how to write wedding officiant speech

Universal Life Church

How to write an inspiring wedding officiant speech.

By The Wedding Experts at the Universal Life Church Ministries

Being chosen to officiate a wedding or vow renewal is a monumental honor. With that honor, however, comes the responsibility to deliver a touching and memorable officiant speech.

Feeling uncertain about how to structure the ceremony or what to say in your speech? You've landed in the right spot! This all-inclusive guide provides key insights for crafting and delivering a wedding officiant speech that will both impress the audience and check the necessary legal boxes.

But before diving deep into preparations, pause for a moment to appreciate the significance of being selected to officiate. This honor is typically reserved for someone the couple views as an important figure in their lives, and who possesses the poise and confidence to speak before a gathering.

If you’ve been asked to officiate, that person is you – congratulations!

If you’ve never performed a wedding before, referencing ceremony examples can be hugely helpful. To give you a better idea of what a wedding officiant speech script should look like, we’ll be showcasing snippets from our catalog of sample ceremonies. Feel free to use them as a framework for crafting your own officiant speech!

Heads up: If you require official credentials or any other wedding essentials prior to the big day, please check out our minister store .

Alright, let's dive into building that ceremony script!

Guidelines for Crafting an Officiant Wedding Speech

Many new officiants are surprised that a wedding ceremony script can take whatever form they (and the couple) want it to take. There aren’t any specific rules for how your speech should be structured – the ceremony blueprint is quite flexible, provided a few legal stipulations are adhered to.

However, we recognize that “do whatever you want” isn’t the most helpful advice. That’s why we’ll be examining a conventional script structure to give you a starting point in your planning process (and to explain the legal elements that must be included).

What role does an officiant play during the ceremony?

Typically, the wedding officiant begins with an opening address, guiding the couple through the ceremony's various segments — directing the moments for vows, ring exchanges, the kiss, and finally, pronouncing the newly married couple to be wed.

The officiant's core responsibility is to smoothly navigate each ceremony segment, incorporating any desired elements from the couple and making sure the legal requirements are met.

What sets an officiant speech apart?

Your significant creative input as an officiant is most evident in the introduction, sometimes termed the "invocation". This initial section of the ceremony usually involves greeting the attendees, underscoring the significance of the day, and explores the couple's love story.

Wondering what this looks like on paper?

Let's dive in! Below you’ll find a sample wedding officiant speech, borrowing segments from various speeches housed in our wedding script collection .

Officiant Speech Overview With Examples

Here’s a typical structure for a wedding ceremony:

• Introduction
• Declaration of intent (legally required)
• Vow Exchange
• Ring Exchange
• Pronouncement (legally required)
• Closing Statement

1. Introduction

In the introduction (often also called the Invocation), the officiant welcomes the couple and the wedding guests to the ceremony, and announces why everyone has gathered on that day. This opening statement should focus on the couple's love story, and the significance of having those close to them bearing witness to their nuptials.

OFFICIANT (to audience) :

Please be seated… Thank you. Friends, family, and loved ones, we come together today, in the sight of the divine and of you as witnesses to join _________ and _________ in marriage. We gather around them now in this wonderful place, and we look on with love and hope as these two begin their new life together as one.

Marriage is a sacred institution in our culture. It’s a tradition of partnership, of trust, and of dependence on one another to navigate the sometimes stormy seas of life. People have said that marriage requires things like work, like commitment, and like sacrifice - and certainly all of those things are true. No matter what it looks like in the end, however, a healthy marriage always needs a solid foundation.

It begins with love, to be sure, but what does that mean? People say they love chocolate, is that the same as the love we need for a solid marriage? Of course not. The love we need comes from being willing to make those sacrifices. The love we need comes from being committed to working through everything together, and maintaining open communications - even when it is difficult. The love we need makes the work it takes to maintain it all worth it.

On top of that foundation of love - a mixture of work, sacrifice, and commitment - we can build things like trust and intimacy, and all of the beautiful things that make a marriage worthwhile.

OFFICIANT (to couple) :

_________ and _________, are you ready to proclaim that foundation of love for one another in the sight of the heavens and these witnesses?

Enjoy this intro excerpt? It was taken from our simple officiant ceremony script . All ULC wedding scripts are available to download for free!

2. Declaration of Intent

In this section, the officiant confirms the couple’s desire to be lawfully wed. This is a crucial component, as it is needed for the wedding to be considered legally binding.

OFFICIANT (to _________) :

_________, do you take _________ to be your lawfully wedded husband/wife/partner from this day forward - to have and to hold, in good times and bad, for richer or for poorer, in sickness and in health; will you love, honor, and cherish him/her/them for as long as you both shall live?

