Wedding Day Time Out

In spite of inevitable wedding-day snafus – technical difficulties, wardrobe malfunctions, unwelcome weather events – few brides have any complaints at the end of the day. Small snags in the plan just can’t eclipse the overriding joy of the celebration. But if we’ve heard anything close to a wedding-day lament it’s that it all goes by so fast that it’s hard to take in and enjoy everything before it’s over. Often it isn’t until the band’s packing up and the last of the bridesmaids is searching for her shoes that the bride and groom get a chance to reflect on what just happened. Many end up wondering if they couldn’t have done something to let their new union and big day sink in a little more along the way.

Lucky for you, over the years we’ve gathered a few tips from wedding couples for how to slow the day down and make it feel a little more tangible. Your wedding day is about the two of you and your lasting union, so it’s important that you take some time together to appreciate the significance of the event.

So, before you get worked up into a tizzy over the incorrect color of the roses on your wedding cake, try to remember two important things about your day: 1) stay calm and relaxed so that you can take it all in and appreciate the small moments and details, and 2) build in some quiet time with your partner throughout the day so that you can experience your wedding and pay tribute to your ongoing romance together.

Some ideas:

  • The morning of the wedding you and the groom are likely to be in different locations, anxiously reflecting on what’s about to happen. Sending letters and/or small gifts to one another lets you touch base and share some last thoughts before the big event. Appoint wedding party members to make deliveries.

  • As you get ready and dressed for the ceremony, try to create a peaceful atmosphere. Candles and music will set a quiet, romantic mood that will leave you room to process your thoughts and appreciate this time of preparation.

  • Cherish the time with your bridesmaids. Don’t be afraid to appoint them to tasks and ask them to check in with you often. Leaning on them will allow them to feel needed and like they’re participating in your day, and will also allow you to relax and know that you have a team looking after you.

  • Before the ceremony begins, be sure to take a few minutes by yourself to breathe deeply, think about your true love and your future together. Don’t hesitate to kick everyone out of the room – they’ll forgive you!

  • After the ceremony, either before or after you take pictures, escape for a few minutes alone with your new husband. You’ll both be giddy and a bit overwhelmed, and you’ll never forget those first moments alone together.

  • The reception’s going to be a whirlwind, but do your best to take it slow. Take frequent breaks by yourself, with your best friend, and with your partner to check in, put your feet up for a minute and appreciate the fact that your family and friends are all gathered and having a great time in your honor.

  • Finally, pace yourself. Don’t forget to eat, drink water, and sit down when you can. Most importantly, don’t drink too much. You’ll probably not get a chance to fully tuck into your dinner and people will be offering and bringing you drinks all night long. If you’re not careful, before you know it, you’ll be twisting an ankle or leaning dizzily against a column, and well on your way to serious under-eye bags for tomorrow’s goodbye brunch.

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