Is a First Look Right for You? Here’s What to Consider:

Photo by Ashley Cox

One of the biggest decisions couples face when planning their wedding day timeline is whether or not to do a first look—that special moment when you see each other for the first time before the ceremony. While there’s no right or wrong choice, it’s helpful to weigh the pros and cons so you can decide what feels best for you.

At Grelen Properties, we’ve seen both approaches create incredible moments, and we’re here to help you decide which is the best fit for your day.

Photo By Ridge and Ramble

What Exactly Is a First Look?

A first look is a private moment between the couple before the ceremony, typically captured by your photographer. It’s a chance to see each other, share a quiet moment, and soak it all in—before the whirlwind begins.

Photos By Tylar Brooke Photography

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Why Couples Love a First Look

Photo By Audra Jones Photography

1. It calms the nerves.If you’re feeling anxious about the ceremony or being the center of attention, a first look can help ease those nerves. Seeing your partner beforehand can be incredibly grounding and emotional in the best way.

2. You get more time together.Your wedding day flies by. A first look gives you a few extra quiet minutes with your favorite person before the rest of the day unfolds.

3. You can take more photos early.Doing portraits, wedding party, and even some family photos before the ceremony allows you to enjoy more of cocktail hour—or get to the dance floor faster!

4. It doesn’t take away from the aisle moment.Many couples worry it will “ruin” the emotional walk down the aisle, but we’ve seen time and again that it doesn’t. The ceremony still carries all the magic, just in a different way.

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Why You Might Want to Wait Until the Ceremony

1. You’ve dreamed of the aisle reaction.If you’ve always imagined that dramatic moment where your eyes meet at the end of the aisle for the first time, then a first look might not be for you—and that’s perfectly okay.

2. You’re a little more traditional.Some couples value the tradition of not seeing each other until the ceremony and love the anticipation of that moment.

3. The schedule works better without it.Depending on your timeline, location, or light, it might make more sense to wait. Your photographer or planner can help you figure out what works best logistically.

Photos by Bonnie Turner

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Still Not Sure? Ask Yourself These Questions:

Photo by April Bennett

• Are we nervous about being in front of people?

• Would we value more time together on the wedding day?

• Do we want to attend (or skip) cocktail hour?

• Are we emotionally attached to the idea of seeing each other at the altar?

• What will help us feel most present and calm?

Whether you're getting married at The Market at Grelen, Boxwood Villa, Spotswood Lodge, or The Grelen Depot, our events team can help you choose the perfect first look location—one that reflects your vision and sets the stage for beautiful, unforgettable memories.

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The Bottom Line

Whether or not you choose to do a first look, your day will be full of love, emotion, and unforgettable memories. The key is choosing what feels right to you—not what tradition says or what anyone else expects.

At The Market at Grelen, we’ve seen beautiful weddings with and without first looks. Our venues provide gorgeous backdrops for both options, and our team is always here to help you plan a timeline that reflects your priorities.

Still deciding? Come tour the property and talk it through with us—we love helping couples figure out what’s best for their day.

Photo By Chloe Parker Photo