_________: I do.

_________ do you take _________ to be your lawfully wedded husband/wife/partner from this day forward - to have and to hold, in good times and bad, for richer or for poorer, in sickness and in health; will you love, honor, and cherish him/her/them for as long as you both shall live?

This sample declaration of intent can be found in our traditional wedding script , which is free to use.

3. Exchange of Vows

In this section, the couple exchange their vows with one another. These can be either personal vows they wrote for one another, or a scripted statement the officiant assists with.

Okay, _________, now it’s time to put a ring on it. Repeat after me, please. _________ I give you this ring as a symbol that I will love you, honor you, cherish you, and that I’ll let you have the remote every once in a while, and I’ll try to clean up after myself.

Alright, _________, it’s your turn. Repeat after me, please. _________, I give you this ring as a symbol that I will love you, honor you, cherish you, and that I’ll try not to nag you about spending too much time with the guys/gals, and I may even make you dinner once in a while.

See the free humorous wedding ceremony script that this excerpt comes from.

4. Ring Exchange

The couple exchange wedding rings next. The couple typically recite their vows in a call-and-response style.

Now it is time for the exchange of rings.

_________, please repeat after me: _________, I give you this ring as a symbol of my eternal love for you, and my unbreakable connection to you. With it, I promise to love you, cherish you, and stand by you in good times and bad, for as long as I live.

(_________ repeats phrase-by-phrase and places ring on _________’s finger.)

This ring exchange variation can be found in our interfaith wedding ceremony script , which can be accessed for free.

5. Pronouncement

The other part of the ceremony required by law, the Pronouncement, is when the officiant declares the couple legally married (and typically invites their first kiss!).

______________ and ____________, I am so overjoyed to say that your pledges have been formalized with the exchange of the rings in front of all these witnesses. By the power vested in me by the Universal Life Church Ministries, I officially pronounce you married – you may now kiss!

Our gender neutral wedding ceremony script is free to use and includes this pronouncement section.

6. Closing Statement

Following the processional, _________ and _________ will greet their guests. They ask that you meet them for the reception at __________. Thank you so much again for joining us today. This concludes our ceremony.

Like the sound of this closing statement? It can be found in our free-to-download all-inclusive wedding ceremony script .

The Key to an Inspiring Wedding Officiant Speech

As the wedding officiant, your role is an important one. However, you’re obviously not the star of the show. Captain the ship soundly, and then get out of the way.

Creating an inspiring wedding officiant speech often means striking a balance between humor and heartfelt moments. A sprinkle of jokes is fine, but take care not to overdo it (a wedding probably shouldn’t be mistaken for a comedy show, unless the couple insists that’s what they want).

Avoid becoming overly preoccupied with the smaller details, too – the focus of the wedding ceremony should squarely rest on the couple and the deep affection they share. Tailor your speech to the couple's personalities, values, and the overall atmosphere of the wedding.

With careful preparation and genuine delivery, your speech will create a memorable and inspiring moment for the couple and their guests.

Finally, don’t forget to enjoy the moment yourself! Bringing two people together in matrimony is an unforgettable experience, and you should be proud of the work you’ve done!

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How to Deliver the Perfect Wedding Officiant Speech

By The Wedding Officiant Experts at GetOrdained.org

It’s an enormous honor to be asked to officiate a wedding or vow renewal ceremony, and we all want to deliver that perfect heartfelt message.

But what if you’re unsure on what to say during the ceremony? You’re in the right place: this comprehensive guide breaks down how to write and execute a memorable wedding officiant speech.

It also features excerpts from our most popular, expertly-curated ceremony scripts and outlines to give you real examples of what your officiant speech could look and sound like.

But before you get too far into planning, take a moment to feel excited and proud about being asked to officiate a wedding! Couples typically invite an individual of deep significance to officiate their wedding ceremony, as it symbolizes the culmination of their journey into married life.

They wanted someone special to them to tie the knot, and that person is you. Congratulations!

FYI: if you need to order your official credentials or any other wedding supplies in advance of the day, you can find those in our online catalog .

Okay, now we’ve got a ceremony script to write.

How to Prepare an Officiant Wedding Speech

It often surprises first-time officiants when they learn that there is no formal framework for a wedding ceremony script. In fact, they don’t necessarily need to deliver a speech at all! Couples and officiants are free to plan the ceremony however they please, so long as a couple basic legal requirements are met.

With that said, when formulating a wedding script, examining the traditional framework of a marriage ceremony can be a helpful place to start.

What does an officiant do during the ceremony?

