wedding officiant speech template

• Skip to primary navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar
• Skip to footer

Wedding Officiants

Great Ceremonies Begin Here

Wedding Ceremony Script

At  WeddingOfficiants.com  – The Wedding Officiant Directory , we’ve been working with engaged couples and professional wedding officiants for more than 15 years, and our site has become a top resource on the web for officiants to grow their businesses. We’ve curated a collection of the best wedding ceremony scripts submitted by our officiant members, and offer them here as a resource to anyone in need of a script for a wedding ceremony.

Below, you’ll find advice on creating your own custom wedding ceremony script, wedding ceremony samples, and links to both a religious wedding ceremony and a non-religious ceremony. The basics of writing a ceremony script start with an outline – the wedding ceremony template. Once you’ve decided on the structure of the ceremony, you can select individual wedding readings, wedding vows, and other ceremony elements to include in your script. Of course, you could also just copy a sample wedding ceremony script below and use it without any further customization.

The wedding scripts below have been created by experienced, professional wedding officiants. If you are already an officiant, we would love to have you join us as a member of our wedding officiant directory – you can view our membership packages here. If you are a new officiant, or if you’ve been tapped by a friend of family member to perform a wedding ceremony, there’s a chance you may really enjoy performing your first wedding and want to do it more often. If so, take a look at our  Officiant Resources  page, with advice on  how to get ordained ,  how to become a wedding officiant , and much more.

Writing a Wedding Ceremony Script

Most popular articles:.

• Wedding Ceremony Readings
• Why You Should Hire a Professional Officiant
• What is a Wedding Officiant?
• How to Find a Wedding Officiant

Creating a wedding ceremony script from scratch can be a daunting task if you haven’t done it before, it’s not as simple as writing a collection of words and poetry. A marriage ceremony is a time-honored ritual which requires a bit of structure to feel sufficiently “ceremonial” for the couple and their guests. That’s not to say that there are firm rules when deciding how to write a wedding ceremony script – there are no “official” rules to speak of – but a lack of structure or organization can leave attendees feeling confused and actually detract from the overall feeling of the ceremony.

We highly recommend sending the couple a copy of your wedding ceremony script once you’ve finished it so they can see exactly what you plan to say – that way, if there are any changes they feel are necessary, you can make them before the big day. Surprises may be fun on most days, but surprising a couple with the content of their wedding ceremony will probably not go over very well.

Wedding Ceremony Script Ideas

Keep in mind that there are many different religious and cultural wedding traditions as well, but we’ve kept this list to the most common ideas for wedding ceremonies of all types.

Traditional Wedding Ceremony Elements:

• Processional:  The “wedding procession” is simply a fancy way of referring to the beginning of the ceremony when everyone walks in.  This includes parents, wedding party, the officiant, and the couple, and is typically accompanied by music.
• Opening Words / Welcome:  This is typically the first thing that is said at the beginning of the wedding ceremony. The opening words will often include some sort of welcome to the guests and a few remarks about the covenant of marriage.
• Charge to Couple:  This is a short passage about the covenant of marriage and the importance of the occasion, and also usually includes a bit of practical marriage advice from the officiant. It doesn’t need to be terribly long, one to three short paragraphs is more than enough.
• Wedding Readings:  It’s traditional to include one or more  wedding readings  during the ceremony, which are typically scripture or poetry. Ceremony readings can also be anything that is meaningful to the couple, and will typically reflect something about their love and their relationship.
• Pledge / Declaration of Intent:  This part of the ceremony is when the couple will face one another, and affirm their intentions to be united in marriage. The officiant leads each of them through a series of statements or questions, which are answered with “I Do” or “I Will”.
• Blessing of the Rings:  The ring blessing is a short statement or prayer by the officiant to bless or charge the couple’s wedding rings prior to the ring exchange. It can take the form of a few sentences, or a “ring warming” where the rings are passed to all the guests for their well-wishes.
• Exchange of Vows:  Sometimes done simultaneously with the exchange of rings, the wedding vows can either be led by the officiant as a series of phrases repeated by the couple, or something completely unique written by each of them to one another.
• Exchange of Rings:  The ring exchange during the ceremony is typically led by the officiant, with each member of the wedding couple repeating a series of short phrases while placing a wedding ring on their partner’s finger.
• Pronouncement and Kiss:  Upon the exchange of vows and rings, the officiant will pronounce the couple as being officially married, and invite them to kiss. Typically followed by applause by the wedding guests, this may be the end of the ceremony if there are no closing words by the officiant.
• Closing Words:  Traditionally, the officiant will offer some words to officially close the wedding ceremony, blessing the couple or offering encouragement for their journey as a married couple. This typically marks the official end of the wedding ceremony.
• Recessional:  The recessional is the part of the ceremony where the couple and their attendants exit the ceremony, beginning with the couple and proceeding in the reverse order as the processional when everyone entered. The last person to exit before the guests is typically the officiant.

Unique Wedding Ceremony Ideas:

• Honoring the Parents:  Usually performed at the beginning of the ceremony, the officiant takes a few moments to acknowlege the role the couple’s parents have played in raising them and bringing them up to this moment when they will be married.
• Moment of Silence:  Also normally toward the beginning of the ceremony, taking a moment of silence to remember those friends and family who have passed away or could not attend the wedding ceremony for one reason or another.
• Handfasting Ceremony:  An ancient Pagan and Celtic tradition, handfasting invlolves tying the hands of the couple together with a ribbon, rope, or braided cord to symbolize the unity between them and the connection they share.
• Unity Candle Ceremony:  This candle lighting ceremony can be performed at any time during the wedding ceremony, and can be done in a number of ways. The popular version involves the couple lighting a single candle with two smaller candles to symbolize their new life together.
• Wine Box Ceremony:  A newer tradition, the couple write love letters to one another and seal them in a wine box with a bottle of wine, opening the box on their first or fifth wedding anniversary to read one another’s letters and share the bottle of wine to celebrate their marriage.
• Blended Family Ceremony:  For couples with children who wish to incorporate their kids into their wedding ceremony as well, this ceremony includes the children of the couple in saying vows to one another affirming their commitment and promises as a family.
• Rose Ceremony:  There are two versions of this ceremony, one involving the couple presenting one another with a single rose to communicate their love and commitment, and the other with the couple presenting a rose to their mothers as a way of thanking them for their love and support.
• Ring Warming Ceremony:  Typically done at the beginning of the ceremony prior to the vows, the officiant passes the couple’s wedding rings around throughout the wedding guests and asks each person to infuse the rings with their blessings and well-wishes for the couple’s marriage.
• Jumping the Broom:  A tradition which found it’s way to the states as a part of African-American weddings, the couple has a broom placed in front of them and jumps over it as they exit the ceremony, popularized in the novel and miniseries,  Roots  by Alex Haley.
• Sand Ceremony:  Similar in intent and execution to the Unity Candle Ceremony, the couple instead pours two separate containers of colored sand into a single vessel to symbolize their union. A great alternative for a windy wedding day!
• Breaking the Glass:  A Jewish wedding tradition, the couple stomps on a glass to shatter it at the end of the wedding as their guests shout “Mazel Tov!” to congratulate them.

Wedding Ceremony Template

When creating a wedding ceremony script, it can be helpful to start with a general template to help you structure the ceremony, adding in the specific wording once you’ve designed the overall flow and order of the individual elements. While it can be tempting to include a lot of different elements and traditions (or let the couple pick as many as they’d like), keep in mind that the overall length of the ceremony will depend on how much you try to squeeze into it. Most non-religious wedding ceremonies should be about 20 minutes in length from the processional to the recessional – certainly not more than 40 minutes. Wedding guests get restless and stop paying attention after about 20 minutes, so the longer the ceremony lasts, the more bored and distracted the guests will be.

Generally speaking, most weddings will follow a standard order, with variations based on the couple’s needs or the amount and type of elements and traditions that are included. The basic wedding ceremony template for most weddings is:

• Processional
• Gathering Words
• Declaration of Intent
• Charge to Couple
• Exchange of Vows
• Exchange of Rings
• Pronouncement and Kiss
• Recessional

You can certainly make the ceremony more complex than this, but this template is the bare-bones structure of a standard wedding ceremony script. Start with this order and add any additional elements, readings, songs, and traditions where it makes the most sense. In general, you’ll want to place most of those additional elements toward the beginning of the ceremony, because the guests will expect that the exchange of vows will be one of the last items in the wedding ceremony order.

Wedding Ceremony Samples

To help you create your wedding ceremony script, we’ve included several wedding ceremony samples below – a Wedding Officiant Script and a Marriage Ceremony Script. We’ve chosen to only include generic sample wedding ceremonies here, so if you are interested in looking at samples for a non-religious wedding ceremony, a Christian wedding ceremony, an interfaith wedding ceremony, or a non-denominational wedding ceremony you’ll need to visit those specific pages to see the included sample scripts. These are examples of a standard wedding script following the template mentioned above, and should give you a solid head start.

Because the ceremony samples below are very basic and do not include any additional elements such as  wedding readings , a ceremony based solely on these scripts will be 10-15 minutes in length. We highly recommend keeping the total length of the wedding ceremony to around 20 minutes, so be selective with the number of additional elements you include. Please feel free to use these wedding ceremony samples for your own private or professional use, but bear in mind that they are copyrighted works so please do not publish them anywhere online.

Wedding Officiant Script

2. Seating of the Mothers

3. Officiant, Grooom, and Groomsmen Enter

4. Bridesmaids Enter

5. Flower Girl and Ring Bearer Enter

6. Bride Enters, Escorted by Her Father

Welcome to all who have gathered here this day to share in this marriage ceremony of [Name] and [Name].

These words, spoken today between [Name] and [Name] are indeed important and sacred, but they are not what joins these two together, nor is this marriage ceremony. We are not here to witness the beginning of their relationship, but to acknowledge and celebrate a lasting bond that already exists between them. [Name] and [Name] have already joined their hearts together and chosen to walk together on life’s journey, and we have come to bear witness to a sybolic union and a public affirmation of the love they share.

8. Gathering Words

Those of us in attendace today are present to witness a statement of lasting love and commitment between [Name] and [Name]. The ceremonial union of two people in marriage, in its primordial form, is as ancient as our very humanity and yet is still as fresh as each day’s sunrise. The commitment of love between [Name] and [Name] speaks of their shared experience together and their dreams for the future, of the importance of each of them as individuals as well as the special bond they share, and of the importance of their community of family and friends.

Everyone gathered here today was invited to this ceremony because you have played a special role in [Name] and [Name]’s lives. You are present at this ceremony to celebrate their marriage and to witness their vows of love to one another. Will all of you, gathered here to witness this union, do all in your power to love and support this couple now, and in the years ahead? If so please respond, “we will.”

Guests: We will.

9. Declaration of Intent

And [Name] and [Name], have you come here today with the intention to be legally joined in marriage? Do you pledge to choose respect, kindness, and compassion toward one another, to listen deeply to one other, and to speak to one another truthfully, today and always?

Couple: We do.

10. Charge to Couple

[Name] and [Name],   your love is something that you both cherish, so much so that it’s moved you join in the union of marriage and create a home together. Today, you dedicate your lives to giving one another happiness and support. To be certain, entering into the covenant of marriage is an act of deep trust and faith in the strength of your love. It would be a fool’s error to base your marriage on the hope that your partner will change to become something they are not, or do something in the future that they do not already do today. Your marriage must be based on the heartfelt and sincere acceptance of one another, as you are, in each moment.

The pledge you make today expresses your devotion to one another and to the love you share, and the words spoken here will support your marriage if you are able to sustain your commitment through the inevitable hardships you’ll face together. Today, in the presence of your families and friends, you pronounce your love for each other and make a commitment that will define the next phase of your journey. We celebrate it with you, and wish you well.

11. Exchange of Vows  (Repeat after the officiant)

I, [Name], take you, [Name], to be my wife; to have and to hold, from this day forward, for better, for worse; for richer, for poorer; in sickness and in health; to love and to cherish; until we are parted by death.

I, [Name], take you, [Name], to be my husband; to have and to hold from this day forward, for better, for worse; for richer, for poorer; in sickness and in health; to love and to cherish; until we are parted by death.

12. Exchange of Rings

May I please have the rings? (officiant is handed both rings)

Since ancient times, the ring has been a symbol of the unbroken circle of love, with no beginning and no end. Love given freely has no giver and no receiver, for each is the giver and each is the receiver. May these rings always remind you of the freedom and power of this commitment you make here today.

[Name], placing the ring on [Name]’s finger, repeat after me: [Name],I give you this ring, as a sign of my vow to love, honor, and cherish you.

And [Name], placing the ring on [Name]’s finger, repeat after me: [Name],I give you this ring, as a sign of my vow to love, honor, and cherish you.

13. Pronouncement and Kiss

[Name] and [Name], inasmuch as you have pledged yourselves, each to the other, and have declared the same in the presence of this company by the exchange of vows and the giving and receiving of rings, by the power vested in me I now pronounce you husband and wife.

You may now kiss the Bride! (Applause)

Ladies and Gentlemen, it is my pleasure to present to you, the new Mr. and Mrs. ________________ !

15. Recessional

Marriage Ceremony Script

Welcome to the wedding of [Name] and [Name]. On behalf of the couple, I welcome you to this celebration of love, and ask that all of you take a moment to silence your mobile devices. Thank you.

A wedding ceremony is a joyous occasion, filled with hopes, dreams and excitement. We are here today to acknowledge and honor the love that [Name] and [Name] share, and to bear witness to the commitment which will begin their journey as married partners.

Marriage is a time-honored tradition, and should never be entered into lightly. [Name] and [Name] have made a very serious and important decision in choosing to marry one other today, entering into a sacred covenant as life partners. While the responsibility to honor and sustain their commitment ultimately lies with the two of them, each of you gathered here today are here because you play an important role in their lives. As their community of support, there may be times that [Name] and [Name] will need your wisdom, guidance, and encouragement to work through the inevitable difficulties that lie ahead. I ask that all of you choose love in your thoughts, words, and actions toward them and their marriage, and do all you can to help them nurture and deepen their bond.

As when tending a garden, the quality of your marriage will be a reflection the effort that the two of you put into nurturing this relationship. You have the opportunity to go forward from this day to create a faithful, kind and tender bond. We wish for you the wisdom, compassion, and constancy to create a peaceful sanctuary in which you both can grow in love. [Name] and [Name], do you understand and accept this responsibility and do you come here freely to enter into the covenant of marriage?

[Couple] We do.

10. Reading

The following is an excerpt from Union, by Robert Fulghum.

“You have known each other from the first glance of acquaintance to this point of commitment. At some point, you decided to marry. From that moment of yes, to this moment of yes, indeed, you have been making commitments in an informal way. All of those conversations that were held in a car, or over a meal, or between baseball innings – all those conversations that began with, “When we’re married”, and continued with “I will” and “you will” and “we will” – all those late night talks that included “someday” and “somehow” and “maybe” – and all those promises that are unspoken matters of the heart.

All these common things, and more, are the real process of a wedding. The symbolic vows that you are about to make are a way of saying to one another, “You know all those things that we’ve promised, and hoped, and dreamed – well, I meant it all, every word.” Look at one another and remember this moment in time. Before this moment you have been many things to one another – acquaintance, friend, companion, lover, dancing partner, even teacher, for you have learned much from one another over these years. Shortly you shall say a few words that will take you across a threshold of life, and things between you will never quite be the same. For after today you shall say to the world – This is my husband. This is my wife.”

11. Exchange of Vows

[Name], please look into [Name]’s eyes and repeat after me:

I, [Name] take thee, [Name] to be my wedded wife, to laugh with you in joy, to grieve with you in sorrow, to grow with you in love, as long as we both shall live.

And [Name], please look into [Name]’s eyes and repeat after me:

I, [Name] take thee, [Name] to be my wedded husband, to laugh with you in joy, to grieve with you in sorrow, to grow with you in love, as long as we both shall live.

May I have the rings please?

Wedding rings are symbolic reminders of the unbroken circle of eternal love. Within the safety and comfort of a true marriage, love given freely has no beginning and no end. Love freely given has no separate giver and receiver. Each of you gives your love to the other, and each of you receives love from the other. May these rings serve to remind you of the freedom and power of your love.

[Name], placing the ring on [Name]’s finger, repeat after me:

With this ring, I give you my promise, to honor you, to be faithful to you, and to share my love and life with you, in all ways, forever.

And [Name], placing the ring on [Name]’s finger, repeat after me:

And now, having entered into the covenant of marriage by the exchanging of vows and the giving and receiving of rings, by the power vested in me I now pronounce you husband and wife.

You may now seal these vows with a kiss!

14. Closing Words

[Name] and [Name], our best wishes go forward from this day with you and we wish for you a fulfilling life, rich in caring and in happiness. May you find a gentle and peaceful life that nurtures and comforts you, and that reflects your honesty, kindness and integrity. There is a wonderful life ahead of you. Live it fully, love it’s changes and choices, and let life amaze you and bring you great joy.

It is my pleasure to introduce, __________________________!

Interested in Becoming a Professional Officiant?

It’s not uncommon for people to catch the officiant “bug” after performing their first few ceremonies, and decide to pursue a career as a professional officiant. If this sounds like you, we recommend reading the rest of the  Officiant Resources  available on our site, and we hope you will consider joining  WeddingOfficiants.com – The Wedding Officiant Directory . To view our different advertising options,  visit our membership page  and click the button below to search our database of local wedding officiants!

8 Wedding Ceremony Scripts to Borrow & Printables

Find beautiful wedding ceremony scripts ranging from unique to traditional. Print and borrow them, or get inspiration to write your own!

By Allison Cullman

Inside this article:

Simple wedding ceremony script

Modern wedding ceremony script, humorous wedding ceremony script, inclusive wedding ceremony script, christian wedding ceremony script, catholic wedding ceremony script, jewish wedding ceremony script, protestant wedding ceremony script, 4 tips for writing your own ceremony script, simple wedding ceremony script starter outline, faqs about wedding ceremony scripts, summarizing ceremony and officiant wedding scripts.

In the midst of the organized chaos of wedding planning, the wedding ceremony is often left until the last minute. But the ceremony is quite significant—after all, it’s the part where you and your future spouse actually become joined in marriage.

We all know about the “I do’s” of a wedding ceremony, but the rest of your ceremony is just as important. While you want to create a wedding ceremony script that’s meaningful and personal to you and your future spouse, figuring out how to do this can leave some couples scratching their heads. If you’re wondering where to begin writing your wedding ceremony script, our tips and examples below are here to help.

This script has been reviewed by Rev. Lisann G. Valentin, an ordained minister at Universal Life Church .

For a nonreligious wedding ceremony, there’s no standard script you need to adhere to. The script below can be a helpful starting point for a simple wedding ceremony you can build upon and personalize however you like.

Opening words/welcome

The ceremony will begin with the officiant addressing the reception.

Officiant: “Welcome friends, family, and loved ones. We’re gathered here today to celebrate [PARTNER A] and [PARTNER B] in their lifelong commitment of love to each other. Finding your life partner is a true joy, and the commitment to share in life’s ups and downs as one is no small feat. While marriage will bring its own challenges and triumphs, let this day be a reminder of what your love has already accomplished, as well as the possibilities for your partnership as you grow together for years to come.”

While a simple wedding ceremony might omit this part altogether, some couples like to personalize their ceremony wedding scripts with a chosen reading or song to celebrate their union. A close friend or family member, the officiant, or the couple themselves might perform readings. For example, the officiant might call upon a chosen friend or family member to perform an original poem or share a story about the couple’s relationship.

Officiant: “As our reading today, [PARTNER A/B] has asked [his, her] [friend/cousin/other family member] to recite an original poem in honor of their union.”

[Reading proceeds.]

Vows and ring exchange

Couples may choose to write their own vows or omit reciting vows altogether.

Officiant to reception: “[PARTNER A] and [PARTNER B] will now exchange rings as a symbol of their love and lifelong commitment.”

At this point, couples may exchange their vows (if desired) before placing their rings on each other's fingers. Below is an example of vows that might be exchanged:

Partner A to Partner B: “With this ring, I promise to support you, care for you, laugh with you, share in your burdens, be honest with you, and be faithful to you in all that we may face in the years ahead. I promise to love you with everything I have, from this day forward and beyond.”

Partner B to Partner A: “With this ring, I promise to love you and commit myself to you for the rest of my life. I promise to stand by your side, be there for you always, and to find laughter and joy even in tough times. I promise to love and accept you just as you are, and grow with you for every year to come.”

Declaration of intent

Officiant to Partner A: “Do you, [PARTNER A], take [PARTNER B] to be your lawfully wedded [husband, wife, partner]? Will you honor and cherish them, continue to deepen your understanding of them, and treat them with love and compassion in joy and pain, sickness and health, and whatever life might throw your way?”

Partner A: “I will” or “I do.”

Officiant to Partner B: “Do you, [PARTNER B], take [PARTNER A] to be your lawfully wedded [wife, husband, partner]? Will you honor and cherish them, continue to deepen your understanding of them, and treat them with love and compassion in joy and pain, sickness and health, and whatever life might throw your way?”

Partner B: “I will” or “I do.”

Pronouncement

Finally, the officiant will pronounce the couple as married. To capture the perfect moment, couples might also request that the officiant steps to the side for the kiss during the wedding nuptials.

Officiant to all: “By the authority vested in me, and with the trust of you all here today, I now declare you joined in love. You may now kiss!"

Officiant to all: “Thank you all for joining in this momentous occasion for [PARTNER A] and [PARTNER B]! They now invite you to join them for a reception at [LOCATION]. Thank you all!”

This script has been reviewed by Sheena Wheadon, licensed wedding officiant at Why Knot Weddings .

Any wedding ceremony can take a modern spin. Any number of personal touches can be added to your ceremony to make it more modern—whether you want to include your pets, switch up how your wedding party is presented, or simply add some modern flair to your wedding vows and readings. Personalizing your wedding ceremony script is a great way to infuse who you really are into your big day.

The officiant script will begin by welcoming the reception.

Officiant: “Good afternoon and welcome! We’d like to thank everyone on this beautiful day for coming to support [PARTNER A] and [PARTNER B] in this exciting endeavor and union. Your friendship and support has helped to strengthen them as they’ve made their way to this moment, and they thank you for being here.”

Couples may choose to include a reading in their marriage ceremony script. This reading can be anything you wish, whether it’s a special poem, a reading from a book, a quote from a movie, or a story about the couple’s relationship shared by a close friend or family member.

Vows Exchange

Many modern couples opt to write their own wedding vows or omit them altogether. It’s up to you! Below is an example of modern wedding vows:

Officiant to couple: “[PARTNER A] and [PARTNER B], please exchange your vows.”

Partner A to Partner B: “[NAME], you’re my best friend. I’m in awe of your lightness, your kindness, and the purity of what it looks like to be loved by someone like you. It’s a love with no expectations, no strings attached, only a desire to support me and see me fulfilled. To know and be known by you is a gift and a privilege. I know we were made for each other. So here’s what I promise:

I vow always to strive to be the best version of myself so that I can show up for you every single day. I vow to seek joy and hope even in dark times and be there for you when you need me. I vow to trust you and love you unconditionally. I vow to continue to learn from the examples of patience and selflessness that you have always embodied.”

Partner B to Partner A: “[NAME], I love you with my whole heart. You’ve loved me with a loyalty that I’d never experienced before, and didn’t even know existed. You have seen every part of me, and even at my lowest you have stood by my side. You’ve never given up on me, and I have no doubt that you are the person I’m meant to spend my life with. I vow to keep a soft heart when challenges come, and to be aware of my words and actions and how they affect you. I vow to support you in all things, to love you well, and to create a life we’re proud of. Life is fleeting, and I want to cherish every minute of it with you.”

Officiant to couple: “[PARTNER A] and [PARTNER B], do you take one another as partners from this day forward?”

Couple in unison: “We do.”

Officiant: “Will you love, honor, and cherish one another as partners for the rest of your lives?”

Couple responds: “We will.”

• Ring exchange

Officiant to reception: “[PARTNER A] and [PARTNER B] have chosen these rings as a symbol of their unbreakable love. Please place these rings on each other’s fingers and repeat after me:

‘I give you this ring as a reminder of our love that unites, inspires, and celebrates what we have.’”

[Couple repeats to each other.]

Finally, the officiant will pronounce the couple as legally wed:

Officiant to all: “By the authority vested in me, it is with joy that I pronounce you married. Now kiss and go celebrate!”

Officiant to all: “Thank you all for joining in this beautiful occasion for [PARTNER A] and [PARTNER B]! They now invite you to join them for a reception at [LOCATION]. Thank you all!”

There’s no rule that says your wedding ceremony has to be serious from start to finish. Some couples prefer to add a bit of humor to their ceremony for a more lighthearted affair. The following funny wedding ceremony script has all the required legal elements of becoming legally married, with a humorous touch to keep your guests on their toes.

