Ceremony surprises! What most couples forget to plan for - by I MARRY U Wedding Officiant

You’ve planned your dream wedding, but are you ready for the unexpected?

You’ve booked the venue, found the dress, and even nailed down the perfect

seating plan (after five revisions)… but when it comes to the actual ceremony,

most couples focus on the big picture and forget about the small details that

can make, or break, the moment.

As a professional wedding officiant, I’ve seen it all! Wind stealing veils, mics not

working, groomsmen locking their knees and almost fainting (yes, really!), so

before you walk down the aisle, here are a few ceremony surprises you probably

haven’t thought about, but absolutely should!

1. The Marriage Licence Mishap

Surprise: No licence, no legal wedding!

Many couples assume their venue or officiant handles the marriage licence, but

you have to get it from City Hall before the wedding. Double-check the rules in

your area, and put someone in charge of bringing it to the ceremony (or give it to

your Officiant beforehand) because I promise, you don’t want to be scrambling

last minute.

Pro Tip: Keep your licence in a bright, impossible-to-miss folder. Trust me, I’ve

seen people tuck it somewhere “safe” and forget where that is!

2. The “Where Do We Stand?” Dilemma

Surprise: If you stand too far apart, your photos will look like a long-distance

relationship.

During the ceremony, couples often stand farther apart than they realize,

creating an awkward gap in photos. Likewise, if you’re too close, your officiant

might feel like the third wheel in your first kiss shot (I step out of the way, and I’m

fast, but not invisible).

Pro Tip: Practice or discuss where you’ll stand with your photographer or

officiant before the ceremony to ensure perfect framing.

3. The Sound Struggle - Will Anyone Hear You Say ‘I Do’?

Surprise: Outdoor weddings are beautiful, but wind doesn’t care about your

vows.

Picture this, you’ve written heartfelt vows but the guests in the back row are

whispering “What did they say?” Wind, fountains, waves, and even birds can

drown out your words.

Pro Tip: Always test your microphone before the ceremony. If you’re going

unplugged, be sure to project your voice (channel your inner actor).

4. The “Wait… Where Are the Rings?” Panic

Surprise: Ring bearers are adorable… and unpredictable.

Whether it’s a fidgety toddler who suddenly decides they’re a track star or a best

man who swore he had the rings, misplaced wedding bands can cause a

hilarious (but stressful) moment.

Pro Tip: If you have a young ring bearer, consider fake rings for them to carry

and keep the real ones with a responsible adult (who has pockets!).

5. The Emotional Overload - Bring a Handkerchief (or Two!)

Surprise: Even the toughest people cry.

Most couples expect a few sniffles, but many underestimate just how

emotional the ceremony will be. Brides with fresh makeup, grooms holding

back tears, and even parents who swore they wouldn’t cry… it happens.

Pro Tip: Tuck a small handkerchief in your bouquet, your partner’s pocket, or

have a friend on tissue duty. Mascara streaks don’t have to be part of your

wedding look!

6. The Recessional Confusion - What Happens After "I Now Pronounce you..."

Surprise: Most couples don’t rehearse the walk back down the aisle!

After the first kiss, there’s often a moment of hesitation. Do we run? Do we

wave? Do we stop for a photo? Guests also aren’t always sure when to stand or

start clapping.

Pro Tip: Discuss this with your officiant and planner beforehand so everyone

knows the plan. Walking out confidently to fun music is a great way to set the

tone for the celebration!

Pro Tip: Discuss this with your officiant and planner beforehand so everyone

knows the plan. Walking out confidently to fun music is a great way to set the

tone for the celebration!

Final Thought: Expect the Unexpected!

No matter how much you plan, something unexpected will happen, and that’s

okay! The best weddings aren’t perfect; they’re full of love, laughter, and maybe

even a few surprises!

If you need an officiant who’s seen it all (and knows how to handle everything

with a smile), I’d love to be part of your big day! You can reach me at

iMARRYu.ca, or Maureen@iMARRYu.ca