One of the most important wedding planning decisions you’ll make, especially when building your photography timeline is whether to have a First Look or see each other for the first time on the aisle.
This single choice shapes your entire day: your timeline, emotions, lighting conditions, and guest experience. At Coastal Chic Studios, we’ve photographed countless weddings across Savannah, Hilton Head, and the Lowcountry of Charleston and we know how to design each timeline for a seamless, stress-free flow.
Let’s explore how each option impacts your wedding day.
What Is a “First Look”?
A First Look is a private, pre-ceremony moment where you and your partner see each other before the aisle walk. It’s intimate, emotional, and allows for authentic reactions without a crowd watching.
Why Couples Choose a First Look
- More Time Together: You’ll spend more of your wedding day side by side.
- Relaxed Timeline: Most portraits (couple, wedding party, and family) are captured before the ceremony.
- Emotional Calm: It helps ease nerves before you walk down the aisle.
- Ideal Lighting: Early portraits often take advantage of beautiful natural light.
- Private Connection: It’s your quiet moment to connect and soak in the excitement together.
This schedule offers greater flexibility and a more relaxed flow to your wedding day. Many of our brides have shared that one of the biggest reasons they chose a First Look was to spend more meaningful time together and still enjoy part of their cocktail hour—all while celebrating with guests without feeling rushed. There are countless other advantages to this approach, and we’d love to walk you through them during your complimentary consultation!
Example “First Look” Timeline (Coastal Chic Studios)
The Traditional Aisle Reveal
If you’ve always dreamed of locking eyes for the first time during your ceremony, the traditional aisle reveal as seen below at the Cathedral Basilica of St. John The Baptist, is a timeless and emotional choice.
Why Couples Choose the Traditional Route
- Classic Emotion: The energy and anticipation build until that powerful aisle moment.
- Symbolic Tradition: Many couples love the idea of saving the reveal for the ceremony.
- Heartfelt Authenticity: Your reactions unfold naturally in front of your loved ones.
This classic structure allows for a dramatic reveal and ensures your portrait session flows right into the celebration.
Example “Traditional Reveal” Timeline
How This Choice Impacts Your Wedding Day Logistics
| Aspect | First Look | Traditional Reveal |
|---|---|---|
| Timeline Flexibility | Most portraits done pre-ceremony | Portraits condensed post-ceremony |
| Lighting Conditions | Ideal natural light for portraits | Depends on ceremony timing |
| Emotional Flow | Calmer, more relaxed day | Emotional build-up and anticipation |
| Guest Experience | More time with guests | Shorter cocktail hour participation |
| Photography Efficiency | Streamlined + controlled lighting | Slightly tighter schedule |
Frequently Asked Questions About First Looks
Q: Does having a First Look take away from the emotion of walking down the aisle?
A: Not at all! Many couples feel even more connected and present after sharing a private First Look moment.
Q: Will we have enough time for photos if we skip the First Look?
A: Yes! Our traditional timeline templates allow for complete portrait coverage during cocktail hour.
Q: Can we do a First Look with parents or our wedding party instead?
A: Definitely. It’s a wonderful way to capture genuine reactions while keeping your ceremony reveal a surprise.
Q: Which option gives us more time with guests?
A: The First Look approach gives you the flexibility to enjoy your cocktail hour and mingle freely.
Coastal Chic Studios: Crafting Seamless Timelines for Your Love Story
At Coastal Chic Studios, we thoughtfully design every wedding photography timeline around your unique vision, priorities, and pace, whether that means maximizing photography time, slowing down to savor every moment, or keeping with beloved traditions. We always remind our couples that this is your day, and the most important thing is to follow what feels right for you.
Whether you’re drawn to a quiet First Look beneath Savannah’s mossy oaks or a romantic aisle reveal in the heart of Hilton Head, our team will be there to guide you every step of the way. From crafting your photography timeline to coordinating the perfect balance of light, emotion, and experience, we ensure every moment of your wedding day flows effortlessly and beautifully.
We’re here to support, simplify, and celebrate alongside you, so you can be fully present, confident, and focused on what matters most: the joy of your love story.
Ready to plan your perfect wedding day flow?
Let’s design a timeline that’s as intentional and beautiful as your story.
Contact Coastal Chic Studios today to start planning your customized wedding photography experience and discover how we can best serve you.
