Norfolk, Virginia

Like The Concept of a First Look for Your Wedding Day? Here’s Some Similar Ideas You Can Do WITHOUT Seeing Each Other!

Your wedding day is celebration of love – and each moment should accurately reflect who you are, and include is meaningful in your relationship. While some couples choose to share a ‘first look’ before the ceremony, it’s perfectly okay if this is not for you. However, if you are intrigued by the idea of sharing a meaningful moment with your partner before the ceremony, there are several beautiful alternatives to a first look that can create lasting memories AND stunning romantic portraits. Here’s some ideas to consider?

If you’ve never heard of a ‘first look’ before and DO like the idea of it, check out this blog post:

Hey, I’m Karlie! A Lifestyle and Wedding Photographer based in Norfolk, Virginia. I travel all around the East Coast for weddings, and would love to travel to you! Are you getting married in Virginia, Maryland, or any other surrounding states and in search of a photographer? You found the right place! Each of my wedding packages include a complimentary engagement session! Reach out to me here!

1. First Touch

A ‘first touch’ is a way to connect prior to the ceremony without actually seeing each other. Imagine standing back-to-back or around a corner, reaching out to hold hands, whisper sweet words, or even share a prayer. This intimate moment can help ease any pre-wedding jitters and create a sense of calm before you walk down the aisle. The anticipation and emotion capture in this moment make for some truly memorable photos.

Check Out This Wedding Blog Post: Piney Grove Events Wedding – Chestertown, MD

2. Take a Shot

For those looking to infuse a bit of fun into their day, consider a ‘first shot’ moment. This playful alternative to a wedding first look allows you to share a drink together, whether it’s a shot of your favorite spirit or a sip of champagne. It’s a light-hearted way to relax and laugh together. The candid photos from this moment can beautifully capture your personalities and the excitement of your wedding day.

Bride and Groom hold a shot in their hands during their first touch on their wedding day

Bride and Groom take a shot of alcohol during their first touch on their wedding day.

Check Out This Wedding Blog Post: Independence Golf Club Wedding – Richmond, VA

3. Gifts or Handwritten Letters

Exchanging gifts or handwritten letters is a deeply personal way to connect with your partner on your wedding day without seeing each other. Whether you choose to read these together or separately, this exchange can bring a range of emotions, from laughter to tears of joy. The genuine reactions in this moment creates opportunities for capturing beautiful, emotional portraits in your wedding gallery.

A bride holds and reads a handwritten letter from her groom.

A smile reads a handwritten letter from her groom before the wedding ceremony.

A groom sits on a chair and reads a handwritten letter from his bride.

Check Out This Wedding Blog Post: Vanderwende Acres Wedding – Seaford, DE

4. Prayer

For couples who share a deep faith, taking a moment to pray together can be incredibly meaningful. This moment is the perfect way to ground yourselves and prepare for the commitment you are about to make together. It’s a peaceful, reflective moment and often some of the truly powerful images in your final gallery.

Check Out This Wedding Blog Post: Venue 54 Wedding – Delmar, MD

Make the Moment Yours

Ultimately, your wedding day should be a reflection of you and your partner. Whether you choose a first look, a first touch, or another intimate moment, the key is to make it personal and meaningful to your love story. Creating the time for these experiences offer you a pause admit the excitement of the day, allowing you to soak it in together.

Remember, these special moments are not just about the photos; they’re about celebrating your love in a way that feels authentic and meaningful to you. So, take a step back, consider what resonates most with your vision, and create a wedding day you will treasure forever.

By incorporating one of these ideas into your wedding day, you can ensure that your experience is unique and personal as your love story itself!

Reach out to me HERE to see if I’m available for your wedding date:

Wedding Package Info HERE