The wedding day is one of the most important days in a person's life, and there are many decisions to make leading up to it. One of the decisions that couples need to make is whether to have a "first look" or meet each other at the altar. In this blog, we will explore the pros and cons of each option to help you make an informed decision.

First Look

A first look is a private moment where the couple sees each other before the ceremony. It usually takes place at a predetermined location, and the photographer captures the moment. Here are some pros and cons of having a first look.

Pros:

  1. Time with each other: A first look provides the couple with some private time before the ceremony to connect and calm their nerves. This can help them relax and enjoy the rest of the day.
  2. Better photos: With a first look, the photographer can capture the couple's reaction in a more controlled environment, allowing for better photos. This also means the couple can take some of their wedding portraits before the ceremony, which can save time later.
  3. More time for the reception: With photos taken care of before the ceremony, the couple can join their guests at the reception sooner.

Cons:

  1. Tradition: Some couples may want to stick to tradition and see each other for the first time as they walk down the aisle.
  2. Less anticipation: Seeing each other before the ceremony can take away from the excitement of the moment when the couple sees each other for the first time.


Meet Me at the Altar

Meeting at the altar is the traditional way to see each other for the first time. The couple does not see each other before the ceremony, and the first time they lay eyes on each other is when the bride walks down the aisle. Here are some pros and cons of meeting at the altar.

Pros:

  1. Tradition: Meeting at the altar is a traditional way to see each other for the first time, and some couples may want to stick to tradition.
  2. Emotional moment: Seeing each other for the first time as the bride walks down the aisle can be a highly emotional and memorable moment for the couple and their guests.

Cons:

  1. Time constraints: Meeting at the altar means that the couple will need to take photos after the ceremony, which can cut into the time they have for the reception.
  2. Limited photo opportunities: The lighting may not be ideal for photos after the ceremony, and there may be less time for the couple to take portraits together.
  3. Stressful for the bride: The anticipation of walking down the aisle and seeing her partner for the first time can be stressful for the bride, who may prefer a more private moment before the ceremony.

Conclusion

Deciding whether to have a first look or meet at the altar is a personal decision that depends on the couple's preferences and priorities. If you prioritize time with each other, better photos, and more time for the reception, a first look may be the best option for you. However, if you want to stick to tradition and value the emotional moment of seeing each other for the first time at the altar, then meeting at the altar may be the way to go. Ultimately, it's important to remember that both options can be beautiful and memorable moments on your special day.