Designing a wedding ceremony can be simplified by using the various samples in the Ceremony Library categories. Pick and choose from the nine ceremony samples, delete words, select parts from the categories in the ceremony library, write your own vows, select readings and prayers, choose selections from other sources, and add your own words and ideas.

In the Ceremony Library samples, the Groom’s first name is shown as Grm and the Bride’s first name is shown as Bde. Just hit command shift H on Word and change all the Bde to the Bride’s name and do the same with Grm for the Groom’s name. Then all the parts you have selected from the Ceremony Library can be personalized with your names at one time.

Many of the distinct parts to a wedding ceremony are listed below in their usual order. The only required elements of a marriage ceremony are the Expression of Intent or Vows, and the Pronouncement. An Exchange of Rings, and everything else, is not legally required.

Music, prayers and readings can be added at any point in the ceremony. Unity Candle lighting, recognition of children and families, remembrance of loved ones, exchanges of flowers, and other personal touches are always appropriate – it’s your wedding.

But be careful not to choose too much. Your guests will begin to fidget at 25 to 30 minutes. The average length of ceremony that couples select is 15 to 20 minutes. One Officiant has done two ceremonies that were each an hour long – at 30 minutes the guests and the wedding party were quite restless. Don’t overdo a good thing.

Too much music can also be a problem. One Officiant had warned the Bride, who had selected the ceremony and wanted four of her favorite songs played. During the second of the four songs played on a CD player, she whispered to him “You were right.” But at that point the other two songs were in the program and so it proceeded on.

Having music with nothing taking place will work once, but not four times. Having musicians gives the guests something to see, but a CD playing doesn’t work more than once in a ceremony unless there is some action – like a Unity Candle or Presentation of Flowers.

Prelude

Music before the ceremony begins. The Guests, Grandparents and Parents are seated.

Processional

Entry of the Bridesmaids, the Groomsmen are either with the Bridesmaids or waiting at the front, the ring bearer, the flower girl and finally the Bride.

Presentation of the Bride

Traditional wedding – “Who giveth this woman in marriage.”

Welcome

Welcome to the guests.

Convocation

Opening remarks by the Officiant.

Readings

Can be given at any point in the ceremony by the Officiant or anyone else.

Music

Music is appropriate at any time in the ceremony, but some action should take place during the music. Present flowers to Mothers – or Lighting the Unity Candle – or mixing colored sand.

Invocation

Prayers can be said at any point in the ceremony.

Expression of Intent

Bride and Groom express their intention to marry. This can also be the Marriage Vows. An Expression of Intent is an “I do” or an “I will.” This is sufficient for a marriage, but it can also be followed by repeat-after-me vows.

Marriage Vows

The promises made by the Bride and Groom – usually repeat-after-me.

Exchange of Rings

Exchanging the material symbol of marriage. It can also be just one ring to the Bride and none for the Groom – or no rings. It isn’t legally required.

Recognition of Children

If this is a second marriage for one or both spouses, their children can be recognized.

Pronouncement of Marriage

The Officiant makes a public proclamation of marriage.

The Kiss

Bride and Groom seal their vows with a kiss.

Benediction

The blessing of God and the good wishes of all are requested for the new couple.

Introduction of the Couple

The introduction of the new couple.

Recessional

The wedding party leaves.

Announcement

Announcements can be given as to dinner, receiving line, etc. “Please remain seated. The Bride and Groom will return to release you row-by-row.”

Postlude

Music as the guests depart.

 

 

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