Sample Wedding Ceremony

Here is the wedding service order that we have developed over the years through officiating many marriage ceremonies. The following order of service works in almost every setting. Many couples agree to follow this order, however some couples choose to add or drop certain items in the ceremony is to be less formal. We usually accommodate personal preferences into this service. When we meet, we encourage the bride and groom to arrive equipped to personalize their ceremony so it may becomes uniquely theirs.

***Following the sample ceremony, please find diffrent approaches to wedding ceremonies below.***

PREPARATION
Ushers seat the guests (Prelude music playing)
Special music begins
THE BEGINNING
The Minister Groom Best Man and groomsmen enter and proceed to the front
VIPs enter and light candelabras. [When Appropriate]
Groom seats his mother and returns to stand next to Officiant.
Mother of Bride is then seated. Escort then takes his place with groomsmen.
BRIDAL PARTY ENTERS
The Minister asks the audience to stand as the Bride party enters.
The Bridal party enters and proceeds to the front
The Ring Bearer and/or Flower Girl enter, proceed to front, sit or stand
Maid Of Honor enters last before bride.
Music concludes for bridal party.
BRIDE ENTERS
Music begins for the Brides entrance (Processional music)
The Bride and her escort enter, and are met by the Officiant
Brides music concludes.
THE CEREMONY
Welcome and Opening Remarks
Mothers light "family candles"
Bride and Groom present flowers to parents and/or VIPs (OPTIONAL)
Address to the Couple
First reading (spiritual or romantic literature)
Second reading!
"Questions Of Intent" by Bride and Groom
Special music (musical interlude, or musical and vocal performance)
Address to Couple
Exchange of wedding vows (traditional or customized)
Exchange of wedding rings (traditional or customized)
Bride and Groom light Unity Candle (music in background)
Conclusion and Closing
Pronouncement
Bride and Groom kiss
THE DOCUMENTS ARE SIGNED
Announcements.
Introduction of the new couple by the Minister (Presentation)
Recessional music begins
Bride and Groom exit
Bridal party exit followed by family and VIP'S.

Types of Ceremonies

Whatever type of ceremony you choose it should be a powerful beginning to your new life together. Here are some basic ingredients common to all ceremonies. Each ceremony should reflect the love you feel for each other and celebrate your personalities, personal beliefs and family traditions and values. It should be happy, friendly and warm; a 'real' celebration.

Spiritual ceremony without mentioning God:
The ceremonies we conduct are all Spiritual! There is no greater spiritual aspect in life then love? No belief system has a monopoly on love. When laughter, happiness, commitment, warmth, caring, supporting, sharing and celebration are present then many of the spiritual aspects of life are also present.

Non-denominational Ceremony - For couples who would like a Christian spiritual ceremony:
There is references to God, as well as blessings and prayers. Many couples add their own readings.

A Second Marriage Wedding Ceremony:
Because of previous circumstances some religions makes it difficult for people to remarry within their faith community. Sometimes children are involved and the ceremony provides an opportunity to solidify a new family relationship. There is an excellent article on our web page that will give you some ideas on: 'Including Children In Your Ceremony'

Interfaith Ceremony:
When the bride and groom come from two different religious and cultural traditions then the main theme of the ceremony, is not contradictory, but emphasize sameness and commonality to both traditions. A ceremony where sensitivity and respect for both traditions are emphasized! For couples wishing to celebrate their cultural heritage some rituals are easily inserted into the content of the overall ceremony. Everyone is affirmed!

Renewal of Vows Ceremony:
Often we receive request from grown children to assist them in putting together a wonderful anniversary celebration for their mother and father. Our ceremony is much like a real wedding ceremony as we celebrate that wonderful day, years ago when the couple made their deep and abiding commitment of marriage.

Finally:
No matter what kind of ceremony you choose we believe that the manner in which your ceremony is delivered is equal to, or greater than the words spoken. When the 'atmosphere' and the meaningful words of your ceremony are spoken in a friendly and warm manner you and your family will experience a delightful ceremony; one you will remember for the rest of your life!