The officiant will begin by welcoming the crowd and introducing the ceremony.

Officiant to all: “Hello and welcome! We’re here today because [PARTNER A] and [PARTNER B] have decided they love each other so much that they want to get the government involved! But in all seriousness, a huge thanks to all who have joined us. We promise we’ll get these two hitched quickly so you can make a beeline to the open bar!

I’d like to take this opportunity to ponder the meaning of marriage. Now I know I made a joke about these two loving each other so much they’ve decided to get the government involved, but we know that’s not all marriage is. It’s a tradition, yes, but it’s so much more. It might take a lot of work and compromise, but at the end of the day, this is about choosing your person until the end of this thing we call life. So no matter how many dishes they leave in the sink, no matter how horrible their cooking is, no matter how bad their mood might be on occasion—you’ve got someone who chooses to stick with you through it all. And that’s what marriage is about!”

Including readings in your ceremony is optional, but some couples opt to personalize their ceremony with a particular reading, quote, or story. Some humorous wedding ceremonies might involve a close friend or family member sharing a lighthearted account of the couple’s relationship, with some light humor to get a laugh out of the crowd. The wedding ceremony officiant script can even include fun elements,

Officiant: “As our reading today, [PARTNER A/B} has asked [his, her] [friend/cousin/other family member] to share a personal story of their relationship in honor of their marriage today.”

At this point, couples may exchange vows if they’ve chosen to write them. Here’s an example of wedding vows with a little humor:

Officiant to Partner A: “Now, it’s time to put a ring on it! [PARTNER A], repeat after me: ‘I give you this ring as a symbol that I will love and cherish you, and that I’ll try to keep my mouth shut when it’s your turn to choose the movie we watch.’”

[Partner A repeats.]

Officiant to Partner B: “[PARTNER B], repeat after me: ‘I give you this ring as a symbol that I will love and cherish you, and that I’ll consider making you dinner every once in a while.’”

[Partner B repeats.]

Officiant to Partner A: “Do you, [PARTNER A], take [PARTNER B] to be your lawfully wedded [husband, wife, partner], to love and cherish them for better or for worse, in sickness and in health, and reap as many tax benefits as you can for as long as you both shall live?”

Partner A: “I do.”

Officiant to Partner B: “Do you, [PARTNER B], take [PARTNER A] to be your lawfully wedded [wife, husband, partner], to love and cherish them for better or for worse, in sickness and in health, and reap as many tax benefits as you can for as long as you both shall live?”

Partner B: “I do.”

Now, the officiant will pronounce the couple as legally wed:

Officiant: “What a romantic exchange. Now, I guess there’s only one thing left to do: By the power vested in me, I now pronounce you [husband and wife, husband and husband, wife and wife]! Now kiss!”

Officiant to all: “That’s a wrap on the formal proceedings of today. [PARTNER A] and [PARTNER B] will greet you in [LOCATION] at [TIME]. We thank you for coming—now get out of here and go celebrate!”

While traditional gender roles often make up the bulk of how many sample wedding ceremony scripts are written, this doesn’t have to be the case for a more inclusive ceremony. The following example script does away with gendered language and puts the focus on the love shared between the couple and what that means for them.

The officiant will begin by welcoming the reception. This is also when the wedding officiant script can include any specific announcements, like requesting guests to silence their phones.

Officiant: “Welcome friends, family, and loved ones! We’re gathered here today in celebration of (Partner A) and (Partner B) and to bear witness as they join their lives in marriage. On behalf of (Partner A) and (Partner B), it’s a true pleasure to have you here to celebrate this incredible moment.

Love is one of the greatest gifts life has to offer. Love offers hope, joy, comfort, and security, in good times and bad. Love is what spurs our personal growth and allows us to face life and all its challenges, with the unending support of the person we’ve chosen to commit our lives to. (Partner A) and (Partner B) stand before you today to share the love and happiness in their hearts as they take their relationship to a deeper level of commitment by making a passage into marriage.”

While totally optional, couples can choose to include a reading of their choice in their ceremony. This can be anything from a particular poem or section from a book to a special movie quote or personal story about the couple’s relationship. Couples might have the officiant perform the reading or have a loved one come up to share instead.

Officiant: “(Partner A) and (Partner B) have selected a reading from [SOURCE] that represents their unique journey and the commitment they’re making today.”

Vows exchange

Couples who have chosen to write their own wedding vows will recite them here. These could be in a question-and-answer format or long-form vows written beforehand (or a combination of both). Couples can also ask their officiant to step to the side during the vow readings—it helps make the moment more intimate!

Here’s an example of wedding vows for you to work from:

Officiant to couple: “Marriage is a lifelong commitment to love and care for each other to the best of your ability. Are you both ready to take this step together?”

Couple responds: “Yes!”

Officiant to couple: “Do you promise to care for each other, treat each other with respect and compassion, and to always move toward love in your efforts to support one another?”

Couple responds: “We do.”

Officiant to couple: “Do you promise to meet each challenge and triumph with integrity, gratitude, and patience, and to strive to learn and grow together for all of your days?”

Affirmation of family and friends

Officiant to reception: “Do you, the family and friends of (Partner A) and (Partner B), give your full support today and wish them a lifetime of happiness together?”

Reception responds: “We do.”

Expression of intent

Officiant: “In the presence and witness of the loved ones you have gathered here today, I now ask you to state your intentions.

(Partner A) and (Partner B), have you come here freely and without reservation to give yourselves to each other in the commitment of marriage?”

Couple responds: “Yes.”

Officiant: “Once more, will you love, honor, and cherish one another as partners for the rest of your lives?”

Officiant to reception: “(Partner A) and (Partner B), please repeat after me:

‘I give you this ring as a symbol of the vows we’ve made today. I pledge to you my love, respect, and commitment. With everything that I am, I honor you.’”

Officiant: “Now that you, (Partner A) and (Partner B), have promised to give yourselves fully to each other, to love each other through the vows you have made, and through the giving and receiving of these rings, it is my great pleasure by the power vested in me to now pronounce you married! You may now kiss!”

Closing/invitation to reception

Officiant to all: “Thank you all for joining in this joyous occasion for (Partner A) and (Partner B)! They now invite you to join them for a reception at [LOCATION]. Thank you all!”

This script has been reviewed by the ordained ministers at Universal Life Church Monastery .

As the name indicates, this script for weddings includes religious aspects, such as Bible readings and prayers. Feel free to personalize this idea to your liking and include more or fewer scriptural elements.

Processional

The processional is simply the beginning of the wedding ceremony, when guests are seated, followed by the entrance of the bridal party.

Officiant to reception: "Welcome, loved ones. We are gathered here today in the sight of God and these witnesses to join together [PARTNER A] and [PARTNER B] in holy matrimony.”

The declaration of intent is a crucial element of any wedding ceremony, and is legally required to show consent among both parties to be married.

Officiant to the couple: "[PARTNER A] and [PARTNER B], you have come together this day so that the Lord may seal and strengthen your love in the presence of this minister of his word and this community of family and friends and so, in the presence of this gathering, I ask you to state your intentions:

Have you both come here freely and without reservation to give yourselves to each other in marriage? If so, answer by saying 'I have.'"

[Couple responds in unison with ‘I have.’]

A reading from the Bible is a common component in many Christian wedding ceremonies. While choosing a passage from Corinthians isn’t required, it’s a popular choice for many.

Officiant to reception: “A reading from the Apostle Paul, 1 Corinthians 13:4-7: ‘Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.’

Let us pray for this couple as they make their marriage vows.

Father, as [PARTNER A] and [PARTNER B] pledge themselves to each other, help them and bless them that their love may be pure, and their vows may be true. Through Jesus Christ our Lord, amen."

Today’s wedding vows are often personalized according to whatever feels right to the couple. However, a traditional statement of vows is also common in Christian wedding ceremonies.

Couple to each other: “I, [NAME], take thee, [NAME], to be my wedded (husband, wife), to have and to hold from this day forward, for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish, till death do us part. This is my solemn vow.”

Officiant to Partner A: "[PARTNER A], please take the ring you have selected for [PARTNER B]. As you place it on his/her finger, repeat after me:

‘With this ring, I thee wed.’"

[Partner A repeats the phrase as they place the ring on Partner B’s finger]

Officiant to Partner B: "[PARTNER B], please take the ring you have selected for [PARTNER A]. As you place it on his/her finger, repeat after me:

[Partner B repeats the phrase as they place the ring on Partner A’s finger]

One distinction of a Christian wedding ceremony script is including a prayer of blessing over the union.

Officiant to the couple: "May Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior, always be at the center of the new lives you are now starting to build together, that you may know the ways of true love and kindness. May the Lord bless you both all the days of your lives and fill you with His joy. Amen."

Officiant to reception: “By the power vested in me by the state of [STATE], I now pronounce you [husband and wife, husband and husband, wife and wife]! You may kiss the bride!”

Officiant to all: “Thank you all for joining in this joyous occasion for [PARTNER A] and [PARTNER B]! They now invite you to join them for a reception at [LOCATION]. Thank you all!”

As with the Christian script, this version includes religious elements. However, Catholic ceremonies are greatly rooted in tradition and include formal aspects at their core. The officiant is typically a priest, and these services traditionally take place in the church.

Entrance rite

As the entrance song is played, the assembly stands while the priest, ministers, and servers take their places, followed by the wedding party. The rest of this part of the processional can take two forms.

In the first form, the vested priests and servers greet the bridal party at the church door, and then all enter as is customary for Mass. In the second form, the priest and servers wait in the sanctuary area prepared for the couple to greet them when they arrive. In both forms, the priest always leads the procession.

Once everyone is in place and the music has ended, the priest leads the sign of the cross, or the traditional beginning of Christian prayer, before greeting the assembly.

Priest: “In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the holy spirit.”

All respond: “Amen.”

Priest: “Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.”

Collect (opening prayer)

The priest invites the assembly to pray. After he prays over the couple, the assembly is seated for the Liturgy of the Word.

Priest: “Be attentive to our prayers, O Lord, and in your kindness uphold what you have established for the increase of the human race, so that the union you have created may be kept safe by your assistance. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever.”

Liturgy of the word

The liturgy of the word outside of mass usually includes three readings proclaimed by the priest, one from the Old Testament, one from the New Testament aside from the Gospel, and one from the Gospel. At the conclusion of each reading, the lector will say, "The Word of the Lord," and the assembly will respond, "Thanks be to God."

Priest: “A reading from the book of Genesis 1:26-28:

Then God said: ‘Let us make man in our image, after our likeness. Let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, the birds of the air, and the cattle, and over all the wild animals and all the creatures that crawl on the ground.” God created man in his image; in the image of God he created him; male and female, he created them. God blessed them, saying: “Be fertile and multiply; fill the earth and subdue it. Have dominion over the fish of the sea, the birds of the air, and all the living things that move on the earth.” God looked at everything he had made, and he found it very good. The word of the Lord.’

Assembly responds: “Thanks be to God.”

Priest: “A reading from the New Testament, 1 John 4:7-12:

Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God. Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love. This is how God showed his love among us: He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through him. This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins. Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another. No one has ever seen God; but if we love one another, God lives in us and his love is made complete in us.

The word of the Lord.”

All respond: “Thanks be to God.”

Priest: “A reading from the Gospel, Matthew 5:13-16:

You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot. You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”

All respond: “Praise to you, Lord Jesus Christ.”

Assembly is seated.

The assembly is seated while the priest (or deacon) offers a homily taken from the Scripture readings. The priest uses this text to discuss the sacredness of Christian marriage, the dignity of conjugal love, the grace of the sacrament, and the responsibilities of married people.

Priest: "John 3:30 says ‘He must increase, but I must decrease.’

Those simple, direct words of St. John the Baptist, whose feast we celebrate today, summarize the life of the Christian disciple. In all things, we want Jesus to increase and our own will, our own desires, our own attachments, to decrease. In my heart, in my prayer, in my family, in my parish, in my work, in my study, in my leisure, in my entertainment - may the Lord Jesus increase!"

Celebration of matrimony

All stand, and the couple comes to the altar, flanked by their witnesses. The priest will address the couple with a celebration of matrimony:

Priest: “Dearly beloved, you have come together into the house of the church so that in the presence of the church’s minister and the community, your intention to enter into marriage may be strengthened by the Lord with a sacred seal.”

If both parties are Christian: “Christ abundantly blesses the love that binds you. Through a special sacrament, he enriches and strengthens those he has already consecrated by holy baptism, that you may be enriched with his blessing, so that you may have the strength to be faithful to each other forever, and assume all the responsibilities of married life. And so, in the presence of the church, I ask you to state your intentions.”

Address and statement of intentions

All stand, including the couple and witnesses, while the priest asks the couple some questions to state their intentions about their freedom of choice, fidelity to each other, and the acceptance and upbringing of children (if necessary).

Priest to couple: “[PARTNER A] and [PARTNER B], have you come here to enter into marriage without coercion, freely and wholeheartedly?”

Couple in unison: “I have.”

Priest to couple: “Are you prepared, as you follow the path of marriage, to love and honor each other for as long as you both shall live?”

Couple in unison: “I am.”

Exchange of consent

The couple will declare their consent to be married by stating their vows. If you’re writing your own vows, they must be prepared with the wedding script beforehand.

Partner A: “I, [NAME], take you, [NAME], to be my [wife, husband]. I promise to be faithful to you, in good times and in bad, in sickness and in health, to love you and to honor you all the days of my life.”

Partner B: “I, [NAME], take you, [NAME], to be my [husband, wife]. I promise to be faithful to you, in good times and in bad, in sickness and in health, to love you and to honor you all the days of my life.”

Blessing and giving of rings

Priest: “Bless, O Lord, these rings which we bless in your name. so that those who wear them may remain entirely faithful to each other, abide in peace and in your will, and live always in mutual charity. Through Christ our Lord.”

Assembly responds: “Amen.”

The priest now sprinkles the wedding rings with holy water before handing them to each partner.

Partner A: “[NAME], receive this ring as a sign of my love and fidelity. In the name of the father, and the son, and the holy spirit.”

[Partner A places the ring on Partner B’s finger]

Partner B: “[NAME], receive this ring as a sign of my love and fidelity. In the name of the father, and the son, and the holy spirit.”

[Partner B places the ring on Partner A’s finger]

The priest and the assembly sing or pray the Lord’s Prayer in unison.

Nuptial blessing

The couple kneels at the altar, where the priest faces them and prays over them.

Priest: “Now let us humbly invoke God’s blessing upon this bride and groom, that in his kindness he may favor with his help those on whom he has bestowed the Sacrament of Matrimony.”

The priest performs communion and distributes the body and blood of Christ to Catholics in the assembly, starting with the newly married couple. An appropriate song is usually sung as the assembly proceeds to the altar for communion.

Priest to reception: “By the power vested in me by the state of [STATE], I now pronounce you [husband and wife, husband and husband, wife and wife]! You may now kiss!”

Priest to assembly: “Go in peace to glorify the Lord with your life.”

Recessional

At the closing of the ceremony, the couple, bridal party, ministers, and the priest will proceed out of the church, often accompanied by music.

A Jewish wedding also has traditional elements, many of which are centuries old. Talk to your officiant (often a rabbi) about making changes and personalizing this wedding ceremony outline to fit your needs without breaking Jewish tradition.

Signing of the Ketubah

The Ketubah is an ancient marriage contract that documents the commitment between the couple. Typically, the groom signs the contract with the rabbi and two male Jewish witnesses present, along with the bride, in private before the main ceremony begins.

Officiant: “Please gather around for this ‘ceremony before the ceremony’, the signing of the Ketubah. Bride and groom, in this quiet moment before your public wedding ceremony begins, those closest to you are here to witness the signing of the important documents that make this day a remarkable moment for you both. As you become legally husband and wife, we delight in your happiness, and we wish you only good things to come as you face life together. This beautiful Ketubah has these words for you today, and I ask the groom’s witness [NAME] to read the words.”

[Groom’s witness reads the Ketubah.]

Officiant: “I ask you both to sign the Ketubah as the first ceremonial act of your wedding day celebration.”

[Couple signs the Ketubah.]

Officiant: “Now I ask your parents to sign the Ketubah.”

[Couple’s parents sign the Ketubah.]

Officiant: “And now I sign it as well.”

[Officiant signs the Ketubah.]

The ceremony begins once guests are seated.

Officiant to reception: “This is the day that [PARTNER A] and [PARTNER B] marry the person they love the most in the world…the one they will laugh with, live for, and love for the rest of their lives. So it is only fitting that those closest to them are here to witness this special day. Your presence at this wedding celebration is a reminder to [PARTNER A] and [PARTNER B] of how lucky they are to have you in support of their union.”

The chuppah

The chuppah is a canopy structure symbolizing the home the couple will build together following their marriage. Modern couples use the chuppah as an opportunity to customize their wedding and use it as a reflection of their unique taste and style.

Officiant: “The chuppah under which [PARTNER A] and [PARTNER B] stand is the traditional structure used in a Jewish wedding ceremony. What you see in the setting for this ceremony tells you so much about the path that brings [PARTNER A] and [PARTNER B] to be married. Today, their families are joined together, and the combined richness of their two heritages will be the foundation for their life together.

As the open sides of a chuppah symbolize hospitality, the chuppah in this ceremony invites you all to feel welcome today, for this is the day of all days that [PARTNER A] and [PARTNER B] want to share with you.”

After the couple enters the chuppah, the bride/groom circles the bride/groom seven times, symbolizing building a wall of love around the relationship. It also represents the seven days of creation.

Declaration of support

Officiant to the couple: “A marriage is a lifelong adventure. Today’s ceremony, while important, is only the beginning of that journey. Marriage is a challenge that will require [PARTNER A] and [PARTNER B] to have love and understanding. You must dedicate yourselves to each other, listen to each other, and be honest with each other. You will need laughter and forgiveness, tenderness and empathy.”

Sand ceremony

Officiant to the couple: “We will now begin the sand ceremony. Through it, [PARTNER A] and [PARTNER B] will symbolize the permanence of the commitment of their marital relationship. They will each pour separate containers of sand into one vessel.

Each of these grains represents a unique aspect of themselves. Their experiences, outlooks, feelings, and the events that shaped them into the person that stands before you. As these grains of sand intermingle in one shared vessel, they symbolize the merging of two individual lives into an inseparable pair.

[PARTNER A] and [PARTNER B], just as these grains of sand can never again be separated, so too will you be forever joined.”

Officiant to Partner A: "Do you, [PARTNER A], take this [woman, man] to be your lawfully wedded [wife, husband], to have and to hold, in sickness and in health, in good times and woe, for richer or poorer, keeping yourself unto [her, him] for as long as you both shall live? If so, answer 'I do.'"

Officiant to Partner B: "Do you, [PARTNER B], take this [man, woman] to be your lawfully wedded [husband, wife], to have and to hold, in sickness and in health, in good times and woe, for richer or poorer, keeping yourself unto [him, her] for as long as you both shall live? If so, answer 'I do.'"

Officiant to Partner A: "[PARTNER A], as a token of your intentions, please place this ring upon [PARTNER B]’s finger and repeat after me:

‘[PARTNER B], I give you this ring as a symbol of my love and faithfulness.’"

[Partner A repeats the words while placing the ring on Partner B’s finger.]

Officiant to Partner B: "[PARTNER B], as a token of your intentions, please place this ring upon [PARTNER A]’s finger and repeat after me:

‘[PARTNER A], I give you this ring as a symbol of my love and faithfulness.’"

[Partner B repeats the words while placing the ring on Partner A’s finger.]

Blessing of the hands

Officiant to the couple: "[PARTNER A] and [PARTNER B], please join hands. Look at these hands, for they are of your closest friend. They are strong and full of love. As you join hands today, you make the promise to love each other today, tomorrow, and forever.

Your future will be built by these hands. As the years pass, these hands will love you and cherish you. The slightest touch from these hands will give you comfort. These are the hands that will hold your children. These are the hands that will keep your family as one. When you have tears of sorrow or tears of joy, they will be wiped away by these hands."

The Seven Blessings

The Seven Blessings are now recited.

• Blessing over the wine as a symbol of joy
• Blessing praising God to whom all creation proclaims praise
• Blessing praising God as creator of humanity
• Blessing praising God who created humanity in the divine image
• Prayer of hope
• Prayer for the happiness of the couple
• Prayer for the individual hope for happiness for the couple combined with prayer for joy in the messianic future

Following the Seven Blessings, the couple shares a cup of wine.

Breaking the glass

The ceremony is concluded by the tradition of the groom (or bride) stomping on glass and shattering it. This signals the audience to cheer, dance, and shout “Mazal tov!”

After the ceremony concludes, the final ritual takes place in the yichud or “tent of seclusion.” This is considered to be one of the most private and intimate parts of the wedding day, where the newlyweds can savor their first moments alone before the celebration continues.

There are many denominations within the Protestant faith, and the standard ceremony for each may vary. Those with a more liberal interpretation of the wedding ceremony might be open to including more nontraditional elements in the wedding script. The script below is adapted from the Book of Common Prayer, and is just one of many possible variations of a Protestant wedding ceremony.

Introductory prayer

The officiant, known as the celebrant, faces the couple and congregation and offers an introduction:

Officiant: “Dearly beloved, we have come together in the presence of God to witness and bless the joining together of this couple in holy matrimony. The bond and covenant of marriage was established by God in creation, and our Lord Jesus Christ adorned this manner of life by His presence and first miracle at the wedding at Cana in Galilee. It signifies to us the mystery of the union between Christ and His church, and holy Scripture commends it to be honored among all people.

The union of marriage is intended by God for their mutual joy, for the help and comfort given each other in prosperity and adversity, and, when it is God’s will, for the procreation of children and their nurture in the knowledge and love of the Lord. Therefore, marriage is not to be entered into unadvisedly or lightly, but reverently, deliberately, and in accordance with the purposes for which it was instituted by God.”

The interrogation

Celebrant to the congregation: “Into this union [PARTNER A] and [PARTNER B] now come to be joined. If any of you can show just cause why they may not be lawfully wed, speak now, or else forever hold your peace.”

Celebrant to the couple: “I charge you both, here in the presence of God and the witness of this company, that if either of you know any reason why you may not be married lawfully and in accordance with God's word, do now confess it.”

Celebrant to Partner A: “[PARTNER A], will you have this [woman, man] to be your [wife, husband], to live together with [her, him] in the covenant of marriage? Will you love [her, him], comfort [her, him], honor and keep [her, him], in sickness and in health, and, forsaking all others, be faithful unto [her, him] as long as you both shall live?”

Partner A: “I will.”

Celebrant to Partner B: “[PARTNER B], will you have this [man, woman] to be your [husband, wife], to live together with [him/her] in the covenant of marriage? Will you love [him/her], comfort [him/her], honor and keep [him/her], in sickness and in health, and, forsaking all others, be faithful unto [him/her] as long as you both shall live?”

Partner B: “I will.”

Celebrant to the congregation: “Will all of you witnessing these promises do all in your power to uphold these two persons in their marriage?”

Congregation responds: “We will.”

The presentation

The presentation represents the traditional “giving away” of the bride, typically followed by a hymn. Modern Protestants may opt for a poem, romantic reading, or song of their choice in place of a hymn.

Celebrant: “Who gives [PARTNER A] to be married to [PARTNER B]?”

Partner A or B’s father: “[He, she] gives [himself, herself], with the blessing of [his, her] mother and father.”

Some modern Protestants might choose to write their own wedding vows, but the traditional vows most often recited are as follows:

Partner A to Partner B: “In the name of God, I, [NAME], take you, [NAME], to be my [wife, husband], to have and to hold from this day forward, for better or for worse, for richer and for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish, until death do we part. This is my solemn vow.”

Partner B to Partner A: “In the name of God, I, [NAME], take you, [NAME], to be my [husband, wife], to have and to hold from this day forward, for better or for worse, for richer and for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish, until death do we part. This is my solemn vow.”

The blessing and exchange of rings

The celebrant offers a blessing on the rings: “Bless, O Lord, these rings as a symbol of the vows by which this couple have bound themselves to each other, through Jesus Christ our Lord.”

Congregation responds: “Amen.”

Partner A and Partner B place the rings on each other’s fingers and say: “I give you this ring as a symbol of my love, and with all that I am, and all that I have, I honor you, in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.”

The celebrant joins the right hands of both partners and says: “Now that [NAME] and [NAME] have given themselves to each other by solemn vows, with the joining of hands and the giving and receiving of rings, I pronounce them [husband and wife, husband and husband, wife and wife] in the name of the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Those who God has joined together, let no man put asunder.”

Concluding prayers

The celebrant asks the congregation to stand and repeat the Lord’s Prayer:

All: “Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil, for thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen.”

