Tips for the Perfect First Kiss at Your Outdoor Wedding Location in WV
- evermoreridgewv
- Jul 13
- 4 min read
Your first kiss with your new spouse is one of the most anticipated moments of your wedding day. After months, or even years, of wedding planning, your officiant will announce you as newlyweds and invite you to share your very first kiss as a married couple.
It sounds simple, but this is one of the most photographed and memorable moments of your entire wedding. A little preparation can make the difference between a rushed peck and a timeless photo you'll treasure for decades.
Whether you're getting married at an outdoor wedding location in WV or celebrating anywhere in the country, these simple tips will help you enjoy the moment while creating beautiful photos you'll always love.
Slow Down
The biggest mistake couples make is rushing through the moment.
Your nerves will be high, your family and friends will be cheering, and you'll be excited to begin celebrating. It is completely normal to want to hurry down the aisle, but this is one moment worth slowing down for.
When your officiant announces you as husband and wife, take a second to look at each other, smile, and soak in what just happened before leaning in for your kiss.
Those extra few seconds allow your photographer and videographer to capture multiple angles while creating a more emotional and genuine moment you'll remember.
Hold the Kiss a Little Longer
A quick peck is often over before your photographer has a chance to capture the perfect shot.
Instead, hold your kiss for at least 5 second. It may feel much longer in the moment than it actually is, but those few extra seconds give your photographer time to capture several beautiful images.
As for your guests, they are there to celebrate your marriage. No one will think it is awkward. They'll simply be smiling right along with you.
Have Someone Move the Officiant
One small detail that can make a huge difference in your ceremony photos is the officiant's placement.
Before your ceremony, ask your officiant if they would be comfortable stepping to the side before or immediately after announcing your first kiss. Many experienced officiants already do this because it creates a much cleaner photo with only the two of you in the frame.
If your officiant is concerned they may forget to move, ask your maid of honor or best man to gently guide them a few steps to the side just before the kiss. It only takes a second but can completely transform your ceremony photos.
The most important thing is to discuss this plan during your rehearsal so everyone knows the plan ahead of time.
Put a Hand on Each Other
Instead of standing stiffly with your arms at your sides, add a natural touch.
A groom can gently place a hand around his bride's waist or on her back. A bride can rest a hand on her husband's shoulder or gently hold his face.
These simple gestures create warmth, connection, and authentic emotion that shines through in your wedding photos.
Do Not Be Afraid to Smile
Some of the sweetest images happen immediately before or after the kiss.
Many couples naturally laugh, smile, or even tear up once they realize they are officially married. Those genuine reactions often become favorite wedding photos because they capture real emotion instead of a posed moment.
Remember This Moment Is Yours
It is easy to think about your guests, your photographer, or making sure everything looks perfect.
Instead, focus on each other.
For just a few seconds, tune out the crowd and remember why you are standing together. The most beautiful wedding photos happen when couples are fully present instead of worrying about the camera.
Those authentic moments cannot be recreated.
Enjoy Your Walk Back Down the Aisle at Your Outdoor Wedding Location in WV
After your kiss, do not rush away.
Hold hands, smile, celebrate, and take your time walking back down the aisle together. This is another opportunity for incredible candid photos filled with excitement and joy.
Your wedding day moves so quickly, so enjoy every second.
Final Thoughts
Whether you're exchanging vows at an outdoor wedding location in WV surrounded by mountain views or celebrating somewhere else that's meaningful to you, your first kiss deserves to be more than just another item on the timeline.
Slow down, be present, and soak in every second. Years from now, you won't remember whether every detail went exactly as planned, but you'll remember how it felt to hear, "You may kiss your bride" and begin your marriage together.
Weekly Wedding Venue Shoutout
Choosing a locally owned wedding venue and working with local vendors is one of the best ways to support small businesses that are passionate about serving couples and their communities. Each week, we highlight locally owned wedding venues that help make outdoor wedding locations in WV a beautiful place to say, "I do." Be sure to check out and support the amazing venues tagged in this week's blog.
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