One of the biggest questions couples ask when planning their wedding day timeline is whether they should do a first look or wait to see each other while walking down the aisle. The truth is, there is no right or wrong choice! It really comes down to what kind of wedding day experience you want and how you want the day to feel.


As a wedding photographer, I’ve photographed weddings both ways, and each option creates a very different flow for the day. If you’re trying to decide what’s best for you, here’s a breakdown of both.

 

 

WHAT IS A FIRST LOOK?

 

Chicago River bride and groom first look
Providence Vineyard Wedding venue with a first look on the balcony
Private vows during a chicago wedding

A first look is a private moment before the ceremony where you and your partner see each other for the first time. This is usually done somewhere quiet with just the two of you (and your photographer capturing the moment from a distance).


First looks are often more intimate and emotional because you can react naturally, hug, talk, and take it all in without everyone watching.


Benefits of a First Look

  • You get a private moment together on a very busy day
  • It helps calm nerves before the ceremony
  • You can take most of your photos before the ceremony
  • You get to attend more of your cocktail hour
  • The timeline feels more relaxed and less rushed
  • You’ll likely get more portraits overall
  • You can have a private vow moment


A first look is a great option for couples who want a more relaxed wedding day and more time together.

 

WAITING TO SEE EACH OTHER DOWN THE AISLE

 

A romantic wedding ceremony at the Art Institute of Chicago
Black and white ceremony groom reaction.
A Chicago wedding ceremony in a beautiful church

This is the traditional option where you don’t see each other until the ceremony. The first time you see each other is when one of you walks down the aisle.

This moment is incredibly emotional and dramatic, and for many couples, it’s something they’ve imagined their whole lives.


Benefits of Waiting for the Aisle

  • It keeps the day feeling very traditional
  • The aisle moment is very emotional
  • You get that classic “first reaction” as you walk toward each other
  • It can feel more formal and timeless


If you’ve always dreamed of that moment of locking eyes at the ceremony, then skipping the first look might be the right choice for you.

 

SO… WHAT SHOULD YOU CHOOSE?

 

Wedding ceremony takes place under a majestic weeping willow tree with guests gathered on a sunny afternoon.

Here’s my honest advice:

  • If you want a relaxed timeline and lots of photos, do a first look.
  • If you want a traditional, emotional ceremony moment, wait for the aisle.
  • If you want both, do a first touch.


No matter what you choose, the day will be emotional and meaningful because it’s your wedding day and at the end of the day, there’s no wrong way to do it!


The most important thing is choosing the option that feels the most like you as a couple.