In traditional Protestant weddings, the celebrant will direct the couple to kneel while further blessings and songs are offered. The celebrant then addresses the kneeling couple and recites another blessing:

Celebrant: “May God bless you and keep you; may the Lord mercifully with his favor look upon you, filling you with all spiritual benediction and grace; that you may faithfully live together in this life, and in the age to come have life everlasting. Amen.”

Celebrant to the congregation: “The peace of the Lord be with you always.”

All respond: “And also with you.”

Finally, the couple stands to face each other while the celebrant offers a final line to end the ceremony:

Celebrant: “[NAME] and [NAME], having witnessed your vows of love to one another, it is my joy to present you to all gathered here as [husband and wife, husband and husband, wife and wife]. You may now kiss!”

While writing your wedding ceremony script might feel daunting, these tips can help take the pressure off and provide some much-needed guidance on how to bring your ceremony vision to life—whatever that means to you.

1. Talk with your partner

Writing your script is an opportunity to reflect on the significance of your relationship before you enter into marriage. Talking with your partner about your ideas and desires for your wedding ceremony is an important first step—it helps you get aligned on a mutual vision and ensures the ceremony is a reflection of what matters most to you as a couple.

2. Work with your officiant

Your officiant can provide practical advice on how to get started crafting your ceremony script, and some might even have an outline for you to work from. Since your officiant has most likely conducted their fair share of wedding ceremonies, they’re an excellent resource for any questions you might have.

3. Don’t procrastinate

While you certainly don’t need to memorize your wedding ceremony script, don't put it off until the last minute—especially if you plan on writing your own vows . Procrastinating until the week of your wedding can add a ton of pressure to an already hectic time, so do yourself a favor and get started early!

4. Consider the length of your script

While your wedding ceremony script should be whatever you want it to be, being mindful of time and length is something your guests will appreciate. Anything longer than 30 minutes might leave guests checking their watches! Once you’ve written a draft and have the chance to rehearse it, you’ll find that you can pack plenty of meaning and resonance in less than 15 minutes.

Now that you’ve read some ceremony script examples, you can confidently start writing your own! No matter what you decide to include, what matters most is that the words shared are from the heart and represent what your marriage means to you. Here’s an ultra-simple outline to help you start formulating your own wedding script for officiants to use.

• Officiant’s welcome
• Short sermon to the congregation
• Charge to the couple
• Declaration of the intent to marry
• Pronouncement of marriage
• Conclusion and invitation to reception

Find answers to any lingering wedding ceremony script questions below.

How do I personalize my wedding ceremony script?

Start by nailing down the overall format of your script, including the order of the ceremony and the role of the officiant. Then weave in personal elements significant to you and your partner, such as customizing your vows, a special unity ceremony, or a reading that holds meaning. Remember, there’s no rule that says you have to follow a traditional wedding ceremony script.

How do I start a wedding ceremony script?

Most wedding ceremony outlines start with the wedding officiant welcoming guests and thanking them for joining in the wedding day. Religious ceremonies may start with a reading from the Bible or whatever is customary for different faiths. That said, your ceremony script can begin however you like, whether that’s opening with a meaningful quote, poem, or endearing story about you and your partner.

Where can I find wedding ceremony scripts?

The best place to find both religious and non religious wedding ceremony scripts is online. You can find downloadable pre-written scripts by searching for a specific religious denomination or the mood you want your ceremony to take. For extra inspiration, search for wedding ceremony videos on YouTube to get a feel for what different scripts sound like during a real ceremony.

How long should the officiant speak at the wedding?

Your officiant wedding script should get straight to the point while adding personality. Talk to your celebrant about the parts that are most important to you, such as giving a blessing to the couple . However, if the sermon isn’t essential to you, feel free to shorten it. The last thing you want to do is bore your guests, so concise yet interesting is best.

Although there is a bit of protocol surrounding the order of service, there is a lot of freedom within with most scripts. If you’re particularly religious, you may want to chat with your priest, rabbi, or pastor about how to best adapt your ceremony. However, if you’re not planning on a religious ceremony, chat with your partner about expectations and how to go from expected to highly personal.

As you finish off your wedding planning, Zola is here to help every step of the way. Whether designing custom wedding invitations or putting the final touches on your wedding registry , Zola has all the expert advice you’ll need to make your wedding vision come to life.

Even more answers

• A Guide to Wedding Vows: How to Write Your Own
• What Is the Appropriate Age of a Flower Girl?
• April Wedding? Here’s Everything You Need to Know
• Wedding Reception Timeline Ideas + Template
• 10 of the Best Ways to Thank Wedding Vendors
• Garter Toss Alternatives
• 17 Winter Wedding Favors to Share the Holiday Joy!
• 37 Wedding Blessings for Every Culture [Free Printables]
• DIY Guest Book Templates
• Groomsmen Etiquette 101: A Beginner's Guide
• 6 Ways to Include Your Kids in Your Wedding
• Wedding Favor Alternatives

Find even more wedding ideas, inspo, tips, and tricks

We’ve got wedding planning advice on everything from save the dates to wedding cakes.

Getting engaged

Wedding planning 101.

• Real weddings
• Creating a budget
• Wedding websites
• Wedding planning tools
• Wedding planning questions
• Wedding decorations
• Wedding day

Wedding trends

• First Look Reports

Venues & vendors

• Wedding venues
• Photos & video
• Food & catering
• Florists & flowers
• Bands, DJs & music
• Cakes & desserts
• Bar & beverages

Invites & paper

• Save the dates
• Invitations
• Day-of paper

Registry & gifts

• Wedding registry basics
• Wedding gifts

Parties & events

• Engagement party
• Wedding shower
• Bachelorette party
• Bachelor party

Fashion & beauty

• Wedding Hair & makeup
• Wedding dresses
• Shoes & accessories
• Wedding attire
• Honeymoon planning
• Honeymoon destinations

Relationship advice

• Newly engaged couples
• Newlywed couples
• Anniversaries
• News & culture

Zola behind the scenes

• Sweepstakes
• Inside Zola

10 Inspiring Wedding Officiant Speech Ideas and Templates for a Memorable Ceremony

Need assistance with your wedding speech? Discover the first AI-powered wedding speech generator! Craft the perfect speech for your special day with ease. Simply provide your email here and say, 'I want to use the AI-generated wedding speech maker.' Let's make your moment unforgettable

Standing before a couple on their wedding day can be as nerve-wracking as it is exciting. A well-crafted officiant speech sets the tone for a memorable celebration of love . Our blog provides keys to unlocking heartfelt and inspiring words that will resonate long after the couple says "I do." Discover templates, anecdotes, and advice to transform public speaking jitters into a performance that warms hearts.

Get ready to inspire love!

Key Takeaways

• Prepare and practice your speech to speak with confidence.
• Gather details about the couple's story for a personal touch.
• Keep your officiant speech short and sincere .
• Use poems, quotes, or anecdotes to make your message stand out.
• Avoid long, formal speeches and inside jokes that exclude guests .

How to Prepare for a Wedding Officiant Speech

Prepare for a wedding officiant speech by thinking of the ceremony as a theater play, gathering background information on the couple, deciding on the tone and style of your speech, and considering incorporating personal stories or quotes.

These steps will help you create a heartfelt and memorable wedding officiant speech.

Think of the ceremony as a theater play

Treat the wedding ceremony like a stage performance . Each word you speak is part of the script that guides the couple into their new life together. As an officiant, you play a lead role in creating a memorable scene.

Everyone's eyes will be on you as you tell the love story and unite two people in marriage.

Use clear voice and movements to keep your audience engaged, just like actors do. Make sure your speech has rhythm and emotion to touch the hearts of all watching. Deliver each line with confidence to make this beautiful day unforgettable for everyone involved, especially the bride and groom.

Gather background information on the couple

Before writing a wedding officiant speech , gather important information about the couple. Understand their love story, shared experiences , and what makes their relationship special .

Learn about their values, beliefs, and what they cherish in each other . Keywords: Wedding officiant speech ideas, Wedding ceremony script, Vows.

Decide on the tone and style of your speech

Choose the tone and style that best suits the couple and the wedding. Consider whether a traditional, humorous, or sentimental approach would be most fitting. Remember to gather background information on the couple to tailor your speech accordingly.

Incorporate personal stories or quotes for a heartfelt touch. Keep in mind that there are numerous types of wedding officiant speeches, including nonreligious options , so feel free to explore various styles before making your decision.

Using emotional, inspiring, or lighthearted elements can help make your speech memorable and impactful. Whether you opt for a funny wedding minister speech or a touching same-sex wedding officiant script, ensure it aligns with the overall atmosphere of the ceremony.

Consider incorporating personal stories or quotes

Incorporate personal stories or quotes to add a heartfelt touch to the wedding officiant speech. Share a memorable moment with the couple or use a meaningful quote that reflects their relationship, enhancing the emotional impact of the speech.

Infuse your wedding officiant speech with personal anecdotes and inspirational quotes , connecting on an emotional level while celebrating the special bond between the couple. This adds warmth and sincerity to your words, making it a truly unforgettable moment for everyone involved.

Sample Wedding Officiant Speech Templates

From traditional wedding officiant speeches to funny and same-sex wedding scripts, we've got you covered with a variety of speech templates that will help make the ceremony memorable.

Read on for inspiration and ideas to personalize your wedding officiant speech.

Traditional wedding officiant speech

Consider incorporating religious or cultural traditions that are important to the couple. Share inspiring words about love and commitment based on timeless values . It's essential to respectfully honor the sanctity of marriage while delivering a heartfelt, memorable message.

Endeavor to make the ceremony meaningful and inclusive for all guests. Incorporating classic customs such as exchanging of rings, vows, or blessings can add depth and significance to the occasion.

Keep in mind that a traditional wedding officiant speech should convey warmth, reverence, and celebrate the unifying bond of love between the couple.

Wedding officiant speech for a friend's wedding

Crafting a wedding officiant speech for a friend's wedding requires thoughtfulness and personal touches . Incorporating anecdotes about the couple can help create an emotional connection with the audience.

Sharing heartfelt wishes and emphasizing the strength of their bond adds depth to the speech. Choosing a warm and celebratory tone is essential in creating an engaging and memorable experience for both the couple and their guests.

The templates provided offer various styles, from traditional to light-hearted, ensuring that your wedding officiant speech resonates with your friend's special day. Embracing the uniqueness of your friendship while highlighting the couple's love story will make for an impactful and unforgettable ceremony script.

Same-sex wedding officiant script and speech

Crafting a meaningful same-sex wedding officiant script and speech involves celebrating love without any restrictions . Include the couple's journey, share empowering quotes or poems , embrace their unique bond in the wedding ceremony script.

Incorporate personal touches to reflect their joyous union in the same-sex wedding officiant speech samples provided, making it a heartfelt and memorable celebration of love for all involved.

Funny wedding minister speech

Crafting a funny wedding minister speech can add a touch of humor to the ceremony, making it memorable for everyone. Incorporating light-hearted anecdotes about the couple can bring laughter and joy to the occasion.

Using wit and good-natured humor in the speech can help ease any tension and create a lighthearted atmosphere . It's an opportunity to celebrate love with laughter, ensuring an unforgettable moment for the couple and their guests.

By infusing amusing stories or playful remarks into your funny wedding minister speech, you can bring warmth and levity to the ceremony, creating cherished memories for all involved.

Tips for an Inspiring Wedding Officiant Speech

Tell the couple's love story, read a meaningful poem or excerpt, share a personal message on commitment, and offer words of advice and well wishes for a memorable ceremony.

Tell the couple's love story

Share the couple's unique love story with heartfelt details , adding a personal touch to the wedding officiant speech. Include memorable moments and experiences that highlight their journey together, underscoring their bond and commitment.

Involve specific anecdotes that resonate with both the couple and the audience, making it an integral part of the memorable ceremony.

Crafting a meaningful narrative around the couple's love story can add depth and emotional resonance to your wedding officiant speech, creating a touching and memorable experience for all in attendance.

Read a meaningful poem or excerpt

Incorporate the couple's love story into your officiant speech. Enhance it with a meaningful poem or excerpt that resonates with their journey. Select a passage from literature or a personalized message to emphasize commitment and love , adding depth to the ceremony script.

Engage the audience by sharing an emotional yet concise reading , reinforcing well wishes for the couple's future. A thoughtfully chosen poem or excerpt can become a poignant centerpiece in your wedding officiant speech, leaving a lasting impact on everyone present at the ceremony.

Share a personal message on commitment

Craft your personal message on commitment by using the couple's love story and experiences to illustrate the significance of dedication in marriage. Incorporate meaningful quotes, anecdotes or shared memories to emphasize the depth of commitment required for a lasting union.

Encourage them with words of support and understanding as they embark on this lifelong journey together, reinforcing that commitment is the cornerstone of a strong and enduring marriage .

This personal message on commitment can be an essential part of your wedding officiant speech, providing a heartfelt touch that resonates with the couple and enriches their special day.

Offer words of advice and well wishes

In offering words of advice and well wishes, remember to personalize your speech to reflect the couple's unique journey. Use their love story as inspiration, and consider including a meaningful poem or excerpt to add depth to your message of commitment.

Keep your speech concise and heartfelt , avoiding overly formal tones. Lastly, practice beforehand to ensure you deliver a memorable and touching wedding officiant speech that celebrates the couple's special day.

Remember not to make the speech too long or bring up inside jokes or embarrassing stories; instead, focus on expressing genuine well wishes for the future of the newlyweds based on their individual love story .

The Dos and Don'ts of Wedding Officiant Speeches

Keep it concise and heartfelt, preparing and practicing beforehand. Avoid bringing up inside jokes or embarrassing stories, making the speech too long or overly formal.

Do: Prepare and practice beforehand

Prepare and practice your wedding officiant speech before the ceremony to ensure confidence and fluency. Familiarize yourself with the couple's background and consider their preferences for tone and style.

Rehearse the speech to become comfortable with its delivery, ensuring it comes across as heartfelt and sincere.

Engage in thorough preparations well ahead of time to craft a memorable wedding officiant speech that resonates with the couple and guests. Practice speaking aloud to gauge timing, flow, and emotional resonance while communicating the message effectively.

Do: Keep it concise and heartfelt

When crafting your wedding officiant speech, prioritize brevity and sincerity to keep the audience engaged. Share genuine emotions and concise well-wishes for the couple's future using heartfelt language .

Remember to avoid long tangents or overly formal language, as simplicity and authenticity will resonate with the audience.

Incorporate personal touches in your speech by including meaningful anecdotes or quotes that are relevant to the couple, ensuring that every word reflects your sincere feelings. By maintaining a heartfelt and succinct tone throughout your speech, you can leave a lasting impression on the couple and their guests while conveying your genuine support for their union.

Don't: Bring up inside jokes or embarrassing stories

Avoid referencing private jokes or embarrassing moments in your speech to maintain a respectful and inclusive atmosphere during the ceremony. Keep the focus on heartwarming and universal anecdotes that celebrate the couple's love and commitment .

This will ensure that everyone feels included and uplifted by your words, creating a memorable experience for all involved.

Don't: Make it too long or overly formal

Keep your wedding officiant speech concise and heartfelt . Avoid making it overly formal or extending it for too long. Remember to focus on the couple's love story and offer genuine well wishes and advice.

Avoid making your wedding officiant speech unnecessarily lengthy or excessively rigid in formality . Keep the tone warm, personal, and keep your words brief yet meaningful. Consider incorporating a touch of humor to engage the audience while maintaining sincerity throughout your speech.

In conclusion, crafting a memorable wedding officiant speech is within reach. With diverse templates and helpful tips provided in this article, writing an inspiring wedding ceremony script becomes achievable for anyone.

The practical ideas and strategies outlined here ensure that creating a meaningful and heartfelt speech is both simple and effective. How will you weave these insights into your own unique wedding officiant speech? Consider the impact of infusing personal stories, well-chosen quotes, or even touching poetry into the ceremony.

This approach promises to elevate the significance of the occasion while resonating with all who attend. As you embark on this journey to create an exceptional wedding officiant speech, remember - every thoughtful word has the power to etch indelible memories in the hearts of all those present.

Related Related articles

Building stronger marriages, one block at a time.

Can’t Be Evil: Trust is Built-In, not Just Promised.

Made with   from the country of love and freedom 🇫🇷

THIS ORIGINAL MARRIAGE CERTIFICATE CONFIRMS   THAT ON THE 17TH DAY OF NOVEMBER 2022

WERE UNITED IN MARRIAGE WITH BLOCKCHAIN SBT TOKEN

PARTNER 1: 0x164a9D4d6Bf28C5249886645e4634Ca14332f7d3

PARTNER 2: 0x6f6f98FF8cC2591C4Ca39935aD6f0bD9aFf7909a

TOKEN: 0x75022C613feC62DF9680611230F0b0bcdcC23f4B/ 524

• Anniversaries
• Baby Showers
• Cards and Stationery
• Father's Day

Photo Books

Wedding invitations, wedding officiant speech ideas for a friend’s wedding + templates.

Written by  Shutterfly Community Last Updated: Jul 14, 2023

Short And Sweet Wedding Ceremony Template

Playful and humorous wedding ceremony template, how to prepare.

• Meet with the couple beforehand to get an idea of what they expect or wish to see at their ceremony. Be sure to discuss the length, tone and order of your speech. Whether they prefer a short ceremony, a secular officiant script or want to add their own creative spin, you’ll be prepared to provide that for them.
• Start writing your speech as early as possible and ask the couple for feedback. It’s always best to have a third party review your speech for any errors.
• Ask the couple for any rules they wish to implement during the ceremony. They may want to ask guests to silence their phones or refrain from taking too many photos.
• Establish the order of the ceremony with the couple. Some couples opt to sign legal documents at the ceremony in front of their friends and family, while others prefer to sign them in private, either before or after the ceremony. Make sure you know how they wish to proceed with this component of their wedding.
• Confirm that the marriage license is valid. States have different laws regarding the window of time a license is valid and can be signed.
• Be prepared for how and when to submit legal documents. Once the license has been verified, complete all relevant fields. On their wedding day, make sure all required parties have signed including yourself, the couple and witnesses.
• Be aware of any filing deadlines in your state and return the license to its issuance office appropriately. In many states, the couple can return the marriage license themselves.

From An Acquaintance

Dos and Don’ts

• Do include a short and sweet anecdote about their love story. If you know how they met or got engaged, weave it into the speech to make it unique to the couple.
• Don’t get off topic. Avoid going on a tangent by keeping your script short and to the point.
• Do practice your speech and the names of important family members. Depending on the style of the wedding, some speeches thank or mention parents and grandparents of the couple so you want to make sure you’ve got their names down.
• Don’t go heavy on the jokes. Humor is great but when in doubt, keep it light. If you don’t know the family very well, some jokes may fall flat or not go over well with certain family members.
• Do type up a nice copy of your speech for the couple to keep afterward.

INTRODUCTION

Declaration of vows and commitment.

EXCHANGE OF RINGS

Shop Trending Categories

Graduation Announcements

Canvas Prints

Pronouncement, from a close friend or family member.

• Do include an endearing short story about the bride and/or groom. Use this story to add a little playfulness to your speech and pull at the heartstrings of friends and family.
• Don’t tell embarrassing stories about the bride or groom. Keep your stories light and focused on their love for one another.
• Do write a unique introduction. Since you know them personally, give yourself the freedom to stray from the traditional wedding ceremony introductions.
• Don’t go into too much detail. Although you know the couple well, they may have invited acquaintances and distant friends to the ceremony so keep your speech concise.
• Do type up a nice copy of your speech for the couple to keep afterward. A great wedding gift idea would be a framed print of their vows they can cherish for years to come.

Explore Categories

Graduation Invitations

Custom Photo Blankets

Save the Dates

Coffee Table Books

Written by Shutterfly Community | View all posts

★ Lifestyle Expert

Shutterfly Community is here to help capture and share life's most important moments. Discover thoughtful gifts, creative ideas and endless inspiration to create meaningful memories with family and friends.

Visit their Website . You can follow on Instagram and Pinterest .

• Certified Officiants

Officiate With This Perfect 10-Part Wedding Ceremony Script

So you need to write a wedding ceremony script and officiate a wedding . Instead of grabbing a canned pre-written sample from one of the 695,691 webpages out there, start with the 10-part wedding ceremony script outline I use every weekend instead.

A canned script is restrictive right out of the gate. It says, “I’m not really sure what I’m doing.” When we use a wedding ceremony script outline , it communicates to our couple that we’re structured and flexible. The process ends up being way more collaborative, and the finished script ends up being way more personal.

It’s the difference between “Hey, I bought this cake. Now eat it,” and “Hey, let’s make a cake!” Or… something.

Call up your couple, sit down with them for an hour over a drink, and brainstorm through this standard 10-part wedding ceremony script outline. Talk over the personal elements they might want to add. I’ve included some of the most common variations when relevant so you can discuss some options.

Here is the ceremony script outline I start with for 100% of the weddings I officiate.

1. Officiant Opening Remarks

The wedding officiant takes the front with Partner 1 and Partner 1’s party (down the aisle or from the side), and then the officiant makes some brief opening remarks.

• Welcome the guests.
• Announce whether photos are allowed.
• Ask guests to please turn phones to silent.
• “With that, let’s begin!” That’s the cue for the processional.

Variations:

• After the officiant and Partner 1 and Partner 1’s party enter, maybe some grandparents or other important family members enter and are seated in the front row before the officiant speaks.
• If Partner 1 and his/her party are part of the processional, the officiant can enter alone and make the opening remarks alone before anyone else enters.

2. The Processional

The music starts, and the wedding processional begins.

• Ring boys and/or flower girls and/or junior bridesmaids enter.
• Partner 2’s party enters in single file.
• The officiant asks guests, “Please stand for [Partner 2] as you’re able.”
• Partner 2 enters with parent(s), walk the aisle, and stop at the front row.
• Partner 1 steps forward to receive Partner 2 at front row.
• Partners and parents exchange handshakes, hugs, and kisses with parent(s).
• Partner 1 and Partner 2 stand in front of the officiant, facing each other holding hands.
• The officiant invites guests to be seated.
• Sometimes when Partner 2 and his/her escort arrive at the front row, the music fades and the officiant asks who gives Partner 2 away or who supports this union. Partner 2’s escort answers, “I do.”
• The ring boys and/or flower girls and/or junior bridesmaids can enter either first in the processional or just before Partner 2.

3. The Officiant’s Speech

What makes today so important in the life of this couple? It’s the promises they are making to always be there for each other (“vows”) in front of their closest friends and family. Here’s where the officiant says some things about that.

Some suggestions for what to say:

• share a story about the couple,
• read a poem or excerpt from a book that is meaningful to the couple,
• say something deep and philosophical about commitment and faithfulness,
• add some prayers or blessings from the couple’s religious tradition.

Be creative, respectful, and remember everyone there wants to have fun and be engaged! (Well, except the couple. They don’t wanna be engaged anymore. Heh. See what I did there…? Ohhhkay.)

We may be legally required to say a couple of things in the ceremony, and I like to add them to the end of the speech. A couple of those things might be:

• “If anyone knows of any legal reason why these two may not be married today, please speak now.”
• “[Partner 1] and [Partner 2], do you stand here today to give yourselves to each other in marriage.”

How do we know if we have to include these things in the ceremony? Google up on the laws in your state or province.

4. The Exchange of Vows

This is when the couple makes promises to each other. It’s kinda the biggest part of the day. No pressure.

Have no fear! See my two blog posts on the three ways to say wedding vows and my curated list of favourite wedding vows.

5. The Exchange of Rings

The Best Man is usually holding both rings. The officiant states that the couple will now exchange rings as a physical symbol of the promises they’re making today.

• The Best Man gives Partner 2’s ring to Partner 1.
• Partner 1 slides the ring on Partner 2’s finger.
• The officiant asks Partner 1 to repeat a few lines about giving this ring as a symbol and a reminder of his/her commitment (i.e. “I give you this ring/as a sign of my commitment to you.”).
• The Best Man gives Partner 1’s ring to the officiant. (So that he doesn’t have to cut across the front.)
• The officiant gives the ring to Partner 2.
• Partner 2 slides the ring on Partner 1’s finger.
• The officiant asks Partner 2 to repeat a few lines about giving this ring as a symbol and a reminder of his/her commitment (i.e. “I give you this ring/as a sign of my commitment to you.”).

6. Pronouncing the Couple as Married

“Well now, in front of your closest friends and family (and by the authority given be by the province/state of _________ ), I pronounce you husband and wife/married! [Partner 1], you may kiss [Partner 2]!”

• Some officiants put this element after the signing, but I like to put it before. That way, everyone has clapped and cheered and the signing is more relaxed with a party-like atmosphere, rather than stiffer and more ceremonial.

7. Signing the Legal Documents

Is this a legal ceremony? The officiant tells the guests that the couple is going to sign some papers and we will all be back in just a few minutes.

