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
(Music plays as the wedding party and couple enter. Guests are seated. When the couple is ready, the officiant begins.)
Welcome
Welcome, everyone. Friends and family who have traveled to be with Partner 1 and Partner 2 today, we thank you for being here to share this special day. You may be seated. In honor of this occasion, I ask that you take a moment to ensure your electronic devices are silenced.
Partner 1 and Partner 2, love is the force that brings us all here today. In fact, love is the force behind much of what we do each day. Whether preparing a meal for our family, taking time to teach our children, or offering a listening ear to a friend, even in the most ordinary routines, love is always the reason.
We are all here to support Partner 1 and Partner 2 on this first day of their marriage, as they step forward as partners in life and love. As you enter married life, remember the reason. The reason you rise each morning, the reason you work, the reason you give your best in the world, and the reason you look forward to coming home. Remember the reason you sacrifice, the reason you give, and the reason you laugh. The reason you are becoming a family.
Partner 1, let Partner 2 represent love. And Partner 2, let Partner 1 represent love. This mutual love remains strong as long as you continue to invest in it and cherish it. Love is alive. It is active, dynamic, and powerful. Hold onto it in both joyful and difficult seasons. All marriages experience highs and lows, and if you make a habit of returning to your reason, you will find the strength to choose each other again and again, in every moment and in every season.
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 remain present with us in love.
Optional brief moment of silence.
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 (The 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 enduring love and commitment. When you look at your ring, let it serve as a reminder that love is a daily choice, one you make to nurture and grow together. Let it remind you that your partner is always with you, in heart, mind, 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 my life
Partner 1 repeats each line while placing the ring
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 my life
Partner 2 repeats each line while placing the ring
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.
Family and friends, it is my honor to present to you for the very first time Partner 1 and Partner 2.
Recessional