As a celebrant, I am lucky enough to get to spend time with each couple in the lead up to their wedding day. Getting to know them, planning their ceremony and working out the right wording takes time and it is during this time that I usually get a real sense of who they are and how they ‘fit’ together as a couple.
At some stage in this process we usually get the part where we either have a rehearsal or at least a run through of what will happen on the day and where everyone will stand. This is usually fun and exciting, but I have found that despite going over all the details, it in no way prepares them for the explosion of emotion and love they often feel overcome by at the very moment they see each other on the day.
The celebrant usually arrives at the venue at least half an hour in advance on the day in order to set up and prepare documents etc. The groom and his groomsmen are usually wandering around, greeting guests as they arrive and looking generally nervous!
As the moment draws near and tensions build, the bride finally arrives and as I usher the groom and groomsmen into position. The nerves and anticipation of the guests are palpable.
As we wait the groomsmen are usually giving the groom grief, teasing him and making jokes, but as the bride appears from whatever direction she enters, the mood changes. All eyes are on his bride and I would have to say that in about 80 percent of cases, the groom cries. Not sobbing or bawling, but tears of joy, of gratitude and of how lucky he feels. This is particularly true when the couple have children and the children enter in front of the bride. Even the biggest, blokiest of them all usually succumb (and in fact are often the softest!) Its a beautiful moment and one that I feel so honoured to share with the couple.
I recently came across a fantastic post on Buzzfeed which really captured this moment perfectly. 24 pictures that capture this very moment.
The Wedding Gurus
xxx
