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Wedding Ceremony Itinerary
Every religion has their own established rituals, customs and traditions for
wedding ceremonies. Your clergyman or Officiant may also have specific
rules and procedures to be followed when they officiate a wedding ceremony. So,
when planning your ceremony, be sure to consult with your Officiant every
step of the way!
Here is a general outline of the sequence of events for a traditional Wedding
Ceremony.
The Processional
The Welcome, Call to Worship, Introduction - The Officiant greets the guests and
usually says a few words about marriage. Here the minister usually says the
"Dearly Beloved we are gathered here today, etc..."
Declaration of Consent - The declaration of consent is seen primarily in
Protestant ceremonies. The Officiant asks "Who gives this woman to be married
today?" The Bride's father replies, "I do".
A more modern twist to this tradition the Officiant asks the question to the
brides parents or both parents. Then, they all respond together "We do". Some brides prefer not to include
this in their ceremony while some brides like to include it as part
of the tradition of the wedding ceremony.
Questions of Intent - The Officiant will ask the questions of intent to the
bride and the groom. Will you have this women to be your wedded wife, to live together in
the holy estate of matrimony? Will you love her, comfort her, honor, and keep
her, in sickness and in health?
Readings and Music - Readings and music are a wonderful way to personalize your
wedding ceremony. Before making any selections, you'll want to check with your
Officiant first. Some faiths and churches have specific rules and guidelines as
to the type of readings and music that can be played. For instance, some
churches will only allow scripture and religious readings.
Wedding Vows- Most people are familiar with the Protestant wedding vows... Do you "____" take "____" to have and hold from this day forward, for better,
for worse: for richer, for poorer; in sickness and in health; to love and to
cherish from this day forward.
Exchange of the Rings - The groom places the ring on the bride's finger. Then,
the bride places the ring on the groom's finger. Say your ring vows and exchange
rings.
Blessing of the Rings - The bride and groom will make statements to each other.
This is done right after the ring is put on the finger. "Take and wear this ring as a symbol of my love"...
Special Acts of Celebration - lighting of unity candle, flower giving to
parents, blessing of medallion or gifts for step children
Pronouncement of the Marriage - "I now pronounce you husband and wife... "
The kiss!
Benediction, Prayers and Blessing - Benediction and prayers led by the
Officiant.
Presentation of the New Couple - The Officiant presents "Mr. and Mrs. ____" for
the first time!
The Recessional
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