Lake Geneva and Milwaukee
Fine Art Wedding Photography

Inquire 

arrow

Kelly Grace

The First Look Explained

Wedding

Search

Learn more

Welcome to my journal where I share recent weddings + shoots, travel photos + pieces of my life! I'm so excited you’re here and I would love for you to say hello! Stay a while and say hello!

Hi, I'm Kelly!

arrow

3 TELL-TALE SIGNS YOU'RE READY TO GO FULL-TIME

Teetering on the edge of submitting your 2 weeks? Download this guide to learn the 3 tell-tale indicators that you're ready to take the plunge into full-time entrepreneurship. *Hint: you might be more ready than you think. 

DOWNLOAD

FREE DOWNLOAD

Your first look on your wedding day—let’s talk about why it’s an absolute game-changer! If you’re on the fence about this tradition, I’m here to share why it could add such a romantic touch to your big day and actually make things smoother for you both!

The First Look Explained | Milwaukee and Lake Geneva Wedding Photographer

First things first, let me clear this up: I never want any couple to feel pressured into doing a first look. It’s all about what feels right for you! But hey, I can’t help but rave about it because guess what? About 90% of my couples have gone for it and ended up loving every moment!

I’ve gushed about “First Looks” so much on my blog because they truly are incredible! Yet, I get it—some folks worry it’s too non-traditional. I used to think the same for my own wedding! I wanted that classic aisle moment where Ben would be floored seeing me for the first time. Who wouldn’t want that, right? But here’s the magic: We actually did both! We shared a sweet, private first look, and let me tell you, Ben still teared up when I walked down that aisle. It was a moment I’ll cherish forever—and our first look only added to the magic!

After photographing over 250 weddings, here’s my take: Every bride wants her groom to be blown away when he sees her. The worry, though, is that seeing each other beforehand might diminish that “wow” factor during the ceremony. But trust me, it’s quite the opposite! Wedding days can get intense—everyone’s looking their best, nerves are buzzing. The groom, bless him, might be feeling the pressure big-time.

But imagine this: Before the chaos of the ceremony, you two steal away to a quiet spot. No audience, just you two. He turns around and sees you, his breath catches, and you have that moment. It’s not rushed, it’s not pressured—it’s just pure, intimate joy. And guess what? Those nerves? They melt away, leaving room for genuine, heartfelt emotions to shine through.

Without that first look, it’s a whirlwind. The groom waits, nerves build, and when he finally sees you, it’s amazing but also a bit overwhelming with all eyes on him. With a first look, you set the pace. You take your time with romantic portraits, just the two of you and your photographer capturing every grin and embrace without any rush or distractions.

And here’s the best part: By the time the ceremony rolls around, you’re both relaxed, ready to enjoy every moment. There’s no frantic rush, no checking the clock—it’s just you, your love, and the joy of your day unfolding beautifully.

So, let me clarify—I never insist on a first look! I used to worry about suggesting it, not wanting to push anyone out of their comfort zone. But seeing how it enhances weddings time after time, I share it because I want every couple to have the most incredible experience possible!

If you’re not sold on a first look, no worries at all! Let’s chat about crafting a timeline that keeps your day stress-free and full of joy, whether you choose a first look or not. Your wedding day should be everything you’ve dreamed of—let’s make sure it’s perfect for you!

You May Also Enjoy:

How To Prepare For Your Engagement Session

The Gift Of Friendship

5 Reasons Why You Should Do A First Look

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

reader faves

browse by category

Weddings

Engagements

seniors

Browse
Categories

Personal

travel

Education

Search

Learn more

Hello and welcome to my journal where I share recent weddings + shoots, travel photos + pieces of my life! I'm so excited you’re here! Stay a while and say hello!

welome to my journal!

arrow

Hello

3 Tell-tale signs you're ready to go full-time

Teetering on the edge of submitting your 2 weeks? Download this guide to learn the 3 tell-tale indicators that you're ready to take the plunge into full-time entrepreneurship. *Hint: you might be more ready than you think. 

DOWNLOAD

FREE DOWNLOAD

How to create a budget for your dream wedding

I'm handing over my top 3 suggestions for creating a budget that allows you to plan your dream wedding (without entering newlywed life in a mountain of debt).

free download