Take it from us — the grand exit from your reception is one of the most exciting moments to capture on film! Your friends and family gathered around with sparklers or confetti, cheering as you and your other half walk to your new life together! What could be better?
With a traditional grand exit, the new couple leaves at the very end of the reception, typically by gathering any wedding guests who are still in attendance to celebrate with sparklers, bubbles, or confetti. In contrast, the staged exit allows all your guests to attend the grand send-off and celebrate you! After filming hundreds of weddings with both staged and non-staged exits, we have absolutely seen the benefit of planning an early departure!
When should you consider a staged exit? If you are having a long wedding day or reception, or you really want to see all of your wedding guests in the photos and footage of this important moment, you should definitely consider planning a staged exit!
As a creative company, our goal is to capture this moment in the best way that we can. Contact Reverent Wedding Films today to learn more!
The Benefits of Planning A Staged Wedding Exit
Staged wedding exits during your reception provide a solution to the drawbacks of traditional wedding exits.
You’ll Look and Feel Fresh
The exit is one of the most highly anticipated moments, and we only have one chance to capture it. So why not make it perfect and plan it for earlier in the reception? This way, your hair and makeup are still fresh and haven’t been affected by hours of crazy dancing. Not only will you and your spouse look put together, but your guests will also look and feel better earlier in the reception, as they will have had less to drink. Additionally, there will inevitably be more guests attending the staged exit than if you were to wait until the end of the night.
No Need to Purchase Additional Hours
Another big reason to consider a staged exit is if you need to pay for additional hours for your photographer or cinematographer to stay until the end of the night — this is a major wedding budget tip. You probably aren’t interested in paying to have 3 or 4 hours of unnecessary dancing footage and photos, and this is an easy way to stay within budget!
Certain Guests May Need to Leave Early
Maybe you have several older family members attending your wedding, or friends with children who don’t want to miss out on celebrating the entire day. They will feel like they can leave after the staged exit but not miss out on an important moment. Of course, this brings up the fear, “What if all of my guests leave after the staged exit and the party dies?” As long as everyone is informed that it is a staged exit and you have a great band or DJ to rally everyone afterward, your close friends and family will continue celebrating with you late into the night!
Whether you’re having an indoor or outdoor wedding, staged exits offer a practical and budget-friendly alternative while still providing couples with the memorable exit photos they desire.
Read Now: Is A Wedding Videographer Worth It?
Staged Wedding Exit Drawbacks & How to Avoid Them
Staged exits allow couples to have the experience they desire without the cost and logistical challenges of coordinating a traditional exit. However, they still have their drawbacks.
Interrupts The Party
As I mentioned above, there is a fear that a staged exit can kill the party vibe. So maybe add a note on your wedding website or invitations, or have it announced at the beginning of the reception that your grand exit will happen early in the evening — but request that your guests stay after to continue celebrating your new union.
A good band or DJ will be able to communicate this clearly, and then your guests will know what to expect and plan accordingly! Or, if you don’t want to interrupt the party, just ask your bridal party and immediate family to join you for the staged exit.
Less Authentic
Maybe you are afraid that your wedding video will look staged, or you will always look back at those moments and feel that they were not genuine or authentic. What is genuine is your guests’ faces showing excitement and celebration for y’all and the look of love on your partner’s face as they kiss you amidst the sparklers. Just because the moment is not at the end of the reception does not make it any less exciting, thrilling, or authentic!
Create The Wedding Video of Your Dreams with Reverent Wedding Films
Obviously, a staged exit does not work for every wedding timeline or every couple, but if you are looking for a way to capture your exit while staying within budget with your photographer and cinematographer, then this is a great option for you!
Reverent Wedding Films is the perfect choice for couples looking to capture their special day in a beautiful and unique way. With the help of our experienced team of wedding videographers, you can get the wedding video of your dreams and create memories that will last a lifetime. Our films are tailored to each couple’s vision and style, so you can be sure that your wedding video will be one-of-a-kind. We use cutting-edge technology and high-quality equipment to capture every moment in stunning detail. We also offer a range of wedding video packages so you can find the perfect fit for your budget.
Let Reverent Wedding Films help make your big day even more special with a beautiful wedding video! Check our availability here.
