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Wedding Tips

The Daddy-Daughter First Look Explained | DC Wedding Photographer

My Dad at our Daddy-Daughter First Look | Photo by Katelyn James Photography

Tomorrow is the birthday of a very special man in my life… my daddy! I am a shameless daddy’s girl, because I truly have the best of them. My dad is my rock – has been for my whole life. So, in honor of his birthday, I wanted to share my experience at my Daddy-Daughter First Look at my wedding, as well as break down some tips for planning this special moment on your wedding day with your father.

What Is A Daddy-Daughter First Look

First things first, if you are a newly engaged bride, maybe this concept is new to you. There are so many terms in wedding world that it can get confusing. The idea of a First Look is the first time certain people in your wedding see you in your bridal attire. Usually it refers to your First Look with your groom, a somewhat new tradition where the groom sees you before the ceremony. But the Daddy-Daughter First Look is a moment that happens shortly after stepping into your wedding dress. And it’s reserved for the man who loved you first… your dad!

My ‘Daddy-Daughter First Look’ Experience

My Dad at our Daddy-Daughter First Look | Photo by Katelyn James Photography

The morning of my wedding was not quite how I pictured it. It was filled with a flurry of bittersweet emotions. I remember being so in my head that I couldn’t enjoy time with my bridesmaids like I wanted to. I was rushing around trying to remember all the little things I had to bring with me to the venue. And I also was being fussed over to get my hair and makeup done.

But when time came to step into my dress, it was just me, my mom, and my photographers. Once I was zipped and buttoned in, my photographer brought me my bouquet and fluffed the train of my dress. Trying to breathe, I stood in the middle of my mom and dad’s bedroom. I knew what was coming next. I knew it might be the first tears of the day.

My mom shuffled out of the room to check on last minute details while my photographer left to get my dad. I stood there, looking down at my bouquet trying to keep my composure. I knew my dad might be feeling as nervous as I did. We had both talked about this day since I was little – since I was innocently and youthfully convinced that I’d just marry daddy so I never had to leave him.

My photographer snuck back in through the door and quickly closed it. I knew that Dad was on the other side by the way she hurriedly shuffled through. She looked at me smiling and asked if I was ready. One more deep breath and a nod. I stared at the door determined not to cry yet but could already feel the heat rushing to my face.

I called out to my dad to give him permission to enter. He was already smiling, but I saw the moment it registered on his face that he saw me. His giddy grin turned into a beaming smile, which then melted into tears. He walked toward me and wrapped me so tight in his arms. Locked there, we both just sobbed. And he told me how beautiful I looked.

I could only hear our stifled sobs and breathy chuckles, and the click-click of my photographer’s camera. The images from that moment perfect capture everything. When we finally pulled away, it was just taking in every detail. Me checking out the pink tie I picked for him, and him rubbing my shoulder and taking in the details of my dress. Dad had really dressed up – even put on a gold tie bar and his Tiger’s eye ring. For someone as plain dressed as my dad, I knew this attention to detail meant he was excited and really wanted to celebrate this occasion in a special way.

My Dad at our Daddy-Daughter First Look | Photo by Katelyn James Photography
My Dad and me at our Daddy-Daughter First Look | Photo by Katelyn James Photography

How to Plan Your Daddy-Daughter First Look

This is easily one of my favorite parts of a wedding day to capture. Not only does it brings back sweet memories of my own special moment with my dad, but I know I’m able to document that memory for so many other brides too.

As a wedding photographer, I do my best to make sure this moment is not rushed. If you have a close relationship with your dad, this should be a sweet time for the two of you. Here’s my recommendations to protect this time in your timeline to make it extra special!

Leave plenty of time in your wedding day timeline.

Nothing kills a sweet moment like running late. Wedding days fly by fast, take it from me! The nerves and emotion can make it seem even more fleeting. If you’re a daddy’s girl, be sure to pad your timeline with enough time to give you and your dad a special moment together. It may be your only moment alone to talk throughout the entire day.

I recommend at least 10-15 minutes set aside for this part of the day, with additional time to move to and from that location to the next part of the day.