• Music starts.
• If the officiant is legalizing the ceremony (or someone else in attendance is doing that), head over to the table and sign with the required number of witnesses (usually the Best Man and Maid of Honour).
• When finished, everyone comes back to the centre as before and the officiant gets ready to make some closing remarks.
• Sometimes the couple opts to do this in private with the witnesses before or after the ceremony.
• Some countries do this before or after the ceremony, so you can leave this out if it’s not customary where you’re from.

8. Officiant Closing Remarks

This is mostly practical, next-steps stuff. The officiant tells the guests 1) what the couple is doing next, 2) what the guests need to do next, and 3) thank you for coming. For example:

• “[Partner 1] and [Partner 2] are heading out briefly for photos and will rejoin us shortly,”
• “In the meantime, you are all invited out to the terrace where drinks and refreshments will be served, with the reception to follow shortly after.”
• “On behalf of the happy couple, thanks for coming and have a wonderful evening!”

9. Presentation of the Couple

Here’s where the couple gets officially presented to everyone for the first time. This is what I typically say:

• “Finally, stand with me now; it is my distinct honour to present to you for the first time: _______ and _______ as husband and wife/married!” or an alternative (i.e. “Mr. and Mrs. _______!”).

10. The Recessional

• The recessional music starts immediately.
• The couple heads up the aisle.
• When the couple has cleared the aisle completely (no photo-bombing and traffic jams!), the two wedding parties follow in pairs, linking arms and starting with Best Man and Maid of Honour.
• The officiant goes to Partner 2’s family, offers congratulations, and motions them to exit up the aisle.
• The officiant goes to Partner 1’s family, offers congratulations, and motions them to exit up the aisle.
• Finally, the officiant stands and motions the subsequent second rows to exit.

There you have it!

Now, one thing to note here at the end. This is a standard 10-part wedding ceremony outline. Our couple may expand it out to 22 parts or 648 parts by adding readings or rituals involving multiple family members, fire, sand, doves, F-18 flyovers, clowns, alcohol, etc.

Just go with it! And remember: it’s not our job to coordinate all the minute details like bringing all the candles and birdcages! Our role as Officiant is to facilitate and accommodate what they want their ceremony to look like and make the space for it to happen. Use my standard 10-part ceremony script outline as a starting point, and craft any style of perfect wedding ceremony from there.

If you feel you need more help, I offer a full wedding script + 1-on-1 coaching service here , and a full wedding officiating course called Unboring!Wedding Academy here.

Now get out there with your script and deliver the Best. Ceremony. Ever.

What To Read Next:

You're officiating a wedding. You make the last check of the five details, walk to the front…

A toast to the happy newlyweds isn't just for the wedding reception. Often, couples ask…

How to create and officiate a wedding ceremmony

Search the blog for a topic (ex: “vows”), popular articles.

• 5 Questions to Ask Your Same-Sex Couple About Their Wedding Ceremony
• How to Choose the Best Songs for The Wedding Ceremony
• The 5 Essential Questions to Ask Your First-Time Wedding Officiant
• How To Officiate a Wedding Ceremony For the First Time
• How (And Why!) to End the Wedding Ceremony with a Grand Finale
• The 3 Times to Get Out of the Way in a Wedding Ceremony
• What To Say at a COVID Wedding
• 8 Steps for a Simple and Meaningful Wedding Ring Exchange

Live and in-person every Monday, I host a free masterclass that will teach you my exact 5-step wedding ceremony process!

Enter your name and best email address here. I’ll send your instant guide right away and that will register you for our free live masterclass... then I'll see you Monday!

Can't attend live? Now worries. You'll be sent the replay!

90 years of expert advice and inspiration, for every couple.

• Engagement Rings
• Wedding Bands
• Celebrity Weddings & News
• Wedding Planning
• Destination Wedding
• Invitations & Stationery
• Wedding Décor
• Flowers & Bouquets
• Food & Drink
• Wedding Cakes
• Photography
• Wedding Dresses
• Bridesmaid Dresses
• Makeup & Hair
• Accessories
• Groom Style
• Wedding Party Attire
• Wedding Guest Attire
• Bridal Fashion Week
• Skincare & Wellness
• Engagement Party
• Bridal Shower
• Bachelorette Party
• Rehearsal Dinner
• Registry Tips
• Anniversary Gifts
• Wedding Favors
• Friends & Family
• Marriage Proposal Ideas
• Married Life
• Love & Dating
• The Brides Team
• Editorial Guidelines
• Editorial Policy
• Terms of Use and Policies
• Privacy Policy
• Wedding Ideas & Advice
• Wedding Ceremony Ideas
• A Guide to Wedding Ceremony Order Who Walks Down the Aisle and When Everything to Know About Your Ceremony Exit Writing Tips From Experts

8 Sample Wedding Ceremony Scripts to Guide Your Own Celebration

Plus, we're sharing writing tips to customize your wedding vows and ceremony scripts.

Cristina Montemayor is a freelance writer and makeup artist whose work has appeared on HelloGiggles, Slate, Elite Daily, and Bustle.

Photo by Brittany Painter Photography

In This Article

The wedding ceremony is the heart of the big day. The attire, the flowers, and the food are all icing on the cake, but the wedding ceremony —the time when a couple exchanges vows and rings—is when two people actually become married. Considering the significance, it’s surprising that many couples often leave the wedding ceremony planning to the last minute, according to wedding officiant and professional vow writing coach Tanya Pushkine. “It’s so rare that the wedding ceremony is thought of as a priority,” says Pushkine. “It’s almost like an afterthought.”

Meet the Expert

Tanya Pushkine is a professional vow writing coach, ceremony planner, and officiant based in New York City. She’s known as the “vow whisperer” for her ability to craft authentic and memorable ceremonies that reflect the unique personalities and beliefs of the couple.

Pushkine recommends that couples start thinking about the ceremony early in the wedding-planning process so that they know what to ask for when they meet with their wedding planner or day-of coordinator. Religious ceremonies are typically more fixed in terms of the service, language, and traditions while secular/non-religious ceremonies give couples a lot more flexibility to personalize the ceremony to their unique tastes.

All weddings have a standard format ( processional , readings, vows, exchange of rings, pronouncement, first kiss, and recessional), but by changing up the readings, verbiage, and incorporating creative rituals into the service, you can make it completely your own and create a service that leaves your guests laughing, crying, and excited about what’s coming next. “Millennials are writing their own rules,” Pushkine says of modern wedding ceremonies . “They’re looking to create an experience, which is different than before, where couples just did what their parents did.”

Below, we’ve outlined wedding ceremony script writing tips and a few sample wedding ceremony scripts to inspire you.

Photo by Liz Andolina Photography

Wedding Ceremony Script Writing Tips

Whether you're working with a professional officiant , a member of a religious house of worship, a justice of the peace, or a friend or family member, you might decide to customize your wedding ceremony. If so, know that scripting your wedding ceremony can be a fun, joyful experience, but the pressure to do and say the right thing can interfere. Here's how to keep it from becoming overwhelming.

Start Early

Don’t leave writing your wedding ceremony until the last minute. Get ahead of it and start doing your research early on in the wedding-planning process so that you have plenty of time to find inspiration and craft a ceremony that reflects you as a couple. “It’s like a puzzle,” Pushkine warns. “There are so many different variations and themes to choose from when it comes to planning a wedding ceremony, so try to find unique elements that fit your personal style.”

Work With Your Officiant

The officiant is the most important person at the ceremony—more than the newlyweds—because they’re leading the entire service, and they hold the power to actually marry the couple. If your officiant is a religious leader or experienced wedding officiant , they might already have an outline for the wedding ceremony that you can add to, if you so choose. If you’re having a friend step in as the officiant, they’ll need some direction from the couple as to what they’ll want to include in the ceremony.

Don’t Procrastinate on Writing Your Vows

If you decide to write your own vows , make sure you dedicate plenty of time to not only writing your vows but practicing your delivery as well. Your vows are a lifetime promise that you’re making to your partner in front of your closest friends and family, so they should be meaningful and personal, but without being too revealing. Choose your words carefully, and rehearse until you feel confident and comfortable saying them aloud. 

Keep It Short and Sweet

Unless your ceremony involves a religious service, try to keep the ceremony length to no more than 30 minutes. Any longer and your guests might start looking at their watches. If you want a memorable ceremony that’s fun for everyone—not just the couple—try to make your ceremony interactive. “The best thing you can do to make your ceremony unique is to get people laughing,” Pushkine says. “Wedding ceremonies can be a lot of fun without completely disregarding the serious element involved.” 

Consider Printing Programs for Your Guests

Personalized wedding ceremonies can be entertaining, but the further away you get from the traditional ceremony format, the more confused your guests might be. Wedding programs are a great addition to make your guests feel more involved and aware of where the service is going.

Programs are also great to further explain more meaningful elements of the ceremony, like why you chose to include certain readings or rituals. 

Get a Second Opinion

Make sure to have someone look over your wedding script before the big day to make sure it flows well and sounds both authentic and natural. It never hurts to have a second pair of eyes to provide feedback and edit suggestions on what is likely the most important speech you’ll ever deliver.

Photo by Lance Nicoll

Sample Wedding Ceremony Scripts

Now that you’re ready to start writing your own wedding ceremony script, here are a few sample scripts to use as a jumping-off point, all prepared by American Marriage Ministries (AMM) .

Photo by Getty Images / Brides

Traditional Wedding Ceremony Script

PROCESSIONAL Beginning of the wedding ceremony. Guests are seated followed by the entrance of the bridal party.

INVOCATION Welcome, loved ones. We are gathered here today to join [Name] and [Name] in holy matrimony.

VOW EXCHANGE [Name], I promise to cherish you always, to honor and sustain you, in sickness and in health, in poverty and in wealth, and to be true to you in all things until death alone shall part us.

[Name] I promise to cherish you always, to honor and sustain you, in sickness and in health, in poverty and in wealth, and to be true to you in all things until death alone shall part us.

RING EXCHANGE AND DECLARATION OF INTENT With this ring I, [Name], take you, [Name], to be no other than yourself. Loving what I know of you, and trusting what I do not yet know, I will respect your integrity and have faith in your abiding love for me, through all our years, and in all that life may bring us.

With this ring I, [Name], take you, [Name], to be no other than yourself. Loving what I know of you, and trusting what I do not yet know, I will respect your integrity and have faith in your abiding love for me, through all our years, and in all that life may bring us.

PRONOUNCEMENT By the power vested in me by the state of [State], I now pronounce you [husband and wife/husband and husband/wife and wife]!

Nonreligious Wedding Ceremony Script

PROCESSIONAL Beginning of the wedding ceremony. Guests are seated.

INVOCATION Family and friends, thank you all for coming today to share in this wonderful occasion. Today we are here together to unite [Name] and [Name] in marriage.

DECLARATION OF INTENT Do you [Name], take this [woman/man/person] to be your lawfully wedded [husband/wife], to live together in matrimony, to love [her/him/them], comfort [her/him/them], honor and keep [her/him/them], in sickness and in health, in sorrow and in joy, to have and to hold, from this day forward, as long as you both shall live?

Do you [Name], take this [woman/man/person] to be your lawfully wedded [husband/wife], to live together in matrimony, to love [her/him/them], comfort [her/him/them], honor and keep [her/him/them], in sickness and in health, in sorrow and in joy, to have and to hold, from this day forward, as long as you both shall live?

RING EXCHANGE [Name] and [Name] have chosen rings to exchange with each other as a symbol of their unending love. As you place this ring on [Name]’s finger, please repeat after me. With this ring, I thee wed and pledge you my love now and forever.

[Name], as you place this ring on [Name]’s finger, please repeat after me. With this ring, I thee wed and pledge you my love now and forever.

PRONOUNCEMENT By the authority vested in me by the State of [State], I now pronounce you [husband and wife/husband and husband/wife and wife]!

RECESSIONAL End of the wedding ceremony.

Modern Wedding Ceremony Script

INVOCATION Welcome family and friends. We are gathered here today to witness and celebrate the marriage of [Name] and [Name]. This is not the beginning of a new relationship but an acknowledgment of the next chapter in their lives together. [Name] and [Name] have spent years getting to know each other, and we now bear witness to what their relationship has become. Today, they will affirm this bond formally and publicly.

[Name] and [Name] will mark their transition as a couple not only by celebrating the love between themselves, but by also celebrating the love between all of us—including the love of their parents, siblings, extended family, and best friends. Without that love, today would be far less joyous.

DECLARATION OF INTENT Do you [Name] take [Name] to be your lawfully wedded [husband/wife]? To have and to hold, in sickness and in health, in good times and not so good times, for richer or poorer, keeping yourself unto [him/her/them] for as long as you both shall live?

Do you [Name] take [Name] to be your lawfully wedded [husband/wife]? To have and to hold, in sickness and in health, in good times and not so good times, for richer or poorer, keeping yourself unto [him/her/them] for as long as you both shall live?

RING EXCHANGE A ring is an unbroken circle, with ends that have been joined together, and it represents your union. It is a symbol of infinity, and of your infinite love. When you look at these rings on your hands, be reminded of this moment, your commitment, and the love you now feel for each other.

[Name], place the ring on [Name]'s finger and repeat after me:

[Name], I give you this ring as a symbol of my love with the pledge: to love you today, tomorrow, always, and forever.

And now...[Name], place the ring on [Name]'s finger and repeat after me:

PRONOUNCEMENT Before these witnesses, you have pledged to be joined in marriage. You have now sealed this pledge with your wedding rings. By the authority vested in me by the great State of [State], I now pronounce you married!

Christian Wedding Ceremony Script

INVOCATION We are gathered here today in the sight of God and these witnesses to join together [Name] and [Name] in holy matrimony; which is an honorable estate, instituted of God, since the first man and the first woman walked on the earth. Therefore; it is not to be entered into unadvisedly or lightly, but reverently and soberly. Into this holy estate, these two persons present come now to be joined. Therefore, if anyone can show just cause why they may not be lawfully joined together, let them speak now or forever hold their peace.

READING A reading from the Apostle Paul, The first letter to the Corinthians, Chapter 13, verses 4 through 7: Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Father, as [Name] and [Name] pledge themselves to each other, help them and bless them that their love may be pure, and their vows may be true. Through Jesus Christ our Lord, Amen.

DECLARATION OF INTENT [Name] and [Name], you have come together this day so that the Lord may seal and strengthen your love in the presence of this minister of His word and this community of family and friends and so, in the presence of this gathering, I ask you to state your intentions: Have you both come here freely and without reservation to give yourselves to each other in marriage? If so, answer by saying 'I have.'

RING EXCHANGE [Name], please take the ring you have selected for [Name]. As you place it on [his/her] finger, repeat after me: With this ring, I thee wed.

[Name], please take the ring you have selected for [Name]. As you place it on [his/her] finger, repeat after me: With this ring, I thee wed.

PRAYER May Jesus Christ, Our Lord and Savior, always be at the center of the new lives you are now starting to build together, that you may know the ways of true love and kindness. May the Lord bless you both all the days of your lives and fill you with His joy. Amen.

PRONOUNCEMENT Those whom God has joined together, let no man put asunder. In so much as [Name] and [Name] have consented together in holy wedlock, and have witnessed the same before God and this company, having given and pledged their faith, each to the other, and having declared same by the giving and receiving of rings, I pronounce that you are husband and wife. I ask you now to seal the promises you have made with each other this day with a kiss.

Jewish Wedding Ceremony Script

SIGNING OF THE KETUBAH The Ketubah is an ancient document and is a marriage contract that lays out the commitment that the couple has to each other. It is signed by two Jewish witnesses, neither of whom can be blood-related family members to the couple.

BEDEKEN After the Ketubah signing, there is a short but meaningful ritual where the groom covers the bride’s face with her veil. The veiling itself is a symbol of modesty, based upon the biblical account of Rebecca meeting Isaac. Some couples put a modern spin on the tradition by having the bride place a yarmulke on the groom.

INVOCATION We are gathered here today to celebrate the union of [Name] and [Name]. A special thanks to all of you that traveled from far and wide to witness the promise these two are about to make to one another. We are here to offer our love and support, and to stand with [Name] and [Name] as they begin this new chapter of their lives.

RING EXCHANGE The couple will now exchange rings. These rings symbolize the never-ending love you feel for each other. The ring has neither a beginning nor an end, just as there is no beginning or end to what the partners give and receive. These rings will be a reminder of the vows you have taken today. By this ring, you are consecrated to me according to the law of Moses and Israel.

BLESSING OF THE HANDS [Name] and [Name], please join hands. Looks at these hands for they are of your closest friend. They are strong and full of love. As you join hands today, you make the promise to love each other today, tomorrow, and forever.

THE SEVEN BLESSINGS The Seven Blessings are now recited.

BREAKING THE GLASS The ceremony is concluded by the groom stamping on a glass and smashing it. This is the signal for the gathered people to cheer, dance, and shout “Mazal Tov!” Some couples choose to update this tradition by breaking the glass together with one swift smash in unison.

Baptist Wedding Ceremony Script

PROCESSIONAL Beginning of the wedding ceremony. Guests are seated followed by the entrance of the bridal party.

INVOCATION Dearly beloved, we are gathered here in the presence of God, family, and friends to witness a joyous occasion—the union of [Name] and [Name] in holy matrimony.

PRESENTATION OF THE BRIDE Who gives [Name] to be married to [Name]?

[Bride’s father or parent] I do.

DECLARATION OF INTENT [Name] and [Name], as you stand here before friends, family, and God, I ask you to declare your intentions to join in the sacred covenant of marriage.

Do you take [Name] to be your husband, to love him, comfort him, honor and keep him, in sickness and in health, and forsaking all others, be faithful to him, as long as you both shall live?

[Name], have you come here freely and without reservation to marry?

[Name], do you take [Name] to be your wife, to love her, comfort her, honor and keep her, in sickness and in health, and forsaking all others, be faithful to her, as long as you both shall live?

EXCHANGE OF VOWS AND RINGS [Name] and [Name] will now exchange rings as a symbol of their commitment and endless devotion.

 [Name], you may place the ring you’ve chosen on [Name]’s hand.

 And [Name], you may place the ring you’ve chosen on [Name]’s hand.

 [Couple exchanges rings.]

This marriage unites not just [Name] and [Name], but all of the families sitting here today. They ask now for your blessing. Do you promise to support [Name] and [Name] in their marriage, to keep them in your prayers, to hold them up with love, and to rejoice in companionship in Jesus as they walk this path together?

[Audience] We do.

Closing prayers.

PRONOUNCEMENT [Name] and [Name], having witnessed your marriage vows in the eyes of God and before all who are assembled here, by the authority invested in me by the State of [State], I pronounce you husband and wife. 

You may kiss the bride!

Protestant Wedding Ceremony Script

PROCESSION Beginning of the wedding ceremony. Guests are seated followed by the entrance of the bridal party. 

INVOCATION Dearly beloved, we’re gathered here today in the presence of God to witness and bless this union as [Name] and [Name] join together in holy matrimony. 

This holy bond is not to be entered into unadvisedly or lightly, but reverently, deliberately, thoughtfully, and in accordance with those purposes for which God created it. 

INTERROGATION AND CHARGE TO THE COUPLE If anyone present knows of any reason why this couple should not be joined in holy matrimony, speak now or forever hold your peace. 

[Name] and [Name], here in the presence of God, family, and friends, if either of you know any reason why you should not marry, do now confess it. 

PRESENTATION OF THE BRIDE Who presents [Name] to be married to [Name]?

DECLARATION OF INTENT Please face each other and join hands.

[Name] if it’s in your heart, please repeat after me. 

In the name of God,  I, [Name], take you, [Name],  to be my (wife/husband/spouse),  to have and to hold from this day forward, for better for worse,  for richer for poorer,  in sickness and in health,  to love and to cherish,  until we are parted by death. This is my solemn vow.

[Partner repeats this vow.]

EXCHANGE OF RINGS Lord, bless these rings as you bless this union, in your infinite wisdom, today, tomorrow and always. Amen

[Partner] I give you this ring as a symbol of my love and devotion. With all that I am, and all that I have, I promise to honor and cherish you, in God’s name. 

[Partner repeats.]

PRONOUNCEMENT [Name] and [Name], remember to love each other faithfully, just as Christ loved the church, for marriage is a lasting promise of kindness, patience, forgiveness, and love. Trust in God with all your heart, and your path forward will be filled with joy and light for all the years to come. 

By the power vested in me by the beautiful state of [State], in the presence of God and the witness of friends and family, it is my great privilege to pronounce you husband and wife!

Catholic Wedding Ceremony Script

INVOCATION In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.  Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.

Opening prayer and readings.

CELEBRATION OF MATRIMONY All stand, and the couple comes to the altar flanked by their witnesses. The priest will address the couple with a celebration of matrimony:

Dearly beloved, you have come together into the house of the church so that in the presence of the church’s minister and the community, your intention to enter into marriage may be strengthened by the Lord with a sacred seal.

ADDRESS AND STATEMENT OF INTENTIONS [Name] and [Name], have you come here to enter into marriage without coercion, freely and wholeheartedly?

 [Couple] I have

Are you prepared, as you follow the path of marriage, to love and honor each other for as long as you both shall live?

[Couple] I am

 EXCHANGE OF CONSENT I, [NAME], take you, [NAME], to be my [wife/husband]. I promise to be faithful to you, in good times and in bad, in sickness and in health, to love you and to honor you all the days of my life.

[Partner two repeats this vow.]

BLESSING AND GIVING OF RINGS Bless, O Lord, these rings which we bless in your name. So that those who wear them may remain entirely faithful to each other, abide in peace and in your will, and live always in mutual charity. Through Christ our Lord.

[Priest sprinkles wedding rings with holy water, then hands them to each partner.]

[Name], receive this ring as a sign of my love and fidelity. In the name of the father, and the son, and the holy spirit.  

[Places ring on partner’s finger]

[Partner two repeats this vow and places ring on partner’s finger.]

PRAYER Priest leads congregation with the Lord’s Prayer.

COMMUNION Priest performs communion, starting with the married couple. 

PRONOUNCEMENT By the power vested in me by the state of [State], I now pronounce you husband and wife.

The best place to find ideas for your very own wedding ceremony script is, you guessed it, the internet. From wedding videography on YouTube to bridal blogs, wedding planning sites, and of course, Brides , there is certainly no shortage of inspiration.

Traditionally, a wedding script begins with the officiant seating the guests and thanking them for bearing witness to the marriage of the couple. While religious ceremonies may begin with a bible verse or another custom, a more modern approach may start the ceremony with a story of the couple.

While the format for your wedding ceremony script largely depends on how religious the occasion is, there are a variety of ways to make it personal to you as a couple. Incorporate guests who are taking witness to your marriage or include a story of how you met followed by a time where you rose above a challenge together to add a personal touch to the proceedings.

The Ultimate Wedding Ceremony Guide

A Guide to Wedding Ceremony Order

Who Walks Down the Aisle and When

Everything to Know About Your Ceremony Exit

Writing Tips From Experts

How to Create a Unique Wedding Ceremony

How Long Should the Ceremony Last?

Tips for Writing the Perfect Program

Seating: Who Sits Where?

Modern Ways to Walk Down the Aisle

What Is a Unity Ceremony?

Creative Ideas to Personalize Your Ceremony

Questions to Ask Your Officiant

How Much Does an Officiant Cost?

How to Lead a Wedding Ceremony

How to Write Your Own Vows

Who Traditionally Goes First?

Quotes About Love to Get You Started

Traditional Vows to Inspire Your Own

Modern Vows That Are Unique

Unique Vow Ideas From TV Shows and Movies

Should You Exchange Vows Before the Ceremony?

The Best Vow Books to Keep Your Love Alive

How to Choose Music for Your Ceremony

Blessings and Prayers From Different Cultures and Religions

The Best Songs to Play While Guests Arrive

Non-Religious Readings We Love

The Best Songs to Walk Down the Aisle To

Incredible Altar Ideas

Beautiful Ways to Decorate Your Aisle

Unique Chair Layouts

Stunning Ceremony Locations

Related Stories

The 30 Best Movie and TV Wedding Vows to Inspire Your Own

45 Funny Wedding Vows to Exchange During Your Ceremony

Wedding Blessings and Prayers from Different Cultures and Religions

17 Traditional Wedding Vows to Inspire Your Own

The Ultimate Wedding Ceremony Outline

The Ultimate Guide to Renewing Your Wedding Vows

14 Greek Wedding Ceremony Traditions

10 Christian Wedding Ceremony Traditions

A Glossary of Wedding Words and Terminology from A to Z

Mother-of-the-Bride Speech Examples and Writing Tips

A Guide to Writing Modern Wedding Vows

What Is a Spiritual Wedding Ceremony and Should You Have One?