Generally, the wedding officiant will make an introductory speech, then lead the couple through the different parts of the ceremony – instructing them on when to share their wedding vows and exchange rings, when to kiss, etc. – and at the end, declare them married.

The officiant’s ultimate job is to guide the couple from section to section, ensuring both that the necessary legal obligations are met and that all the ceremony elements the couple wants are included.

What makes a wedding officiant speech stand out?

There’s a secret to delivering a killer officiant speech: don’t think of it as a presentation, think of it as a film.

The folks getting married are the stars, and as the officiant, you’re the writer and director (with a very special cameo)! The officiant’s primary job is to get everyone from point A to point B.

Similar to a film, each “cast member” has a distinct part to play, taking turns delivering dialogue from an established script; from the vows, to the kiss, to the pronouncement, most parts of a wedding are pre-scripted.

Your main creative contribution as the officiant comes in the introduction (sometimes called the “invocation”). This opening section of the ceremony involves greeting attendees, emphasizing the importance of the occasion, and relaying details about the couple's relationship.

So, what does this all look like in practice?

Let’s look at some real examples! The following is a sample wedding officiant speech, with excerpts pulled from various officiant speeches featured in our wedding ceremony script collection .

Overview of a Wedding Officiant Speech With Examples

1. invocation.

In this introductory section, the officiant greets guests and acknowledges the occasion for which everyone is gathered. These opening remarks typically focus on the importance of the occasion and how the couple got to where they are today.

Thank you for being here today as _______________ and _______________ enter into a lifelong civil union. Today we celebrate the separate journeys that brought them together, and we usher them toward the new journey they will embark upon as partners.

A true lasting marriage requires effort, commitment, and unending respect. As _______________ and _______________ declare their love on this day, we reflect on the meaning of partnership and its importance to a successful union. Partners, in life, think of one another as teammates, equally capable, but each arriving with their own special skills.

A marriage thrives when each partner chooses to value the other: for everything they are, and for everything they’re not. There is no limit to what a partnership can accomplish when trust and admiration flow abundantly. Today, _______________ and _______________ acknowledge this with excitement as they prepare to join hands in marriage.

Like this excerpt? It came from our non-denominational wedding script . All ULC sample scripts are free to download!

2. Declaration of Intent

In this section, the officiant leads the couple in affirming their desire to be married. This part is necessary for the wedding to be declared legal.

OFFICIANT (to couple) :

_______________ and _______________, you may join hands.

OFFICIANT (to Partner 1) :

_______________, do you take _______________ as your lawfully married partner?

OFFICIANT (to Partner 2) :

This sample declaration of intent comes from our quick wedding script , which is available for free.

3. Exchange of Vows

In this portion of the ceremony, the couple shares their wedding vows with one another – either by reciting statements spoken by the officiant or by reading or reciting vows they wrote themselves.

_______________ and _______________ will now share their written vows. _______________, you may go first.

[Partner 1 shares vows]

_______________, please share with us what you’ve written for _______________.

[Partner 2 shares vows]

Section sourced from this offbeat wedding script , available to download free of charge.

4. Ring Exchange

During the ring exchange, the bride and groom exchange their wedding rings. The officiant will typically reference the symbolism of this exchange and a reminder of its significance.

_______________ and _______________: as you exchange your rings today, you are also reinforcing your faithful commitment to trust, love, and romance. Each ring serves as a constant reminder that you are loved. Your beloved is giving you the most precious gift on Earth through love.

[Couple exchanges rings]

This excerpt is found in our romantic wedding script – which can be accessed for free!)

5. Pronouncement

During the Pronouncement, the wedding officiant may congratulate the couple and then pronounce them wed (this part is legally required) .

Well, there’s no turning back now! By the power vested in me by the Universal Life Church, I now pronounce you spiritually and legally united. You may kiss!

(This simple and approachable pronouncement comes from this cute wedding script , which can be downloaded free of charge).

Tips For the Best Wedding Officiant Speech

Hopefully this guide helped you to envision what your wedding ceremony script might look like.

Before we conclude, a few final bits of advice:

The goal of the wedding ceremony is to place emphasis on the couple and the love they share. You don't have to give a long-winded presentation – it’s important to keep the focus on the significance of the occasion. Injecting some humor into the proceedings can be a nice touch, but generally try not to overdo it.

Your job as the master of ceremonies is to compassionately guide the couple through every stage of their wedding ceremony, like acts in a play.

Finally, don’t sweat the small stuff. When all is said and done, they’ll be married! And that’s the most important thing.

Congratulations on a job well done, and don't forget to enjoy yourself!

Haven’t yet become ordained? Ordination is free, instant, and the first step to performing a legal wedding ceremony!

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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

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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.

