I would have to say that the ceremony is one of my favorite parts of the wedding day. Maybe not the most fun to photograph, but there is something about being present for the joining of two lives that is VERY special to me. You see, I believe in marriage. I absolutely LOVE being married and it makes me so happy when I hear the officiant say “I’d like to announce, for the first time, Mr & Mrs…..” I want to jump for joy with excitement for my brides. It’s the moment everyone is there for. It’s the reason everyone got dressed, came to church and are ready to party. To celebrate two people committing to one another.
After 10 years, I have secretly wished I could put super secret ear pieces in my couples’ ears so that I could tell them certain things so, here’s a quick checklist to try to keep in mind while you are at the alter (I tried to keep it short so you’d remember them):
- If you are sitting in chairs at the alter, ask the person that is in charge of organizing the ceremony to make sure nothing is in the way of either of your faces. The best angle, in most churches, is from the left side about 5-6 pews back. If I stand and hide behind the pillar that is likely there, I want to see all of your expressions, not a candle covering one eye.
- Be in the moment. Try your absolute hardest to not break the smile. If your face gets tired, I understand, but try your hardest to make it through the readings smiling so I have enough great expressions. Sometimes, when the smile is broken, it can look as if you don’t want to be there.
- Engage with one another. My FAVORITE moments throughout a ceremony (and I probably deliver more of these than necessary, but I can’t help it) are when the Groom looks at his Bride with such excitement that they are finally at the alter. The happiness is contagious.
- Engage with your guests. Look in the crowd of teary eyed friends and family and smile at them. As if to say, I’m so glad that you are hear to share this moment with us.
- Keep your eyes forward. Well, maybe not all the time, but try not to look down too much. When all else fails and you need to look down, try to look at your partner’s hand that you are holding. It will add to the story without looking like you don’t want to be there. 🙂
Now, let’s get married!!!
Great tips!