What are they? Should you do one? Why or why not?
First Looks
Traditionally, a couple sees each other for the first time on their wedding day during the ceremony. But you're eloping, so you can do whatever you want! You can still do a first look on an elopement day, and there are a few ways to do it! Here are some recommendations
What is a First Look?
A "first look" is when the couple chooses to see other before the ceremony at a planned time during the day. Usually, this is a private time for the couple to share a special moment together before the ceremony.
How does it work?
Usually, both parties are completely dressed and ready at this point, and they plan to meet each other at a certain place to reveal their attire and spend a few minutes together with just the two of them. Most times, one partner will stand with their eyes closed or their back to the other. Then, the other partner will come up behind them, tap them on the shoulder or do something else to get them to turn around. You don't have to do it like that though! You could also meet around a corner at the same time, hug each other at the same time, or anything else you'd like to do.
How long does it take?
From start to finish, a first look usually takes about 20-30 minutes, give or take. It takes about 10 minutes to set up the first look, which means getting both parties in position and ready to go. I usually help get the you in position, and facilitate when to do what (walk forward, tap on shoulder, etc.). After the initial moments of just being with each other (about 5 minutes), we will usually take a few photos and portraits for another 10-15 minutes.
Can we do a first look on our elopement day?
YES! Absolutely. Whether it's just the two of you, or you have guests, you can absolutely do a first look on your elopement day. On an elopement day, it's likely that you will end up seeing each other before the ceremony regardless since one of you probably isn't going to be walking down a formal aisle. However, you can have a dedicated time to see each other all dressed up on the elopement day before the ceremony.
When should we do a first look?
Elopement days allow for a lot of flexibility in the timeline for the day. I usually recommend doing a first look right after you get into your final attire. This could mean that you do the first look wherever you are getting ready for the day, like at an Airbnb or cabin. You could also do the first look at a different location, where you plan to get dressed before the ceremony. For example, if you want to hike out to a location for the ceremony, you may or may not want to hike in your final attire. In this case, you could get your hair and makeup done, pack your dressy clothes, and hike in more casual clothes. Then, when you reach the ceremony location, you could both change into your final attire and do a first look once you're both dressed. There is no right or wrong way to do it!
What if we are inviting guests?
You can still do a first look! The same recommendations apply if you are inviting guests to your elopement. You could do a private first look with your partner before you meet up with your guests, or even a first look with everyone there! If you are inviting guests, a first look may be a good time for you and your partner to spend some quality time together with just the two of you.
Final Notes
Whether or not you choose to do a first look is entirely up to you. I believe that couples should create a elopement day that represents who they are and brings them joy.
If you have any questions, just let me know!
Copyright Abby Shepard Photography
