We get out of a car everyday and walk to wherever it is we plan to go but there are some walks that will be remembered forever! For a bride the walk down the aisle (or across the park or over a bridge or down the jetty) to their waiting groom is one such memorable occasion. For some brides it is the moment of a lifetime, to be treasured, savored and enjoyed. For other brides being such a focal point and centre of attention can almost put them off ever wanting to get married! As a marriage celebrant (who seems to find herself working with a lot of what I affectionately call my reluctant Gen Xers) the entrance can be quite a challenge to ensure the bride feels comfortable and is looking forward to her ceremony with all the joyful anticipation that she should.
If you are one of those brides, i.e more jittery about the attention rather than self-assured, you are not alone! So, I thought I would just share my top 4 creative strategies for avoiding the processional jitters altogether.
1. Creating distraction and energy – I recently created a ceremony where an attention shy bride entered the venue surrounded by 15 children running with 20 metre long ribbons. This energy and colour distracted us all for a moment so the Bride almost magically appeared by her Groom – comfortable, composed and smiling!
2. An early handover – another strategy for those who want to be formally given away but still have the security of their Groom’s arm is what I like to call a “meet and greet”. The best example I have of this is where the bridal party entered through a farm gate into a paddock. The Groom and his groomsmen entered first, followed by the bridesmaids on masse, then Bride’s father walked her across the paddock as the Groom waited at the edge of the guests with the Bride’s mother. The Bride and Groom then linked arms and came down between the hay bales and guests together, with the support of mum and dad in the rear. A chivalrous and dramatic entrance for the publicity shy bride.
3. A side or backstage entrance – Here the anticipation is still built as the bride enters from a distance but she “arrives” at her ceremony rather than facing a walk through her upstanding guests.
4. Arrive on alternative transport – Another option is to let the mode of transport steal the initial show. We have recently choreographed a bride’s arrival on a vintage Vespa, a horse and even a tandem bike. A wonderful distraction until the bride feels comfortable to take her Groom’s hands.
These ideas are not for every bride (especially those Brides (or Fathers of the Bride!) who have dreamed of the walk of their life from a young age) but these strategies can make a world of difference to those who may be dreading it. As always, it is about working to personalise your ceremony so it is natural, representative of you both as a couple and adding the ceremonial magic that marks this moment in time for you both forever.
Images by Danicia Dutry Ceremonies
Ms Gingham says: The creativity here just blows me away! I love the idea of being surrounded by children with ribbons. The kids would absolutely love it too and they’d feel so special. Thanks to Danicia for some great ideas.
About Danicia Dutry Ceremonies: One of life’s most amazing milestones is to find a partner to share your life. Creating a bespoke ceremony requires exceptional planning, facilitation and people skills. It is my pleasure to offer this service to couples embarking on their life journey. I have worked in professional communications and research roles for over 15 years; including senior positions with some of Australia’s leading companies. I ensure my professional experience forms the base of each ceremony but add the warmth and magic that are the essential key ingredients to creating a wonderful ceremony that enables your friends and family to feel an active part.
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