46 of Our Favorite Wickedly Haunted Wedding Venues Across America

The History Behind “Speak Now or Forever Hold Your Peace”

How to Write Moving Ring Exchange Vows for Your Wedding Ceremony

25 Couples Celebrate Marriage and Hispanic Heritage

Opening Words and Introduction

The Opening Words and Introduction of the wedding ceremony   sets the tone for the wedding. It’s a statement about the occasion, its importance, the significance to the world as well as the couple getting married.

Opening Words and Introduction 1

Friends and Family of the BRIDE and GROOM, welcome and thank you for being here on this important day.

We are gathered together to celebrate the very special love between BRIDE and GROOM, by joining them in marriage.

All of us need and desire to love and to be loved.

And the highest form of love between two people is within a monogamous, committed relationship.

BRIDE and GROOM, your marriage today is the public and legal joining of your souls that have already been united as one in your hearts.

Marriage will allow you a new environment to share your lives together, standing together to face life and the world, hand-in-hand.

Marriage is going to expand you as individuals, define you as a couple, and deepen your love for one another.

To be successful, you will need strength, courage, patience and a really good sense of humor.

So, let your marriage be a time of waking each morning and falling in love with each other all over again.

Opening Words and Introduction 2

Good evening, welcome to this most important moment in the lives of this couple.

We invite you to leave behind the worries and concerns of every day life and join us in the celebration of their marriage.

This is an opportunity for us to share not only in the joy of BRIDE and GROOM’s love but also to reaffirm and appreciate the love and the friendship we experience in our own lives.

May we all celebrate by being fully present during our short time together.

BRIDE and GROOM have chosen this setting in which to be married because it provides an appropriate backdrop for the public affirmation of their love.

BRIDE and GROOM view marriage as a coming together at all levels of being — mind, body, and spirit.

A marital commitment includes the willingness to be open and vulnerable, and the courage to take risks.

Marriage is a conscious act of will.

To remain in marriage we must continually renew our will to be married.

Marital partners accept the challenges that living together in love offer.

They decide that they will face the fears that are a necessary part of establishing and nurturing an intimate relationship.

And you, BRIDE and GROOM have made the commitment to create and recreate this conscious partnership.

Those of us who are married or in relationships may take this moment to consciously reaffirm our commitment to our partners and ourselves.

Marriage consists of entrusting our deepest selves into the loving care of another.

It is a public and legal act to be sure.

It is also an emotional and spiritual act.

The spiritual aspect of marriage must be embraced openly, seriously, and completely for the marriage to endure.

BRIDE and GROOM commit themselves today to each other in sacred trust.

They promise to embrace conflict as well as peace; to work as well as play; to struggle as well as coast; to give as well as receive; and to be with, stay with, and move toward one another.

Opening Words and Introduction  3

Today there will be no dearly beloved, no betrothed, and no ancient rhyme of the married.

Today there are no dead languages to solemnize vows that are very much alive and will remain so for a lifetime.

Today promises become permanent and friends become family.

However, this day is not about the words spoken or the rings exchanged, nor is it about grand pronouncements and recessional marches.

This day — the day of BRIDE and GROOM’s wedding — is about love.

One of my favorite authors once wrote ,  If love is not all, then it is nothing: this principle, and its opposite, collide down all the years of my breathless tale.”

BRIDE and GROOM, your breathless tale is about to begin.

If love is not all, then it is nothing.

Its opposite — If love is all, then it is everything — is going to be the basis for every aspect of your relationship.

All you have to do is simply love one another and that love shows through in everything you do for one another, how you treat each other, in good times and bad.

Love isn’t just a word; it’s an action.

Love isn’t something you say, it’s something you do.

Love is genuine, honest, and open, compassionate and kind, passionate and blind, love doesn’t know space or time, nor look through jealous eyes, and in the modified words of Paul in his letter to the Corinthians, Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, and endures all things.

Love never dies.”

There are many different kinds of love, almost if not all of which are represented here today.

There is romantic love, the love of parents and children, of brothers and sisters and family, and love among friends.

Not only do BRIDE and GROOM love one another romantically — and they do, you can see it in every look, every touch, every moment they’re together — they also love one another as friends.

In fact, they’re best friends, constantly giggling and taunting and teasing and very plainly and obviously having fun together.

That love and enjoyment of each other as best friends will sustain them through this marriage.

In addition, the love collectively in this room, from friends and family, will help sustain and support the promises they make today.

All of us here will help solidify this bond, as these two individuals are joined as husband and wife.

This new journey will be at times richly rewarding and extremely difficult, but, most importantly, it will be a journey you take together.

Marriage is much more than your signatures on a legal contract.

You are promising, in front of all these people you love, that you want to be with each other and only each other for the rest of your lives, and that you will do everything in your power to honor the promises you are making here today.

For their part, the people who love you will also do everything in their power to try to help you hold up your end of the bargain.

Opening Words and Introduction 4

Today is a celebration.

A celebration of love, of commitment, of friendship, of family, and of two people who are in it for forever.

You don’t have to have a ceremony to have a marriage.

And when you think about it, the whole thing is kind of weird, right?

You’re standing on in front of a lot of people, looking fancy, holding flowers, and being stared at by pretty much everyone who has meant anything to you.

So why do we do it?

The marriage ceremony has been an important feature across nearly every culture, religion, generation, and society.

We have thousands of important moments that happen throughout our lives, but this one is regarded as one so critical, we acknowledge its special status by sharing it with others.

Why this moment?

Because despite all of our differences, love is what we all share.

It’s the great unifier – our one universal truth.

That no matter who we are, where we’ve come from, what we believe, we know this one thing: love is what we’re doing right.

That’s why you are both standing here.

And that’s why you all are here to watch them stand up here.

We have all loved in our lifetimes, and in this moment, we’re reminded that the ability to love is the very best part of our humanity.

All of us here today have our own love stories.

Some are short, others long.

Some are yet unwritten, while others are just getting to the good part.

There are chapters in all of our stories that are sad or disappointing – and others that are exciting and full of adventure.

[Insert love story here]

And that brings them here, a time to pause, look back, and smile at all the moments that brought them here.

And a time to look ahead to all the moments that are still to come.

I’m here – we’re all here – because we want those moments for you.

We’re here to hope with you, to support you, to be proud of you, and to remind you that love isn’t happily ever after, love is the experience of writing your story.

It’s not one moment – not even this moment. It’s every moment.

Big ones like saying “I love you,” moving in together, getting engaged – but mostly a million little ones that come in between the big moments.

Falling asleep next to one another, making dinner together, spending holidays with your families, getting a big hug when you get home from work…

These everyday moments fuse together into one big experience.

And even though this experience is so incredible, words fail us when we try and explain it.

That’s just the way it is with love – it’s meant to be felt, not described.

But trying to describe love is one of our favorite pastimes.

We use the words we have to write stories, and poems, and songs about love.

And even though we describe love in different ways – and even though love can look different from one person to the next – we all know it when we see it.

And we see it here.

Opening Words and Introduction 5

We have been invited here today to witness and celebrate the uniting in marriage of BRIDE and GROOM.

They are taking the first step of their new beginning; their new life together.

The ability and desire for one human being to love another is perhaps the most precious and fulfilling gift that has been entrusted to us.

It is an all-consuming task, a lifelong endeavor — the journey we’ve been preparing for all of our lives.

Loving someone is a reason to stretch beyond our limits, to become more for the sake of the other.

It is to look into the soul of your beloved and accept what you see.

Loving is the ultimate commitment which challenges humans to become all that we are meant to be.

As they join in marriage today, BRIDE and GROOM are announcing to the world that they are welcoming that challenge.

Opening Words and Introduction 6

Hello and welcome!  May your hearts be glad and your spirits be light.

For every thing there is a season and a time for every purpose under Heaven.  Now is the time for a wedding.

BRIDE and GROOM have asked you all here today to bear witness to the forming of their covenant.

In honor of this event, they will say heartfelt words, perform age-old rituals and validate this event in your presence, their family and friends.

They will laugh and cry, dance and sing, and above all, celebrate their love with the blessings of the people who matter most to them.

To this day BRIDE and GROOM bring the joy in their hearts as a gift to one another.

They bring their shared dreams, which tie them together.

And they bring the seeds for their future, out of which will grow their life together.

You have been invited to share in their joy because of your bonds to the bride and groom and their families.

Again, they welcome you and thank you for coming.

Opening Words and Introduction 7

Hello everyone and welcome.

Thank you for joining us on this day of gladness and good fortune.

BRIDE and GROOM are coming together to publicly proclaim their undying love through the celebration of their marriage.

We are all here to learn about loving and being loved, and to watch the miracle of love exchanged enriches every one of us.

Therefore, we appreciate the opportunity to witness the shared love of this beautiful couple.

Their enthusiasm is contagious, their certainty of their destiny together is inspiring and their great expectations give us all a glimpse of the heights love can reach.

Marriage is a very special place.

It’s an oasis, a haven, and a sanctuary where we can safely learn about ourselves in the presence of another.

Like the harmony with the melody, marriage weaves two lives together, creating a deeper and richer song.

We are honored that BRIDE and GROOM are sharing some of their beautiful music with us on this day.

We ask that the vision they have of one another always reflect the electric attraction that first brought them together.

And we pray that, as they enter into the lifelong bond that is marriage, they may always see one another in the light of all light; the light of love.

Opening Words and Introduction 8

We have come together – families and friends – to witness BRIDE and GROOM as they exchange their vows of marriage.

We share with them their delight in finding love with each other, and support their decision to be together from now until the end of time.

As this couple enters into marriage, they do so with thought and reverence.

They give thanks for the past, which brought them to this place, and look forward with hope to what the future will bring.

Marriage is like a great umbrella that shelters love from the elements.

Corinthians One says that love is patient and kind.

It is not jealous or boastful, not irritable or resentful, not arrogant or rude.

Love does not insist on its’ own way.

It does not rejoice in the wrong, but rejoices in the right.

Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes in all things and endures all things.

Love never ends.

This marriage is a symbol of BRIDE and GROOM’s commitment to that love.

Opening Words and Introduction 9

We are here on this magnificent and beautiful day to celebrate one of life’s greatest moments – we are all present to give recognition to the worth and beauty of love – and to publicly witness the creation of an outward marriage bond that BRIDE and GROOM have already been creating inwardly.

Their love and intention has created this marriage and we are gathered here today to join in the celebration and acknowledgment of that bonding.

Opening Words and Introduction 10

We would like to welcome all of you, honored guests, and thank you for being with us today.

We are gathered here this evening, in the presence of God and of His company, to join BRIDE and GROOM in Holy Union, and bear witness to the miraculous power of love.

Love is our purpose in being here; it is the essence of who we are.

With Love as their foundation, marriage offers BRIDE and GROOM the opportunity to become their essence with one another.

Marriage is an art form that brings profound joy and demands great responsibility, awareness, and commitment.

We who partake of this occasion bind ourselves as witnesses to the journey of love that they are undertaking here.

Opening Words and Introduction 11

Love has brought BRIDE and GROOM together.

But what do we mean by love?

When we love, we see things other people do not.

We see beneath the surface to the qualities, which make our beloved special and unique.

To see with loving eyes, is to know inner beauty. And to be loved is to be known, as we are known to no other.

We who love, can look at each other’s life and say, “I touched his life,” or, “I touched her life,” just as an artist might say, “I touched this canvas.”

“Those brushstrokes in the comer of this magnificent mural, those are mine. I was a part of this life, and it is a part of me.”

Marriage is to belong to each other through a unique and diverse collaboration, like two threads crossing in different directions, yet weaving one tapestry together.

The secret of love and marriage is to be in love and in trust, to know in your hearts that you want only the best for each other.

It takes dedication, to stay open to one another, to learn and grow, even when it is difficult to do so.

And it takes faith, to go forward together without knowing what the future holds for you both.

The true art of married life is an inner spiritual journey.

It is a mutual enrichment, a give and take between two personalities, a mingling of two endowments, which diminishes neither, but enhances both.

It is, ultimately, the emergence of the Highest Selves of each person.

Opening Words and Introduction 12

You have come here today, BRIDE and GROOM because you believe that by being together your lives will be better and more productive than they would be apart.

In marriage, a new perspective is created with the joining of male and female views of life.

Through this partnership, each partner becomes stronger, each becomes wiser and each becomes more loving.

But marriage is a garden, which needs to be tended every day:  the benefits we receive through marriage are not free.

If we don’t make time to tell our partner how much we value what we have together, we will begin to take each other for granted and lost the very special quality that we originally united to enjoy.

The importance of marriage to humans is so great, that it is the oldest rite or ritual of any kind recorded in history; it’s scope so great that it is virtually the only custom recognized by every human government and religion.

It is into this dynamic and wonderful state of partnership that you two come, today, to be joined.

Opening Words and Introduction 13

We are gathered here in this beautiful place to join together this man, GROOM, and this woman, BRIDE, in marriage — a state instituted in love, occasioned by joy.

Honored and renewed by each person who pledges themselves to each other.

It is therefore, not to be entered into lightly, or, unadvisedly. It is to be entered into with praise and delight for it’s inexpressible gifts.

Let us be honest enough with ourselves to know that there is no true marriage, except the inward bond of trust and love that dwells in the hearts of BRIDE and GROOM.

Only the two of you will know what marriage exists between you — the outer forms are only signs and covers over the love of your hearts.

We wish that you will find together, a richness beyond the wealth of money — a depth of soul that will make beautiful everything you do in life,  both separately and together.

Opening Words and Introduction 14

The stream had flowed through the center of the forest for as long as anyone could remember.

It began as a cold, clear fountain in a fractured hillside, then tumbled down over mossy stones and last year’s autumn leaves.

At the foot of the hill the stream took a course running southeast through tall stands of beeches, maples, and oaks, and by the time it left the forest five miles later it carried a river’s ambitions.

But in the center of the forest it was a watery dream, about ten feet wide and ten inches deep. Fallen logs made bridges for chipmunks, foxes, and children looking for secrets.

Occasional shafts of sunlight revealed freshwater muscles in the silt, crayfish picking over pebbles, water beetles dancing on the surface, and young trout darting among roots, branches, and softly bubbling falls.

The stream was full of life, and full of lessons for those who knew how to see them.

And regarding it silently on the bank stood the master and the student.

The master and the student had arrived at the stream after walking the forest path for nearly two hours.

Every step of the way, the student spoke anxiously of the impending choices that filled his mind with confusion.

Should he travel?

If so, where?

Should he continue his studies?

If so, in what field of knowledge?

Should he learn a new trade, or perhaps join the family business?

Should he save his money, or spend freely and enjoy life to its fullest?

And on, and on, and on. And every step of the way the master only listened.

When they reached the stream the student fell silent.

They stood side by side, watching the water.

Then, pointing to a fallen twig, the master asked, If you throw that stick into the stream, where will it go?”

The student answered, It will go downstream, of course.”

But the master shook his head. No,” he said, I want you to tell me exactly where it will go.”

The student crouched down on the bank and observed the water carefully.

He noted the paths of leaves, the surge of bubbles, and the sway and drift of weeds growing on the bottom, until he was sure.

Well,” he said, If I throw the stick to land at that spot there, it will follow the current between those two rocks, rush over that fall, then swirl in that eddy for a moment, then pass under this branch, and then move off under that fallen log over there.”

The student smiled, supremely confident.

All right,” the master said. Throw the stick.”

And the student did.

And it traveled on a course entirely different from the one he had predicted.

They watched the stick drift out of sight. The student shuffled his feet and looked at the ground, but finally met the master’s eyes.

The important thing,” said the master,” is to throw the stick!”

We are here today because  BRIDE and GROOM have decided to throw the stick.

In a world of endless choices, unpredictable outcomes, and no guarantees, they are doing the finest thing two people can do: making a commitment before friends and family to devote their lives to each other.

We call this a wedding.

It comes from an old Germanic word meaning a pledge.”

And this is worth remembering as we consider what this day is all about.

We make few pledges in our modern lives.

But today we celebrate with BRIDE and GROOM as they make theirs: a pledge to and for each other, not as individuals, but as two that are choosing to become one.

Opening Words and Introduction 15

Hello and welcome.

Today we are here to witness the act of love.

Love is the magic that has brought BRIDE and GROOM together and through that magic, we are joining them today.

When we love, we see things other people do not see.

We see beneath the surface, to the qualities, which make our beloved special and unique.

To see with loving eyes, is to know inner beauty. And to be loved is to be seen, and known, as we are known to no other.

One who loves us, gives us a unique gift: a piece of ourselves, but a piece that only they could give us.

“Those brushstrokes in the corner of this magnificent mural, those are mine.

I was a part of this life, and it is a part of me.”

Marriage is a supreme sharing of experience, and an adventure in the most intimate of human relationships.

It is the joyous union of two people whose comradeship and mutual understanding have flowered in romance.

Today BRIDE and GROOM proclaim their love and commitment to the world, and we gather here to rejoice, with and for them, in the new life they now undertake together.

Opening Words and Introduction 16

Hello & welcome.

We are here to witness the creation of a marriage.

Marriage is the most intimate of all relationships.

It is the ultimate commitment to love, share, trust and grow with another person.

It is the beginning of a whole new life.

By entering into this marriage BRIDE and GROOM are stating publicly, the feelings and commitments they have held privately between them.

They are proclaiming their love for, their trust in and their loyalty to the one they cherish above all others.

Marriage has been described as living in love with your best friend.

Love is one of the few constants in the universe.

It is reality, affinity and communication.

Only love is capable of joining living beings by their deepest essence, uniting, completing and fulfilling them.

Marriage is a symbol of the commitment to create a lifelong partnership based on love.

Opening Words and Introduction 17

Today, before this company, BRIDE and GROOM will declare their intention to join their lives together, to intertwine them in the partnership of marriage for all of the seasons of their lives.

This is the beginning of the journey they now undertake together for their mutual growth in character, in mind, and in spirit.

Marriage doesn’t stay still.

Tomorrow will be different from today, and so marriages too change from day to day, year to year.

Marriage is an ever changing, ever-growing relationship moving the couple toward greater contentment within themselves, with each other, and all those whose lives they touch.

A good marriage makes room for the participants to spread their wings and soar toward their own self-realization.

Marital love is like the seasons of our hearts. BRIDE and GROOM are in the springtime of their love.

It is as tender as the green shoots that in the springtime push their heads through the earth and take nourishment from the morning sun.

With tending and care their love will grow dramatically; it will flower and bear fruit and grow ever stronger in the heat of summer.

Together they will harvest the mature fruit of their union in the warm days of autumn and enjoy the contentment of their labors.

And with the onset of the quiet days of winter when words are no longer necessary, the love that they have cultivated and harvested with such care will sustain them for always.

Someone once said to me — Man plans, and God laughs.”

I think about life that way.

We make plans and they don’t necessarily turn out the way we envisioned, but somehow life happens, and shapes and molds us to be better than we are.

Marriage is the single most important relationship that challenges us to be always better.

It molds and strengthens our character.

Opening Words and Introduction 18

We are here on this magnificent and beautiful day to celebrate one of life’s greatest moments–we are all present to give recognition to the worth and beauty of love–and to publicly witness the marriage bond that BRIDE and GROOM have been creating inwardly.

Aware that there is one Presence and Power, and that we are each part of that Divine unity, we join in blessing BRIDE and GROOM as they bring their hands together in Namaste.

Namaste is a beautiful greeting used widely in the East.

As BRIDE and GROOM join their hands in Namaste, and gaze into each other’s eyes, they will repeat after me, the meaning of this greeting as a symbol of their love and commitment to each other:

I honor the place in you,

Where the entire universe resides,

of love, of light, of peace.

I honor the place within you, where

If you are in that place in you,

And I am in that place in me,

There is only one of us.

Opening Words and Introduction 19

Welcome to all of you, who have come to share in this important moment in the lives of  BRIDE and GROOM.

I ask you to join together in celebrating, acknowledging, and honoring this day and the vows that they will be making.

By your presence, you witness and affirm the truth of their love and commitment to each other.

No one gets married in a vacuum.

Each person lives in the context of their culture and community, and most importantly, within a special network of family members and close friends who make up what we might call their tribe.”

For BRIDE and GROOM, you are these people.

By birth or good fortune, you have had a significant place in sharing, affirming and shaping their lives, and they yours.

Your cherished connections endure, despite the distances that separate you, your busy lives, and all the changes that life takes you through.

Their wedding has brought all of you to one place — an event in itself — and has made the tribes suddenly visible.

Today the two tribes are about to become one.

The Bride’s tribe will take the Groom into their hearts and the Groom’s tribe will take the Bride into theirs.

Through the joining of the couple, so are their tribes joined.

This is a wonderful thing for you, since you may never have a better opportunity to develop connections with so many good people.

You’ll be sharing the evening with some of the best people around, hand picked by the happy couple.

This occasion also provides an opportunity to stop and appreciate the love and friendship you experience in your own lives.

Take a moment to recall the special people who make up your tribe. Think of them with appreciation and gratitude.

Opening Words and Introduction 20

We are gathered here today to celebrate one of life’s greatest moments, the joining of two hearts.

In this ceremony today we will witness the joining of BRIDE and GROOM in marriage.

Today we have come together to witness the joining of these two lives.

For them, out of the routine of ordinary life, the extraordinary has happened.

They met each other, fell in love and are finalizing it with their wedding today.

Opening Words and Introduction 21

Out of affection and honor for BRIDE and GROOM, we are here today, before God, to witness their vows, which will unite them in marriage.

To this moment they bring the fullness of their hearts as a treasure to share with one another.

They bring the spark and spirit which is uniquely their own, and out of which has grown for some time, and will continue to grow, deepen, and strengthen, the precious reality of their life together.

We share joy with them this special day in their lives.

This day they affirm and declare each other as life partners in a celebration of love, which will bring empowerment to their life’s path together.

Let us all give our blessing and love to  BRIDE and GROOM during this ceremony as they pledge their love to one another.

May the wisdom and spirit of all-giving and all-understanding love pervade the words spoken and the love given here today, that these vows offered will remain strong and true in the presence of love all the days of their lives.

May all of us present feel the strength and depth BRIDE and GROOM’s love and experience a rebirth of the power of love in our own lives.

Opening Words and Introduction 22

Good evening.

It is truly a blessing from heaven for two people to find one another and to love so deeply that they embrace the holy bond of marriage.

That is why we are all here today, to witness and celebrate Bride and Groom’s commitment to their union.

On behalf of them, I welcome you all.

Opening Words and Introduction 23

Good afternoon.

We gather here today to witness and celebrate an act of deep love.

Bride and Groom, in their devotion, respect, and love for each other wish to unite in the holy bond of marriage, and to dedicate themselves to each other’s happiness and well-being as life mates and partners.

Opening Words and Introduction 24

Although this is their day, it is also a tribute to all of you.

For knowing you and interacting with you has helped to make our Bride and Groom who they needed to be to find each other.

They would like to thank you all for that.

All of you are the threads of which have woven the tapestry of their lives.

Each one of you is an important piece in the story it tells.

It is the fabric that they wrap around themselves and take comfort in when the world seems cold.

And on days like today when everything is right in their world, that tapestry is proudly spread out and displayed for everyone to see, with all the glorious colors and textures that your diversity adds.

You all hold a place in their hearts reserved for those that they have chosen to call ‘Family’ and Friends” and they are deeply grateful for each and every one of you here today

Opening Words and Introduction 25

Let us all give our blessing and love to BRIDE and GROOM during this ceremony as they pledge their love to one another.

May the wisdom and spirit of all-giving and all-understanding Love pervade the words spoken and the love given here today, that these vows offered will remain strong and true in the presence of love all the days of their lives.

May all of us present feel the strength and depth of BRIDE and GROOM’s love and experience a rebirth of the power of love in our own lives.

To make this relationship work, therefore, takes more than love.

It takes trust, to know in your hearts that you want only the best for each other.

While love is our natural state of being, these other qualities are not as easy to come by.

They are not a destination, but a journey.

Opening Words and Introduction 26

If it were possible to begin this ceremony by gathering together all the wishes of happiness for BRIDE and GROOM from all present here . . . if we could gather together those precious wishes of affection and our very fondest hopes and turn them into music, we would be listening now to a most inspiring anthem, composed of the most harmonious notes possible to produce.

Even though this is not possible, just speaking of it should assure BRIDE and GROOM that our hearts are attuned to theirs in these moments so meaningful to all of us.

For what greater thing is there for two human souls than to feel that they are joined together to strengthen each other in all labor, to minister to each other in all sorrow, to share with each other in all gladness.

Marriage is an act of faith and a personal commitment as well as a moral and physical union between the parties.

Marriage has been described as the best and most important relationship that can exist between two human beings; the construction of their love and trust into a single growing energy of spiritual life.

It is a moral commitment that requires and deserves daily attention since no earthly happiness exceeds that of a reciprocal satisfaction in the conjugal state.

Marriage should be a life-long consecration to the ideal of loving kindness, backed with the will to make it last.

