will be perfect! Our biggest piece of advice? Do what YOU want to do for YOUR wedding day.

Did you like this blog?! Then follow us on Instagram @abcweddings for daily resources, tips, inspiration, vendor highlights, and real wedding features!!