What goes in a wedding ceremony script?

First things first… what is a wedding ceremony script? A wedding ceremony script is a written document that details the order of events, readings, music, and other elements of a wedding ceremony. It serves as a guide for the couple, wedding officiant, and any others involved in the ceremony, such as readers, musicians, and any other participants.

While every wedding ceremony is unique and personal to the couple, here is a general outline of what is traditionally included:

Procession: This is the beginning of the ceremony where the wedding party enters the ceremony space and takes their places.

Welcome/Introduction: The officiant welcomes everyone to the wedding and thanks them for being there to celebrate the couple's union.

Opening Remarks: The officiant shares some words of wisdom, a personal story about the couple, or other sentiments about love and marriage.

Reading or Poem: A loved one or the officiant may read a poem or passage that is meaningful to the couple.

Exchange of Vows: The couple exchanges personal vows, which can be traditional or unique to the couple's relationship.

Exchange of Rings: The couple exchanges wedding rings as a symbol of their commitment to one another.

(Optional) Unity Ceremony: This ritual symbolizes the joining of two individuals into one union. Examples include lighting a unity candle, mixing sand or soil, or tying a knot.

Pronouncement of Marriage: The officiant announces the couple as married.

The Kiss: The couple seals their marriage with a kiss!

Closing Remarks: The officiant may offer a final thought or blessing for the couple.

Recessional: The wedding party exits the ceremony space, followed by the guests.

Remember, this is just a general outline and should be adjusted to fit the couple's preferences and beliefs. Communication with your officiant and partner is key to creating a meaningful and personalized wedding ceremony.


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