Opening Words and Introduction 27

Dearly beloved, we have come together in the presence of God to witness and bless the joining together of this man and this woman in Holy Matrimony.

The bond and covenant of marriage was established by God in creation, and our Lord Jesus Christ adorned this manner of life by his presence and first miracle at a wedding in Cana of Galilee.

It signifies to us the mystery of the union between Christ and his Church, and Holy Scripture commends it to be honored among all people.

The union of husband and wife in heart, body, and mind is intended by God for their mutual joy; for the help and comfort given one another in prosperity and adversity and, when it is God’s will, for the procreation of children and their nurture in the knowledge and love of the Lord.

Therefore marriage is not to be entered into unadvisedly or lightly, bit reverently, deliberately, and in accordance with the purposes for which it was instituted by God.

Into this holy union BRIDE and GROOM now come to be joined.

If any of you can show just cause why they may not lawfully be married, speak now, or else for every hold your peace.

I require and charge you both, here in the presence of God, that if either of you know any reason shy you may not be united in marriage lawfully, and in accordance with God’s Word, you do now confess it.

Opening Words and Introduction 28

Before God we have come together today, for marriage is one of the most sacred of His wishes, and now, through me, He joins you together in one of the holiest of bonds.

Opening Words and Introduction 29

Dear family and friends we have gathered here today to joyfully acknowledge the wedding of BRIDE and GROOM.

They have requested your presence on this memorable occasion in order that you might share with them the pledging of their everlasting love on this day of commitment. Let us pray in silence as we wish them all the happiness in their new life together.

Opening Words and Introduction 30

We have gathered here today, in the presence of family and friends to join BRIDE and GROOM in Matrimony.

Opening Words and Introduction 31

BRIDE, GROOM and their families extend a warm welcome to all of you.

They are elated that you could be here today for this joyous marriage celebration.

We have come together this day to uphold you, BRIDE, and you, GROOM, as you exchange your vows of marriage.

We celebrate with you the love you have discovered in each other, and we support your decision to continue your life’s journeys together as husband and wife.

BRIDE and GROOM came together from different backgrounds and experiences.

Through their marriage they do not leave those things behind, but instead form a new family that will broaden the circle of love and understanding in the world.

Whatever source of spiritual guidance you follow, I’m sure you will agree that as inhabitants of Planet Earth, we are one family.

With that in mind, BRIDE and GROOM have asked me honor you – their immediate and extended families – by combining both of their individual spiritual traditions into this ceremony.

The principles and sentiments expressed today will be very familiar to you all.

Opening Words and Introduction 32

It is the joyous union of two people whose comradeship and mutual understanding have flowered in love.

Today BRIDE and GROOM proclaim their love and commitment to the world, and we gather here to rejoice with and for them, in the new life they now undertake together.

The joy we feel now is a solemn joy, because the act of marriage has many consequences, both social and personal.

Marriage requires “love”, a word we often use with vagueness and sentimentality.

We may assume that love is some rare and mystical event, when in fact it is our natural state of being.

So what do we mean by love?

We see beneath the surface, to the qualities that make our beloved special and unique.

To see with loving eyes, is to know inner beauty.

To be loved is to be seen, and known, as we are known to no other. One, who loves us, gives us a unique gift: a piece of ourselves, but a piece that only they could give us.

We, who love, can look at each other’s life and say, “I touched his life, ” or, “I touched her life, ” just as an artist might say, “I touched this canvas.”

The secret of love and marriage is similar to that of religion itself.

It is the emergence of the larger self.

It is the finding of one’s life by losing it.

Such is the privilege of husband and wife – to be each himself, herself and yet another – to face the world strong, with the courage of two.

Opening Words and Introduction 33

We are gathered here today to unite BRIDE and GROOM in marriage.

This celebration is but an outward sign of an inward union of heart, mind and spirit.

This is a celebration of the joining of two souls already attuned to each other.

When such a true bond already exists between a man and a woman, it is fitting that an outer acknowledgment be made.

We are here to bear witness to the entry into the closer relationship as husband and wife of these beloved friends who are already one in spirit.

Opening Words and Introduction 34

Dear family and friends, we have gathered here today, together in the sight of God, to witness and celebrate the marriage of BRIDE and GROOM.

They have requested your presence on this memorable occasion in order that you might share with them the pledging of their everlasting love on this day of commitment.

Mutual love is one of the richest experiences and most precious gifts we know.

Marriage is both a threshold and a continuing process in that experience.

The relationship must continue to grow with care, nurture, and an unending awareness of each other’s needs and feelings.

It requires a solemn commitment, which is to be entered into reverently, but also with joy and celebration. In this we now share.

BRIDE and GROOM, I charge you with the responsibility to keep alive; to grow, to change, to maintain the capacity for wonder, for spontaneity, for humor; to remain pliable, warm and sensitive.

I charge you to give fully; to show your real feelings, to save time for each other, no matter what demands are made upon your day.

I charge you to see the meaning of life through the changing prism of your love; to nurture each other to fullness and wholeness, and in learning to love each other more deeply, learn to love the creation in which the mystery of your love has happened.

Opening Words and Introduction 35

We come together not to mark the start of a relationship, but to recognize a bond that already exists.

This marriage is one expression of the many varieties of love. Love is one, though its expressions are infinite.

It is fitting to speak briefly about love.

We live in a world of joy and fear and search for meaning and strength in the seeming disorder.

We discover the truest guideline to our quest when we realize love in all its magnitudes.

Love is the eternal force of life.

Love is the force that allows us to face fear and uncertainty with courage.

For the giving of our self in love is difficult, for you must learn to give of your love without total submission of yourself.

Therefore, in your giving, give your joy, your sadness, your interest, your understanding, your knowledge — all expressions that make up life.

But in this giving, remember to preserve yourself — your integrity, your individuality.

This is the challenge of love within marriage.

Although you will be sharing one life, never forget, you are two separate people.

Cherish and affirm your differences.

Love each other.

Keep your commitment primary.

Together you will laugh and cry, be sick and well, be happy and angry, share and grow.

Grow, sometimes together, sometimes separately.

But never remain stagnant. Love and life are always changing, always new.

If you will insure a healthy lasting marriage, always, always value each other.

Although you will disagree, remember to respect each other’s feelings, needs and wants.

So it is our hope for you both that in all areas of your life together you will weave a durable fabric of mutual consolation and support and of help in time of trouble.

May each of you achieve the ability to give of yourselves freely so that you will each live better life and become greater persons.

Opening Words and Introduction 36

BRIDE and GROOM, the relationship that you have nourished together stands for love that will blossom and grow with each passing day.

Before you knew love, you were friends, and it was from this seed of friendship that is now your destiny.

Marriage is the clasping of hands, the blending of hearts, the union of two lives as one.

Marriage is caring as much about the welfare and happiness of your marriage partner as your own.

It is not total absorption into each other. It is looking outward in the same direction together.

Marriage makes burdens lighter because you divide them.

It makes joys more intense because you share them.

It makes you stronger, so that you can be involved with life in ways you dare not risk alone.

To make your relationship work will take love.

This is the core of your marriage and why you are here today.

It will take trust, to know in your hearts that you truly want the best for each other.

It will take dedication, to stay open and honest with one another — and to learn and grow together.

It will take faith, to go forward together without knowing exactly what the future brings.

And it will take commitment, to hold true to the journey you both promised today to share together.

An intimate and secure relationship is not based on promises, but rather on trust, respect, faithfulness and the ability to forgive.

A lasting marriage is based on all of these, bound together by love.

Opening Words and Introduction 37

We must give ourselves in love, but we must not give ourselves away.

As Saint Exupery said, Love does not consist in gazing into each other’s eyes, but in looking together in the same direction.”

That is why love must always say no to live in a closed world with just the perfume of the beloved and no other essences from nature or humanity.

So it is on this summer eve, let us rejoice yet know that we are here not just to observe but also to participate in this marriage ceremony.

May we all remember that the path of love is meant to be walked together with God and with all of humanity.

No persons in a love relationship can have meaning apart from their family, their friends and their community.

Who gives their blessing to this marriage, and in the giving who says an enthusiastic Yes!” to this new relationship?

Opening Words and Introduction 38

A marriage between mature people is not an escape but a commitment shared by two individuals that becomes part of their commitment to themselves and society.

Yet to love is also to accept the mystery of the loved one, and to refuse to violate that mystery.

Opening Words and Introduction 39

Dear friends, we are gathered to celebrate a historic and extraordinary event.

At the invitation of BRIDE and GROOM, we are here to see for ourselves their love and commitment, to witness their claim to their civil rights, to surround them with prayer and support, and to share in their joy.

Opening Words and Introduction 40

We welcome all of you here today as we have gathered together in the presence of God and these witnesses to join GROOM and BRIDE in holy matrimony.

Marriage is a gift, a gift from God, given to us so that we might experience the joys of unconditional love with a lifelong partner.

God designed marriage to be an intimate relationship between a man and a woman–mentally, emotionally, physically, and spiritually.

Just as the two of you make vows to one another today, God also made vows to you and me that show how much He loves and cares for each one of us.

Listen to these vows God made that are recorded for us in His Word: I will betroth you to myself forever in lawful wedlock with unfailing devotion and love; I will commit myself to you, to have and to hold, and you shall know the Lord.”

GROOM and BRIDE because your deep love for each other comes from God above, this is a sacred moment, and it is with great reverence that I now ask you to declare your intent.

Renewal of Vows Opening Words and Introduction 41

Friends, we are gathered here at this hour to celebrate the marriage of these two individuals.

We are here to re-affirm BRIDE and GROOM in marriage, to rejoice with them in the making of this important commitment.

The essence of this commitment is the taking of another person in his or her entirety, as lover, companion and friend.

It is a decision which was not entered into lightly, but rather undertaken with great consideration and respect for both the other person and oneself.

Love is one of the highest experiences that we human beings can have and it can add depth of meaning to our lives.

The day-to-day companionship, the pleasure of doing things together or in exchanging individual experiences, is a continuous and central part of what two people who love each other can share.

What marriage is about is what life is about — growth.

The relationship between two people must keep growing and changing, forming a constant adventure and development which will not be without conflict.

If differences are faced openly, the possibility of learning how to convert problems into opportunities will not be lost and the marriage will prosper.

A marriage that lasts is one which is continually developing and in which each person is individually growing while growing in understanding of the others.

Deep knowledge of another is not something that can be achieved in a short time and real understanding of the other can develop fully only after years of intimacy.

This wonderful knowledge of another person grows out of caring enough to want to truly understand what the other is feeling.

Thus, it is possible to share not only joys and successes but also the burden of sorrows and failures. To be known in this way is a priceless thing.

Such understanding and acceptance makes it easier to live with our problems, failings and worries.

To give ourselves in love is not to give ourselves away.

A good and balanced relationship is one in which neither person is overpowered or absorbed by the other.

It is out of the tension between separateness and union, that love, whose incredible strength is equal only to its incredible fragility, is born and reborn.

Renewal of Vows Opening Words and Introduction 42

As these two people have come together before, pledging everlasting love, so we are gathered together today to once again join this woman and this man in holy matrimony.

But now they wish to extend that joy in a new affirmation, based not upon what they hope the future years will bring, but on what the past has already brought them and what they know of their future together.

Additionally, as they honor one another in memory of the years already shared, the family now grown, and the joys and hardships together endured, they wish to pledge their love anew.

This pledge represents not only what will be, but also honors what has already been.

When a couple first decides to marry, it is an act of faith; faith that the new spouse will be as wonderful as his or her behavior has led each of them to believe.

But we all know that sometimes married life can reveal hidden aspects to your spouse’s personality.

It then becomes a test of love and endurance to maintain a marriage.

BRIDE and GROOM have come through their challenge wiser, more mature and with their love intact.

Share this:

Discover more from officiant eric.

Subscribe now to keep reading and get access to the full archive.

Type your email…

Continue reading

• ⭐ Find vendors
• New Reader?
• Submissions

Search Offbeat Wed (was Offbeat Bride) For:

To search, type and and press enter.

Offbeat Wed (was Offbeat Bride)

Altar your thinking: alternative wedding planning

Non-traditional, non-religious, NON-BORING officiant wedding script

At Offbeat Wed, we specialize in helping folks officiate wedding ceremonies . We've shared TONS of unique and nontraditional wedding sample scripts , and this is our most popular officiant wedding script of all time!

When I was engaged, I scoured the interwebs to find pieces to make up our personalized wedding ceremony that was non-traditional, nonreligious, and most importantly non-boring .

We twisted some traditions and added our own flair (champagne toast! unity box full of letters! serenade!) to create a beautiful non-religious ceremony for our wedding day that I am happy to share with others. So if you're wondering “What do officiants say at weddings?” let our ceremony script be your example!

Here we go…

Our wedding ceremony script

Feel free to lean on this text if you'd like to build your own officiant wedding script.

Introduction to our non traditional wedding

OFFICIANT'S DECLARATION OF INTENT: Today is a celebration. A celebration of love, of commitment, of friendship, of family, and of two people who are in it for forever.

You don't have to have a ceremony to have a marriage. And when you think about it, the whole thing is kind of weird, right? You're standing on a stage, looking fancy, holding flowers, and being stared at by pretty much everyone who has meant anything to you in the past twenty-something years. So why do we do it? The marriage ceremony has been an important feature across nearly every culture, religion, generation, and society. We have thousands of important moments that happen throughout our lives, but this one is regarded as one so critical, we acknowledge its special status by sharing it with others. Why this moment?

Because despite all of our differences, love is what we all share. It's the great unifier — our one universal truth. That no matter who we are, where we've come from, what we believe, we know this one thing: love is what we're doing right. That's why you both are standing here. That's why you all are here to watch them stand up here. We have all loved in our lifetimes, and in this moment, we're reminded that the ability to love is the very best part of our humanity

All of us here today have our own love stories. Some are short, others long. Some are yet unwritten, while others are just getting to the good part. There are chapters in all of our stories that are sad or disappointing — and others that are exciting and full of adventure.

[Insert your own love story here]

And that brings them here. A time to pause, look back, and smile at all the moments that brought them here. And a time to look ahead at all the moments that are still to come.

I'm here — we're all here — because we want those moments for you. We're here to hope with you, to support you, to be proud of you, and to remind you that love isn't happily ever after, love is the experience of writing your story. It's not one moment — not even this moment. It's every moment. Big ones like saying “I love you,” moving in together, getting engaged — but mostly a million little ones that come in between the big moments. Falling asleep next to one another, making dinner together, spending holidays with your families, binge-watching Netflix shows, getting a big hug when you get home from work… These everyday moments fuse together into one big experience.

And even though this experience is so incredible, words fail us when we try and explain it. That's just the way it is with love — it's meant to be felt, not described.

But trying to describe love is one of our favorite pastimes. We use the words we have to write stories, and poems, and songs about love. And even though we describe love in different ways — and even though love can look different from one person to the next — we all know it when we see it. And we see it here.

So today, we have some words about what love is, coming from some of the people who love you the most.

[Insert your own wedding readings if you have them]

How to find and include readings in your wedding ceremony?

When it comes to "elements to include in a wedding," one of the first things that many people think of are readings. And there's a good reason why -- so many of us have such a strong connection with words. Finding the right quotes, poems, or passages, that capture a feeling or a moment, can help us when we aren't feeling especially creative, or can't find our own words to share how we feel. But where can you find these perfect words to include in your ceremony? And how can you include them?

Our wedding vows / Exchange of vows

OFFICIANT: You fell in love by chance, but you're here today because you're making a choice. You both are choosing each other. You've chosen to be with someone who enhances you, who makes you think, makes you smile, and makes every day brighter.

You're about to make promises to each other that you intend to keep. You're going to vow to take care of each other, to stand up for one another, and find happiness in the other. There's a simple premise to each of these promises: you're vowing to be there. You're teaming up and saying to the other, “Every experience I am going to have, I want you to be a part of.”

Will you, [Partner 1], keep [Partner 2] as your favorite person — to laugh with her, go on adventures with her, support her through life's tough moments, be proud of her, grow old with her, and find new reasons to love her every day?

Steal this super-simple wedding ceremony script

We got married a few months ago, and we wrote the ceremony and vows ourselves. I wanted to share them with you guys in case any of you were looking for something short and simple.

PARTNER 1: I will.

[Same question is then asked of Partner 2]

OFFICIANT: Will you, [Partner 1 and 2], be each other's partners from this day forward? Will you bring out the best in one another, share your happiest moments together, and love each other absolutely — for the rest of this lifetime and for whatever may come next?

PARTNERS 1 and 2: We will.

Exchange of rings

OFFICIANT: You’ve both chosen to wear rings as a reminder of these promises. People often say wedding bands are a perfect circle, with no beginning and no end. But these rings did have a beginning. The stones were formed a long time ago deep with the earth. Eventually, a series of lucky events caused them to rise to the surface, where someone dug them up. Metal was then liquefied in a furnace at a thousand degrees — molded, cooled, and painstakingly polished. Something beautiful was made from raw elements.

Love is like that. It comes from humble beginnings, and through a combination of serendipity and effort, imperfect beings shape it into something extraordinary. It’s the process of making something beautiful where there was once nothing at all. As you each look at your wedding ring over the years, I hope you remember that. You’ve created something invaluable, and just as I know you’ll protect these rings, I’m confident you’ll protect the commitments you’ve made to one other today.

Final toast

OFFICIANT: I hope I haven't talked so long that people finished their drinks, because this is a celebration, and every celebration needs a toast.

So to wrap this up before we all head into the reception hall for a delicious dinner and lots of dancing, I'll ask you all to raise your glasses to Katie and Mallory as we celebrate their love.

[toast adapted from Blessing for a Marriage by James Dillet Freeman ]

May your marriage bring you all the exquisite excitements a marriage should bring. May you need one another, but not out of weakness. May you want one another, but not out of lack. May you look for things to praise, often say, “I love you!” and take no notice of small faults. May you have happiness, and may you find it making one another happy. May you have love, and may you find it loving one another.

Guest Post By: Mallory Perryman

I'm Mallory, a PhD student who lives in Madison, Wisconsin. My partner is Katie, a physical therapist who looked absolutely stunning on our wedding day in Columbia, Missouri. I'm originally from Arkansas, Katie is from southern Missouri, and we were married in front of 200 friends and family members, then we'll get legally married in Hawaii.

Meet our fave wedding vendors

Comments on Non-traditional, non-religious, NON-BORING officiant wedding script

This is absolute perfection and I think I’m going to steal pretty much the whole thing. The only thing I’m going to change is the ring part, because we’re getting tattoos and not rings. But, other than that, it’s amazingly and wonderfully perfect!! Thank you so much for sharing and allowing us to steal this.

This is awesome and I am totally going to steal some of it for our wedding in June.

I’ll definitely be stealing large portions of this. It’s too perfect.

I was just remarking how I was needing something like this. We have an officiant who has married hundreds of people but she wants us to look through some ideas and we are clueless! Also, we are living in CoMo and getting married out of state by HI! CoMo reppin!

Thanks you’ve just made my officiants job REALLY easy!!!

I adore this! We may steal bits and pieces for our own ceremony! Thank you so much for sharing! 😀

Thanks for sharing! My partner and I are trying to throw a wedding that is mostly a cocktail party that happens to include some vows thrown in. This helps us get closer to making that happen.

Feel free to borrow whatever you like! On my website, you can see the full readings we used:

– “Love is Friendship Caught Fire” by Laura Hendricks – “Loving the Wrong Person” by Andrew Boyd – “Captain Corelli’s Mandolin” (excerpt) by Louis de Bernières

Followed by a personalized version of “I wanna grow old with you,” sung by my brothers.

We’re having Love is Friendship Caught Fire, as well. 🙂

Can you tell me how long the ceremony was from start to finish?? I borrowed a good half of this and mine is getting a little long now… Thank you!! 🙂

The script posted here is a shortened version. The whole thing (posted on my blog) lasts 23 minutes. I was once a TV news producer, so it is timed down to the minute, haha. The timing assumes the person performing the ceremony has a smooth delivery style and average pacing — i.e., someone who is a decent public speaker.

The readings and the parts the officiant added took the longest. If I were trimming, I’d do only one, maybe two, readings and ask the officiant to keep their bits short.

Hope this helps! I’m always happy to hear when people use part of our ceremony. https://lovepartyblog.wordpress.com/

Is it possible you can email the script I’ve tried from the iPad and not having success

It is brilliant I must say!

Oh, this might be my favorite ceremony posted here!

Thank you, Thank you, Thank you! As another female (girly couple) your vows and blog have been invaluable! Look out 8th March 2015!

I love this so much! These are the truest wedding vows I’ve read in a while. I may steal parts of this for my wedding in June 🙂

So I read this post and totally fell in love with this ceremony so my fiance and I are totally stealing it for our Hawaii wedding in June. We made some small changes, added in somethings but it really spoke to us as a couple. Thank you for sharing. I have gotten so many wonderful ideas from Tribe members. I hope I get to share all of mine with you when it is all said and done.

My new husband (yay!) and I used most of this script for our ceremony this past Saturday. It was just perfect for our short-and-sweet ceremony and who we are as a couple. Thank you so much for sharing!

This is the most beautiful AND grounded ceremony script I’ve read in these months leading up to our wedding. Your words are wonderful and say everything we want to express during our ceremony. My fiance and I have just taken most of it for our upcoming nuptials. Thank you so much for graciously sharing with us.

So gonna have to use some, ok lots of this….I know I can make it work for the 3 of us. Always looking for help….so hard to find poly marriage stuff. So glad I stumbled upon the Offbeat Bride! woot woot! 🙂

I love the continual mention of it being a partnership! We are a team, and not that we need to fight the world, but if we did, it’s going to be us against everything. I adore this.

This is EVERYTHING. Thank you so much for a post that basically read my mind! We are so not into the church wedding/please give me $500 officiant thing, so even though I’m a writer, I struggled with how to write a wedding ceremony that lasted longer than 5 minutes. Now I don’t have to worry! Done and DONE. Thank you thank you THANK YOU.

Thank you SO much for posting/sharing this!! I couldn’t believe how difficult it was to find a laid back ceremony. This ceremony was exactly what I was looking for 🙂 You rock!!

This was awesome!!! I officiated my first wedding this past Friday and I used a lot of this script, along with some of my own wording. I wasn’t sure where to start and this helped tremendously!!! The couple were so pleased! And I was offered to officiate another wedding, so it must have worked:). Thank you so much for sharing!!!

Oh man. This is aces. Just beautiful!

You know, I read this site religiously – every post through my RSS feed. I’m frequently surprised how often I’m linked back to something completely perfect that I somehow missed the first time around.

I love the feel of this ceremony, it’s exactly the level of sweet and silly and honest that we’re going for. Thanks for providing the perfect foundation!

Amazeballs! I’m officiating a wedding soon and will be using lots from your ceremony! You really get what a marriage is all about. I love the laid back feel and combination of sweet loving and goof ball adventure living you represent. Thanks for keepin it real!

OMG this is perfect!!!

I might steal this to use at my wedding. Although I think the officiant we might be getting might not mind going off this. That and I’m sure he would do something VERY similar.

Thank You!!!

These texts sounds great! I think that all future newlyweds should be inspired, it’s the truest wedding vows I’ve read… Thanks for sharing!

This is beautifully written. I wanted to thank you–I’ve been scouring the internet for wedding ceremonies as I write my own, and this one was a huge inspiration to me. I particularly liked (and will be stealing/adapting) the part about love as a uniting force across differences, which is something I was trying and failing to put into words in my ceremony. I wish you and Katie many happy years together.

thanks for sharing, this is great!

I found this script last summer while my husband and I were planning our wedding. We used this as a basis for our own ceremony, making a few changes here and there. (Our rings are both gold, so I inserted a few lines about gold being created in a super nova, and THEN being dug up and made into a ring.. lol.. Geeky I know, but so are we….)

This script worked perfectly. Thank you for posting it!

This is beautiful! We will be stealing some bits and pieces for sure. Thank you for sharing 🙂

Yep! We used some bits and pieces of the ceremony and vows! Thank you for sharing your beautiful work here!

Thank you for sharing! We will think fondly of you on June 11, 2016 when the beautiful words and thoughtful structure of your ceremony become part of our own. You’ll never know how stressed we were about figuring out this part of our wedding and how grateful we are to have found your post.

Greeting me and my boyfriend/ fiance is looking for ideals for our wedding and we are wanting to do either a Halloween Wedding or an Autumn Wedding. I am shouting for a wedding close to Mabon, but it is what he and I are wanting to do to make our love know to all those around us. That our love is Strong and Wonderful.

This is incredible. THANK YOU SO SO MUCH!!!!

