~
MUSIC ~
You may have general background music that shifts to mark
the
beginning of the ceremony.
~
PROCESSIONAL ~
There is a range of possibilities for arriving at the ceremony
stage.
~
POSITIONING ~
Once the wedding party reaches the ceremony stage, where does
each participant stand?
~
GATHERING WORDS/WELCOME~
Officiant welcomes guests, makes announcements and states
the purpose
of the ceremony or recites a homily on marriage.
Partners may choose to welcome the guess themselves;
I will first invite them to attend to you.
~
DECLARATION OF INTENTION ~
A legal element. Partners declare that they have come to be
married
'freely and without reservation. Support from the gathering
can be included
here or after vows and exchange of rings.
~
READING OR RITUAL ~
A ritual can be included as part of the "declaration"
or a separate reading
or ritual can be included here.
A flower, candle, wine or water symbolizes the union of couple
or joining of family.
~
BETROTHAL AND EXCHANGE OF VOWS~
Marriage partners agree to be married to each other and exchange
vows
on the direction of the officiant.
Vows can be read individually by the couple.
Memorization is not recommended!
~
EXCHANGE OF RINGS ~
There are many rituals and traditions to 'seal' the vows ~
most familiar being the Exchange of Rings.
~
REFLECTION AND MEDITATION ~
Officiant reflects on the marriage ceremony that has taken
place.
~ READING OR RITUAL ~
Ritual in recognition of the union of the couple.
~
PRONOUNCEMENT OF MARRIAGE ~
~
BENEDICTION AND CLOSING WORDS ~
~
SIGNING OF THE LICENSE AND REGISTER ~
A legal element that can be completed publicly or privately
after the ceremony
or if preferred after the exchange of rings
~THE
INTRODUCTION OF THE COUPLE TO THE GATHERING ~
~
RECESSIONAL ~