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Wedding Officiant Speech Script For Memorable Ceremonies

Wedding ceremonies are moments filled with love, joy, and sentimental memories. As a wedding officiant, your role becomes even more significant as you have the opportunity to add a personal touch to the ceremony through your speech. Crafting a well-prepared wedding officiant speech can create a lasting impact and make the ceremony truly memorable. In this article, we will explore the importance of a wedding officiant speech, provide tips on writing an effective script, and offer examples to inspire your own speech.

Importance of a Wedding Officiant Speech

A wedding officiant speech holds great significance as it serves as a bridge between the couple and their loved ones. It is a moment where you have the chance to express heartfelt sentiments, share personal anecdotes, and convey your blessings for the newlyweds. This speech not only sets the tone for the entire ceremony but also creates a warm and intimate atmosphere, leaving an enduring impression on everyone present.

Understanding the Role of a Wedding Officiant

Before delving into the specifics of crafting a wedding officiant speech script, it is essential to grasp the responsibilities of a wedding officiant. Your primary role is to solemnize the marriage, but beyond that, you also serve as a guide, a supporter, and a storyteller. As a wedding officiant, you have the unique opportunity to connect with the couple and their guests, ensuring that the ceremony reflects their love story and values.

Preparing for the Wedding Officiant Speech

Basic structure of a wedding officiant speech.

When it comes to structuring your wedding officiant speech, it is helpful to follow a basic outline to ensure a well-organized and engaging delivery. Start with an engaging opening line that captures the attention of the audience. Then, proceed to share personal stories and anecdotes about the couple, showcasing their journey and unique qualities. Express your sentiments and well wishes for their future together. Take a moment to acknowledge and thank the guests for their presence. Offer words of wisdom and advice based on your own experiences or observations. Finally, end the speech on a memorable note, leaving everyone with a sense of joy and celebration.

Writing a Wedding Officiant Speech Script

When writing your wedding officiant speech script, it is crucial to strike the right tone and style. You want to create a balance between formality and warmth, ensuring that your words resonate with both the couple and the guests. Incorporate LSI keywords and synonyms related to love, marriage, and commitment to optimize your script for search engines.

Personalizing the speech is key, so take the time to understand the couple’s story, their values, and their relationship dynamics. This will enable you to craft a speech that feels authentic and tailored specifically to them. Organize your ideas in a logical flow to maintain the audience’s interest and understanding. You can also use relevant quotes or poems that encapsulate the essence of love and marriage.

Adding humor and light-hearted moments can help create a relaxed atmosphere. However, it is crucial to select appropriate and respectful jokes that align with the couple’s personalities and values. Practice your speech several times to familiarize yourself with the content and improve your delivery. This will help you convey your message with confidence and ensure a smooth and heartfelt delivery.

Tips for Delivering a Memorable Wedding Officiant Speech

While writing a well-crafted wedding officiant speech is essential, delivering it effectively is equally important. Here are some tips to help you deliver a memorable wedding officiant speech:

• Confidence and composure are key. Maintain a calm and confident demeanor throughout your speech.
• Pay attention to your body language and project your voice clearly so that everyone can hear you.
• Timing and pace are crucial. Pace your speech accordingly, allowing for pauses and emphasizing key moments.
• Engage the audience’s emotions by using heartfelt language, expressing your love for the couple, and sharing touching anecdotes.
• If desired, you can utilize visual aids or props to enhance your speech and captivate the audience.
• If you experience nervousness or public speaking anxiety, take deep breaths and remember that everyone is there to celebrate love and support the couple.

Examples of Wedding Officiant Speeches

To provide you with some inspiration, here are a few examples of wedding officiant speeches:

Speech for a Close Friend or Family Member

“Today, we gather to celebrate the love between [Couple’s Names]. As someone who has witnessed their journey from the beginning, I am overwhelmed with joy to stand here as their wedding officiant. From the moment they met, their connection was undeniable. Their love is a shining example of what true partnership and commitment look like. Through thick and thin, they have supported each other, making each day brighter with their unwavering love. I am honored to be a part of their special day and wish them a lifetime of happiness.”

Speech for a Couple You Are Less Familiar With

“On this beautiful day, we come together to celebrate the union of [Couple’s Names]. Although I may not have known them for a long time, it is clear that their love is something truly special. Their connection radiates joy and brings people together. It is a testament to the power of love and how it can transform lives. Today, we gather to witness the beginning of their lifelong journey, and I couldn’t be more excited to be a part of this momentous occasion. May their love be everlasting and their future filled with endless possibilities.”