I have been having trouble coming up with a ceremony that will suit us and I think I have just found it! I’ll have to see what he thinks of this as a base but I think he will like it too. Thank you so much for sharing this. It is a huge help! Now to find the perfect wording for our invitations that works with our Alice in Wonderland theme……

Hi! I just want to congratulate you Mallory for your inspired writing, you are truly gifted. And I also want to thank you so much for sharing it with us. I definitely will credit you in our wedding. I’m getting married next November in a little town in south Brazil. Just so you and Katie know how far your love and inspiration have reached. 🙂

I may or may not use exactly this. What a beautiful script. Thank you for sharing such a big part of your special day!

Thank you for providing these scripts. I am going to officiate my first wedding this month, and it is for my best friend, and this really worked for her. I appreciate the ideas. Keep them coming!!

Hi Mallory!

This is really amazing! Can you zip me an email at [email protected] ? I want to see if you’re cool with us adapting this for a potentially televised wedding?

Thank you so much for sharing your ceremony script! I cried most of the way through it as I read it aloud to my fiance. It is simply beautiful and will figure prominently into our own wedding ceremony! Best wishes for a lifetime of happiness! : )

As a wedding officiant, I will say this-if you are doing the champagne toast: DO NOT DO IT UNTIL AFTER THE SIGNING OF THE DOCUMENTS!!! As beautiful and original as each wedding is, it is a legal ceremony, whether it is religious or non-religious. Your officiant cannot (at least in Canada, but I’m sure many other countries) legally marry you if they believe that you are under the influence of alcohol. Happy wedding planning!

Doesn’t really apply to this ceremony, since the people getting married are kissing while everyone else is toasting with champagne.

Complete perfection! THANK YOU FOR SHARING! I am going to use most of this for my wedding in January!

Thank you for sharing! This is beautiful. Full of hopes and truths.

This is perfection! I’m officiating my first wedding tomorrow, and I have clarity now!

Such a fantastic place, and beautiful wedding <3 !!!

After I initially left a comment I seem to have clicked the -Notify me when new comments are added- checkbox and now whenever a comment is added I receive four emails with the exact same comment. Perhaps there is a way you can remove me from that service? Cheers!

It’s amazing how many of the comments echo my own thoughts; that this ceremony is just perfect. I’ve been searching online for inspiration to write our ceremony and quite frankly I’m just going to steal most of this! I’ve just tried re-writing it, but it feels like it’s already mostly in my own words! And best of all, I was trying to work out how to add a toast into our wedding as we’re not having speeches, so ending the ceremony with one is a great idea! Thank you for the inspiration xxx

I love this so much! It is exactly what I was looking for, and I plan to use most (if not all) of it for our ceremony next spring! Thank you for sharing.

We’d like to use some of this for our ceremony. Offbeat Bride, how would you like to be credited?

Hey Suzanne! I wrote this- no credit needed. You’re so thoughtful for asking. Glad you are able to use it and congratulations on your wedding!

I will echo everyone else, this ceremony is beautiful!!! I am not a writer, and you were able to take my feelings and put them to words. THANK YOU for sharing this so we can all borrow from it!!!

Thank you for this! I love the toast part!

Beautiful Images, love your style

Thank you for sharing your beautifully written ceremony script! We borrowed quite a bit of this for our own wedding and are so grateful to have found this while planning.

A huge thank you for sharing this! I officiated my best friend’s wedding two weeks ago and this definitely helped my get my ideas in order. It is beautifully written and perfectly funny. Thank you xx

This script is utter trash. Why do you think this is what people want when they search for a non-traditional script? Four paragraphs of filler for the officiant to pontificate the same bullshit about love? How is this “not” boring?

The good news here is that this is one of MANY scripts we have on the site: https://offbeatwed.com/tag/ceremony-script/

Perhaps one of our other ones might feel less trash-like for you?

Thank you for the perfect words! We borrowed some of your ceremony script. It was everything that we could have wanted. It was cool, modern, to the point, sweet and beautiful. I had never heard a script written in this particular way and I did look around a bit online. Yours clearly stood apart. I’m so happy that I found your site and for your generosity. – Lorraine from Los Angeles

I’m not crying you’re crying <3 For real though this script is beautiful!

That was fantastic!

I just feel the need to comment on this and say WOW. This really struck a chord with me despite not being religious; it’s beautifully written! That creative writing degree sure paid off 😀

Comments are closed.

AMERICAN WEDDINGS BLOG

Stay up to date with the latest wedding ceremony trends, script writing inspiration, tips and advice for first-time officiants, and news that matters to couples and wedding ministers.

BLOG CATEGORIES

Trending tags, share this article.

first time officiants wedding and ceremony planning wedding ceremony script

A Simple Wedding Script to Use When a Friend Officiates Your Ceremony

Published Thursday, Aug. 4th, 2022

Written by Jessica Levey

Este articulo en español

This ‘Friend Officiating’ wedding script template makes it easy for a couple and their friend officiant to write a custom ceremony. Just fill in the blanks with details from your love story to create a sweet officiant speech and personal vows, then put it all together for a short & simple wedding ceremony script that’s ready to go on your marriage day!

Is a friend officiating your wedding ceremony? 

Congratulations! We can’t think of a better way to start a new chapter in life than standing side by side with the people you love the most. 

Your friend will need to get ordained , then you can start planning the perfect wedding ceremony together. For step-by-step instructions on what friends and relatives must do in order to officiate read: 

• Can you legally perform a wedding ceremony for your friends and family? Yes!

Once the initial paperwork is taken care of, all that’s left is finding the perfect words to celebrate the happy occasion. 

To make it easy, we created a simple wedding ceremony template for you, your partner, and your friend-officiant to complete together. 

How to use this Wedding Ceremony Script Template: 

Fill in each blank section with details from you and your partner’s relationship by answering the provided questions. This can be completed in only a few minutes, but we suggest you take your time and make a fun day of it. 

Put it all together, and you’ve got a sweet wedding script that’s ready to go on the wedding day! 

The Perfect Wedding Script for a Friend Officiant 

A ‘Friend Officiating’ Wedding Ceremony Script Template

• See this wedding script in Spanish

PROCESSION / PROCESSIONAL

• GUESTS ARE SEATED. THE COUPLE ENTERS & THE CEREMONY BEGINS.

OFFICIANT TO THE RECEPTION

Welcome friends and family. A wedding is such a wonderful occasion, filled with hopes, dreams, and excitement. We’ve gathered here today to celebrate the love between [PARTNER A] and [PARTNER B], and to witness the depth of that love as they join together in the commitment of marriage. 

In the [number of months or years] that they’ve known each other, these two have had countless adventures together, made joyful memories, and supported and comforted each other through difficult days and weeks.  

They’ve ____________________________________, ____________________________________, and ____________________________________. 

For the couple: What are three of your favorite memories together? What is something the two of you overcame that you could never have done alone? Include your most important moments here to share with friends and family.

And with patience, understanding, laughter, and honesty, they’ve grown into the couple you see before you. 

Now, they are ready to spend the rest of their lives together, building new memories as [husband and wife / partners for life / etc.]

OFFICIANT TO THE COUPLE

The foundations of a true marriage begin long before the wedding day, and the efforts of marriage continue long after the ceremony ends. A brief moment in time and the stroke of a pen are all it takes to form the legal bond of marriage, but it takes a lifetime of love, commitment, and compromise to make marriage durable and everlasting.

When you asked me to share this special day with you, my heart filled with joy. I can’t imagine two people better suited to each other. I’ve had the privilege of know you both for [amount of time], and watched you  ____________________________________ and ____________________________________. I’ve witnessed your respect and love for each other as you weathered ups and downs together, strengthened by your __________, __________, and __________. 

For the officiant: What are two of your favorite memories of the couple? These can be activities the three of you did together, or memories you have of them that demonstrate their compatibility and strengths.  For the officiant: What are the couple’s best qualities as a team? What qualities do they bring out in each other? For example: humor, compassion, and devotion.  

Today you declare your commitment to each other before family and friends.

DECLARATION OF INTENT

OFFICIANT TO PARTNER A

Do you [PARTNER A], take [PARTNER B] to be your [wife/ husband/ spouse], to love, honor, and cherish, through all of life’s ups and downs, sharing the days in joy and comfort, from this day forward?

• PARTNER A RESPONDS WITH AN AFFIRMATION.

OFFICIANT TO PARTNER B

Do you [PARTNER B], take [PARTNER A] to be your [wife/ husband/ spouse], to love, honor, and cherish, through all of life’s ups and downs, sharing the days in joy and comfort, from this day forward?

• PARTNER B RESPONDS WITH AN AFFIRMATION.

RINGS EXCHANGE

You’ve chosen to exchange rings [or gifts] as a symbol of the promises you make here today. They will be a reminder to you of the love you’ve cultivated these past [number of years], and of all the joys yet undiscovered, that lie on your journey ahead. 

When you’re ready, [Partner A], you can go first.  

PARTNER A TO PARTNER B

[PARTNER B], I give you this ring as a symbol of my love. I promise to  ____________________________________, ____________________________________, and ____________________________________. I will never  ____________________________________, and always ____________________________________. I love you always.  

• PARTNER A PLACES THE RING ON PARTNER B'S FINGER.

For Partner A: What are three promises you want to make to your partner on your wedding day? Or, what are the three things you value most about being someone’s spouse?  Then, what is one thing you promise never to do? This is a good opportunity to add humor, something light hearted and funny to make your partner smile. Or, if it suits the tone, choose something that you know is very important to your partner.  And last, what is something you promise to do every single day of your marriage? 

  OFFICIANT TO PARTNER B

[Partner B], you’re up.

PARTNER B TO PARTNER A

[PARTNER A], I give you this ring as a symbol of my love. I promise to  ____________________________________, ____________________________________, and ____________________________________. I will never  ____________________________________, and always ____________________________________. I love you always. 

• PARTNER B PLACES THE RING ON PARTNER A'S FINGER.

For Partner B: What are three promises you want to make to your partner on your wedding day? Or, what are the three things you value most about being someone’s spouse?  Then, what is one thing you promise never to do? This is a good opportunity to add humor, something light hearted and funny to make your partner smile. Or, if it suits the tone, choose something that you know is very important to your partner.  And last, what is something you promise to do every single day of your marriage? 

PRONOUNCEMENT

OFFICIANT TO THE RECEPTION AND COUPLE

It is my great honor to stand beside you both today, joined by the people that love and support you the most, as you take this next step. 

By the power vested in me by the State of [Name of Wedding State], I pronounce you [husband and wife / wife and wife/ partners for life / married/ etc.]. 

You may kiss!

Family and friends, I present to you for the first time, the newlyweds! Let’s celebrate them! 

recession/ RECESSIONAL

• End of the Wedding Ceremony.

Not what you're looking for?    Visit the Wedding Ceremony Script Library.

We know that writing a ceremony from scratch can be a daunting process, especially if you’re officiating on short notice.   To make things easier, we keep our Sample Script Library well stocked with wedding ceremony templates and sample scripts for you to choose from. These scripts are a great starting point, with sections to add to, leave out, or reorganize, as you personalize a ceremony.    You'll find a variety of religious and non-religious ceremonies to choose from.  

  You might also like: 

• More Than Words: 5 Body Language Tips for New Officiants
• The secret to a perfect wedding officiant speech (with examples)  

One of our favorite ways to find the perfect wording for a wedding officiant speech or wedding script is to think of the ceremony as a theater play, with you and your couple performing unique roles. Read the full article here. 

  Browse  Articles for First Time Officiants  

Lead Staff Writer & Illustrator

Jessica loves exploring the history and magic of ritual, the connections between people and places, and sharing true stories about love and commitment. She's an advocate for marriage equality, LGBTQ+ rights, and individuality, and is an ordained Minister with AMM. When she’s not writing or illustrating for AMM, she enjoys city hikes, fantasy novels, comics, and traveling.

Last Article:

Next Article:

How To Officiate By State

Who Will Officiate Your Wedding?

Choose Your Officiant with our "Will You Marry Us?" Gift Package.

Signature Wedding Officiant Package

Our premiere package contains everyting you need to officiate like a pro.

The Book of Wedding Vows and Ceremonies

It's finally here! Timeless scripts and heartfelt vow inspiration to bring life to your ceremony.

Professional Wedding Officiant Certification Course

Learn from the Pros to Officiate with Confidence!

POPULAR ARTICLES

American Marriage Ministries on Your I Do Crew! Podcast

Is it Legal to Get Married on Mushrooms?

American Marriage Ministries just ordained our 800,000th minister!

Black bear crashes wedding! What would you do in this situation?

Wisconsin shortens waiting period for marriage, allows licenses to be used an...

The Wrong Officiant for Your Wedding – Warning Signs of a Bad Fit

Donate to amm.

Your generosity keeps American Marriage Ministries running.

Wedding Officiant Training

Everything you need to know to officiate.

Sample Wedding Ceremony Scripts

Need inspiration? Check out our free ceremony scripts!

Subscribe To Our Newsletter!

Become a Wedding Officiant with Our Free Online Ordination!

• NEW Wedding Ideas

Sample Wedding Ceremony Scripts You’ll Want to Borrow

A heartfelt thank you to Generation Tux for sponsoring this post! They really do simplify the suit and tuxedo rental process, Generation Tux has revolutionized the way we approach wedding attire. With an easy and enjoyable online experience, they eliminate the need for store visits, last-minute pickups, and ill-fitting garments.

Generation Tux ensures a stress-free wedding planning journey. Offering over 25 premium quality wool suits and tuxedos, they empower you to customize your look from bowtie to dress shoes.

Rest assured with their guaranteed fit, as their innovative fit technology, eTailor, utilizes an algorithm that automatically sizes you for a perfect fit. The seamless coordination of groomsmen and wedding party rentals is made effortless with event tracking and groomsmen management. Track all orders in your group from start to finish, receive automated alerts, and stay informed anywhere, anytime. Additionally, Generation Tux boasts an outstanding 5-star customer experience team and personal stylists, available seven days a week via phone or email, ensuring that your wedding attire journey is not only stress-free but also tailored to perfection.

Generation Tux goes above and beyond to enhance your wedding experience by offering a range of exclusive benefits. Enjoy a complimentary rental for the wedding couple with 5 or more paid rentals in your party, or savor a free look to keep for the couple with 7 or more paid rentals.

Now onto what you came for sample wedding ceremony scripts, because you're getting married. We must also mention that all the Groom's in this post are wearing Generation Tux .

Be on the same page.

Whether you and your partner decide to craft the ceremony yourselves or entrust the script to the officiant, the key is to ensure a shared vision. The ceremony is a celebration of your love, so it should genuinely mirror your preferences.Understanding the couple as well as the essence of their relationship, there is a commitment to crafting a ceremony that authentically captures their unique connection. Before drafting a sample script, sit down and listen to each other's desires.

DON’T WING THE VOWS.

Not every couple wants to exchange handwritten vows, and that’s okay!! Personalized vows certainly don’t supersede more traditional vows. That said, if you do want to write your own vows , it’s important that you and your fiancé both dedicate sufficient time to perfecting your prose. You’ll be making promises to each other, reminiscing on the most epic and monumental moments of your relationship (as much as you wish to share), and committing to a lifetime together, so your words should be reasonably rehearsed. Know that your vows are truly for you both, so you don’t need to feel pressure to appeal to any of your guests.

Yet, being on the same page with your officiant, you should have a game plan about how much time should be spent on each portion of your ceremony - and together, you’ll agree on an appropriate amount of time for your vow exchange.

Programs do have a purpose.

We’ll say it again: weddings do have a pretty familiar format, from one to another, in that they all usually have a processional, a welcome, readings or an anecdote/address/sermon of sorts, vows, exchange of rings, pronouncement, first kiss, and recessional. But apart from that, they can be as bespoke and tailor-made as possible. That’s why wedding programs aren’t just for show, they serve a purpose, especially if a bride and groom are having a religious ceremony or one that might be extraordinarily unique.

Providing guests with something to reference while they sit for the ceremony is super helpful - 1) to make guests feel included in the day and 2) to help them understand what is taking place during the wedding ceremony. I won’t lie, I love programs, and I think they’re the perfect place for couples to share messages with their guests and let them in on anything that’s particularly meaningful to them or their love story. Of course, creating their own wedding website can help with that, too!

Okay, here are some sample wedding ceremony scripts for your perusal! But before we jump in, just one really important thing for you to consider....

Only invite peple to the wedding, who you know will come to your wedding ceremony.

That’s like our most critical piece of advice, especially when you’re mulling over your biggest budget killer. People who don’t come to your ceremony (without a good reason, of course), don’t deserve to party with you. And yes, it’ll happen. Trust us when we say that, because there will be people who you’ll notice aren’t there. And those fine individuals aren’t actually fine, they suck👎. The wedding ceremony is the most important part of your big day and your happily-ever-after that follows, so guests should be there for it all .

If only there was a way to make it grossly clear that you expect your guests to be present for EVERY part of your wedding day - not just for the dance floor and open bar.... You could; however, make your own custom invitations (we've got a whole bunch of FREE printables ) and include whatever little FYIs... if you're so inclined.

short, sweet and funny wedding ceremony script

Welcome. Welcome. Welcome.

Officiant: Good afternoon, lovely folks! We're gathered here on this spectacular day to witness the union of [NAME] and [NAME]. You all look fabulous, and the weather's not too shabby either. So, let's dive into the good stuff!

[NAME] and [NAME], today is not just about pretty invitations and a stunning venue. It's about the wild ride you've been on since you first crossed paths. Remember the time when you first met? You figured out each other's quirks, learned how to make each other laugh, and discovered the art of supporting one another through life's less-than-simple moments. You even managed to blend your families, friends, and communities into a new village, filled with warmth and enthusiasm. And guess what? Today, you're the mayors of that love-filled village.

Marriages come with their fair share of challenges, but today is a celebration of the love that has already conquered many obstacles. So, let's keep this party rolling!

Officiant: As part of today's festivities, [NAME] has enlisted the poetic talents of [NAME] for an original poem. Brace yourselves for some poetic magic.

(Poem Reading to proceed) Thank you [NAME] for that Poem

Wedding Vows.

Officiant: [NAME] and [NAME], hold those hands tight and repeat after me:

Couple: [NAME], I solemnly promise/ to spice up our days with laughter and beauty,/ to cheer for your victories/ and inspire you in times of doubt./ I vow to be your partner, confidant, and biggest fan,/ loving you for all the days of my life.

(Officiant turns to the other partner and repeats the vows)

Officiant: So, [NAME] and [NAME], are you both up for this adventure called marriage? Shout out a hearty "We do!"

(Couple says “We do!”)

Officiant: And to everyone here, are you ready to support this dynamic duo, remind them of their vows, and showcase love and family at its finest? Let me hear you scream, "We do!"

(Crowd says “We do!”)

Exchange of Rings.

Officiant: Behold the rings, symbols of life's crazy, unbreakable circle and the love that binds you. Slip those beauties onto each other's fingers and repeat after me.

Couple: I give you this ring/ a reminder of today,/ when we declared that our love conquers all./ May it continue to unite, inspire, and celebrate us/ throughout our adventure together.

Officiant: [NAME] and [NAME], with immense joy, I declare you partners in crime, officially married for the first time! Now, seal the deal with a smooch and let the celebrations commence! Cheers!

Prepared by Generation Tux

PERSONAL FRIEND AS OFFICIANT WEDDING CEREMONY SCRIPT

Officiant: Please be seated.

First, I’d like to begin by welcoming everyone and thanking each and every one of you for being here on this most happy of days. It’s no accident that each of you are here today, and each of you were invited to be here because you represent someone important in the individual and collective lives of NAME and NAME.

I truly can’t think of a better venue than _________ [“paradise” for a destination wedding, “this beautiful church” for a more religious affair, etc.] for an occasion that I know is not only monumental for the wedded-couple-to-be, but for all of us who are lucky to know and love them as individuals; but even more so as a perfect pairing.

The most remarkable moment in life is when you meet the person who makes you feel complete. The person who makes the world a beautiful and magical place. The person with whom you share a bond so special that it transcends normal relationships and becomes something so pure and so wonderful, that you can’t imagine spending another day of your life without them. For NAME, that happened about 20 years ago when s/he met me and we became best friends [add some humor if your officiant is a friend]. But about X years ago s/he met NAME, who is pretty wonderful, too. I know how deeply these two care for and love one another, and I feel privileged to be here today among all of you as a witness of their commitment to a lifetime of love for one another.

I think I’ve had the good fortune to meet most of you here today at some point or another, but for those of you whom I haven’t met, my name is [short biographical info about how the officiant knows the couple].

The Love Story.

Officiant: Now, NAME and NAME have asked that I keep this speech short, classy, and family-friendly, and politely asked me to leave out stories that are unflattering to either of them. So I’ve had to redline stories about previous flings...drugs or alcohol...encounters with the police...but I do feel comfortable saying, “I told you so.” Which is exactly what I said when I learned that NAME and NAME’s relationship was becoming truly serious.

As a third-party spectator to their developing love, it was extremely clear that the two of them represent a perfect pairing because each of them complements the other so well. They balance one another, and while each of them are tremendous individuals on their own, together they are even better. And being better together, as a team, a unit, and partners in crime, is what has been many years in the making and ultimately leads us to being here today, witnessing their commitment to one another in front of those they love most.

I wish I could tell you a single story about NAME and NAME that summarizes their relationship and how they enrich each other’s lives, and the lives of each of us, but the truth is there isn’t one single event that is a good encapsulation of what they mean to me, to each other, and to all of us. But what I do know is that both of them care deeply and passionately for each other; they protect each other; they make each other laugh and think outside themselves; that time magically seems to both fly and slow down when they’re together. They help each other in ways that are obvious and unnoticed, but always appreciated.

I also know that it’s not just anyone with whom you can have communication with simply a look, or remember the weirdest names of each other’s Lyft drivers, or surprise each other with reservations at a restaurant you’ve been eyeing for years, or say “I’m sorry” every time it’s warranted (...eventually). They do that for and with each other.

But it’s also my personal experiences with NAME and NAME that highlight the quality of their love. It doesn’t matter if I’m with them in person, or simply in a bizarre group text with them—when I’m engaging with NAME and NAME, I am always enjoying myself. And I am certain that that’s part of what makes them so special to each of us: how happy and contented we feel when we are with them. And what I wish for them on their wedding day is that their lifetime together as a team is one of complete contentment; full of those moments that they wish would never end, and that they continue to make one another smile and laugh as they make each of us do.

So, without further ado…

Dearly beloved and honored guests:

We are gathered together here to join NAME and NAME in the union of marriage.

This contract is not to be entered into lightly, but thoughtfully and seriously, and with a deep realization of its obligations and responsibilities.

The grooms/brides/bride and groom have each prepared vows that they will read now.

[Exchanging of vows]

Officiant: And now:

NAME, do you take NAME to be your husband/wife?

Do you promise to love, honor, cherish, and protect him/her, forsaking all others, and holding only unto him/her forevermore?

And NAME, do you take NAME to be your husband/wife?

Officiant: NAME and NAME will now exchange rings as a symbol of love and commitment to each other. Rings are a precious metal; they are also made precious by you wearing them. Your wedding rings are special; they enhance who you are. They mark the beginning of your long journey together. Your wedding ring is a circle—a symbol of love never ending. It is the seal of the vows you have just taken to love each other without end.

NAME, please place the ring on NAME’s left hand and repeat after me:

As a sign of my love

[“As a sign of my love”]

That I have chosen you

[That I have chosen you”]

Above all else

[“Above all else”]

With this ring, I thee wed.

[“With this ring, I thee wed.”]

And NAME, please place the ring on NAME’s left hand and repeat after me:

The Good Wishes.

Officiant: To make your relationship work will take love. Continue to date each other. Take time to show each other that your love and marriage grows stronger with time.

It will take trust to know that in your hearts, you truly want what is best for each other.

It will take dedication to stay open to one another—and to learn and grow together.

It will take loyalty to go forward together, without knowing exactly what the future brings.

And it will take commitment to hold true to the journey you have both pledged today.

The Declaration of Marriage / "The Kiss"

Officiant: And now by the power vested in me by _______________, it is my honor and delight to declare you married. Go forth and live each day to the fullest. You may seal this declaration with a kiss.

I am so pleased to present the newlyweds, NAMES.

Prepared by Minted.com

Traditional Wedding Ceremony Script

Officiant: Welcome, family, friends and loved ones. We gather here today to celebrate the wedding of NAME and NAME. You have come here to share in this formal commitment they make to one another, to offer your love and support to this union, and to allow NAME and NAME to start their married life together surrounded by the people dearest and most important to them.So welcome to one and all, who have traveled from near and far. NAME and NAME thank you for your presence here today and now ask for your blessing, encouragement, and lifelong support, for their decision to be married.

Definition of Marriage.

Officiant: Marriage is perhaps the greatest and most challenging adventure of human relationships. No ceremony can create your marriage; only you can do that—through love and patience; through dedication and perseverance; through talking and listening, helping and supporting and believing in each other; through tenderness and laughter; through learning to forgive, learning to appreciate your differences, and by learning to make the important things matter, and to let go of the rest. What this ceremony can do is to witness and affirm the choice you make to stand together as lifemates and partners.

