Hey Colt,
Congrats on the Honeymoon!!
Anytime you have a question feel free to give us a call.Our motor has a brake in it that is on when your foot is off the pedal,so yes you'll have to push the pedal down alittle to release it,then the machine will turn by hand.Once you get used to it though you can press real lightly & stop the needle wherever you want it to be.The belts need to be as tight as they need to be or they'll slip when you start sewing thick.
Let me know if you have anymore questions.
Thanks,
Bob