One of the best parts of being a wedding planner (and there certainly are many great parts) is that you get exposure to a vast array of ceremony types. I've been involved with both secular and non-secular weddings and I've seen everything, trust me. But, my favorite wedding ceremony by far is the Jewish Wedding. Rich in tradition the Jewish Ceremony is a beautiful, meaningful wonder to watch and I believe there are many aspects of this ceremony that we can all take away and incorporate whether we are Jewish or not.
I'm sure you've heard this from married friends a million times, "my wedding day whizzed by..." I certainly tell brides that this is the case and I remind them that they should take time to enjoy every second while it's happening.
Part of the Jewish Ceremony includes something called "Yichud" which happens immediately after the glass is broken and the recessional is over. The couple goes into a secluded room and takes time together before the party begins. I love this concept! Too often I see couples rush down the aisle, rush to the reception, rush through their first dance, the dinner, the toasting, and so on...and before they know it the entire day is over.
Stop time on your wedding day. Make arrangements to meet for breakfast. I'll never forget Amy Watkins' wedding day morning when I was rushing about town and I found her leisurely enjoying a sunny al fresco breakfast with her groom at Bloomington Bagel Company...what a smart girl! Do photos BEFORE the madness begins and set-up a special time to see each other for the first time and steal away a private moment for just the two of you. Sneak away in the middle of your reception and head up above the party (my favorite thing to tell couples to do if they are in Alumni Hall, sorry Bari, don't kill me!), is to go up to the balcony and watch their reception from above for a few minutes...not too long, you don't want to hold up dinner or miss any mingling!
You get my point. You are the boss of the timeline and the order of events. Things can't happen without you. Take time, just a moment, to enjoy each other privately on your wedding day...I promise you'll thank me later.