Make it as private as it can be.

Decide between you and your dad who you want to be present for your First Look. Maybe you’re also close with your mom and want to allow her to stay to see it unfold. Or maybe she already got her special time with you and you want it to be just you two. Some brides are not that close with their dad and don’t mind bridesmaids still being in the room.

It’s all up to you! Make sure to think and talk through it together.

Wear the whole ensemble.

To give your dad the full effect of seeing his daughter as a bride, wear everything! Veil, jewelry, shoes, and hold the bouquet. I made the mistake of not wearing my veil, because I wanted to leave that for the aisle. (I later came to regret that decision when the veil fell out mid-aisle because it wasn’t pinned into my hair by my hair stylist.) Luckily my dad still reacted just as I expected. But this is your chance to show off the whole bridal look and get his reaction to everything at once!


I hope this post was helpful! I recognize not every bride has a great relationship with her father, or even gets the chance to have her father present on her wedding day. That said, there are ways to take these tips to have a special moment with the next closest father-figure or influence in your life and still experience many of the same emotions.

If you’d like more wedding planning tips, check out these posts next!

Calling all Daddy's girl brides!!

How to plan a Daddy-Daughter First Look on your wedding day. 

I share my own Dad's First Look story while also highlighting the tips I recommend for making this moment extra special. Make dad's day by including him in a special way on your wedding day.

Read my tips in the blog post here!

#DadsFirstLook #DaddyDaughterFirstLook #WeddingPlanningTips #VAWeddingPhotographer

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Planning your wedding in Savannah, Georgia, provides you with so many options in a city full of Southern charm, historic elegance, and breathtaking low-country beauty. Whether you’re dreaming of a romantic garden ceremony, a grand ballroom reception, or something in between, Savannah seems to have wedding venues for every taste. As a Georgia wedding photographer, I’ve done the research so you don’t have to.

Savannah wedding venues, list of the best venues from a SAV wedding photographer who shoots light and airy style wedding photos | side by side images of Spanish moss at a Savannah wedding venue

Why You Should Consider Savannah Wedding Venues

Savannah is a city unlike any other. With its oak-lined streets, historic homes, and timeless coastal views, it’s no surprise that couples flock here to tie the knot. Savannah wedding venues offer something for everyone—from intimate settings surrounded by nature to grand estates steeped in history. Plus, its mild climate makes it a perfect choice for weddings year-round.

Top Savannah Wedding Venues to Consider

Hotel Bardo (formerly, The Mansion on Forsyth Park)

For couples seeking a venue that provides a fun vintage aesthetic amidst classic Savannah landmarks, Hotel Bardo is one of Savannah’s crown jewels. This venue combines historic charm with mid-century modern sophistication, offering everything from intimate indoor spaces to a picturesque garden courtyard.

Wormsloe Historic Site

For those who want to embrace Savannah’s natural beauty, Wormsloe Historic Site provides one of the most iconic backdrops in the city. The long driveway lined with towering live oaks draped in Spanish moss is a bride’s dream. It’s a serene, ethereal setting perfect for a romantic outdoor ceremony.

The Westin Savannah Harbor Golf Resort & Spa

If waterfront views are your vibe, The Westin Savannah Harbor offers a stunning riverside backdrop. With expansive lawns overlooking the Savannah River, this venue blends elegance and nature seamlessly. Plus, the convenience of on-site accommodations makes it ideal for your out-of-town guests.

The Savannah Yacht Club

Couples who envision a sophisticated coastal wedding will fall in love with The Savannah Yacht Club. This venue offers sweeping views of the water, nautical charm, and an air of exclusivity. It’s perfect for smaller, more intimate weddings or grand celebrations with a coastal flair.

Ships of the Sea Maritime Museum

For history buffs and lovers of unique spaces, the Ships of the Sea Maritime Museum is a standout option. This venue features a lush garden courtyard and historic exhibits that add personality and charm to your wedding. The combination of indoor and outdoor spaces offers flexibility for your big day.

