Elements of a Typical Wedding Ceremony
Prelude Music
Seating of guests
Lighting of candles
Seating of families
Mothers light candles on either side of unity candle
Entrance of wedding party
groom, best man, & pastor ( & all other groomsmen, if desired)
bridesmaids (groomsmen may escort them or enter with groom)
maid/ matron of honor
ring bearer
flower girl
bride (generally escorted by father)
Welcome by pastor
Invocation
Giving away of the bride
Bride & groom take flowers to mothers
Pledge of Faith (the “I do”s)
Scripture Readings
Scriptural Charge/ Homily
Reciting of Vows
Exchange of Rings
Lighting of the Unity Candle
Prayer of Blessing
Pronouncement of Marriage
Kissing the Bride
Introduction as “Mr. & Mrs.”
Recessional
Exit of wedding party
Exit of family
Exit of guests
The following may also be inserted at various points:
Congregational Singing
Scripture Readings
Special Music
Slide shows
Unity Sand, Candle, etc…
Below is an example of a Christian marriage Ceremony
*This is just a typical ceremony that we may use as a base when customizing your ceremony.
Processional
Seating of the Parents
Bridal Processional Begins
Processional Bridal Party & BRIDE
Invocation
ie…We gather here today – on this special day – to worship God, glorify Christ, and celebrate the union of two people as they become one flesh. It seems fitting then, that we should commit this evening to God. Please pray with me.
Prayer
Giving Away of the Bride
Scripture Reading
ie…“Therefore a man shall leave his father and mother and hold fast to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh.” This mystery is profound, and I am saying that it refers to Christ and the church.” Ephesians 5:31–32
Wedding Vows (Traditional or Self Written)
Exchange of Rings
A Knot, sand, candle etc… Ceremony
Closing Prayer
Presentation of the couple
*This is just a typical ceremony that we may use as a base when customizing your ceremony.