Bridal Series: Tips During the Recessional

One of the things most brides don’t think about during a wedding is the recessional after saying I Do. It’s automatic- you walk back down the aisle toward your future. But what they don’t realize is that the photographer is right there to capture every emotion and reaction. Years ago, a friend I know once lamented to me that in her photos, she looked like a terrified, blubbering mess. Here are a few tips to make sure that you are radiant and glowing in your photos while walking down the aisle!

Smile. The main thing to remember while walking back down the aisle is to smile! Blot those happy tears away, take a deep breath, and live in the moment. Show the world how happy you are that you married your best friend. You don’t want to end up looking mad, scared, or sad that you just tied the knot!
Look at each other and at your guests. A lot of times, the bride and groom can get so overwhelmed with the audience and the cheers that they tend to look down at the ground while walking past their guests. Make sure to lead with your heart, keep that chin up, and bask in the glory of everyone being happy for you.
Kiss at the end of the aisle. One of my favorite things to capture throughout the whole wedding is a second kiss at the end of the aisle. It’s fun, romantic, and a great way to capture the guests in the background. Bonus points for having the groom dip the bride, or jumping, or raising your hands in the air!
Do something outrageous. This may not apply to everybody, but sometimes its fun to dance, or have a theme or something unique going down the aisle. The guests would be so surprised to see the wedding party start doing a choreographed number down the aisle. Another great idea is to have the wedding party hold swords or lightsabers as an arch for the bride and groom to walk under. It’s so fun and unexpected!
Go traditional- have guests throw petals or birdseed or blow bubbles! This is always fun for both the wedding party and the guests to do! And makes for lovely wedding photos.