What happens during a wedding ceremony?

Welcome and house keeping by the Celebrant

Arrival of the wedding party (typically the bride and attendants) and the "giving away"

Introduction and acknowledgements by the Celebrant

Your story- this part will be quite short for a brief, simple ceremony. For a longer ceremony, the Celebrant will ask many questions about yourselves and your journey together during your initial interview. From this, they will create your story, personalised and unique. This part may also include your thoughts on what marriage means and what you hope for the future.

Any special readings/poems/prayers by guests (optional)

The formal solemnisation of your marriage: the Celebrant calls those gathered to Bear witness to your marriage. There are specific words that the Celebrant must say for your marriage to be valid legally (the Monitum). This includes the formal vows.

Personal vows- you may insert personal vows before or after the formal vows. You can write these yourselves or have the Celebrant help you.

Exchange of rings- usually comes after the vows

Rituals- any rituals that you choose can go here

Pronouncement- by the Celebrant

Signing the Register- the couple and witnesses then sign the marriage certificates and register (usually music is played while this happens)

Blessing- by the Celebrant

Ceremony close and invitation to the reception​​​