This is pretty standard format. But there are no rules - pick & choose, add or delete whatever you'd like.
For a smaller wedding, it is usually only the underlined parts, For a larger wedding in a bigger venue, if there is a wedding planner/event coordinator, that person usually gives direction.
Processional : I’ll already be up front. Groom and his friends will come in, stand to my left. Music starts and down the aisle comes: bridesmaids, then Maid of Honor, the flower girls, followed by bride & Dad (He’s on your right.) Doesn't have to be the father - anyone special to walk with bride down the aisle.
Dad can give you a kiss, shake groom’s hand, then be seated. If you want more words with the “giving away”, those words are said after the welcome.
Welcome I say a few gathering words.
First reading Something meaningful to you, fitting to the ceremony. It can be read by me or anyone else - a member of the wedding party, friend, or relative.
Declaration of Intent The ”I do” question.
Other ritual - Sand Ceremony, Unity Candle, Tree Planting, Handfasting, etc. Or a second reading could go here as well.
Vows I say a few things about marriage then begin with vows you have written/chosen. Usually Groom first then Bride.
Rings Again, I have a few words about the rings, I ask whoever to hand them to me. I say the words you have chosen, and first Groom, then Bride repeat.
Closing Words Pronouncement then Introduction as married couple – Kiss (wild applause)
Recessional – you go first as couple, followed Maid of Honor with Best man, each Bridesmaid with a Groomsman.
For a smaller wedding, it is usually only the underlined parts, For a larger wedding in a bigger venue, if there is a wedding planner/event coordinator, that person usually gives direction.
Processional : I’ll already be up front. Groom and his friends will come in, stand to my left. Music starts and down the aisle comes: bridesmaids, then Maid of Honor, the flower girls, followed by bride & Dad (He’s on your right.) Doesn't have to be the father - anyone special to walk with bride down the aisle.
Dad can give you a kiss, shake groom’s hand, then be seated. If you want more words with the “giving away”, those words are said after the welcome.
Welcome I say a few gathering words.
First reading Something meaningful to you, fitting to the ceremony. It can be read by me or anyone else - a member of the wedding party, friend, or relative.
Declaration of Intent The ”I do” question.
Other ritual - Sand Ceremony, Unity Candle, Tree Planting, Handfasting, etc. Or a second reading could go here as well.
Vows I say a few things about marriage then begin with vows you have written/chosen. Usually Groom first then Bride.
Rings Again, I have a few words about the rings, I ask whoever to hand them to me. I say the words you have chosen, and first Groom, then Bride repeat.
Closing Words Pronouncement then Introduction as married couple – Kiss (wild applause)
Recessional – you go first as couple, followed Maid of Honor with Best man, each Bridesmaid with a Groomsman.
HANDFASTING - I read the words as the aunt who made the ribbons did the tying.
