As an Orlando, Florida and Destinations Wedding photographer, I've had the pleasure of capturing countless beautiful ceremonies. Many of the couples I work with choose to have a friend or family member officiate their wedding, making the event deeply personal and memorable. However, since these loved ones often lack formal experience in officiating weddings, a few essential details can sometimes be overlooked.
To ensure your ceremony goes off without a hitch, here are 7 tips tailored for weddings in Orlando and throughout Florida:
1
Understand Florida’s Marriage License Requirements
When a friend or family member officiates your ceremony, they might not be familiar with Florida’s marriage license requirements. Make sure they review these requirements ahead of time, including how to properly fill out and submit the marriage certificate. Consider asking them to take photos of the necessary documents and share them with you in advance, so you're both prepared and there are no surprises on the big day. For more detailed information on obtaining a marriage license in Florida.
2
Schedule Your Ceremony 90 Minutes Before Sunset
For the best lighting and atmosphere in your photos, plan your ceremony to begin an hour and a half before sunset. This timing not only provides stunning natural light but also gives ample time for post-ceremony portraits without feeling rushed. Florida’s sunsets are beautiful, and this timing will allow you to capture that golden hour glow.
3
Pause for a Kiss at the Middle of the Aisle
After the ceremony, when you’re walking back down the aisle as a newly married couple, take a moment to stop and share another kiss at the middle of the aisle. This pause gives your photographer a chance to capture that joyful moment, creating a beautiful memory for you to cherish.
4
Hold Your Bouquet at Belly Button Level
A common tip but one worth repeating: hold your bouquet at your belly button. This ensures that your beautiful flowers don’t block your face in photos, allowing me to capture your expressions perfectly.
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5
Hand Off Your Bouquet to Hold Hands
Once you reach your partner at the altar, hand your bouquet to your maid of honor or someone you trust. Holding hands during the ceremony not only looks sweet but also allows your guests to see the connection and emotions you share with your partner.
6
Position Parents to See Your Faces
For a more personal touch during the ceremony, consider seating your parents on the opposite side from the traditional setup. This way, they can have a clear view of your face throughout the ceremony, making it even more special for them and allowing for more emotional and meaningful photos.
7
Position Your Officiant to the Side
For a clear and unobstructed view in your photos, consider having your officiant stand to the side rather than directly between you and your partner. This setup ensures that all the key moments, including your first kiss as a married couple, are captured beautifully without any distractions in the background.
