When couples imagine their wedding, they usually think about the big things – the dress, the flowers, the music. But what really makes a wedding unforgettable isn’t just how it looks, it’s how it flows. The rhythm of the day, the pacing, the energy. That’s where the magic happens. Here’s what Cleo Alexiou always tells her couples….
Build in Time for Yourselves
The day goes by so fast, and it’s easy to lose every moment to everyone else. I always encourage my couples to build in time just for the two of them. Whether that’s sharing a glass of champagne together after the ceremony, slipping away for five minutes before dinner, or watching the party from the sidelines – these pauses are where some of the best memories are made.
Don’t Underestimate Logistics
Moving people takes longer than you think. Walking from a church to a marquee, ushering everyone into dinner, even just gathering guests for speeches – it all eats into time. I always add more breathing space than couples expect, because nothing kills the energy more than guests waiting around or the couple feeling rushed.
Keep the Energy Up
Energy is everything. An MC or someone confident to host on the day can make the world of difference – welcoming guests, keeping speeches tight, and steering everyone into the next moment without a dip. The best weddings feel like one continuous flow, with no awkward pauses or dead space.
Rehearse the Key Moments
A quick walk-through in advance is invaluable. Practice the aisle walk, lining up your wedding party, even your entrance into dinner. Knowing how it feels and flows means you’re not second-guessing it on the day. Instead, it feels natural, confident, and seamless.
Think Like a Guest
This is the golden rule. Don’t assume your guests will be proactive – give them all the information. From accommodation and transport to timings and dress code, clarity makes everything easier. Ask them to arrive at least 45 minutes before the ceremony to avoid late arrivals, and if you’ve got evening guests, make sure their entrance feels part of the party rather than a disruption.
Work Backwards
Couples often start with the ceremony time, but I always suggest starting with when you want the party to finish – then working backwards. Too early and the dance floor fizzles, too late and people flag. When you get it right, the night builds naturally to the perfect high.
Don’t Miss the Moments
A thoughtful shot list means your photographer captures the little things you’ll want to look back on. And always, always check the sunset time. Golden hour is your friend, and those portraits will become some of your most treasured images.
For me, the weddings that feel the most effortless are the ones with structure behind the beauty. When the flow is right, the guests are cared for, and the couple has time to actually enjoy it. That’s how you turn a celebration from beautiful into unforgettable.
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