7 Sentimental First Look Alternatives for Your Wedding Day

Put a memorable spin on this popular wedding day tradition.

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Unforgettable First Look Replacements

As you and your partner plan out all of the details for your wedding day, one sweet and memorable decision you’ll have to make is whether or not to do a first look. While some couples don’t want to see each other until they get to the aisle, other couples want to see each other and snap photos together before the day officially kicks off.

If you’re looking for a sentimental way to enjoy a moment together before the ceremony, but you’re not eager to do a traditional first look, here are some fun and meaningful alternatives.

Spend the Morning Together

Rather than waiting until both of you are dressed and ready, why not kick off your wedding day with an intimate morning together? Meet for breakfast, share words over coffee, go for a walk outside, or wake up dancing to your favorite pump-up song. That way, you can start the day off in a way that’ll give you some good energy to carry with you throughout the wedding.

Exchange Private Vows

Sharing your most thoughtful and beautiful words for one another usually happens during the ceremony. However, if you want to make the moment more private, consider keeping the moment between the two of you. When you’re both ready, go somewhere private and read your vows to one another.

Even if you share the same words later on, saying them first to one another can really place focus on the love letter you wrote to your partner.

Go with a First Touch Instead

Looking to add a bit more drama to a traditional first look? Instead of turning around and seeing each other, do a first touch instead. Have the photographer or a friend arrange the two of you in a way where you can grab each other’s hands before you see one another. The simple art of touch can awaken all of the senses before you turn around and see each other for the first time that day.

Bring in Some Music

First looks can be awkward, but one great way to set the mood is to have music playing during it. In addition to having your special moment, you and your partner can share one final dance together as a couple before you officially tie the knot. Play your favorite song or one that has a lot of extra meaning.

Do It with Your Loved Ones

When you pictured your wedding day, you might’ve wanted to do your first look in the presence of other important people in your life. While some couples want their first look to be private, you can break that tradition and invite loved ones into the room so they can bask in the memorable moment.

Exchange Gifts

If you and your partner decided to give each other wedding day gifts, you can make the first look more sentimental by exchanging your presents during this moment. You might even want to stand back to back, hand each other a gift, open the gift, and then turn around to do the first look and see their gift reaction.

Go with a Toast

Celebrate your wedding day with a first look that includes a toast with each of your favorite beverages. When the day starts and the ceremony begins, you two might feel overwhelmed and very busy. Sharing a moment and a drink together before everything begins is a great way to create a long-lasting memory that the two of you won’t forget when you look back on your big day.

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