12 Alternatives (or Additions) to Your Ceremony First Kiss
Replace or supplement your first newlywed kiss with one of these sweet ideas.
When it comes to your wedding ceremony, a first kiss is traditionally expected once you've said "I do"—but that doesn't mean you can't shake things up. Looking for a way to commemorate your newlywed status beyond a kiss? Maybe you're a shy couple who hates PDA—or maybe one kiss just won't cut it to showcase all your excitement. Here are some sweet ways to celebrate and symbolize this momentous occasion beyond a first kiss.
1. Share a Hug
Some people might say a hug is "lame"—ignore them. You should be able to celebrate this super-personal moment however you want to, even if you're self-proclaimed PDA haters. Which bring us to...
2. High Five
If you're quirky, unique and like to show your affection in a less intimate way than locking lips in front of a crowd, share a high five with your new spouse to kick newlywed life off right. This idea also works in addition to a kiss, so don't feel like you need to choose one over the other.
3. Do a Handshake
Take the classic high five up a notch with an endearingly dorky secret—or not-so-secret—handshake. It will get your guests laughing and be one hilarious photo op. It will feel like the sweetest inside joke between you and your better half—what's more intimate than that?
4. Take a Selfie
If you're having an unplugged wedding, this idea probably isn't for you. But snapping a selfie once you've been pronounced married is a modern and lighthearted twist on the traditional way to seal the deal. Not to mention it's a great way to capture this significant love-filled moment from your point of view. Bonus points if you get your guests' reactions in the background.
FEATURED VIDEO FROM THE KNOT
5. Involve Your Pet (or Kids)
If you have a furry friend at your ceremony, you and your partner can lean down and give your pet a kiss on the cheek at the same time. Just imagine how cute the photo will be.
6. Release Something
Whether it's doves or butterflies, setting something free into the air is a beautiful way to cap off your vows and signify the start of your new life together. (Just make sure you do this in an open space and nail down logistics with your planner in advance.)
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7. Pop a Bottle
With a ceremony finale this exciting, no one will even notice if there's no kiss. Once you're official, pop champagne (or wine, or whiskey—whatever you're into), clink and sip to a lifetime of happiness together. This will really get your guests in the party mood. If you have a small enough group at your ceremony, hand out glasses so everyone can raise a cupful to your marriage too.
8. Shotgun a Beer
Your newlywed "first" doesn't have to be quite so formal or ceremonious. Did you meet at a college party or, let's be real—do you just love beer? Capitalize on the playful nature of your relationship by cracking open a cold one and shotgunning your first brew together.
9. Toss Confetti
The second you're pronounced married, set off party poppers or throw confetti to signify the moment. Want to take this to another level? Break open a marriage piñata and make it rain with amazing goodies. Trust us, no one will forget your ceremony with a stunt like that.
10. Leave Your Mark
Sign a hard copy of your vows, leave a handprint in cement or carve your name into the giant tree you said "I do" in front of. Whatever you decide, there are so many meaningful ways to put your stamp on this romantic moment in time.
11. Do a Little Dance
Whether you skip a first kiss or simply add to it, a quick spin and dip is an adorable note to end your nuptials on (and get people pumped for your first dance).
12. Sing a Duet
Any musical couples can show off their chops with a brief tribute to their marriage. You could sing a serious duet (or play your respective instruments)—or take a more humorous approach by busting out your go-to karaoke duet. What's not to love?
Want more here are 13 alternatives to a unity ceremony.
