by Dotti Templeton
Your wedding day is near. You’ve thought of everything…the officiant, the photographer, the venue and the food. You’ve imagined the day over and over again, picturing yourself walking down the aisle, holding your beautiful flowers and nervously smiling ear to ear.
You are about to take a once-in-a-lifetime walk. All your friends and family have eagerly awaited your arrival. You are the star, the queen for a day. You’ll want to enjoy every minute, treasure every step, and see the loving, happy faces of all your loved ones.
As an officiant, I’ve stood before many a glowing bride as she headed in my direction. Each more beautiful than the next. And before you know it, she’s joined her husband-to-be right in front of me, anxious to say her vows. Seems to have taken less than a minute to make that historic walk.
You’ve spend so much time and effort, as have your guests, anticipating this moment ..how do you savor it…the chance to be the center of attention…the woman of the hour?
Most brides are so nervous, they tend to clutch their bouquets to their chests and hurry forward. Don’t be that bride. This is the way you should come down the aisle (to be read with a calm, soothing voice):
Take a deep breath, or a few, before presenting yourself to your guests. As you reach the place where the guests will see you for the first time, stop and stand for a few seconds and take another deep breath. If someone is walking you down the aisle, let him know you’re going to do this so he doesn’t leap forward without you.
Drop your shoulders. Bring your bouquet down to your waist or a bit lower; it actually looks best held lower than you think you should hold it. Let everyone see the top of your dress. Now begin your walk more slowly than feels comfortable. Everyone wants to see you and look at your beautiful face and gown. Take the time, during your nice slow walk, to look at the people who have come to celebrate with you. Look at your groom. There’s no rush…it’s all about you.
When you’re about to meet your groom, again, take your time to give your dad (or whomever has had the honor of walking you down the aisle), a respectful thank you. This person is someone very special in your life and you’ll feel bad if you ditch him too quickly (and so will he).
Then give yourself time to enjoy joining your husband-to-be and moving toward the officiant.
By not rushing and enjoying these first important minutes of your big day, you will be giving yourself and your guests the gift of time and respect. You will never regret taking a few extra minutes at the beginning of your lives together.
Dotti Templeton, Wedding Officiant
Westchester County, NY