Declaration of Intent.

Officiant: Will you, NAME, take this woman to be your wedded wife?

Groom: I will

Officiant: Will you, NAME, take this man to be your wedded husband?

Bride: I will

Officiant: In the spirit of the importance of strong friendships to a marriage, NAME and NAME have asked two friends to read selections about love that especially resonate with them.1st READING, followed by 2nd READING.

Support of Community.

Officiant: Two people in love do not live in isolation. Their love is a source of strength with which they may nourish not only each other but also the world around them. And in turn, we, their community of friends and family, have a responsibility to this couple. By our steadfast care, respect, and love, we can support their marriage and the new family they are creating today.

Officiant: Will everyone please rise. Will you who are present here today, surround NAME and NAME in love, offering them the joys of your friendship, and supporting them in their marriage?

All: We will

Officiant: You may be seated.

Officiant: We've come to the point of your ceremony where you're going to say your vows to one another. But before you do that, I ask you to remember that love—which is rooted in faith, trust, and acceptance— will be the foundation of an abiding and deepening relationship. No other ties are more tender, no other vows more sacred than those you now assume. If you are able to keep the vows you take here today, not because of any religious or civic law, but out of a desire to love and be loved by another person fully, without limitation, then your life will have joy and the home you establish will be a place in which you both will find the direction of your growth, your freedom, and your responsibility. Please now read the vows you have written for each other.

Bride and Groom: I NAME/NAME, take you, NAME/NAME to be my husband/wife, my constant friend and partner, and my love. I will work to create a bond of honesty, respect, and trust; one that withstands the tides of time and change, and grows along with us. I vow to honor and respect you for all that you are and will become, taking pride in who we are, both separately and together.I promise to challenge you and to accept challenges from you. I will join with you and our community in an ongoing struggle to create a world we all want to live in, where love and friendship will be recognized and celebrated in all their many forms. Our home will be a sanctuary and a respite for us and for those whom we cherish. Above all, I will give you my love freely and unconditionally. I pledge this to you from the bottom of my heart, for all the days of our lives.

Officiant: May I have the rings, please?

Please repeat after me: I give you this ring, as a daily reminder of my love for you.

Officiant: By the power of your love and commitment, and the power vested in me, I now pronounce you husband and wife! You may kiss each other!

Prepared by Nina Calloway for The Spruce

Modern Wedding Ceremony Script

Officiant: Good afternoon. NAME, NAME and I would like to welcome everyone on this gorgeous day. It’s because of all of you—because of this strong community—[NAME] and [NAME]’s relationship has strengthened and grown and led them to this very moment. Thank you for being here, now let’s begin.

[NAME] and [NAME], what you’ve accomplished here today is no small feat. Your journey began way before you sent out the invitations, chose this beautiful venue or even decided to spend the rest of your lives together.

Your journey began the moment you first met. You took the time to learn what makes the other person smile, what makes them laugh and how to best support them when life is less than simple. You welcomed each other’s families, communities and lifelong friends, and joined them together with warmth and enthusiasm. You built a new village with your love, and have worked every day to support this village as it changes and grows.

Marriages bring hard days, just as they bring beautiful ones. This day is a reminder of what your love has already accomplished, and the amazing possibilities of what it can continue to accomplish and overcome in the many, many years ahead of you.

Officiant: As our reading today, [NAME] has asked his/her cousin to perform an original poem to honor their vows.

(Reading to proceed)

Officiant: [NAME] and [NAME], please take each other’s hands and repeat after me:

Couple: [NAME], I swear to you/ that I will dedicate my life from this day forward/ to filling our days with beauty and laughter./ I will celebrate your spirit and all of your accomplishments/ work to inspire you/ and be here to remind you of your beauty and strength./ I take you today as my partner/ my confidant/ my other half/ and I will love you for the rest of my life.

(Officiant turns to other partner and repeats the vows)

Officiant: [NAME] and [NAME], do you take one another as partners, form this day forward, as husband and wife/husband and husband/wife and wife? Please yell a hearty “We do!”

Officiant: And to everyone here, do you promise to stand by this couple, to remind them of their vows, and to act as an example of love and family? Please yell a hearty “We do!”

Officiant: [NAME] and [NAME] have chosen these rings to represent the unbreakable circle of life and love. Please place them on each other’s ring fingers and repeat after me.

Couple: I give you this ring/ to remind you of this day/ when in front of our closest community/ we vowed that our love can overcome all things/ that our love unites, inspires and celebrates/ and will continue do so for the rest of our lives.

Officiant: [NAME] and [NAME], it is with such joy that I now send you out into the world to spread the beautiful light that you share with those around you. By the power vested in me, I now, for the first time, pronounce you married. Now kiss and go celebrate! Prepared by Shutterfly editors

Once more, a big thank you to Generation Tux for their sponsorship of this post and for ensuring that all the grooms and groomsmen appear incredibly sharp.

Continue to next story

• Bridal Shower
• Bachelor & Bachelorette Parties
• Engagement Party
• Rehearsal Dinner
• Wedding Checklists
• Wedding Hairstyle Ideas
• Wedding Vows Readings
• Wedding Music

In This Article

• Traditional Ceremony Script
• Short Secular Script
• Non-Denominational Script
• Non-Traditional Script

Unique Vows For A Secular Wedding

• Wedding Party & Reception

Secular Wedding Ceremony Script Samples + Vows

If you are having a secular, nontraditional wedding, then you might have to write your own secular wedding ceremony script. It’s easy to get traditional wedding ceremony scripts, however, a secular wedding would require one customized to meet your needs. While there are a lot of resources for writing such nontraditional wedding ceremony scripts, it’s not always easy putting pen to paper. This is why samples can be useful.

ADVERTISEMENT

Secular weddings are so diverse; you could require perhaps a humanist wedding ceremony script or something more spiritual but nonreligious at the same time. Below are a variety of secular, nondenominational wedding ceremony scripts, which could inspire you. You could also edit and adapt either to fit your personality and wedding ceremony needs.

What if the couple is not religious? How can we create a non-religious ceremony?

“When couples express a non-religious preference, as celebrants in Paris we tailor a ceremony devoid of religious elements. This thoughtful creation excludes religious wording, references, or prayers, opting for non-religious readings like poems or novel extracts. Our non-religious ceremonies are crafted to unfold in secular spaces, steering clear of religious venues like churches. Instead, they come to life in enchanting settings such as hotels, French chateaus, or private gardens. The focus is on a ceremony uniquely suited to their beliefs, highlighting their love story in a secular, yet deeply meaningful celebration within the romantic backdrop of Paris,” – The Paris Celebrants.

Quick Navigation

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a secular wedding ceremony, traditional secular wedding ceremony script.

daydreamer_creative_studio via Instagram

Below is a traditional secular wedding ceremony script. One which is secular, but generally in line with a traditional wedding script.

Welcome Officiant: The officiant says a few words to welcome the family, friends and loved ones who have come from far and near to celebrate with the couple. Definition of Marriage Officiant: Speaks on marriage and what it means. Also some of the virtues needed by the couple to stay in a marriage and the commitment they are making to one another. Declaration of Intent – Officiant (to groom): Will you take this woman to be your wedded wife? – Groom: I will. – Officiant (to bride): Will you take this man to be your wedded husband? – Bride: I will. Readings Officiant: Says a few words to prelude the readings. First reading Second reading Wedding Vows Officiant: Leads the couple in taking their vows. – Bride and groom: I (bride/groom) take you, to be my husband/wife, my forever friend, confidant, and my love. I vow to honor and respect you always, and I will give you my love freely and unconditionally. I pledge this to you with all of my heart, for all the days of our lives. – Officiant: (After collecting the rings) Please repeat after me: I give you this ring, as a reminder of my love for you. – Bride and groom (to each other): I give you this ring, as a reminder of my love for you. – Officiant: By the power vested in me, I now pronounce you husband and wife! You may kiss your bride!

Short Secular Wedding Ceremony Script

Here we have a short script for wedding ceremony . For the couple who much prefer something brief and straight to the point.

Processional The beginning of the wedding ceremony, after which the guests are seated. Invocation Officiant says a few words to the guests, welcoming them to the wedding ceremony of the bride and groom. Declaration of intent Officiant to the Groom/Bride: – Do you take this woman/man to be your lawfully wedded wife, to have and to hold, in sickness and in health, in good times and bad, for richer or poorer for as long as you both shall live? Groom/Bride to the Bride/Groom – ‘I do.’ Pronouncement This couple have requested to exchange their own vows at this time. By the power vested in me by the State of…, I now pronounce you both husband and wife. You may kiss the bride. Recessional The couple walk out, indicating the end of the wedding ceremony.

Non-Denominational Wedding Ceremony Script

gina.paulson via Instagram

Whether you’re having a religious or nonreligious wedding, for something secular, it would best be nondenominational. Also, this can be used even as an atheist wedding ceremony script.

Processional After the bridal party makes their entrance, the guests are seated. Invocation Officiant welcomes the friends, family and loved ones to the wedding ceremony, and states why they are all there. Declaration of intent (Officiant to The Bide/Groom) – Do you (name) , take this man/woman to be your lawfully wedded husband/wife, to have and to hold, in sickness and in health, in good times and bad, for richer or poorer, keeping yourself unto him/her for as long as you both shall live? If so answer ‘I do’. (Bride/Groom to the Groom/Bride) – ‘I do.’ Pronouncement – If there is anyone present here today, who may show just and lawful cause why this couple should not be legally wed, they should speak now or forever hold their peace. By the power vested in me by the State of…, I now pronounce you both husband and wife. Recessional The end of the wedding ceremony.

Non-Traditional Wedding Ceremony Script

For the nontraditional wedding script that still ticks all the right boxes. Below is one that can be used as a spiritual wedding ceremony script.

Processional Bridal party make their entrance after the prelude, and the guests are seated. Invocation (Officiant) – We are gathered here today to unite this couple in the bonds of matrimony. If anyone here today can show just cause why they should not be legally joined together, let them speak now or forever hold their peace. Declaration of intent (Officiant to the Groom/Bride) – Do you, (name), take (Groom/Bride) to be your lawfully wedded (wife/husband)? From this day forward, to have and to hold, for better or worse, for richer or poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish, till death do you part? (Groom/Brideto the Bride/Groom) – ‘I do.’ Rings exchange (Officiant to the Groom/Bride) – As you place it on his/her finger, please repeat after me: I give you this ring, as a symbol of my love. I ask you to wear it as a daily reminder of our love and commitment. With this ring, I thee wed. (Groom/Bride Repeats to the Bride/Groom) Ring exchange & pronouncement – As you have both consented together in matrimony, and have witnessed the same before this congregation, by the authority vested in me by the State of…, I now pronounce you husband and wife. You may kiss your bride! Recessional The couple leave as the wedding ceremony comes to an end.

While a secular wedding might use a short wedding ceremony script nonreligious, it would also require you to write your own vows. Below are a few such vows for inspiration.

1. I vow to always communicate with you freely—never to hold back, but to be honest and loyal as a wife, to love you fiercely, to love you without measure. 2. I thought today would be the best day of my life, but the thought of spending the rest of my days with you, makes me believe the best is yet to come. 3. I take you to be my wife in full knowledge that I have the most wonderful woman in the world as my wife. 4. Love is not boastful—love is not envious—love is trust and honesty in all things. This is what I promise to be as your husband. 5. I vow to spend every moment I can with you, to learn together, to love together, to anticipate your needs, and rejoice with you as my wife.

You might want to write your secular wedding ceremony script from scratch. Or modify a traditional wedding script to fit with your style. Thus, these samples can guide you in the right direction, giving you a foundation for creating your own vision for your wedding. Use these as inspiration, or adapt them to fit your requirements. Find the right words to help you create a secular wedding of your very own.

Stories You Might Like

100+ Best Wedding Toasts For Different...

Must-Take Wedding Photos On Your Big Day...

Simply Chic Wedding Flower Decor Ideas...

How To Make A Wedding Playlist: Full...

Top 60 Tracks For Wedding Dinner Music...

Ideas With Candles 30+ Best Ideas

Wedding Ceremony Script For Each Wedding...

Stylish Wedding Arch Decoration 30+...

Lilac Wedding Colors – Best Ideas...

Wedding Processional Order: 3 Basic...

Beach Wedding Decoration 35+ Ideas

Tips On Modern Wedding Vows And Examples

25 Free Wedding Planning Checklists

Fill in all required * fields below to receive the checklists bundle.

By submitting this form you agree to receive promotional emails from Wedding Forward about other checklists, wedding planning articles, products, and other wedding related topics. You may unsubscribe at any time. Check out our Privacy Policy for more information.

7 Amazing Officiant Speeches That Will Seriously Inspire You

We've rounded up the most emotional, inspiring and hilarious wedding officiant speeches to help you plan yours.

Your wedding ceremony is a moment you will remember for the rest of your lives, and choosing the right wedding officiant to run your ceremony and your wedding vows it is a crucial part of the planning process. Your wedding officiant is the person who leads your ceremony script and, ultimately, marries you! They can be your childhood priest or rabbi, your sibling or a professional celebrant like The Vow Whisperer .

Not only do you want to find someone engaging and entertaining, but you also want a wedding officiant who will be able to showcase who you are as a couple and why your love story is special and unique to you. And don't forget, your wedding officiant must be legally recognized in the state in which your wedding takes place in order for the marriage to be legal, so if you choose to go with a loved one, make sure they get their certification with plenty of time before the wedding.

And if you're reading this article because you've been asked to officiate a wedding, you'll want to make sure you come up with a wedding ceremony script that makes the couple happy and wows their guests. Read on for examples of a great sample officiant speech!

Below we've rounded up 8 of the most inspiring wedding officiant speeches from our huge library of real wedding videos . We hope these videos will help you with your own wedding ceremony and wedding vows.

When deciding who you want to officiate your wedding, don’t let traditions keep you from creating the experience you want to have on your big day. Shalyn + Evan asked Shalyn's grandmother—the owner of the lavender farm where they had their ceremony—to be their officiant! She writes “here, where we gather today, is the heart of our land." Watch this proud, eloquent grandmother at the altar as she leads the ceremony.

Watch Shalyn + Evan’s wedding video here .

It's easy for couples to fall head over heels for each other while sharing extraordinary moments together. Melissa and Matt 's wedding officiant has the best advice for keeping love alive long past those exciting first few dates. "Love the ordinary." His officiant speech continues, "love making dinner, love going shopping, taking a walk together. Ironically, if you love the ordinary, you can make some of your days extraordinary. Do you not want to send this to your wedding officiant right now??"

Watch Melissa + Matt's wedding video here .

Molly and Mike 's wedding officiant gives a beautiful speech telling the story of how the couple met. It's important to make sure your wedding officiant knows your backstory so you can have moments like this in your ceremony that make it feel more personal and more YOU.

Watch Molly and Mike’s wedding video here .

Matt and Justin 's wedding officiant begins the ceremony with a powerful message that directly addresses LGBTQ couples. "If I can be a representative of the Episcopal Church, I think we owe you, the LGBTQ community, an apology. Because it's too late, it's been too slow, and I think that you have taught us how to be a better church." The wedding officiant's honesty and humility is inspiring—moving is an understatement.

Watch Matt and Justin's wedding video here .

Elopement weddings call for a wedding officiant that is able to make the couple feel super comfortable—it's only the three of you up at the altar, after all! May and Mitch searched high and low for an officiant in Kauai to find the perfect person to deliver their wedding vows. It wasn't until they saw a bunch of wedding videos with Kelvin Ho happily cracking coconuts throughout his speech that they knew they found their guy. His happy, easy-going personality totally sold them. Watching Kelvin perform his seashell hand-washing ritual on top of a Hawaiian cliff for major ceremony inspiration.

Watch May and Mitch's wedding video here .

One way to think about your wedding officiant speech is like ten minutes of amazing life advice. Kaylee and Jason 's wedding officiant gave a speech that could basically be pinned to every quote board on Pinterest. "There's a time in your life when you begin to measure time in terms of decades. When you look back upon them, you realize that your time upon this earth is really short, and so each moment that you are given on this earth is a time to celebrate." Well said.

Watch Kaylee and Jason's wedding video here .

Find your inner stand-up comedian and work the room with various LOLs. Thinking the wedding officiant's romantic remarks were coming to a close, Heath tries to skip the rest of the wedding vows and kiss Erika—and totally gets called out. While his eagerness is beyond adorable, the way Erika and Heath 's wedding officiant playfully teases the couple will have you in tears.

Watch Erika and Heath's wedding video here .

We hope you found these wedding officiants inspiring and you've gotten some great ideas for your own ceremony script and wedding vows. Don't forget to check out our vendor directory to find a professional wedding officiant, speech writer, or vow coach near you who can help you with your big day.

The Ultimate Guide to Non-Religious Wedding Ceremony Scripts

• Hannah writes and edits articles for The Knot Worldwide, with a focus on real wedding coverage.
• Hannah has a passion for DE&I and plays an integral role in ensuring The Knot content highlights all voices and all love stories.
• Prior to The Knot Worldwide, Hannah was the Social Media Editor at Martha Stewart Weddings.

For couples planning a religious ceremony as part of their big day, their faith tradition generally dictates the format of the program and the elements a couple needs to include in the vow exchange. However, for nontraditional or non-religious ceremonies, the options are much looser as there's nothing that has to be included beyond what's legally required by the governing jurisdiction of your wedding locale. While the freedom and flexibility to customize a wedding program is exciting for many, the task of writing out a wedding script to mark the beginning of your new life as a married couple can also prove daunting. What should you say? Should you include readings or perhaps a unity ceremony ? Don't fret—we are here to help you answer these very questions. Plus, we spoke with some of our favorite wedding professionals about their expert advice for crafting a secular ceremony script. Below you'll find expert tips and frequently asked questions, plus a sample secular wedding ceremony script you can copy and customize for your own non-religious wedding ceremony program.

In this story:

Non-Religious Wedding Ceremony Script FAQs

How to write a non-religious wedding ceremony script, secular script for a wedding ceremony.

Before launching into writing your secular ceremony script, it's important to understand what the process involves and what elements you need to include. Understanding these frequently asked questions will help your bring your wedding ceremony ideas to life as you write your service.

What is a non-religious wedding ceremony?

Simply put a non-religious wedding ceremony is a wedding ceremony that is legally binding, but does not incorporate faith traditions or follow a religious format. Brian Franklin, founder of Vows & Speeches notes that "when you're not constrained by a pre-written ceremony, you have an opportunity to craft something unique to you as a couple that both tells your story and captures your personality. Not having to follow religious doctrine also allows you to insert humor and creativity into the proceedings—from referencing favorite songs or movies to pouring each other tequila shots or anything else that speaks to your interests."

What needs to be included in a secular ceremony to make it legal?

Wedding laws vary by jurisdiction, from state to state and from country to country. As such, it's important to understand the marriage laws and rules that exist at your wedding destination. Most commonly, a wedding license must be obtained and your wedding ceremony must be overseen by someone who is certified by the state to officiate weddings.

Beyond a legally qualified officiant and a marriage license, the requirements for the actual ceremony script also differ by area. Generally speaking, there aren't many requirements, but a declaration of intent is typically required. Like with any legally binding contract, the desire to enter into the contract has to be established and that's what a declaration of intent does.

The best course of action for to-be-weds is to research the laws of their wedding locale and then partner with their officiant to craft the perfect wedding ceremony script to meet their needs.

Once you've researched the legally required elements for your wedding, the rest of the ceremony framework is totally up to you. Working alongside your wedding officiant, you can plan out a ceremony that's as long or as short as you want. "Far too many non-religious weddings are so bare bones that the couple hardly gets a chance to settle in and feel the life-changing moment," notes Maureen Cotton, coach and officiant with The Soulful Wedding . "Non-religious couples should get to experience the meaning of the moment just as deeply as religious couples. When comparing a religious and non-religious wedding, it's not so much about them having different elements, but rather about those elements being expressed in different ways."

Find your kind of venue

"When working with a wedding officiant to create a unique, customized wedding script, couples should be as open as possible," says North Dakota-based officiant Amber Olsen . "The officiant will ask questions about your relationship and why you fell in love with the other person. The more details you can share with your officiant about your relationship, the more detailed and customized your wedding ceremony will be."

Being open with your officiant will also help them guide you more successfully toward the type of modern wedding ceremony you want for your wedding day. "An important piece to creating a non-religious ceremony is understanding what the couple wants and what they believe," explains Jamie Chang, owner and destination wedding planner at Mango Muse Events . "Just because the ceremony isn't religious, doesn't mean they don't believe in God or aren't spiritual. Or it could mean exactly that. It's important to understand what the couple wants to be included and what they don't in order to begin creating something that is personal and meaningful to them as they enter married life."

"One of the best ways to create a personalized ceremony is for couples to write their own vows," says Reverend Dr. Samora Smith , a New York-based wedding officiant. "Most couples today are looking for a unique take on an old tradition. Ceremonies can include the time-honored traditions of vows and rings while also reflecting the unique qualities of each couple." When planning your ceremony, your officiant can help identify which aspects of traditional wedding vows are most important to you, along with ways to make your script work for personalization purposes. "Couples who want their ceremonies personalized can also include their children or family members, or they can share stories from early in their relationship," suggests Mathew Anderson , a non-denominational wedding minister.

Ultimately, what matters most is that your wedding ceremony feels personal. Guests will remember a nontraditional or non-religious wedding ceremony that speaks to who you are as a couple. And, with the help of your officiant, you can create a script that's modern and fun while honoring the most sacred aspects of a marriage ceremony.

The Knot Expert Tip: "It is important to consider not only what you and your partner want for your ceremony, but also what your guests are comfortable with and what they would recognize and understand as a wedding ceremony," advises wedding planning expert Janice Carnevale of Bellwether Events . "You don't want your guests to leave your wedding ceremony feeling confused, you want them to leave feeling full of joy and love."

"A good ceremony will tell the story of the relationship, go into the aspects that each of the couple love about each other, provide some perspective and guidance about marriage in general, the vows (either spoken by the officiant or the couple), some 'do you take' language that allows them to say 'I do,' the rings, a declaration of marriage by the officiant, and, of course, the kiss," explains Franklin of the elements generally included in a secular wedding ceremony. As you're preparing for your own wedding, let this sample wedding ceremony inform your writing.

Processional and Invocation

"For the processional, typically you seat grandparents, then parents," suggests Carnevale. "Next, the officiant and one of the marriers would come out with their attendants. After, the rest of the wedding attendants will come out, followed by the second marrier."

Officiant to wedding guests: Welcome, you may be seated.

Dearly beloved, friend and loved ones, we are gathered here today to celebrate the marriage of [couple].

"Once guests are seated, welcome remarks from the officiant are appropriate," advises Carnevale. "If you wish for there to be wedding readings given by friends or family members, those can be done after the welcome." Additionally, if you're planning to include a unity ceremony , such as a sand ceremony or handfasting, that ceremony element can take place at this point in the service.

Secular Wedding Vows Script and Declaration of Intent

"Now that the tone is set for your wedding ceremony, you can turn to the official stuff," explains Carnevale. "First is typically a declaration of intent. This is a verbal acknowledgment that you have come here today of your own free will and with the intent to marry the person standing next to you. Next is the perfect time for the exchange of vows. You can read them from notes, or have the officiant do a call and repeat them with you. They can be totally free form, and independent of what your future spouse is going to say. Or they can be more structured, and identical for both marriers."

Cotton adds that "legally speaking, the most critical moment is the declaration of intent. This is the moment when you affirm who you are and that you are willfully entering this union. It's typically phrased so that the confirmation is 'I do!'"

Officiant to first marrier: Do you take [name] to be your partner, to live together in matrimony/ the union of marriage, to love them, to honor them, to comfort them, and to keep them in sickness and in health, forsaking all others, for the rest of your lives, as long as you both shall live?

Marrier: I do.

(repeat with second marrier)

Officiant to first marrier: Repeat after me—I, [name], take you [name], to be my spouse, best friend and confidant, to have and to hold from this day forward, for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish, till death do us part.

Ring Exchange

After the couple has exchanged vows and declared their intention to wed, it is time for the exchange of rings.

Officiant gives the marrier their spouse's wedding ring and asks them to repeat after them as they place the ring on their partner's finger:

I give you this ring as a symbol of my love and commitment.

(repeat the process with the second marrier)

Pronouncement and Recessional

"At this point, the marriage is generally considered official, and the officiant can declare or pronounce you married! Tack on a first kiss, and the ceremony is basically complete," explains Carnevale.

Officiant: By virtue of the authority vested in me under the laws of [location], I now pronounce you married. You may share a kiss.

It is my pleasure to present to you, for the first time as newlyweds, [names].