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There is no better moment to actively and whimsically engage all of your guests then at the conclusion of the ceremony either before or as you walk down the aisle together. Surprising their guests, instead of doing the expected "Kiss", some couples choose to catch their guests off guard by first doing something totally unexpected like: doing high 5s; fist or chest bumps; air kisses; happy dances; special hand shakes; wine toasts. drinking Scotch from a Celtic quaich; etc. Now this only delays the official "Kiss"by 5-10 seconds however it does provide the couple with yet another opportunity to have some fun in their ceremony Many couples opt about half way down the aisle to stop and do a "spontaneous"kiss to the surprise and applause of their guests. As well, with just the addition of some inexpensive accessories like soap bubbles, flower petals or small bells, distributed to everyone prior to the ceremony, you can invite them all to playfully celebrate the occasion in a way that everyone will remember for many days to come. By seizing this moment, they become intimately involved in the success of your ceremony as you encourage them to enjoy the occasion.
Ceremony Recession with Bubbles at the Rockcliffe Pavilion Other couples like the symbolism associated with the release of a few or many doves. Imagine the effect of either the Bride and Groom or their parents releasing doves at the end of their ceremony - quite a spectacular finale. And that' essentially is what dove releases are for - a grand finale! While some couples may be showered with rice or bird seed, doves are options that others consider. Dove releases are very dramatic, highly photogenic, and are well suited for the climate in the Ottawa area. The release of doves on your wedding day can signify any of love, unity, peace, innocence, new beginnings, the holy spirit and fidelity. There is one old wedding superstition that suggests that if you see a pair of doves on your wedding day, you'll have a long and happy marriage. This is apparently based on the fact that doves mate for life. How precious! In researching this, it seems that symbolic tradition goes back to Greek myths, as well as in ancient Jewish writings and the Christian bible: such as in the story of Noah who sent out a dove and it brought back an olive branch. The white dove represented the renewal of man to land after the flood. Dove releases can be done throughout the year and must be used for outdoor ceremonies held during daylight hours and concluding well before twilight. Doves will not be released if they cannot return home before nightfall. The usual cut off time is 2-3 hours before sunset. This is important for those who are planning to have evening ceremonies.
Ceremony Conclusion with Release of Doves
Less common in Ottawa but much more engaging for wedding guests is a release of butterflies, usually either Monarchs or the smaller Painted Ladies. These species are native to Canada and may be released safely from may till October. Recently Gaia Nature a company near Granby, Quebec started offering butterflies for release. You can check their services out by clicking the link in their name. Also Butterflies & Roses, located in Pontypool near Port Hope, is shipping live butterflies overnight. Having helped execute many wedding ceremonies with Grand Finales, we really know how to help you plan yours and make it one of the best memories that your guests will ever have. Contact us (Lynne & Keith) using the automated form or by phone at (613) 831-7555 to discuss the possibilities for you.
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Ceremony Recession at the Rockcliffe Pavilion - Photo by Ryan Parent Photography
Grand Finales to Wedding Ceremonies
