As a Columbus, Ohio wedding photographer and destination wedding photographer 3 of the most common mistakes I’ve witnessed after the bride arrives at the alter are listed below.

The long-awaited moment has finally graced us, announced by the swelling music and the majestic opening of the doors. Your poignant walk down the aisle marks the commencement of a journey into a lifetime of love and commitment. As you stand before the altar, enveloped by the love and anticipation of cherished friends and family, let’s delve into three pivotal rituals that will ensure you savor every precious second of this once-in-a-lifetime occasion.

1. Immerse Yourself in the Present

The inaugural and pivotal step is to fully immerse yourself in the present. Before the officiant ushers in the ceremony, take a deep breath, allowing the profound significance of the moment to wash over you. Deliberately survey the faces of your loved ones, feel the weight of the commitment about to unfold, and relish the enchanting beauty of the surroundings. Capture a mental snapshot of the scene – the flowers, the decor, and, above all, the person awaiting you at the altar.

This fleeting moment of reflection anchors you in the present, rendering the experience more memorable. In the whirlwind of weddings, deliberately absorbing the atmosphere allows you to create a mental bookmark in the narrative of your momentous day.

2. The Bouquet Handoff

Following your arrival at the alter, the time arrives for the symbolic handoff of the bouquet. Entrust this significant task to your maid of honor, a trusted friend, or a family member. As you turn to face your guests as a newly married couple, gracefully allow your maid of honor to receive the bouquet from you. This small yet meaningful gesture not only maintains the seamless flow of the ceremony but also serves a practical purpose – freeing your hands.

Your maid of honor, taking charge of the bouquet, can also assist in ensuring your dress is flawlessly arranged. Whether it’s a swift adjustment of the train or a smoothing of the fabric, this step ensures that you radiate confidence during those initial moments as a married couple.

3. The Intimacy of Holding Hands

Simultaneously, as you stand before the altar, take a moment to gracefully intertwine your fingers with your partner’s. This simple yet profound act is not only a symbol of unity but also a tangible connection that underscores the intimacy of the occasion. Holding hands serves as a reminder of the shared journey you are about to embark upon, adding a touch of warmth and closeness to the proceedings.

In conclusion, the actions you take as you approach the altar significantly shape your wedding experience. By immersing yourself in the present, cherishing the intimate act of holding hands with your partner, and seamlessly transitioning the bouquet, you lay the foundation for a ceremony brimming with joy, closeness, and indelible memories. These often-overlooked details in the grand tapestry of wedding planning contribute to the enchantment of the day and set the tone for the lifelong journey you’re embarking upon together.

Caroline Stiers is a Columbus, Ohio wedding photographer and a destination wedding photographer specializing in curating a joyful experience while delivering candid, romantic, emotional imagery with an editorial flare.