A wedding is a ceremony to celebrate the union of two people. It can be as simple as a couple filing papers at City Hall or as elaborate as a weekend affair with religious rituals, food and hundreds of guests. The word “wedding” also can be used to describe the decorations, music and other entertainment of a ceremony.
The ceremony usually begins with the officiant welcoming everyone and introducing themselves. If the ceremony is religious, this will be followed by a talk from clergy or readings. In non-religious ceremonies, the couple may opt to have guests read prayers or passages from novels, poems and meaningful quotes. This is a nice opportunity to add some personality to your ceremony and make it your own.
After an opening address, the officiant will ask if there is any reason why you shouldn’t marry each other and then begin the official proceedings. This part of the ceremony includes declaring your responsibilities and vows to each other and, in a religious ceremony, saying some words about the meaning of marriage. The vows are a very personal and special part of the ceremony and are generally up to the couple to write. Some couples opt to do something unique and different with their vows such as adding a promise to each other or a statement about how they hope their marriage will be a model for their friends and family.
Next comes the exchange of rings, a symbol of your commitment to each other and to your future together. This is often one of the most emotional parts of the ceremony. You may decide to do a quick ring exchange without any words or you may say a few words about what the ring symbolizes and then place the ring on your partner’s finger. It’s a great moment to have some background music playing at this point to set the mood.
After the exchange of rings, you will probably want to have a kiss in front of all your loved ones and celebrate. The officiant will then say you may kiss and that’s your cue to start the celebration! Typically, your guests will be cheering, clapping and whooping.
Once you’re done kissing, your officiant will probably say that it is now time to sign the marriage license, which is a final step in making your marriage legal. There are usually some closing remarks from your officiant at this point, including congratulations and good wishes.