Speech for a Traditional or Cultural Wedding

“Honored guests, family, and friends, today we gather to celebrate not only the love between [Couple’s Names] but also the rich traditions and customs that have blossomed throughout their journey. Their union represents the merging of two families and the continuation of longstanding heritage. Let us embrace the beauty of their culture and traditions as we come together as one community, united in love and respect. May their union be blessed with harmony, prosperity, and everlasting love.”

Crafting a memorable wedding officiant speech requires a thoughtful approach and a genuine connection with the couple. By following the tips provided in this article and drawing inspiration from the examples, you can create a script that resonates with both the couple and their loved ones. Remember that your words have the power to create lasting memories, so take the time to prepare and deliver a speech that truly captures the essence of love and celebration.

The Ultimate Guide to Crafting an Unforgettable Wedding Officiant Speech

Wedding officiant.

May 16, 2024

• Founder of Bridesmaid for Hire
• Creator of the #1 Speech & Vow Writing Tools
• Author of Always a Bridesmaid (for Hire)
• Creator of 1-800-Bridesmaid

Hi! I'm Jen Glantz

Hi, there.  Jen Glantz   here .  I’m a bestselling author, the first ever bridesmaid for hire, have planned 100s of weddings and written over 1000 wedding speeches for people all around the world! Crafting a wedding officiant speech is an honor and a responsibility that can set the tone for a couple’s special day.

This ultimate guide is designed to help you create a memorable and heartfelt speech, whether you’re an experienced officiant or stepping into this role for the first time.

We’ll cover everything from capturing the couple’s unique story to incorporating personal touches and handling unexpected moments with grace.

With these tips and insights, you’ll be well-equipped to deliver a speech that resonates with the couple and their guests, leaving a lasting impression.

Before we get started, here are some helpful resources for you as you prepare to become a wedding officiant: 

• Meet our  Wedding Officiant Speechwriting Tool :  we’ll write you a fully-custom wedding officiant script in just minutes.
• Looking for inspo? Eyeball our  wedding ceremony scripts  for some inspiration.
• Book a  1:1 speech delivery session . We’ll coach you on how to make sure you engage the audience during the entire ceremony.

Table of Contents

• Understand your role as the wedding officiant , which includes legally solemnizing the marriage and setting the tone for the ceremony.
• Craft a well-structured wedding officiant speech that includes an introduction, the couple’s love story, words of wisdom, and a closing statement.
• Personalize the wedding officiant speech by incorporating inside jokes, special memories, and cultural or religious traditions.
• Deliver the wedding officiant speech with confidence by practicing public speaking techniques, such as body language and vocal variety.
• Be prepared to handle unexpected situations, such as technical issues or disruptions, with grace and professionalism.

Understanding the Role of the Wedding Officiant

As an officiant, your primary responsibility is to legally solemnize the marriage by guiding the couple through the exchange of vows and the signing of the marriage license. However, your role extends far beyond the legal formalities. You are the one who sets the tone for the entire ceremony, creating a meaningful atmosphere that celebrates the union of two souls.

Think of yourself as the conductor of an orchestra, skillfully weaving together the various elements of the ceremony to create a harmonious and unforgettable experience. From selecting readings and incorporating cultural traditions to ensuring that the ceremony flows smoothly, your influence is felt throughout every aspect of the event.

Crafting the Wedding Officiant Speech

At the heart of your responsibilities as an officiant lies the crafting of a officiant speech that captures the essence of the couple’s love story. This is no ordinary speech; it’s a carefully woven tapestry of words that celebrates the journey that has brought the couple to this momentous occasion.

From the moment they first locked eyes to the countless moments that solidified their bond, your officiant speech should paint a vivid picture that transports the guests on a journey through the couple’s love story. But it’s not just about recounting the past; your words should also offer a glimpse into the future, a future filled with hope, love, and unwavering commitment.

The Structure of the Wedding Officiant Speech

A well-structured officiant speech is like a finely crafted novel, with each chapter building upon the last, leading the reader (or in this case, the audience) on a journey filled with emotion, laughter, and ultimately, a deeper understanding of the couple’s love story.

A typical officiant’s speech includes an introduction, the couple’s love story, words of wisdom or advice, and a closing statement. Much like a masterful storyteller, you’ll weave these elements together, captivating your audience from the moment you utter your first word until the final syllable fades into the air.

The Introduction

The introduction sets the stage for the entire speech, capturing the audience’s attention and setting the tone for what’s to come. It should be brief yet impactful, welcoming the guests and introducing yourself and your relationship to the couple.

Think of it as the opening scene of a captivating play, one that immediately draws the audience in and leaves them eager to witness the unfolding drama (or in this case, the unfolding love story).

