A sample order of ceremony
There are many variations of this, and you are free to include or exclude any of these steps, or add cultural or other rituals or traditions. You can also change the order around, although the Monitum needs to be said before the vows are exchanged.
However, the parts in red are required by the Marriage Act 1961 and are the minimum required.
There are many variations of this, and you are free to include or exclude any of these steps, or add cultural or other rituals or traditions. You can also change the order around, although the Monitum needs to be said before the vows are exchanged.
However, the parts in red are required by the Marriage Act 1961 and are the minimum required.
- Summoning: Assembling the guests, any housekeeping matters, seating, etc. Request that phones be turned off, any photographic instructions, etc. Announce the order of service.
- Processional. The Groom stands beside the celebrant and the Best Man /Groomsmen , awaiting the bridesmaids and bride to arrive. Or, the couple and wedding party enter the ceremony area. There is often music here.
- Welcoming The celebrant welcomes family and friends, and introduces herself / himself.
- The ‘Giving/Away” If you opt for this tradition, this could happen now. If present, this is also a time to acknowledge friends and family and the importance of their presence.
- The Monitum A statement by the celebrant saying this is a legal ceremony within the requirements of the Marriage Act.
- Opening Remarks The celebrant speaks about the purpose of the ceremony - the joining of the two of you in marriage. You can choose to share your personal story.
- Pledge of Support - asking family and friends to support the marriage.
- Readings and Rituals These as well as additional musical selections may be incorporated anywhere throughout the service.
- Declaration of Intent / Asking to Marry The celebrant asks the two of you whether you are each coming of your own free will to marry each other and if you are prepared to do so. This is your public announcement to the guests as witnesses, of the vows you are about to take.
- Exchange of Vows These are words said by the couple being married (may be repeated after the celebrant). These are your personal words to each other, but they must contain the prescribed wording required by the Marriage Act.
- Ring Presentation/Exchange Can be accompanied by personal pledges or verses, or combined with your vows. There may be only one ring, or you give each other wedding rings. There can be the exchange of other gifts, and to other family members if you wish.
- Closing Remarks
- Declaration of Marriage You are pronounced husband and wife.
- Signing of the Registers and certificates by bride, groom, celebrant and witnesses . Music could be played at this time.
- Presentation of Certificate
- Congratulations and Presentation to Family and Friends The Celebrant congratulates the couple and introduces them in an agreed way e.g. “introducing Mr. and Mrs. ………….
- Recession The celebrant invites guests to welcome the newly married couple and music begins as close of ceremony.