Bethesda Academy

Bethesda Academy boasts one of Savannah’s most stunning natural landscapes, featuring majestic oak trees draped in Spanish moss and rolling green fields. Its historic chapel and beautiful outdoor spaces create a dreamy, intimate setting perfect for a romantic Low-Country-inspired wedding.

The Mackey House

Tucked away in a private estate surrounded by nature, The Mackey House is a venue straight out of a fairytale. With a grand Southern-style mansion, lush gardens, and a peaceful lake, it’s the perfect place for an outdoor wedding full of whimsy and charm.

The Ford Field & River Club

Located just outside Savannah in Richmond Hill, this venue exudes refined Southern elegance. The sprawling estate features scenic views of the Ogeechee River, romantic oak groves, and luxurious accommodations, making it a perfect choice for an intimate yet grand wedding experience.

The Harper Fowlkes House

The Harper Fowlkes House is a historic and elegant mansion nestled in the heart of Savannah’s historic district. With its Greek Revival architecture, sweeping staircase, and lush gardens, this venue exudes timeless sophistication and charm. The courtyard garden is ideal for an intimate outdoor ceremony or cocktail hour, while the mansion’s interior offers a beautifully preserved space for receptions with intricate details like antique furnishings and grand windows.

The Kehoe House

The Kehoe House is a stunning, historic mansion located in the heart of Savannah’s Historic District. Built in 1892, this stately home is an exquisite example of Renaissance Revival architecture. Known for its ornate ironwork, grand interiors, and warm Southern hospitality, the Kehoe House is ideal for couples seeking a venue with timeless elegance and charm.

Savannah wedding venues, list of the best venues from a SAV wedding photographer who shoots light and airy style wedding photos | side by side photos, left side image shows a long rectangle table set for a wedding reception amidst live oak trees draped with Spanish moss; right side photo shows a set of gold wedding rings next to a strand of Spanish moss

Tips for Choosing Between These Savannah Wedding Venues

  1. Consider Your Guest List Size
    Savannah wedding venues come in all shapes and sizes. From intimate gardens to sprawling estates, ensure the venue you choose comfortably accommodates your guest list.
  2. Think About Your Wedding Style
    Your venue should reflect your wedding vision. Are you dreaming of timeless elegance, coastal charm, or a whimsical outdoor affair? Savannah has venues that can bring any aesthetic to life, but the wrong venue can make your details and decor appear out of place. Make the most of that investment (and wedding photos) by choosing a venue that harmonizes with your style!
  3. Factor in Logistics
    From transportation to accommodations, Savannah is known for its hospitality, but it’s wise to consider the proximity of your venue to hotels and local attractions for your guests’ convenience. Consider traffic, city events on or around your wedding day that may cause disruption, and other logistics your guests may face. A wedding planner will help you navigate all the unexpected challenges with ease!
  4. Book Early
    Savannah is a popular wedding destination, especially in spring and fall. To secure your dream venue, book your Savannah wedding venue as early as possible! Then secure primary vendors on your list such as photographer, videographer, planner (if you don’t yet have one) and more.
Savannah wedding venues, list of the best venues from a SAV wedding photographer who shoots light and airy style wedding photos | photo shows a wedding couple kissing under the Spanish moss, wearing a light grey linen suit (groom) and an off-the-shoulder satin wedding gown (bride)

Making the Most of Savannah Wedding Venues

Choosing one of Savannah’s stunning wedding venues is just the beginning. Personalize your celebration with touches that reflect your interests and love story. Whether it’s incorporating local cuisine like shrimp and grits, offering your guests trolley rides through the historic district, or having your photos taken under the iconic Spanish moss, Savannah is full of ways to make your wedding day an unforgettable experience for all.

Planning a wedding is no small task, but having a photographer who knows and loves the charm of Savannah can make all the difference.

I specialize in creating artful images out of your favorite memories. Booking me ensures you’ll have a wedding gallery that represents the essence of your love and legacy in every image. Learn more about my services and approach here.

If you’re considering a wedding in Savannah, I’d love to capture every moment for you. Let’s connect and discuss how I can create timeless art from your most cherished memories.

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