Which is The right choice for your wedding?
If you have been planning your wedding for more than 10 minutes then you have probably heard the terms First Look and First Touch. In this post I will break down the differences between the two and hopefully help you decide which option is best for your wedding.
First Look
Firstly (pun intended) let’s tackle the First Look. A first look is when a couple makes the choice to see one another before the wedding. The moment is typically staged by the photographer or coordinator in a private area of the venue. One partner usually has their back turned and the other partner either taps them on the shoulder OR the partner calls out their partner and gives the cue for them to turn around to reveal their wedding day look.
The Pros of Doing A First Look
Firstly (pun intended), let’s tackle the First Look. A first look is when a couple decides to see one another before the wedding. The moment is usually staged in a private area of the venue. One partner usually has their back turned and the other partner either taps them on the shoulder or the partner calls out their partner and gives the cue for them to turn around to reveal their wedding day look.
A Private Moment Alone with Your Spouse
Let’s be honest here. Weddings are about celebrating with friends and family, but there is not enough emphasis on the importance of the couple having time to celebrate with one another. The First Look is the perfect time for the couple to privately share their vows, pray, or share the details of their day with best friend.
Relaxed Timeline
You have more time for all of the formal wedding day portraits on your requested shot list; Portraits with family and the wedding party can be completed prior to the ceremony without feeling rushed afterwards. Depending on the timeline you will be able to enjoy your cocktail hour and more of your reception!
Genuine Reactions
With a first look the reactions of the couple as they see each other first time is a moment filled with pure emotion that’s hard to replicate.
Less Nerves
Seeing your person before the ceremony will help calm nerves and ease anxiety.
Cons of the first Look
Break of Tradition
Let’s be honest this is a huge detour from the traditions from our parents’ weddings. If you are a believer in tradition and superstition this may not be the best option for you.
Lessened Anticipation
For some the excitement and anticipation of seeing each other for the first time at the aisle is an important part of the wedding day, some may feel that the first look will take away from the anticipation.
first touch
So now that we’ve covered the ins and outs of the First Look, let’s touch (I am so punny) on the First Touch, the benefits and it’s minimal pitfalls. A first touch is very similar to a first look in that the couple spends a private moment alone. However, rather than seeing each other, they spend time together by holding hands or embracing without actually seeing one another. This often achieved by being on opposite sides of a door or around a corner.
Pros of The First Touch
Maintains tradition
For couples who want to maintain the tradition of not seeing each other before the ceremony, a first touch is a great alternative.
Anticipation
Holding hands or embracing without seeing one another can create a sense of anticipation that can add to the day’s excitement.
Emotional Moment
The first touch can be an emotional moment for the couple, if they use the time to exchange personal vows or have a private prayer.
cons of the first touch
Coordination
It can be difficult to find locations that offer the opportunity to have a first touch that is private and offers protection from brides or grooms from seeing the other.
Time Crunch
First touches are great for easing the nerves of the couple just before saying “I do”, but it does nothing for the overall timeline of the wedding day. Not seeing each other beforehand means all formal portraits will be done immediately following the ceremony leaving very little time for dreamy couple portraits.
At the end of the day, the decision to do a First Look or a First Touch is a personal one that should be made by the couple based on their preferences.
