Many happy couples choose a traditional wedding ceremony. Here is an outline that I use that will help in planning a unique and personal ceremony.
* Bold indicates what legally has to happen to be married in Ontario.
Entrance of the Wedding Party
Welcome
Readings
This is a good spot for any poems/spiritual readings. While many couples do not choose this,
it is a nice option if you want to have a close family member participate in your ceremony
Wedding Message
Most often, I find out from the couple, what qualities they admire in each other and their strengths as a couple. I tie this in with where they met and what they do in their spare time and at the end say, with these unique qualities as individuals and these strengths as a couple they present themselves today to be married. I can also use prepackaged messages if this is your choice.
Affirmation of Families/ Guests
This is where I ask the guests/family to offer their encouragement and support to you in your married life. It is instead of can be along with the traditional “Who gives this woman…”
Intent/ Vows
I ask the couples, if they have come freely to marry each other. They must respond positively or the ceremony cannot legally continue.I encourage couples to write their own vows, they do not need to be memorized, most read it to each other, if you are shy or uncomfortable with that, I can give them to you a line at a time
Rings
Ritual
There are many rituals couples can choose from to personalize their ceremony, such as a sand ceremony (with or with out parents/children), a love letter/wine box ritual, a chocolate/wine/champagne ritual, time capsule to name a few
Sign License (Music/Photos)
License can be downloaded from my site or your local city hall, it is valid for 90 days and gives explicit instructions as to what documentation is required. Does not have to be from the city you are getting married in. Witnesses must be 18 yrs of age.
Declaration
Kiss
Announcements
this is for directions for the guests, what they are to do after the ceremony, time of dinner etc
Presentation of Couple
you can decide how you want to be introduced,
most often it is Mr and Mrs. Groomname and BrideName, lastname.
Departure of the Wedding Party
Pond Side Ministries looks forward to making your day special.