Answers to who walks when, who stands where, and other ways to make sure your ceremony is perfect.
By: Diane FordenQ: My fiancé and I really want to personalize our ceremony so that its unique and even more special to us. Do you have any suggestions?
A: More and more couples today are personalizing their ceremonies by writing their own vows or by including a favorite poem, prayer, Bible passage, or other reading. No matter how you decide to make your nuptials unique, be sure to plan the details in conjunction with your officiant in order to avoid any misunderstandings. Different faiths vary in the amount of customization allowed in the wedding service. And keep in mind that, as a courtesy to your guests, the entire ceremony should not extend past one hour.
When planning your ceremony, spend some quiet time with your fiancé to discuss just what your relationship and marriage mean to you as a couple. Both of you should write down your thoughts and feelings to help you decide what you want to say. You may choose to describe the important facets of your relationship and your ideals for the marriage into which you are about to enter. You can mention the things you love most about each other and talk about your plans and hopes for the future. You can even mention any hardship you have overcome together and how this has helped to strengthen your relationship and commitment to one another.
Also, you may want to acknowledge family members and guests and thank them for what they have contributed to your relationship. They can participate in the ceremony by reading or writing special verses or reciting favorite scriptures.
You can also incorporate music into different parts of your ceremony to make it more meaningful. You will soon discover that it is well worth the time and effort it takes to personalize your wedding ceremony, as doing so will create memories to last a lifetime.
