Options for the First Look

The first time you see your spouse-to-be on your wedding day all decked out in their dress or fancy suit is a momentous occasion. It’s arguably one of the most memorable parts of the day, and a moment you’re sure to want to share with future generations. Capturing that moment can be done in a variety of ways. There are a few decisions you and your fiancé need to make together beforehand to make it the picture perfect day you wanted. Here’s what you should know when arranging your first look.

What are your first look options?

There are two ways to do your first look: during the ceremony and before the ceremony. There’s no right answer when it comes to which type of first look is better, it’s just important to pick what’s right for you and your future spouse. For our weddings, I'd say 75% of the couple opt to have the first look the traditional way and have it at the ceremony. The rest decide to have the first look between just the two of them. Let's take a look at the benefits of both.

A first look at the ceremony

Traditionally, the first look would be done when the bride walks down the aisle. The groom is up at the front of the ceremony waiting for his bride. All of your friends and family will be there to witness as you and your partner see each other for the first time. It’s a beautiful, emotional moment to share with all of the ones you love. This powerful moment carries nicely into the wedding itself.

We capture this moment with the photos from your wedding. We will coordinate the first look at the ceremony.

Having a first look at the ceremony is the more traditional way for the couple to see each other for the first time.

Can you have a first look if it is just the couple and no guests?

Of course! Many times, for elopements with just the couple, a first look is easily done at the ceremony location. It helps to create an even more intimate wedding ceremony.

What are the benefits of a first look before the ceremony?

Forget what you’ve heard about it being bad luck to see your spouse before the wedding. We've coordinated many happy couples who've had first looks before the ceremony and they’re still going strong. One of the biggest benefits of doing the first look beforehand is that it truly is a memorable moment with just the two of you. If you have guests are your wedding, a first look before the ceremony allows for a private moment between the two of you to experience the surprise of you dressed your best! Some options for the first look include: the hotel where you’re getting ready, at another location, or anywhere with a beautiful backdrop.

If you are having your wedding ceremony overlooking the ocean, consider a first look on the beach. There are a lot of beach front hotels in Pismo Beach where you can get ready and then have a first look on the beach. Since the first look also includes photos of the two of you, maybe choose a first look location with a different backdrop as your wedding ceremony. It's always nice to get a variety of photos on your wedding day.

Doing the first look before the ceremony gives you more time to live in that moment with your spouse. It’s longer than just a few seconds, so you’ll get even more photos of this event. Some couples also use the first look as a time to exchange wedding gifts or even say something to each other. Many times, the couple doesn't want to say something to each other during the wedding because they are nervous, the first look may be a great time to say those words in private.

When it’s beforehand you have complete control over who else is there to watch. If you just want it to be the two of you, that's great. If you want your parents or the wedding party there to witness the first look, that can be done, too. After the first look, you can proceed with more pictures with the wedding party, so all you have to do after your wedding is take a couple of extended family photos and then party at your reception!

Together, I’ll help you pick the first look that makes the most sense with your wedding day schedule and your vision of that all-important moment. I want you to look back on those photos and feel the joy of that moment for many years to come.

Do you have to have a first look?

No, you do not have to have a first look. We also have couples who arrive to the ceremony together.

Here are some first looks from our happy couples.

For this happy couple, they got married in San Luis Obispo. So, for their first look, they wanted some pictures at the beach.

This happy couple wanted to share a first look with just the two of them. They had some photos close to their ceremony location and then walked hand in hand to the ceremony together. And, how cute was the way she came up to her groom for the first look.

Look at this cute expression on her face! She was so excited to see her groom for the first time.

After the first look, the groom grabbed his bride's hand for a sweet kiss!

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Why you should have a small wedding in Pismo Beach

By Natalie Jones • February 27, 2025

Here’s why you should have a small wedding in Pismo Beach Small weddings are the way to go these days! We aren’t just saying that because small weddings have been our thing since we started our business back in 2015. A small wedding can have the same parts of a large wedding - unforgettable moments, celebration with friends and family and the start of the rest of your life together. But, small wedding have a few more benefits like - less stress, less more, and more of the two of you and what you want for your wedding! We love the scenery of the Central Coast for small weddings. There are million dollar views - from your toes in the sand at one of the beach locations, to overlooking the ocean, to shaded eucalyptus trees, and jagged cliff sides. Small weddings are our favorite because the couple is free to focus on the most important things, like having their day, their way, spending the day with the people who truly matter, and having an amazing day packed with lasting memories. What Is Driving the Trend Toward Smaller Weddings? Several factors are behind the increasing trend of smaller weddings. Modern couples are redefining what it means to celebrate love, and in most cases, they focus on quality over quantity. Small weddings have become for popular and couples embrace fewer guests and find the beauty of intimate gatherings. Changing societal norms and the desire for unique, personalized experiences also make smaller weddings an attractive option. How Do Small Weddings Create More Meaningful Connections? Small weddings foster more meaningful connections by allowing couples to spend quality time with each guest, creating an intimate and personal atmosphere. With fewer attendees, conversations feel more genuine, and guests feel truly valued and appreciated. Some couples will have a few day long celebration for their wedding - starting a few days before the wedding with wine tasting or seeing the sites of the Central Coast, then relax on the beach the next day. After some fun in the sun, it's wedding day. The day will end with a group dinner or casual private reception. Then, the guests will leave and the couple has a few more days to celebrate their honeymoon in Pismo Beach or other beach location. This setting also encourages deeper interactions, making it easier to share special moments, heartfelt toasts, and personal stories. Without the hustle and chaos of a large event, couples and their loved ones can be fully present, strengthening bonds and making the celebration even more memorable. How Does a Smaller Guest List Reduce Wedding Stress? Planning a wedding can be quite challenging. It is easier for couples to plan their weddings with smaller guest lists, as this dramatically lowers their prospects of worrying. Incorporating fewer guests into a wedding means that there are fewer logistical elements to take care of, such as catering, seating arrangements, accommodations, and more people to please. This way, couples can spend more time and energy making their special day more unique instead of fretting over accommodating numerous people. A more personal gathering helps create a homely and calming vibe, giving the couple a chance to make the most of each interaction with their guests. Most importantly, a smaller guest number means that there would be fewer changes needed at the last minute, which translates to lower expenditure and costs. Hence, all attendees, coupled with the couple, can fully enjoy themselves without feeling the pressure of the wedding arrangements. What Are the Financial Benefits of Hosting a Small Wedding? Hosting a small wedding can be a cost-effective choice, offering couples the chance to allocate their budget more intentionally. With fewer guests, expenses for catering, venue size, and decor are reduced, freeing up funds for other priorities such as an unforgettable honeymoon or investing in a dream home. This financial flexibility allows couples to create a celebration that reflects their values and vision without overspending. Celebrate your love story with us! Small weddings are more than just a trend—they represent a shift in how couples approach one of the most important days of their lives. By focusing on intimacy, meaningful connections, and thoughtful planning, small weddings offer a unique and heartfelt way to celebrate love. For couples looking to create a stunning and intimate wedding experience, Coastal California Weddings is your simple and stress-free way to plan your wedding. We provide expert guidance and inspiration.

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