Are you considering first look wedding photos for your upcoming wedding? You might be wondering about the why behind having a first look. Or, you might have some general questions about whether or not a first look is right for you. Below, we’re answering all the commonly asked questions about first look wedding photos, including whether or not you should include one in your wedding day timeline. Keep reading for more!
Do you have a first look with your parent or your fiance first?
Many couples have started the practice of exchanging first looks with a parent on their wedding day. You may share a special bond with one or both of your parents, leading you to the decision to incorporate this cherished moment into your day. If you do decide on sharing a first look with a parent(s), this would take place prior to meeting your partner.
Who comes to the first look?
At your first look, it will be you, your partner, and your wedding vendors, such as your photographer, videographer, or wedding day content creator. Exchanging a first look is typically a very private experience shared only between the couple, and guests will not be present.
Do you recite vows during a first look?
Ultimately, whether or not you decide to exchange private vows is completely up to you and the wedding day you both dream of experiencing. We’ll discuss the benefits of exchanging private vows a little later in this post.
What can we do instead of a first look?
Some couples prefer to meet one another down the aisle. But they still want to build a shared, intimate experience into their wedding day. As opposed to a first look, you can share a first touch. This usually happens around a corner with a wall or door creating a barrier. Other couples prefer to send gifts to each others getting ready suites with handwritten notes, building the excitement before they meet for their ceremony.
Does a first look ruin a walk down the aisle?
Absolutely not, in fact, we would be bold enough to admit that a first look can enhance the experience of meeting each other down the aisle. A first look is a wonderful way to enjoy an incredibly private moment together before the start of your wedding day festivities. It’s also a moment to wipe away the nerves you may be feeling, giving you the ability to be present and in the moment when you see each other down the aisle.
How long does a first look take?
A first look can be anywhere from 10 to 30 minutes. The amount of time it takes will depend on the experience you wish to share and whether you will be using this time to work on additional wedding day portraits, reciting private vows, exchanging gifts, or even praying together. When our couples plan a first look, we add this to their wedding day timeline in a way that allows them to savor every moment in a way that is unhurried and centered on their wedding day vision.
How can we make our first look special?
There are no rules when it comes to exchanging a first look at your wedding. The time and experience are completely yours, giving you the flexibility to make it as unique as your love story.
Why You Should Capture First Look Wedding Photos
As destination wedding planners in Maui, we usually encourage our couples to add first look wedding photos to their wedding day timeline. Here are some of our top reasons why.
1. Photo Ready
Having a first look at your wedding will provide you with an added photo experience. One that happens before your wedding ceremony. This means your hair, makeup, and styling will be pristine because they haven’t yet met with the wind and elements that typically accompany a wedding in Maui.
2. Group & Formal Photos
After your wedding ceremony, one of two experiences will happen. As newlyweds, you will take off and enjoy a private portrait session with your photographer, and come back to partake in portraits with your wedding party and family members. However, doing this does not allow you to mix and mingle with your guests during cocktail hour because the timeline between a wedding ceremony and reception is short. But, if you decide to capture first look wedding photos, you can skip the newlywed portraits and head right over to cocktail hour or group portraits. Don’t worry, your wedding photographer will still pull you aside during your reception (usually during sunset) for stunning photos on your wedding day that embody the beautiful landscape of Maui.
3. Wedding Day Jitters
Wedding day jitters are bound to happen to even the most confident couples. Everything you’ve planned and dreamed about has finally arrived, and you can’t wait to celebrate with everyone you love by your side. Sharing a first look with each other will add a sense of calm to your union before you head off to your ceremony, where your guests are waiting. You’ll be permitted the time needed to embrace each other, steady your nerves, and be reminded of the journey you’re about to embark on together. All in all, savoring first look wedding photos that capture the essence of your connection and the foundation of your love story.
4. Intimate Moment
If you ask most couples about their wedding day, you might hear them respond with some version of “it all went by so fast”. Many couples can be left with this feeling once their wedding day is behind them. However, as destination wedding planners in Maui, we believe that your wedding day is one that should be delighted in at every moment. One way to ‘stop time’ on your wedding day is to add in private moments with each other throughout the day, including a first look.
5. Private Vows
You might be nervous about exchanging personal vows in front of all your guests. Your first look is an amazing way to privately speak what’s on your heart in an intimate setting, away from your guests. You can cry all the happy tears and speak freely to each other, without your guests looking on or listening to the sacred promises you intend to make to each other.
Your Maui Destination Wedding
As destination wedding planners in Maui, we love working with our couples to organize wedding day timelines that include first look wedding photos. For more information on planning the carefully curated Maui destination wedding of your dreams, you can inquire with us here.
Creative Partners
Planning // Maui Love Weddings
Venue // Olowalu Plantation House
Photography // Melia Lucida
Videography // Sunlit Films
Florals // Dellables
Rentals // Let’s Entertain Maui
Hair & Makeup Artist // MK Makeup Studio
Catering // Cutting Edge
Wedding Cake // Maui Wedding Cakes
Bar Services // Maui Bars
DJ // Del Sol
Transportation // Maui Town Car