The Love Story

At the heart of every officiant’s speech lies the couple’s love story, a narrative that weaves together the moments that brought them together and solidified their bond. From the serendipitous meeting to the countless

moments that solidified their love, your words should transport the audience on a journey filled with laughter, tears, and a deeper understanding of what makes this couple truly unique.

Think of yourself as a master storyteller, carefully selecting the most poignant anecdotes and personal details to paint a vivid picture that resonates with the couple and their guests alike.

Words of Wisdom

After sharing the couple’s love story, it’s time to offer some words of wisdom or advice for their marriage. This can take the form of a quote, a personal anecdote, or a heartfelt message about the importance of love, commitment, and partnership.

Think of it as a guiding light, a beacon that will help the couple navigate the inevitable ups and downs of married life, reminding them of the unbreakable bond they share.

The Closing Statement

As you approach the end of your speech, it’s time to deliver a powerful and memorable closing statement. This can take the form of a well-wish for the couple, a call to action for the guests to support the couple, or a final thought that ties the entire speech together.

Think of it as the grand finale, a crescendo of emotion and inspiration that leaves the audience in a state of awe and reverence for the love they’ve just witnessed.

Crafting the Wedding Officiant Speech: Common Questions

1. How does the officiant gather information for the couple’s love story?

Gathering information for the couple’s love story involves a mix of direct communication and subtle observation. Here are some steps:

• Interviews: Have a sit-down interview with the couple to discuss their relationship journey. Ask them about their first meeting, significant milestones, challenges they’ve overcome, and what they love most about each other.
• Questionnaires: Provide a questionnaire for the couple to fill out separately. This can reveal interesting and sometimes humorous perspectives on their relationship.
• Friends and Family: Reach out to close friends and family for additional anecdotes and insights. These can add depth and warmth to the officiant speech.
• Observation: Pay attention to the couple’s interactions during planning meetings or social events. Their dynamics can offer clues to their unique connection.

2. Should humor be included in the officiant’s speech?

Including humor in the officiant’s speech can be a wonderful way to engage guests and highlight the couple’s personalities. However, it’s essential to strike a balance between lighthearted moments and the ceremony’s sentimental aspects. Here are some tips:

• Know the Couple: Understand the couple’s sense of humor. What makes them laugh? Are they comfortable with jokes in a formal setting?
• Appropriate Jokes: Keep the humor appropriate for all guests. Avoid inside jokes that might alienate or confuse those not in the know.
• Blend with Sentiment: Mix humorous anecdotes with heartfelt reflections. This blend creates a well-rounded speech that honors the couple’s love story with warmth and joy.

3. How can the officiant ensure a natural delivery of the speech?

Natural delivery is key to an engaging and heartfelt officiant speech. Here are some strategies:

• Practice: Rehearse the speech multiple times. Familiarity with the content helps reduce reliance on notes.
• Eye Contact: Make eye contact with the couple and guests. This connection enhances the personal feel of the ceremony.
• Use a Script Wisely: “The key to reading naturally is not having to stick your eye six inches from the page. It’s being able to glance down without moving your head down or moving the script up. It’s seeing the words clearly.”
• Pace and Pauses: Speak slowly and clearly, using pauses for emphasis and to allow the couple and guests to absorb the words.

4. Are there examples of well-known officiants who have crafted memorable speeches?

Yes, there are many examples of celebrities who have officiated weddings and crafted memorable speeches. For instance, “ Euphoria ” star Colman Domingo, a lifelong friend of Anika Noni Rose, helped the “Princess and the Frog” voice actress and Jason Dirden make it official in October 2022 in Los Angeles. His close relationship with the couple and understanding of their journey likely contributed to a heartfelt and personal officiant speech.

In summary, crafting an officiant’s speech involves thoughtful preparation, gathering meaningful stories, and balancing humor with sentiment. With practice and a deep understanding of the couple’s journey, the officiant can create a memorable and engaging ceremony.

Personalizing the Wedding Officiant Speech

While crafting a well-structured speech is essential, it’s the personal touches that truly make it unforgettable. After all, this isn’t just any speech; it’s a celebration of two unique individuals and the love that binds them together.

By incorporating inside jokes, special memories, and meaningful traditions, you’ll transform your speech from a mere recitation of words into a living, breathing testament to the couple’s journey. It’s these personal touches that will make the audience laugh, cry, and ultimately, feel like they’ve been granted a glimpse into the heart of the couple’s love story.

Incorporating Personal Touches

A great officiant’s speech is not just about reciting the couple’s love story but also about infusing it with personal touches that make it unique and memorable. After all, this isn’t just any speech; it’s a celebration of two unique individuals and the love that binds them together.

