ELEMENTS OF A WEDDING CEREMONY (Order of Service)

Here we present most of the major elements of a wedding ceremony in the general order (Order of Service) in which they occur, although that order is somewhat flexible. Readings/Poetry and Rituals can occur in many different places in a ceremony, so we provide the most common places they might occur. Also, you'll notice the word Music in combination with Readings/Poetry. This is to indicate that that particular spot could also be used for a musical interlude.

PART 1 - THE OPENING OF THE CEREMONY

Setting of the Altar/Table (optional)

Procession (usually included)

Presentation of the Bride (optional)

Giving Roses to VIPs (optional)

Ritual (optional)

Opening Words (usually included)

Opening Prayer (optional)

Remembrances and/or Acknowledgements (optional)

Reading/Poetry/Music (optional)

PART 2 - SETTING THE STAGE

Celebrant's Address (optional)

Reading/Poetry/Music (optional)

Charge to the Couple (optional)

Reading/Poetry/Music (optional)

Affirmation of the Community (optional)

Ritual (optional)

Reading/Poetry/Music (optional)

Statements of Appreciation (optional)

Reading/Poetry/Music (optional)

Expression of Intent (usually included, but required if not using Vows)

Ritual (optional)

PART 3 - CONSUMMATING THE MARRIAGE

Vows (usually included, but required if not using Expression of Intent)

Reading/Poetry/Music (optional)

Blessing of the Rings (optional)

Exchange of the Rings (usually included)

Reading/Poetry/Music (optional)

Unity Candle Ritual, Sand Ritual, or Rose Unity Ritual (optional)

Wine Ritual (optional)

Reading/Poetry/Music (optional)

Ritual (optional)

Pronouncement of Marriage (required)

Permission to Kiss (usually included)

PART 4 - CLOSING OF THE CEREMONY

Rose Ceremony (optional)

Benediction and/or Good Wishes (optional)

Presentation of the New Couple (usually included)

Ritual (optional)

Reading/Poetry/Music (optional)

Recession (usually included)