Ceremony Order

Many couples do not know where to start in planning a wedding ceremony. Below is a version of the typical wedding ceremony that you can use as a starting point. I am very flexible about including traditional and non-traditional elements, so feel free to discuss that.


  • Seating of Grandparents/Parents/other guests of honor
  • Mothers prepare Unity Candle/or Sand Ceremony
  • Pastor, groom (& groomsmen) enter
  • Processional – bridesmaids, ring bearer, flower girl(s) enter
  • Wedding March — bride enters
  • Welcome & Introduction/Prayer
  • Giving of bride (Who gives…)
  • Couple moves to altar
  • Declaration of Intent (The “I Do's”)
  • Pastoral Comments (usually from 1 Corinthians 13 in the Bible)
  • Vows
  • Rings
  • Unity Candle/Sand Ceremony (optional)
  • Prayer
  • Pronouncement as husband and wife (By the authority…)
  • Kiss
  • Presentation of groom & bride: Mr and Mrs ____________________
  • Recessional/Dismissal

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