No first look, but possibly a "first touch"

Interesting idea - I've never heard of this, but I can't see why it wouldn't work out!

I really like this idea and I think it could work. I saw a photo on Pinterest of the bride and groom kissing, but they were both blindfolded. I'm not sure if it was before the wedding, but that could work for you two.

I've actually been going back and forth on this. I definitely do not want a first look (I want the shock factor) but I would like us to pray together beforehand to calm my nerves. This would be the perfect compromise. I've seen beautiful pictures and videos of it.

I love this idea. I have seen several pictures of people doing this and seeing their emotions in the photos are awesome.

We considered this, and ended up going with a first look for logistical reasons. Honestly, if I could do them both I would because I really adore the pictures of first touches.

I think it's really sweet when people do this, and it also makes for a cute photo. I've seen people reaching around a corner, or through a doorway to do the first touch.

We're doing a first look. I think the shock factor will still be there. I know we'll both be crying the whole time either way.

We did a first touch. Neither of us wanted to see the other before the ceremony, so just moments before we walked down the aisle we stood back to back on either side of a door and held hands. It was a wonderful, sweet moment between the two of us (and made for amazing pics!). I wouldn't have changed a thing about it- we got to see each other for the first time walking down the aisle, and I will never forget the look on his face. I don't feel it took anything away. If anything, it grounded me before walking down the aisle, and calmed a lot of nerves and anxiety.

Thank you everyone! I definitely want to incorporate this in one way or another! Think it would be awesome!

I have been this done, and that's pretty much where I'm leaning for us. I want the drama of the first look at the altar. I would definitely love to pray with my FH before the ceremony; and, from the pictures I've seen, this is a fabulous photo opp!

The pictures of these turn out gorgeous! We are doing a first look but if not we'd definitely do this... I think seeing/talking to him before will calm my nerves.

We also did a first touch, and I was so grateful for it. We still had lots of people around, but it was just a moment to hold hands and focus on our love for each other in those few moments before we started the mass.

So glad to be getting this feedback. I really want to do it, but was worried about ruining excitement or running out of time. Thanks everyone!

We did a first look but this beautiful couple did a first touch and it looks so beautiful to hold hands together but not see each other. Both ways are beautiful and special for sure.

This is what we're doing! I wanted a first look because I get SOOOO anxious and FH calms my nerves, but he's super traditional and wants the "down the aisle" look. But there's a perfect spot at our venue where we can stand on either side of a floating wall and just hold hands before the ceremony, which is the perfect compromise!