Outward Facing Ceremony
Your wedding day has arrived, your friends and family have gathered to share in the celebration, and they spend the entire service staring at the back of your head. If you’ve ever attended a wedding as an average guest, you know that you spend the majority of the ceremony seeing the backside of the wedding party and the expressions on the officiant’s face. Change things up a bit and let your guests get a good look at the happy couple with an outward facing ceremony.
What is it?
Basically, instead of standing with your back to the crowd, you and your spouse-to-be face them. The minister or officiant stands in front of you or below you (if you’re on a raised platform or alter) and conducts the ceremony with his/her back to the crowd while you are able to see (and be seen by) your guests.
Why it’s great?
For starters, it gives your guests a chance to truly witness the wedding ceremony. They can see your facial expressions and the reactions of your bridal party to every part of the wedding ceremony. It also prevents guests from straining to hear your vows, especially if you’re not miked, and it allows them to experience the emotion accompanying those sacred words. An outward facing ceremony doesn’t only benefit the guests, though. It also allows you and your spouse-to-be the opportunity to really take in the moment. As you look out over a sea of faces, you’re seeing the men and women who love you, have supported you, celebrate with you, and will be an active part of your life as a married couple.
