A First Look with your Dad is a beautiful and emotional moment for many brides, but whether it’s a "yay" or "nay" depends on your preferences and vision for the day. Here’s a breakdown of the pros and cons to help you decide:


Yay: Why It’s a Special Moment

  1. Heartwarming and Emotional:
  2. Seeing your dad’s reaction when he sees you in your wedding dress for the first time can be an incredibly touching moment. It allows you to honor your bond with him in a memorable way.
  3. Private and Intimate:
  4. This is a chance to have a quiet moment with your dad before the whirlwind of the ceremony. It’s a great time to share a hug, words of encouragement, or even some happy tears.
  5. Beautiful Photos:
  6. Photographers love capturing genuine emotions during these moments. The look of pride, joy, and sometimes a few tears from your dad makes for stunning, heartfelt photos.
  7. Eases Nerves:
  8. If you’re feeling nervous, seeing your dad can provide comfort and reassurance. It’s a grounding moment before you walk down the aisle.


Nay: Why You Might Skip It

  1. Too Many First Looks:
  2. If you’re already doing a First Look with your partner, adding one with your dad might feel repetitive or take away from the novelty of the moment.
  3. Preference for Tradition:
  4. Some brides prefer the tradition of their dad seeing them for the first time as they walk down the aisle, which can also be incredibly emotional.
  5. Time Constraints:
  6. If your schedule is packed, adding another pre-ceremony moment might create unnecessary stress.
  7. Not Everyone Loves the Spotlight:
  8. If your dad is shy or prefers to keep emotions private, a First Look might feel uncomfortable for him.


How to Decide

  • Reflect on Your Relationship: If you’re close with your dad and this feels meaningful, it’s likely a “yay.”
  • Consider the Timeline: Can your schedule comfortably accommodate a First Look without rushing the rest of the day?
  • Talk to Your Dad: He might have a preference, whether it’s a private moment or saving the surprise for the ceremony.


Alternatives to a First Look

If you’re leaning towards a “nay” but still want to honor your bond, here are other ideas:

  • A Gift Exchange: Give your dad a meaningful gift, like a custom handkerchief or a framed photo.
  • A Letter or Note: Write your dad a heartfelt letter to read before the ceremony.
  • Pre-Ceremony Toast: Share a private toast together with your immediate family.


Whether it’s a “yay” or “nay,” what matters most is creating moments that feel authentic to you and your family.