Inside Jokes and Special Memories

Including inside jokes or special memories that only the couple and their close friends and family would understand can add a personal touch to the speech that makes it feel more intimate and meaningful. These small details can make the audience laugh, nod in recognition, and ultimately, feel like they’ve been granted a glimpse into the heart of the couple’s love story.

Think of it as a secret language, one that only those closest to the couple can truly understand and appreciate, creating a sense of shared experience and connection.

Cultural or Religious Traditions

For many couples, incorporating cultural or religious traditions into their wedding ceremony is of great importance. As an officiant, it’s crucial to take the time to understand the significance and meaning behind these traditions. This may involve researching and consulting with the couple, their families, or cultural experts to ensure that you accurately represent and respect their beliefs and customs.

By seamlessly weaving these traditions into your speech, you’ll create a tapestry of words that not only celebrates the couple’s love but also honors their heritage and values, creating a truly meaningful and personal experience.

Personalizing the Wedding Officiant Speech: Common Questions

How much personal information should we include? Striking a balance is key. Include meaningful anecdotes and personal details that reflect the couple’s journey without oversharing. Aim for a blend of personal touches and universal themes to keep the speech engaging for all guests.

How do we incorporate cultural or religious traditions? Research and consult with cultural or religious experts to accurately represent traditions. Discuss with the couple to understand the significance and desired tone. This ensures the speech is respectful and authentic.

Why is professionalism important? Maintaining professionalism ensures the ceremony is respectful and runs smoothly. It helps balance personal stories with the formal aspects of the ceremony, making it memorable and meaningful.

Tips for Personalizing an Officiant Speech:

• Consult the Couple : Understand their preferences and any specific requests.
• Research Traditions : Accurate representation of cultural or religious elements is crucial.
• Balance Details : Share personal stories that resonate but avoid too much detail that could overshadow the ceremony.
• Review and Revise : Ensure the speech flows well and covers all necessary elements.

By focusing on these aspects, you can craft a personalized and heartfelt officiant speech that honors the couple’s unique story and traditions while maintaining the ceremony’s integrity.

Delivery and Presentation of the Wedding Officiant Speech

Delivering a memorable officiant’s speech is not just about the content but also about the presentation and delivery. After all, you could have the most beautifully crafted words, but if your delivery falls flat, their impact will be diminished.

Effective public speaking skills can help you engage the audience, convey the right emotions, and create a lasting impression. From maintaining good posture and making eye contact to varying your tone, volume, and pace, the way you deliver your speech can make all the difference in how it is received and remembered by the couple and their guests.

Public Speaking Tips

Delivering a speech, especially one as significant as an officiant’s speech, can be a daunting task, even for the most seasoned public speakers. However, by mastering a few key public speaking techniques, you can transform your delivery from a mere recitation of words into a captivating performance that leaves a lasting impression.

From body language and vocal variety to practicing and rehearsing, these tips will help you command the stage (or in this case, the altar) and deliver your officiant speech.

Body Language and Vocal Variety

Your body language and vocal variety can significantly impact how your speech is received. Maintaining good posture, making eye contact, and using appropriate gestures can help you appear confident and engaging, drawing the audience in and making them feel like they’re a part of the couple’s love story.

Varying your tone, volume, and pace can also help to keep the audience’s attention and emphasize key points, creating an emotional rollercoaster that takes them on a journey through the highs and lows of the couple’s relationship.

Practicing and Rehearsing

Practicing and rehearsing your speech is essential to ensure a smooth delivery. It can help you identify potential stumbling blocks, work on your timing, and build confidence. Consider practicing in front of a mirror or recording yourself to identify areas for improvement.

Remember, this is not a mere recitation; it’s a performance, a carefully choreographed dance of words and emotions that requires preparation and practice to truly shine. By dedicating time to rehearsing, you’ll be able to deliver your speech with the confidence and poise it deserves, creating a truly unforgettable experience for the couple and their guests.

Handling Unexpected Situations during your Wedding Officiant Speech

While thorough preparation and rehearsal can minimize potential issues, unexpected situations can still arise during the ceremony. As an officiant, it’s essential to be prepared to handle these situations with grace and professionalism.

From technical issues like microphone malfunctions or music glitches to disruptions or objections from guests, your ability to remain calm and adapt on the fly can mean the difference between a minor hiccup and a full-blown disaster. By having a backup plan and a deep understanding of how to navigate these situations, you’ll be able to weather any storm, ensuring that the couple’s special day remains a cherished memory.

Preparing for the Unexpected

While it’s impossible to anticipate every potential hiccup that could occur during a wedding ceremony, being prepared for the unexpected is crucial. This means having a backup plan for technical issues, such as a handheld microphone or a backup music source, and a deep understanding of how to navigate disruptions or objections from guests.

