Last updated on September 17th, 2025

The ceremony is over. You just said your vows, kissed your partner, and now you’re officially married! The next thing you know, people are lining up to hug you, congratulate you, and pull you in ten different directions at once. It’s beautiful and overwhelming all at the same time — and before you realize it, the whole day has flown by.

That’s why I always encourage my couples to carve out just 5–10 minutes right after their ceremony to be alone together. It’s such a small window of time, but it can completely change how you experience your wedding day.

Why These Minutes Matter

This pause gives you space to take a deep breath, slow down, and actually feel the weight of what just happened. You just married your person! Instead of rushing straight into group photos or mingling with guests, you get a chance to savor that first moment as a married couple. Couples often tell me later that this was one of their favorite parts of the entire day.

Ideas for Your Quiet Moment

You don’t need to overthink it. What matters is that you’re together. A few things you could do during this time are:

• Share a private toast with champagne (or your favorite drink).
• Go for a short walk around your venue or step outside if you’re indoors.
• Exchange a small note or gift you kept just for this moment.
• Talk about your favorite part of the ceremony.
• Take your first “just married” selfie (because hey, I will never be able to give you that full selfie effect, even as a pro photographer).
• Snap a few Polaroids of each other for a keepsake that feels raw and real (you can use mine!).
• Simply sit together, hold hands, and let it sink in.

How to Make It Happen

So, here’s the thing: Unless you build this into your timeline, the moment probably won’t happen. The second guests see you, they’ll want to celebrate with you (and who could blame them)? This is where I could potentially help. As your photographer, I can help create space for this pause, even if it means pulling you aside for “photos” (sometimes that’s just code for: you two need a breather)

When you’re intentional about planning it, this little pocket of time becomes a grounding ritual that helps you stay present for the rest of the day.

Final Thoughts

Taking 10 minutes with your partner after your wedding might feel small, but it’s one of the most meaningful gifts you can give yourselves. Your guests will hardly notice you’re gone, but you’ll remember those minutes forever.

When I build wedding or elopement timelines, I always make sure couples get this time together. If you want help creating a day that feels intentional, stress-free, and centered on you two, let’s chat about how to make it happen.