You’ve picked the dress, said yes to forever, and now it’s time to decide: Will you do a first look… or will your partner see you for the first time in that “OMG” moment walking down the aisle?
As someone who’s helped countless couples capture their most epic “I do” energy through the lens of a photo booth, I’ve seen it all. From teary-eyed private moments to full-out glam squad entrances—there’s no wrong answer. But let’s break down your options, especially if you’re trying to balance timelines, traditions, and TikTok-worthy magic.

🎯 What Is a First Look Anyway?

A first look is a sweet, private moment before the ceremony where the couple sees each other for the first time. Cue the photographer (and the tissues). It’s your chance to soak in each other’s glow without 100 eyeballs staring at you.
Want to take it up a notch? I've seen couples turn this into a mini-photo shoot moment complete with a custom backdrop from Amethyst Star Ventures—yes, that’s us! Think: flower walls, monograms, or even a little confetti action.

💜 First Look: The Pros

1. More Time for Love (and Pics!)
   You’ll be amazed how fast the day flies by. A first look gives you calm, connected time—plus your glam is fresh and fabulous!
2. Frame-Worthy Feels
   Photographers and booths alike love capturing that first wow moment. Whether you're working with an expert planner like Tracy Dapp of Inked Events who knows exactly when and where to cue the magic or hopping in a 360 booth with your boo, these moments are pure gold.
3. Timeline Magic
   Doing portraits pre-ceremony means more time with guests and more time to party. No one wants to miss the cocktail hour just because Uncle Joe blinked in every group shot.
4. Instant Nerve-Calmer
   First looks are perfect if one (or both!) of you are feeling jittery. A quiet hug before the aisle? Chef’s kiss.

👀 First Look: The Cons

1. Breaks with Tradition
   If you’ve dreamed of that dramatic, slow-mo aisle moment since your Lisa Frank binder days, you might want to skip the sneak peek.
2. Early Glam Call Time
   If you’re doing a first look, your day starts earlier. But listen—great makeup needs time to bake, and if you’re in good hands with someone like Amanda Everitt at Happily Everitt After Services, you’re in for a stress-free glow-up.
3. The Crowd Misses the Moment
   If you want the whole crew to witness the jaw-drop in real time, save it for the ceremony.

📸 First Look Alternatives (That Still Work the Camera)
Let’s say you want the moment, but also love the drama. Try one of these photo-ready options:

• First Touch: Hold hands around a corner or door. Anticipation? 10/10.
• Blindfolded First Look: Touch, laugh, even pray together—with the surprise still intact.
• Private Vow Exchange: Share your vows pre-ceremony with just your videographer (or a Mirror Booth recording station 😉).
• Love Note Swap: Read each other’s notes alone or aloud. Capture it in a Willow Creek chapel setting, and you’ve got magic.

🎉 Add a First Look Booth Moment

Your photo booth isn’t just for the reception—it can star in the pre-ceremony magic too! Imagine stepping into your first look moment, then right into a mirrored booth with a custom overlay saying “We Saw Forever Today.” At Amethyst Star Ventures, we’ve done everything from romantic GIFs to voice-recorded guest messages.
Want florals that match your backdrop? Dawn Klintworth at Burlap and Lace knows how to create a bloom moment you’ll never forget.

🕒 Timeline Talk: With or Without?

If you say YES to a first look:

• First look (duh)
• Wedding party + family portraits
• Ceremony
• Quick post-ceremony pics
• Full cocktail hour access
• More booth time! 💃🏾

If you say NO to a first look:

• Separate getting-ready glam
• Ceremony
• All photos afterward (which can squeeze your party time)

Final Flash

No matter what you choose, the day is yours. Whether it’s a teary-eyed reveal or a surprise aisle walk that ends with a dip kiss in front of our 360 video booth, just make sure it feels like you.