A typical work day for a Center City wedding photographer is divided into three parts: getting ready, ceremony, and reception. Every other part of the day falls into those categories, or else has to be organized around them. The ceremony, in most cases, is the shortest. Church weddings tend to run a little longer, but most ceremonies don’t go beyond thirty minutes or so. I think that’s why ceremony details tend to go overlooked.
A few details here and there will really add something to your wedding ceremony. And, of course, it will give me more things to take pictures of, which I always encourage! Here are a few ideas:
Backdrops
Your wedding ceremony backdrop might only be in use for half an hour. In this Center City wedding photographer’s opinion, though, they’re more than worth it! They can add a touch of romance, or whimsy, or elegance to the proceedings. It all depends on what you choose as your backdrop:
- Ribbon in varying lengths and several different colors
- A garland of flowers
- Floor-to-ceiling balloons
- Vintage curtains
- An antique door
Aisle Runners
An aisle runner will show you and your wedding party where to walk. Okay, you probably know where you’re supposed to walk, but they’re still pretty! A plain white runner looks really pretty when strewn with petals. Have it monogrammed or printed with a quote or romantic message. For a vintage or rustic wedding, find a lace or burlap aisle runner. In addition, you can also line the aisle with:
- Piles of flower petals
- Lit candles–just be careful not to kick them over!
- Open parasols with their handles tucked under guests’ seats
- Lanterns hanging from metal garden stakes
- Pumpkins or gourds for a fall wedding
Exits
The great thing about ceremony exits is that you can organize them for when you’re exiting the church, or just walking back up the aisle at your venue! Keep in mind, though, that most places don’t allow the age-old rice-throwing tradition. It’s not biodegradable, and that makes it hard to clean up. That means you’ll need to get creative, which is never a bad thing! I made some suggestions about wedding ceremony exits in this post, including:
- Confetti (as long as it’s biodegradable)
- Leaves, for a fall wedding
- Fragrant herbs like rosemary, thyme, or lavender flowers
- Bubbles in personalized containers
- Sprinkles in your wedding colors, or white, which won’t stain
- Flower petals
What details will you be using in your ceremony? Tell me about them in our consultation, so I can be sure to capture them on the big day!
