Episode 12
The Pronouncement, the Kiss, and the First Walk
Nail the closing beat — pronouncement, kiss, and recessional start — so photos and energy match the moment.
About this episode
The last sixty seconds define the memory and the photos. In this episode of Wedding Studio by You Had Me At I Do, Mike and Jen cover pronouncement wording, the kiss cue and STEP TO THE SIDE, first-walk timing with the DJ, and why you should not ad-lib over the cheer. Soft note on jurisdiction-sensitive legal lines.
Based on
The Pronouncement, the Kiss, and the First Walk: Getting the Last Sixty Seconds Right
Show notes
Mike and Jen on the closing sixty seconds — where ceremonies feel finished or fumbled.
Pronouncement
- Match how the couple wants to be named and introduced.
- Keep legal must-haves clear without turning the moment into a lecture.
Kiss and walk
- STEP TO THE SIDE protects the photo.
- First walk needs music and a clear release — couple first.
Tips & suggestions
- Approve pronouncement wording with the couple in advance.
- STEP TO THE SIDE before the kiss line — not during it.
- Cue recessional music deliberately; do not talk over the cheer.
- Know your jurisdiction’s required elements at a high level — and do not invent them.
- Pause for applause; then present and release the couple.
- Confirm DJ cue person and song before rehearsal ends.
Pronouncement
Recessional
Script cues
Photography