Modern-Classic Wedding Ceremony
approximate length of ceremony without readings or unity rituals – 15 minutes
approximate length of ceremony with readings or unity rituals – 20-30 minutes
Processional
Welcome
Modern Classic – Ceremony
~20-30 minutes
Processional
(Music plays as the wedding party and couple enter. Guests are seated. When the couple is ready, the officiant begins.)
Welcome
Dearly beloved, and honored guests -we are gathered here today to witness and celebrate one of life’s greatest gifts: the marriage of Partner 1 and Partner 2.
Marriage is one of the most joyful and profound experiences we share as human beings.
Today, Partner 1 and Partner 2 stand before you, ready to take this step – not as individuals alone, but as partners who choose one another fully and freely.
Though we often think of marriage as a milestone, it is so much more.
It is a journey. It is the daily act of choosing - choosing to laugh together, to shoulder life’s challenges, and to walk side by side through an unfolding story.
So let us celebrate this day - a day of joy, a day of hope, and above all, a day of love.
Acknowledgement of Family and Friends
Today, we witness not only the joining of hands, but also the joining of hearts and lives.
Each of you here has shaped them, supported them, and walked with them to this day.
By your presence, you surround them with love, and affirm that you will continue to encourage and stand beside them in the years ahead.
We honor and thank the parents, family members, and friends who have helped shape Partner 1 and Partner 2 into who they are today.
Let us also take a moment to remember those loved ones who cannot be with us today. Though absent in body, they are very much here in spirit, surrounding us with their love.
Readings or Reflections - Optional
Their Love Story – Written by the Officiant
Partner 1 and Partner 2, please hold hands and look at each other.
Every love story is unique,
and today we celebrate the one that belongs to Partner 1 and Partner 2.
Their love story inserted here:
Declaration of Intent “I Do’s”
Partner 1, recognizing the love you share and the commitment you are making today-
do you freely and joyfully choose to unite your life in marriage with Partner 2? Partner 1 - I Do
Partner 2, recognizing the love you share and the commitment you are making today -
do you freely and joyfully choose to unite your life in marriage with Partner 1? Partner 2 – I Do
Vows (can write own vows)
I, Partner 1, choose you, Partner 2, to be my partner and my love.
I promise to stand with you in all things:
to listen, to care, and to encourage you always.
I will laugh with you, cry with you, and grow with you,
as your best friend and lifelong companion.
From this day forward, I give you my heart and my love,
for all the days of my life.
Ring Exchange
Having shared your vows,
you will now exchange rings as a visible sign
of the promises you have made to each other.
May we have the rings?
Hand Partner 1’s ring to Partner 2 and Partner 2’s ring to Partner 1.
These rings are a symbol of your continued love and commitment.
When you look at your ring, let it be a reminder that this bountiful love is a choice you make each day, to nurture and grow it together.
Let them remind you that your partner is always with you, in body and spirit.
Officiant to Partner 1:
Partner 1 – hold Partner 2’s left hand with your left hand, place the ring on Partner 2’s finger,
while you repeat after me.
I give you this ring,
As a symbol of my deep and
unconditional love
I promise to devote myself to you,
To honor, and cherish you
From now until the end of life.”
Officiant to Partner 2:
Partner 2 – hold Partner 1’s left hand with your right hand,
place the ring on Partner 1’s finger as you repeat after me.
I give you this ring,
As a symbol of my deep and
unconditional love.
I promise to devote myself to you,
To honor, and cherish you
From now until the end of life.
Pronouncement
Partner 1 and Partner 2 -
May this day be the beginning of a long and joyful adventure together.
May you continue to choose each other, again and again, in the days and years to come.
Go now, as partners in love, and begin this next chapter of your journey.
By the power vested in me –
surrounded by the love of your family and friends, it is my great joy to pronounce you married.
I am honored to introduce, for the very first time –
the brand-new ______________________________________.
You may now share your first kiss as a married couple!
Recessional