First looks, private vows and quiet wedding moments
Plan the exchanges before the ceremony that you want remembered, including moments you choose to keep private.
Meeting before the ceremony
First look
A planned meeting where the couple see each other before the ceremony.
First touch
A planned meeting where the couple can hold hands or speak while staying out of each other’s sight.
Letter exchange
The couple give or read letters, with or without a first look.
Private vows
Personal promises shared away from the ceremony audience. A first look is not required for private vows.
Prayer together
A chosen period of prayer, led by the couple or someone they invite.
Gift exchange
The giving of personal gifts before the ceremony.
Making room for your own experience
Quiet time together
Unscheduled or planned time for the couple to be together without an audience.
Morning time together
A shared breakfast, tea or conversation before separate preparations or the ceremony.
Letters to the future
Messages written for a future anniversary or family keepsake.
Wedding party reveal
The wedding party joins the couple or sees their wedding attire at a planned moment.
First-look celebration
A brief celebration after the meeting, with the people the couple choose to include.
Weather-adjusted first look
A first look arranged around rain, wind or a sheltered location rather than a fixed outdoor setup.
Planning photography and video
Tell us whether you want distance, audio recording, a few photographs or complete privacy. The first words, listening, laughter, tears, a touch and an embrace can all belong to one sequence; we do not need to ask you to repeat them. Allow time before portraits or travel.
Explore the Wedding Event Dictionary
Explore heritage and traditions