A wedding ceremony can be a beautiful and meaningful part of your big day. Whether you’re having an intimate religious or secular celebration, there are many customs and traditions to include that are sure to add a personal touch.
The first step in most ceremonies is seating family members like grandparents and parents. If you’re having a large ceremony, it can be helpful to create a receiving line for this purpose. Once everyone is seated, the wedding party starts to process down the aisle. This usually includes the best man and groomsmen (typically paired), bridesmaids (also typically in pairs) and the flower girl and ring bearer. Some couples choose to have the bride escorted by her parents or her brother and sister or other male family members during her walk down the aisle, called a milni. This is a beautiful way for the bride to be welcomed into her husband’s home.
Once the bridal party is seated, the officiant usually opens up the ceremony with a few opening remarks. This can be a brief recounting of the couple’s love story or words on what marriage means to them. For non-religious weddings, you can also invite guests to recite readings from prayers or books that are special to the couple.
After the opening remarks, it’s time for the main event to begin: the ceremony. It’s normal for the officiant to include a few special readings, such as prayers, passages from your favorite book or poems. It’s also common for honored guests and/or family members to recite readings, as well.
Then, you’ll exchange rings and say your vows. It’s important to remember that your vows are sacred and should be spoken from the heart.
You might choose to include a symbolic gesture during your wedding ceremony, such as placing a sign that reads “just married” on a tree or rock or another landmark. This is a nice way to share your excitement for the start of your new life together.
After the couple is pronounced husband and wife, the officiant will bless the wedding rings. Then, a representative will present the newlyweds with gifts from their guests. This is a wonderful way for the couple to thank their guests for coming to celebrate their marriage. You can even go as far as having your guests write letters of congratulations and love for the couple to be placed in a box and opened at a later date, such as their first or 10th wedding anniversary. You could also have your guests ring bells for the couple at the end of the ceremony or have your wedding party and/or guests recite a blessing. Whatever you choose, make it a ceremony that reflects the essence of who you are as a couple. That’s what will make it special for you and your loved ones.