Why NOT to be ‘fashionably late’ to your wedding
It’s a tale as old as time, “the bride is meant to be fashionably late to her ceremony”. Perhaps this phrase was coined before digital cameras, outdoor ceremonies and sensitive men? Let me explain…
PHOTOGRAPHY BUZZKILL
More than likely you have booked a photographer, and maybe a videographer, to capture part or all of your wedding day. And you also probably have a full list of family photos followed by a detailed itinerary of photo locations to hit before the reception. Unfortunately, if you show up late to your ceremony this pushes the entire day behind schedule; so, while your photographer’s memory cards are endless the beautiful lighting you had planned for that Pinterest worthy sunset photo is not.
TIME DOES NOT STAND STILL
Speaking of time, I can tell you firsthand that your wedding day will be the quickest day of your life. Every couple agrees saying, “it goes by in the blink of an eye”. Therefore, being late to your ceremony is really just cutting into your most special day that’s already flying by.
WEDDING DAY NERVES
Spare a thought for your hubby or wife to be. As strong as either of you may feel, wedding day nerves can hit even the most macho guy or fearless female. And that’s completely ok by the way! Your wedding day is going to be one of the most emotional, magical and memorable days of your life so why put it off any longer than you have to. I will be at the front for extra reassurance while your partner awaits your arrival, but please don’t leave them shaking in their boots for any longer than necessary.
CONSIDER YOUR GUESTS
Being a marriage celebrant in the tropical Whitsundays on the coast of Queensland, 97% of my weddings are held outdoors and about half of those are held on the beach. So, while your wedding day should be about you and your fiancé, do consider your guests comfort during your ceremony. It is not very common to have a shady beach or oceanfront location, though parasols do help. And even if the ceremony is near or under shade comforts of a cold drink, toilets and extra seating can sometimes be a bit further away. You may choose to add in those special extras like hand fans and individual water bottles, however, it is still not courteous to be late.
If you absolutely must ‘be fashionably late’ to your ceremony at the very least let your key suppliers know and plan accordingly.
