I strongly encourage setting aside any thoughts about “the right way” of getting married – except that which is right for you.  This is your day, your wedding; it need not be like any other.
_______________  
 
Ceremonies generally take one of three “paths”.  All are short enough to be comfortable and long enough to be remembered – generally twenty to thirty minutes, depending on your choices.  The following elements are frequently included:

Welcome of Guests
Prayer and/or Invocation (optional)
Presentation of the Bride
Readings
Encouragement to the Couple (and their guests) Concerning Marriage
Declaration of Intent (legally required)
Vows
Exchange of Rings

…
Options:
Unity Candle or other additions
Blessing Upon this Marriage
…

Pronouncement of Marriage
Wedding Kiss
Presentation of the Married Couple

_____________________

One of the three paths into marriage incorporates specific traditions, often religious or cultural.  Couples choosing this option have anticipated certain portions of their wedding; these must be fulfilled for their memories to be treasured.

The second path is generally traditional, often spiritual, but is not bound by a particular culture or religion.  Certainly when one enters marriage, one steps into an institution bigger than oneself: It includes another person, the community and, possibly, children.  Awareness of the past highlights the foundation of your vows and the promise of your future.  But marriage lives in the present.  Ceremonies therefore are designed for celebration more than tradition.

To help keep everything in perspective, in 1943, theologian Dietrich Bonhoeffer wrote a letter to a young bride and groom, reminding them that “it is not your love that sustains the marriage, but from now on, the marriage that sustains your love.”  Similarly it is not tradition that makes for a beautiful wedding, but beautiful ceremonies establish tradition.

The third path is deliberately unique.  The pleasure of such weddings is proportional to the creativity of each couple choosing such non-traditional design.

Ceremonies may involve children as well as their parents.  I can recommend beautiful, respectful ways to proclaim the essential unity shared within each new family.

Wedding traditions come from cultural backgrounds.  Traditions can help your mate and both families embrace your newly shared heritage.  Many couples modify and incorporate these.  I’m familiar with Philippine, Scottish, Spanish, Mexican, Jewish-Christian and other wedding customs.

Ceremonies can be designed for widows and widowers, ecumenical and InterFaith situations - they can utilize literary arts and such creative elements as “Bitter and Sweet Wine”, “Hands”, roses for loved ones, as well as honoring deceased parents.  Music and song can be valued additions to your wedding.  And sometimes you want someone particular, but unlicensed, to marry you.  I can work alongside your friend or relative who, if they were legally able to conduct weddings in Nevada, would have been your first choice as an officiant.

All the elements of your ceremony will be designed with and for your personalities.  In regards to my qualities – I’m easy-going and easily humorous.

I’ll send a thorough sketch of planning options if you’d like us to work out the ceremony together, but I’m equally comfortable with preparing a sample for your approval.  Call me, Pastor Ed, at 702-580-6589 to get started.

Share This Post