To first look or not to first look? That is the question?! In the end, the decision is yours but let's look at some "ideal" sample timelines with and without a first look and then we will go over the benefits!

First let's say your ceremony is at 4PM and sunset time is at 5:30PM. And let's also say that you are getting ready with hair and makeup and getting dressed all at the same venue.  (When you have multiple locations you have to account for the travel time!)

Starting 2.5-3 hours before the ceremony is ideal! 

I like to arrive when you are still in hair and makeup but almost done. I will arrive to photograph your dress and details (shoes, jewelry, invitation suite, perfume, etc.) This usually takes 30 minutes or so. I will also photograph you and your bridal party hanging out before you get dressed.  I ask anyone who is helping you get dressed to be dressed before you.  

1:00PM Photographer arrives to photograph details/ end of hair and makeup

1:30PM Group photo before you get dressed

1:45PM Bride Gets Dressed

2:15PM Set up for first look

2:30-3:00 First look and Portraits

3:00-3:30PM Bridal Party

3:30PM Bride and Groom Refresh and hide before ceremony

4:00PM Ceremony

4:30PM Family Photos

5:00PM Additional Bride and groom photos and or Bride and Groom attend cocktail hour

5:15PM Reception details

5:45PM Reception introductions/ First Dance

6:00PM Toasts

6:15PM Dinner Served

7:15PM Parent Dances

8:00PM Cut the Cake

9:45PM Last dance

9:50PM Grand Exit

10:00PM Bride and groom and Photographers Depart 

If you decide you want to uphold traditions and not see each other until the ceremony, here is the timeline I would prefer.  (I do ask for a bit more time during cocktail hour so I can cover everything)

1:00PM Photographer arrives to photograph details/ end of hair and makeup

1:30PM Group photo before you get dressed

1:45PM Bride Gets Dressed/Bridal portraits  (Groom Also gets dressed now)

2:20PM Bridesmaids photos

2:50-3:10 Groomsmen Portraits 

3:30PM Prepare for Ceremony

4:00PM Ceremony

4:30PM Family Photos

4:50PM Bridal Party

5:00PM Bride & Groom Portraits 

5:20PM Reception details

5:45PM Reception introductions/ First Dance

6:00PM Toasts

6:15PM Dinner Served

7:15PM Parent Dances

8:00PM Cut the Cake

9:45PM Last dance

9:50PM Grand Exit

10:00PM Bride and groom and Photographers Depart 

So as you can see... the benefits of doing a first look are many including: 

1.) Less to do during cocktail HOUR! We have to do all portraits in that hour if you don't do a first look. You typically end up with so many more portraits too! 

2). More portrait time = MORE PORTRAITS and built in cushion time! (Smooth weddings always have built in cushion time!)

3.) Get your nerves out! This will help you be more in the moment during your vows!

Weddings with a first look