Weddings are full of little moments that become lasting memories, and your first look is one of the most powerful. If you’re searching for a unique idea, a balloon first look wedding is a magical way to reveal your dress and share an unforgettable emotional moment. Recently, I photographed a stunning balloon first look at a wedding in La Crosse, WI—and it’s a moment I’ll never forget.
Why Have a Balloon First Look Wedding?
A first look is about more than just seeing each other before the ceremony. It gives you a private space to calm nerves, create a relaxed mood, and capture genuine, emotional reactions.
Adding a creative spin like a balloon first look wedding makes it even more personal—and even more photogenic. You get a real moment of surprise, laughter, and joy.
Working with an experienced La Crosse wedding photographer can help you plan the timing and location to make the most of it.
How a Balloon First Look Wedding Works
The idea is simple but stunning:
- The bride holds a bouquet of balloons, hiding her dress completely.
- The groom faces away until the moment is ready.
- As the groom turns around, the bride releases the balloons into the sky.
- The reveal happens as the balloons float upward and the bride stands smiling underneath.
It’s a beautiful metaphor too: letting go of nerves and starting the day full of excitement and love.
Why La Crosse Was the Perfect Setting
La Crosse, Wisconsin, with its wide-open parks, scenic riversides, and lush landscapes, provided the perfect canvas for this balloon first look wedding.
The balloons floated up against a soft, cloudy sky, creating an elegant, dreamlike backdrop. With fewer distractions and a clear horizon, the reveal felt even more emotional and cinematic.
If you’re thinking about engagement sessions too, you can find inspiration here: Photographers in La Crosse WI.
Tips for Planning the Perfect Balloon First Look Wedding
Thinking about planning your own balloon first look wedding? Here’s what you should keep in mind:
Choose High-Quality Balloons
Pick helium balloons that fit your color palette. White, pastel, and metallic balloons look best against the sky. Avoid dark colors, which can photograph harshly.
Secure the Balloons Until Go-Time
Until the release, the balloons should stay tied down or weighted. An assistant or planner can help manage the timing so nothing flies away too soon.
Pick the Right Time of Day
Lighting matters during a balloon first look wedding. Late afternoon (golden hour) or a soft overcast day creates beautiful skin tones and dramatic skies.
Communicate the Moment Clearly
Make sure your photographer and coordinator know when the release will happen. Wide, mid, and close-up shots help capture the full range of emotions.
Other Unique First Look Ideas
If a balloon first look wedding isn’t quite your style, there are plenty of other ways to personalize your moment:
- Private vow readings
- Holding hands around a corner (“first touch”)
- Exchanging gifts or letters
- Including a pet in your first look moment
Every couple’s story is different. You deserve a first look that feels true to yours. You can also find creative session ideas here: Engagement Photographer La Crosse {Blue Sky}.
For even more ideas, check out wedding inspiration at The Knot.
Final Thoughts
Your first look should be a reflection of who you are as a couple: playful, emotional, adventurous. A balloon first look wedding creates that perfect sense of wonder and excitement—while giving you photos that will feel magical for a lifetime.
If you’re dreaming of a wedding that’s full of laughter, real moments, and creative storytelling, I’d love to help you bring it to life. Let’s connect and create something beautiful together.
Not necessarily — but it helps to have one person on-site to wrangle balloons and timing.
Nope — it works for intimate weddings, elopements, or big events alike.
It happens! That’s why we prep extras and get all angles covered in photo + video.
Only if you force it. If it feels like you, it’s perfect.
