Which Way to Face

When you said (or will say) your wedding vows, which way did you face? I know that traditionally, the couple is facing the offiate, who is facing the assembled guests - but this means that the couple is facing away from the guests, who specifically came to see them get married. I’ve known some couples who buck that trend, however, and after walking down the aisle, the officiant comes to the front to welcome the guests, and then turns to address the couple. A microphone is used, of course, so everyone can hear, but this way the guests get to see the couple’s faces as they exchange vows. It’s not at all awkward, and adds more intimacy to the ceremony.

What do you think?

I would have *hated* to face the guests at my wedding! I was nervous as it was, so no way could I have gotten through such an emotional thing as saying vows while facing all of those people! Even though I am comfortable speaking in public (speech and drama in HS), vows are so personal and emotionally charged, there was no way I could have handled it well.

However, for couples who have a good grip on emotions and nerves, I think it sounds like a great idea!

Well, I hope you’d be facing your spouse overall! It’s more about which angle you’re facing during most of the vows - angled toward the officiant in the traditional way would face you away from the guests so they wouldn’t see. I completely understand where you’re coming from, though, since if you’re very emotional it just might make it worse if you’re able to see your parents dabbing their eyes too.