We aren't superstitious, but we are a little stitious. Queue laughter from The Office fans.
The first look is one of the biggest decisions you'll make when planning your wedding timeline. Some couples love the idea of sharing an intimate, private moment before the ceremony, while others want to save the excitement for the big aisle reveal.
No matter what you choose, we promise—it will be a special moment either way! If you're still deciding, here are a few reasons why couples opt for (or against) a first look to help you determine what’s best for you.
Regardless of what our couples have chosen, we have never had a couple disappointed with their choice.
Why Couples Opt for a First Look:
📸 More photos, less stress – Couples who do a first look typically have more photos together than those who don’t. Since portraits are taken before the ceremony, you’ll get extra time with your photographer to capture beautiful, relaxed shots.
⏳ A chance to relax & enjoy cocktail hour – With many portraits (and even some family photos) completed beforehand, you can either:
Head to cocktail hour and mingle with guests
Sneak away for some private time to eat and recharge before the reception
🥂 A shorter cocktail hour – Since wedding party photos are usually done in advance, your guests won’t have to wait as long before the reception kicks off.
💨 You’ll still look your freshest – If you want flawless photos before you cry through your vows or before the wind and humidity have their way with your hair, a first look ensures you’re looking picture-perfect.
🎭 Less pressure, more emotions – A first look gives you space to fully react to seeing each other without a crowd watching. If you’re a happy crier, this can make the ceremony feel even more relaxed.
💖 More time to soak in the moment – Weddings fly by! A first look gives you a few quiet minutes together before the whirlwind begins.
Why Couples Opt Not to Do a First Look:
🎉 The grand reveal moment – If you've always imagined locking eyes at the altar for the first time, you might prefer to save that magic for the ceremony.
👀 You want your guests to experience the moment, too – Some couples love the idea of everyone witnessing the emotion of that first look at the same time.
📹 You’re camera shy – If you’re more private or introverted, having a photographer or videographer capture the first look might feel like added pressure. (Pro tip: Let them know in advance if you'd prefer them to shoot from a distance!)
⏳ You love the anticipation – If building up the excitement of seeing each other throughout the day is part of your vision, waiting until the ceremony can make it feel even more special.
A Quick History Lesson: The Origin of “Not Seeing Each Other Before the Wedding”
If you’re worried about bad luck, here’s the truth: this tradition actually dates back to the days of arranged marriages. Weddings were more like business deals, and fathers worried that if a groom saw his bride beforehand and wasn’t pleased, he might back out. To prevent this, couples were kept apart until the moment of the ceremony.
Luckily, we don’t plan weddings like that anymore! So if superstition is the only reason you're hesitant about a first look—don't sweat it.
Final Thoughts
At the end of the day, the choice is yours! Decide together, and don’t stress if you change your mind. No matter what you choose, we’ll make sure your wedding timeline flows perfectly so you can fully enjoy your day.
No matter what you decide to do, decide together. We will have your back, even if you change your mind last second!
Have any questions, comments, ideas, or maybe you need some help through your wedding planning process? Please don’t hesitate to contact us at hello@xoeventco.com. We would absolutely love to help you make all your wedding day dreams come true!
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