Signature Grand Weddings

If you’ve always dreamed of a big wedding but are sent into a tailspin at the prospect of being the center of attention, don’t despair. With a few simple considerations and accommodations, even the most painfully shy bride or introverted groom can pull off the wedding of their dreams. Here are a few tips and techniques that will ease even the most panic inducing moments:

Walking Down the Aisle: Want to avoid the whole, “Yikes! Everyone is looking at ME!” moments? Consider greeting and mingling with guests as they arrive, and then have your priest or minister lead you and your attendants down the aisle together.  Or, start your married life together and walk down the aisle hand-in-hand.

Exchanging Vows: If the thought of memorizing vows flips you out, why not write them down and read them instead? Or, plan to have your officiate do most of the talking during the ceremony, and limit your speaking to “I do.”

What better way to follow a jitter-free wedding ceremony than with a low-stress reception? Here are a few ways to

enjoy the spotlight without feeling like a deer that’s been caught in one:

• Don’t have the DJ announce your arrival. Instead, walk in quietly and begin mingling with guests.
• Forego the designated head table and sit amongst your guests. You’ll feel like you’re one of the crowd instead of being on display.
• Invite guests to share in your first dance.
• Skip the garter and bouquet tosses, cake cutting, toast, and any other element you’re not comfortable with. Replace them with activities that will divert attention from you, such as outdoor games, board games, or hands-on wedding favors.
• Eliminate the reception line. Instead, mingle with guests on the reception floor or consider donning aprons and chatting with guests while serving cake or coffee.

Above all, don’t convince yourself that everything needs to be perfect. Relax and take deep breaths. Remember, everyone has their eyes on you because they love and support you and want to share in your most treasured moment. While you don’t want to disappoint guests, it’s more important to be true to yourselves.