First look: What it is, how to do it and tips

14/03/2024
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Nowadays, many couples dare to do the First look. A meeting alone of the bride and groom to see each other for the first time, dressed up, before the wedding ceremony.

A trend that has come from the United States, which couples who have tried it would repeat.

We tell you everything you need to know about the First look and our best tips:

What is the First look?

The First look is a meeting alone of the bride and groom before the wedding ceremony, to see each other for the first time already dressed in the groom suit and bride wedding dress.

It is a very intimate and special moment of the couple, in which the photographer captures all the emotion, spontaneity and magic of the moment.

What is the first look

First look at Castell de Tous by Atypical wedding

The couple is alone or accompanied by some special guests (such as bridesmaids, groomsmen or witnesses), to see each other for the first time and say a few words to each other.

The First look allows the couple to let emotions flow by not having so many eyes on them. It also allows them to be more relaxed and share an intimate and private moment as a couple. The emotions and magic that arise at this moment are unbelievable. We love it!

Although traditionally the bride and groom are seen for the first time when they arrive at the altar (also a unique moment full of emotion), luckily nowadays the weddings are less and there are less superstitions about it and now, each couple chooses the way they want their First look: before the ceremony or at the same ceremony.

In our wedding venues we have many First looks, especially from foreign couples, as it is a North American trend, but now more and more couples are encouraged to try it.

First look pictures

by Atypical wedding

How to do the First look?

The First look is done before the ceremony, about 30 minutes before, when the bride and groom are already dressed and ready.

It takes place in a quiet place where the couple can be alone, where there are no guests, or there are only a few guests chosen to be present at that moment. You can choose the inside of the farmhouse, an interior patio, a hidden garden or some special place of the venue.

At the time of the First look will also be the photographer to capture all the emotions of this moment.

Although there are many ways to make the First look, usually the groom stands backwards, and the bride gradually gets closer from behind. When the bride is right behind, she touches her shoulder so that he can turn around and be seen. It’s a very romantic moment!

How to do the first look

by Atypical wedding

It can also be done blindfolded, in a corner, descending a staircase, behind a door, entering a room or even just holding your hands without seeing each other. You can let your imagination run wild.

After the First look, the couple can exchange a few words, hug, kiss… whatever you want. A small photo report is also usually made.

Once the First look is finished, which usually lasts about 20 minutes, the couple will prepare to make their entries to the ceremony.

Couple report wedding

by Atypical wedding

Tips for the First look

If you dare to make the First look, we tell you our tips to make it a unique and very special time:

  • Choose a quiet place: where you can be alone and have a private moment.
  • Choose a beautiful corner: the photos of the First look will be very special and if the place is beautiful it will always look better.
  • Complicity with the photographer: the photographer will be with you in a unique and very important moment. Having a good feeling with him will be key for the moment to flow and take spontaneous and unique photos.
  • Having someone to coordinate the moment: The organization of this moment is very important. We recommend you have someone in charge of coordinating it, whether it’s your wedding coordinator, Wedding Planner or maid of honor.
  • Add it in timing of the wedding: since you should increase the time before the ceremony.
  • Do not extend too much: The First look must be short, it does not have to last more than 30 minutes, so that it keeps the freshness of the moment and not make guests wait.
  • Relax and enjoy the moment: the most important thing! ¡lo más importante!

The First look is a very intimate and special moment, full of complicity between the couple, but whether you decide to make First look or if you prefer to have your first look at the ceremony, the important thing is that you enjoy the moment and live it in your own way.


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