Most couples choose to ask one of their friends or family members to officiate the wedding and I have to say, I’m a big fan! I always enjoy listening to the personal touches that were added without the couple knowing. It makes for a wonderful experience with intent. However, often enough, couples are tasked with laying the groundwork of the script. Where to start? What to include?

Let’s start with the songs. You will want to play music as guests arrive. This is the PRELUDE. You can leave the choices up to your DJ and preselect some of your favorites.

Grooms, parents and the wedding party walk down the aisle while one processional song is playing.

The bride has her own processional song to walk down to.

The recessional song is the couple’s exit from the ceremony, the wedding party following.

Your wedding ceremony script should start with a brief welcome to guests and an introduction the the ceremony. Stories on how the couple met or how the officiant knows the couple are great openers. If you would like to include family members or special friends into the ceremony, you can choose a poem or reading that reflects your values or love story. Or maybe you have a friend that can perform a great love song. Often times, this is also the time when couples choose to incorporate cultural or religious traditions, from candle ceremonies, to wine fusion and. hand-festing ceremonies. The couple’s personal vows to each other can be traditional or personal love letters. Today’s couples are choosing to present these love letters to each other before the ceremony happens and follow traditional vows in front of their guests.

After the vows are presented, the couple will exchange wedding rings and then pronouncement of marriage follows. A kiss seals the deal and the recessional song begins to play as the now married couple exits the ceremony.

You may choose to add some fun to your recessional and ask guests to blow bubbles, waive wands or clap as they cheer you into marriage.

It’s helpful to inform guests at this time where to gather for photos, cocktails or next event steps.

Keep it light, add your personal touch, incorporate your pets as ring bearers, invite your grandparents to present the rings and choose wedding songs that are familiar to you. And have that tissue ready for all the happy tears!