There are several real climactic moments in a wedding.  When the Groom slips the gleaming gem on his bride’s finger is one of those moments.  Another high moment is the “first kiss.”  Most often, there is a thunderous applause when the couple kisses.

The most climactic moment is when the wedding officiant presents the couple as Mr. and Mrs. for the first time.  This comes at the very end of the ceremony and is always a cause for real enthusiastic applause.  

Here is the actual process I use.  First, I remind the Bride to take her flowers. Then, I ask the couple in a very soft voice to turn and face the audience.  I will then say in an enthusiastic voice, “Ladies and Gentlemen, I now present to you Mr. and Mrs. John and Jane Jones.”  The crowd erupts.  The music begins and the couple is halfway down the aisle already.  Well, sometimes they are, if they did not listen.

I remind them before the wedding begins to stop after I present them and take it all in.  It is the first time during the entire ceremony when they are actually facing the audience and looking into the faces of their parents, families, and friends.  The natural tendency of people is to be nervous in front of a crowd.  They tend to want to rush down the aisle as swiftly as possible.  Instead, take a few moments and look into the faces of your friends and family, smile, and remember the moment.  Let the music play for a few measures, then look at each other and walk out hand in hand.

Aside from being a good moment for you and your guests.  It is also a very perfect opportunity for photos.  Your entire wedding party is present and in place and you are all facing the same direction.  So, think about it.  Discuss it ahead of time.  And don’t let your nerves take over and ruin what could be a very special moment.

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