Your wedding goes by so fast, it’s important to take it all in and remember to enjoy the day. But we know that’s easier said than done. With so much going on your brain will find it hard to store memories from the day. So, here are some ways you can avoid the dreaded wedding day memory-loss.
Schedule five private minutes together
If you’re considering a First Look photo shoot, this is the perfect time to take a few minutes to take everything in. However, if you traditionally want to be away from your partner before you walk down the aisle, then schedule a private five minutes together, away from all the guests, your bridal party, your parents, and even your photographer. Just take those five minutes to take it all in and store the memory of being literally “just married”.
Ceremonial deep breath
Have your celebrant or priest work a ‘deep breath’ into your ceremony. Ideally it would come just after the vows. Let him announce an official deep breath where no one speaks and everyone (especially you two) appreciates and lives in the moment. It’s your wedding, you’re right in the middle of getting married. Take a minute of silence (or even just 10 seconds) to enjoy it.
Put your bridesmaids in charge
There’s a lot going on at your wedding. It’s an event with many turning cogs and a schedule that must be adhered to. If it’s your job to make sure everything is running smoothly and at the right time, you’ll be too busy worrying to enjoy any of the memories. Make sure everything is prepared, go through it with your bridesmaids, and especially your chief bridesmaid and then trust them. Let your worries go on the day and trust that no matter how little thought you give things, everything will happen the right way. This is where choosing organised, responsible bridesmaids is important.
Get someone to make sure you eat
The key to enjoying the day is to minimalise the simulants so your brain can process as much as possible. And while weddings are naturally very busy and stimulating, limiting the amount of things you have to think about while other things are going on is key. You have to eat, but you shouldn’t have to worry about it while you’re taking pictures. This is another job for your bridesmaids. Make sure it’s someone’s duty to put food in front of you and stand guard while you eat it undisturbed.
Take a minute for the memories
There are transitional periods in weddings, between events. After dinner, before the speeches, after the cake but before the band, and then after that but before the DJ. These are the times when there are lulls before guests are being moved from place to place. These are the best times for you to take a minute, look around and take it all in. The more times you 'take a minute', the more solid memories you'll have. This would be another job to give to a bridesmaid, to flag a ‘take a minute’ moment.
- Jenny Darmody
Image credits: Bride and groom: Austin Gros | Bridesmaids: Katelyn James Photography | Groom carrying bride: Rachel Kara via Hello May