First Look or First Touch? Unique Ways to Share a Pre-Ceremony Moment You’ll Never Forget

weddingsandeventsb62
Aug 14
4 min read

Photo by Dreams Divine Photography

When it comes to planning your wedding day, one of the most tender and personal decisions you'll make is whether or not to see each other before the ceremony. While tradition may say "wait for the aisle," today’s couples are redefining what these moments look like—and the results are nothing short of magical.

Whether you're considering a tearful First Look, a heartfelt First Touch, or a lighthearted twist with a playful prank, this guide will walk you through the many creative and meaningful ways to connect before you say "I do."

💕 The First Look: A Private Moment, Just the Two of You

A First Look is when the couple sees each other before the ceremony—often in a private, beautifully staged setting with your photographer ready to capture the emotion.

Why Couples Love It:

It’s a calm, personal moment in a fast-paced day.
Helps ease pre-ceremony nerves and butterflies.
Creates beautiful photo opportunities with raw, authentic emotion.
Opens up your timeline for more flexibility and group photos before guests arrive.

Want to make it even more personal? Consider:

Reading your vows privately to each other, with no audience—just raw, unscripted love.
Exchanging gifts like a handwritten letter, a custom piece of jewelry, or a memory book.
Sharing your first drink together as a married couple—whether it's champagne, craft cocktails, or a local brew.
Including your dog or pet in the First Look! Whether they’re the ring bearer or just there to wag their tail in excitement, fur babies make the moment even more special. All of the planners at Weddings and Events by Frankie Hill are "Dog Moms" So we would LOVE this!!

🤍 The First Touch: All the Emotion, Without the Reveal

If you're holding onto the tradition of seeing each other for the first time at the altar, a First Touch can be the perfect compromise.

You won’t see each other—but you’ll feel each other, hear each other's voices, and savor a powerful connection.

First Touch Ideas:

Hold hands around a doorframe, wall, or curtain—close enough to feel their presence, without peeking.
Stand back-to-back and soak in a quiet moment (and stunning photo op).
Share a private prayer led by your officiant, minister, or family member.
Read letters or vows aloud—just the two of you, no audience, no pressure.
Exchange small sentimental gifts or tokens.

This is a favorite for couples who want the emotional intimacy and the visual surprise at the ceremony.

👨‍👩‍👧 First Looks with Family or Bridal Party

First Looks aren’t just for the couple! Watching your parent, grandparent, or best friend see you in your wedding attire for the first time is an unforgettable moment.

Creative First Look Variations:

Bride with dad, mom, or grandparents—cue all the tears.
Groom with mom or siblings—a beautiful way to honor family.
Opposite bridal party members—like the bride and groomsmen or groom and bridesmaids. Expect big reactions and lots of laughter.
A First Look with your dog—because your furry friend deserves their moment too!

These extra layers of connection only deepen the emotional impact of your wedding day.

🥂 A Private Meal or Toast Together

After the ceremony, some couples are choosing to sneak away for a private meal or drink before joining the reception. And honestly? We love this idea.

Why It Works:

You get to pause and connect—just the two of you.
It ensures you actually eat before mingling with guests.
It's a time to reflect on the vows you just shared.
You can capture the moment with a “First Toast” photo, raising a glass to your new chapter together.

Pro tip: Ask your caterer or planner to set up a cozy sweetheart table or lounge area in a side room or secluded corner of your venue. Our planners are happy to arrange this special place along with your venue to capture a great moment.

😂 A Prank First Look for the Jokesters

If your relationship includes a good dose of humor, a Prank First Look might be right up your alley.

Imagine this: the groom turns around expecting to see his bride… and instead, it's his best man in a wedding dress. The reactions are priceless, and it sets a fun, light-hearted tone for the rest of the day.

This works especially well if you're also planning a real First Look afterward—so you get both the laughs and the emotional payoff. We love all the fun this offers, so BRING IT ON!! We can't wait to see all the smiles with this one. Let our planners with Weddings and Events by Frankie Hill help you take on the first Prank Challenge.

✨ Final Thoughts: Create a Moment That’s Uniquely Yours

There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to pre-ceremony moments. Whether you go for a First Look, a First Touch, or a twist that’s completely your own, this is your love story—and you get to tell it your way.

As wedding planners, our job is to help you shape these moments into memories that feel authentic, unforgettable, and deeply meaningful.