Sweet and Simple Ceremony

approximate length of ceremony without readings or unity rituals 12-15 minutes

approximate length of ceremony with readings or unity rituals 18-25 minutes

Processional

Welcome

Welcome, everyone. Friends and family who have traveled to be with _________ and_________ today: we thank you for being here to share this special day. You may be seated.  In honor of this special occasion, I ask that you take a moment to ensure your electronic devices are silenced.

_________and_________, love is the force that brings us all here today. In fact, love is the force behind much of what we do every day. Whether making a meal for our family, taking time to teach our children, or lending a listening ear to a friend—even in the mundane, commonplace routines, love is always the reason.

We are all here to support _________and _________ on their first day as husband/wife/partner and husband/wife/partner. As you go into married life, remember the reason: the reason you get up each morning, get ready, do your best in the world, and look forward to coming home. Remember the reason you sacrifice, the reason you give, and the reason you laugh. The reason you are legally becoming a family.

_________, let _________ represent love.  And_________, let_________ represent love. This mutual love stays strong as long as you both invest in and cherish it. This love is alive: it is active, dynamic, and powerful. Cling to it during good times and bad. All marriages have ups and downs—if you will make a habit of returning to your “reason,” you will find the strength to choose each other in every moment, in every place, and at all times.

A strong and lasting marriage is built on love, trust, and respect.

Acknowledgement of Family and Friends

Marriage is not only the union of two people, but also the joining of families and communities.

We honor the parents, family members, and friends who have shaped [Partner 1] and [Partner 2] into who they are today.

We also take a moment to remember those loved ones who are not able to be here physically, but whose spirits are present with us in love.

(Optional: brief moment of silence.)

Readings or Reflections - Optional

Declaration of Intent “I Do’s”

Recognizing the love you share and the commitment you are making today, do you freely and joyfully choose to unite your lives in marriage?

Vows and Ring Exchange

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 together. Let them remind you that your partner is always with you, in body and spirit.

Officiant to Partner 1:

Please place this ring on [Partner 2]’s finger and 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.

Partner 1 places the ring and repeats each line.

Officiant to Partner 2:

Please place this ring on [Partner 1]’s finger and 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.

Partner 2 places the ring and repeats each line.

Unity Ritual – Optional

Closing, Pronouncement & Kiss

By the power vested in me and surrounded by the love of your family and friends, it is my great joy to now pronounce you married. You may seal your vows with a kiss.”

It is my honor to present to you, for the very first time, ____________________________!

Recessional