aSK THE EXPERT

Alone time for couples

Q: I often hear couples say that their wedding day slipped by so quickly, and they barely spent any time together. We know it's important to spend time with family and friends who come from far away, but what are some ways to carve out a few moments during the big day to share with each other?

Alone time for couples is definitely important on their wedding day; it’s a chance for them to connect as man and wife. One great way to carve out some time together during your magical day is to plan your own private transportation, separate from the bridal party, from the ceremony to the reception venue. This way, you can catch your breath and take in the moments. You’ll rejoin your friends and the celebration soon enough – enjoy the minutes together!

Another option is to plan a first look prior to the ceremony. This gives you a few private moments together that also will be captured by your photographer(s) so you can reflect back on those moments for a lifetime.

If a first look isn’t your preference, working with your photographer and coordinator to carve out time in the reception schedule for you to do a private bride and groom photo shoot, away from your guests, also works. Your guests will be entertained by your DJ while you sneak off for some quality one-on-one time with your new spouse. Enjoy this time to take a breath and visit with each other, sharing thoughts about your wedding day.

Erin Chalstrom, owner of Your Story Wedding & Event Planning, provides Interior Alaska with customized, one-of-a-kind events. Visit yourstoryak.com.