You've made your grand entrance, said your I do's, exchanged rings and done the kissing business. So it's time to walk down the aisle together as a couple. What should you do?
Well, there are no 'shoulds' in my book, but here are some things to think about:
Planning your exit
Listen carefully to the music you've chosen for your exit piece - does it 'get going' immediately, or does it have a slow build up? If it has a slow build up to the interesting bit, either stay at the bottom of the aisle and just linger and chat till the music kicks in, or ask whoever is playing the music to cue it to the point where you want it to start.
If you're having confetti, decide with your photographer where and when you want it to be thrown. Either the celebrant or photographer will tell your guests what to do, where and when. Sometimes confetti is thrown as the couple walk down the aisle, but sometimes it's done at another time and place. Your celebrant should guide you into the correct position for your exit and talk to you about what's going to happen next.
And instead of confetti, have you thought about giving your guests ribbon wands to wave as you exit? It looks stunning and is great fun for your guests. If you decide to include this, tell your celebrant so that they can brief your guests as to what to do with them, and maybe have a wee practice before the ceremony.
Photo courtesy of jodieericahphotography
Your exit as a couple
The celebrant will usually say a few closing words and then ask your guests to stand. They will then announce you out as "Mr and Mrs", "Mr and Mr", "Mrs and Mrs" or "The Happy Couple". Or however, you wish to be presented to your guests.
Pause for a moment and then take your time walking down the aisle.
And if you feel like stopping for a kiss part way down the aisle, that looks great in photos and it gives the guests at the back a close-up of the Kissing Business which they were maybe too far way to see earlier!
Your venue organiser should be waiting for you at the end of the aisle and they will show you where to go next - they normally whisk you away for a few moments on your own while your guests exit the ceremony area.
And then you'll rejoin your guests and you can get on with the serious business of partying!
Photo courtesy of Kim Shaw Photography
Photo courtesy of Emily Augusta Photography