Marriage ceremony components

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A wedding ceremony can be as traditional or original as the couple themselves. Special music can be selected, new vows written, or the ceremony itself can be shortened and trimmed of all that is deemed "unnecessary." A conversation with the officiant will tell you what can and cannot be changed, but a typical marriage ceremony generally contains five key elements. Some factors may also be included, such as musical interludes or spiritual readings, but five basic elements are almost always involved in a marriage ceremony.

1. Entrance

   • The ceremony officially starts with the entrance of the bridal party. The groom and officiant enter first, followed by the paired-off bridesmaids and groomsmen. Once the bridal party has entered and taken their places, the ring bearer or flower girl walk down the aisle. Now, here comes the bride, escorted by her father or another close family member. Once everyone is in position, the officiant starts the ceremony by issuing a greeting to the guests in attendance.

   Declaration of Intention

   • After the greeting, the officiant announces the declaration of intent, which involves explaining to all in attendance that the bride and groom are marrying of their own free will. A short reading or explanation of the importance of marriage, and the commitment and responsibility involved in forming a marriage bond may take place at this time. A spiritual reading may be performed, depending upon the type of ceremony the couple has chosen.

   Exchange of Vows and Rings

   • Once intent is declared, the ceremony moves to the emotional bonding of the couple, represented by the exchange of wedding vows. The vows can be exchanged as traditionally written, "to love, honor and cherish," or can be specially written by the couple in a declaration of their feelings for and dedication to each other. The wedding rings are then exchanged, and the verbiage used during this ritual can also be specially written.

   Pronouncement and Presentation

   • When the rings are firmly placed on each other's fingers, the officiant pronounces the couple officially as "man and wife." A short speech about the sanctity of marriage and the importance of the couple's commitment to each other may be given here, typically followed by those six little words most couples wait for: "You may now kiss the bride." After the kiss, the officiant addresses the guests and introduces the couple as Mr. and Mrs. for the first time.

   Exit

   • After the introduction, which is typically followed by cheers and applause, the bride and groom travel back up the aisle together, arm in arm or hand in hand. The bridal party follows, as do the couple's parents. This signals the official end of the ceremony, and the beginning of the reception to celebrate the happy couple's union and the start of their new life together.

Source: www.ehow.com

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