first look vs. traditional reveal: what’s right for you?
When planning your wedding, one of the most emotional (and photo-worthy) moments is the first time you see your partner on the big day. But how you choose to experience that moment is entirely up to you.
Should you share a private first look before the ceremony? Or wait for the classic aisle reveal?
Let’s break down the differences, pros and cons, and a few questions to help you decide what’s right for your day.
What is a “First Look”?
A first look is a private moment between you and your partner before the ceremony, typically orchestrated by your photographer and planner. It’s an intimate time to connect, calm your nerves, and share the excitement, just the two of you (plus a camera or two).
Pros of a First Look:
More Time Together: You get to spend more of the day with your partner instead of waiting until the ceremony.
Authentic Reactions: You can be fully yourselves. Laugh, cry, talk, hug, without the pressure of a crowd watching.
Better Timeline Flow: Doing portraits before the ceremony gives you more time to enjoy cocktail hour and relax later in the day.
More Photos: You’ll get a wider variety of daylight photos before guests arrive.
Cons:
Breaks Tradition: If you’ve always envisioned the aisle reveal as your “wow” moment, a first look may feel less dramatic.
Early Start: Hair, makeup, and getting dressed will need to happen earlier in the day.
What is a Traditional Reveal?
The traditional reveal is exactly that. Seeing each other for the first time during the ceremony as you walk down the aisle. It’s steeped in emotion, anticipation, and the eyes of all your loved ones.
Pros of a Traditional Reveal:
The Drama of the Moment: There's something truly cinematic about locking eyes at the altar for the first time.
Keeps with Tradition: For some, not seeing each other before the ceremony is deeply meaningful.
Builds Anticipation: Waiting adds to the excitement and butterflies before the big moment.
Cons:
Tighter Photo Timeline: Most couple and family portraits will happen during cocktail hour, which can feel rushed.
Nerves: If you're feeling anxious, waiting can increase stress instead of easing it.
Less Private: Your reactions are shared with everyone. It’s beautiful, but less intimate.
How Do You Choose?
Here are a few questions to ask yourselves:
Are we more traditional or more modern?
Do we want more time with each other and our guests?
Are we comfortable showing emotion in front of an audience?
Is it important for us to stick to specific cultural or religious customs?
Remember: There’s no right or wrong choice, only what’s right for you as a couple.
*Not sure you want a full first look? Try a “first touch” (holding hands around a corner or door), reading vows privately, or doing a first look with your parent or wedding party.
Wedding Planner Tip: Your partner can still feel all the emotions during a first look and a traditional aisle reveal.
If you choose to do a first look, here are some ways to keep the walk down the aisle just as special and emotional:
Wear a veil down the aisle – lifting it adds an extra moment of anticipation.
Choose a surprise processional song that holds special meaning or memories for you both.
Hold off on putting on a key accessory (like a statement necklace, heirloom piece, or train attachment) until the ceremony for a fresh wow moment.
Pause at the top of the aisle and lock eyes before walking. That quiet moment can hit just as hard as a reveal.
Have your officiant ask guests to stand when you enter. The energy shift adds to the drama and significance of the moment.