Enjoy the Magic of Your First Look in Our 5 Favorite Must-Have-Moment Locations!
The idea of a "First Look" comes highly recommended by wedding professionals, but it's still debated among couples. The time-honored--yet undoubtedly superstitious--practice of not seeing your significant other until the actual wedding ceremony pervades this magical day. Many couples insist on waiting, while others opt for a First Look hoping to ease wedding-day nerves--or to make sure they enjoy cocktail hour with their guests.
Our Rancho weddings come with tons of obvious perks, but every corner of the grounds itself is an opportunity for that priceless shot! The original architecture enchants with its rustic charm, and the surrounding landscapes offer endless artful photo opportunities. With over 20 acres of land, our couples take advantage of every inch that we offer.
If you end up going for the big pre-ceremony reveal a First Look provides, our experts selected 5 of their favorite spots around our Old Rancho that are perfect for this special moment!
1. The Welcome Courtyard
One of our most iconic areas, known for the coexistence of wild natural beauty and gorgeous historic style. This otherworldly combination of plants and Spanish tiles create the most stunning boho backdrop for a First Look.
2. The Upper Patio
Our experts are serious in stating that a first look does not spoil the ceremony. We think that you'll be overwhelmed with emotion no matter what, so if you want to see your partner, don't skip it. Why not have two magical moments on your special day?
The symmetrical aesthetic of this location, just inside the Welcome Patio, creates the most satisfying eye-candy pictures!
This shaded space offers lots of elbow room for photographers to find those dramatic angles.
3. The Lower Patio Steps
This multifaceted space is capable of every romantic's deep-rooted desire to have a bride glide down the steps towards her future husband. We can't get enough of the potential this secluded spot offers.
In general, private moments for a Bride and Groom are far and few between. A First Look is an excellent decision for couples who want to spend some quiet time together before the ceremony. It gives the love birds a moment before the day officially starts to connect and take a deep breath.
Privacy is a privilege on your big day. It's a whirlwind once guests arrive, and having a first look gives you and your partner a few moments together before all of your family and friends surround you.
4. The Old Barn
Don't forget that timing is critical! If you're having a winter ceremony, First Look photos are essential if you want portraits taken with natural light. The sun will be down between 4:30 and 5:30 p.m., so this it's your chance for pictures in the sun.
Our Old Barn THRIVES during golden hour. Photographers eat up the contrasts of weathered wood and polished wedding attire.
The Old Barn shines at every angle too! The ancient wood reclaimed by nature is perfect for the couple looking to make a statement with their First Look pictures.
As our second-most iconic location, the Old Barn offers the most versatility of any other landmark on our grounds. Explore around to each side for four completely different stunning backdrops.
5. Explore the Exterior Grounds
There's just something otherworldly about an open field. The right photographer can transform a sparse meadow of sticks into a landscape of wonder. The Exterior Grounds are a blank canvas for the imaginative couple seeking romance, magic, and a little bit of classic rustic charm.
There are countless locations around the Rancho for your perfect First Look!
No matter where you turn, gorgeous rustic architecture, natural wild desert beauty, and opportunities for must-have moments are all around!