Preparing for Your First Look

The quiet, reflective moments before you see your partner for the first time on your wedding day are some of the most emotional and meaningful. Whether you’re sharing a private First Look or waiting until the ceremony, these moments are full of anticipation, excitement, and reflection on the day ahead.

In today’s blog, we share some tips for you to keep in mind as you prepare for your First Look.

As you prepare to step into this unforgettable experience, here are a few tips to help you stay present and fully embrace the moment:

1. Stay Hydrated

Let’s be honest – nerves can bring on dry mouth, so take a few sips of water or grab a mint before heading out. You want to feel your best, with zero distractions—and trust us, hydration helps!

2. Engage Your Senses: Smell Your Bouquet

I love this one, and have adopted it as a key recommendation ever since my own wedding day when my photographer told me to stop, breath, and smell my bouquet right before I walked down the aisle.

Your bouquet isn’t just an accessory; it’s a memory trigger. The scent of your flowers can instantly transport you back to this moment years down the line. Take a deep breath and let their fragrance become a part of your wedding day memories.

3. Take a Moment to Be Alone Before Your First Look

Before the First Look, allow yourself a moment of solitude. Let the photographers step out, take a deep breath, and ground yourself. This is your time to soak it all in before the day turns into a blur.

4. Have a Helping Hand Nearby During Your First Look

Whether it’s your maid/matron of honor, a bridesmaid, or your mama, make sure someone is close by to help carry your train and veil or hold your bouquet. Sometimes a photographer’s second shooter can help here, but you don’t want to count on it because their first job is to take photos, remember?! You’ll appreciate the extra set of hands so all you have to do is be present in the moment.

5. Keep the Main Thing, The Main Thing

It’s easy to get caught up in the details, but remember: you are getting married! This day isn’t about impressing others—it’s about celebrating the love and life you and your partner are building together. Take a deep breath, feel your feet on the ground, and let yourself be fully present with each other.

My Personal First Look Experience

I remember my own wedding morning so vividly. I was a nervous wreck. I hadn’t hired a Wedding Coordinator so I spent the first hour of the day unloading my car and directing people on set up. The venue failed to follow the floorplan I provided to them, so I had to fix that. When it came time to get ready, I was torn between two pairs of earrings, I was feeling rushed and overwhelmed. My mom was still getting her hair and makeup done, so she wasn’t there to help me into my dress, and that made me so incredibly sad. To this day, I still mourn not having that moment with her.

In the midst of the chaos, my bridesmaid saw I was in a frenzy. She held my hands, told me to look her in the eyes and breath. Then she handed me a glass of champagne, told me to drink up, then get out there to see my fiance for our first look.

When I saw Grant, every ounce of stress disappeared. It was like being home. We walked, we talked, and we kept asking each other, “Can you believe we’re getting married?” The world slowed, and nothing else mattered. All was as it should be and I could care less about how things got set up.

Final Thoughts

Your First Look (or the moment you step down the aisle) is one you’ll remember forever. Take the time to breathe, to feel, and to truly embrace this once-in-a-lifetime experience. No matter what happens before that moment, once you see your person, nothing else matters.

What was your First Look like? Or, if it’s coming up, how are you feeling about it? Share in the comments—I’d love to hear your story!