By taking the time to consider potential scenarios and develop contingency plans, you’ll be able to handle any curveball that comes your way with poise and professionalism, ensuring that the couple’s special day remains a cherished memory, despite any unexpected challenges.

Dealing with Technical Issues

Technical issues, such as microphone malfunctions or music glitches, can disrupt the flow of the ceremony. Having a backup plan, such as a handheld microphone or a backup music source, can help you navigate these situations smoothly.

The key is to remain calm and adapt quickly, without drawing too much attention to the issue. A skilled officiant will be able to seamlessly transition to the backup plan, ensuring that the ceremony continues without a hitch and that the couple’s special day remains the focus.

Managing Disruptions or Objections

While rare, disruptions or objections from guests can occur during the ceremony. As the officiant, it’s important to remain calm and professional, and handle the situation with tact and sensitivity.

If an objection is raised, you may need to pause the ceremony and address the issue privately with the couple and the objector to determine the appropriate course of action. If the objection is valid, you may need to postpone or cancel the ceremony.

Handling Unexpected Situations: Common Questions

What should we do if there are technical issues? Have a backup plan for common technical issues. For instance, if the microphone fails, ensure the officiant can project their voice. Test all equipment before the ceremony and have spare batteries or a backup microphone on hand.

How do we handle disruptions from guests? Remain calm and professional. If a guest becomes disruptive, designate someone (like a wedding planner or a trusted friend) to address the issue discreetly.

Tips for Managing Unexpected Situations in Wedding Officiant Speeches:

• Stay Calm : Maintain composure to keep the ceremony flowing smoothly.
• Preparation : Have contingency plans for technical issues and designate people to manage disruptions.
• Adaptability : Be ready to adjust the ceremony flow as needed.

By staying calm and prepared, you can handle unexpected situations efficiently and keep the ceremony enjoyable for everyone.

How Bridesmaid for Hire Can Help

While officiating a wedding is a significant responsibility, it can also be a rewarding and meaningful experience. However, for many couples, finding the right officiant can be a challenge, especially if they don’t have a strong connection to a religious or cultural institution.

This is where Bridesmaid for Hire can step in to provide a unique and personalized solution. R each out to learn more about our officiant speech writing tool . We’ll write you a custom officiant speech that will wow the audience. 

A Quick Recap

Officiating a wedding is a significant responsibility, one that requires careful preparation, attention to detail, and a deep understanding of the couple’s love story. From crafting a well-structured speech that captures the essence of their journey to incorporating personal touches and meaningful traditions, the officiant plays a crucial role in setting the tone for the entire ceremony.

By mastering public speaking techniques, remaining calm and professional in the face of unexpected situations, and infusing the ceremony with heartfelt emotions and personal anecdotes, you can create a truly unforgettable experience for the couple and their guests.

To recap, here are the key learnings:

• Understand the officiant’s responsibilities, including legally solemnizing the marriage and setting the tone for the ceremony.
• Craft a well-structured speech that includes an introduction, the couple’s love story, words of wisdom, and a closing statement.
• Personalize the speech by incorporating inside jokes, special memories, and cultural or religious traditions.
• Master public speaking techniques, such as body language, vocal variety, and practice, to deliver the speech with confidence and emotional resonance.
• Consider Bridesmaid for Hire as a unique and personalized solution for finding the right officiant and additional wedding planning support.

Final Thoughts on Wedding Officiant Speeches

Officiating a wedding is a sacred responsibility, one that requires a delicate balance of preparation, creativity, and emotional intelligence. As the officiant, you are entrusted with the task of not only legally solemnizing the marriage but also capturing the essence of the couple’s love story and setting the tone for their new journey together.

By following the guidance outlined in this comprehensive guide, you’ll be equipped with the tools and knowledge necessary to craft a truly unforgettable wedding ceremony and wedding officiant speech. From mastering the art of public speaking to seamlessly incorporating personal touches and meaningful traditions, you’ll be able to create an experience that resonates with the couple and their guests alike, leaving a lasting impression that will be cherished for years to come.

With this guide as your compass, you’ll be well-equipped to navigate the intricate journey of officiating a wedding, emerging as a true master of ceremony who can weave a tapestry of words that celebrates love, honors tradition, and creates memories that will endure for a lifetime.

• Meet our  Wedding Officiant Speechwriting Tool : we’ll write you a fully-custom wedding ceremony script in just minutes.

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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 makes it easy for a friend to officiate! Fill in the blanks for an officiant speech that's simple, short & sweet.

A Simple 'Friend Officiating' wedding ceremony script plus tips for officiating a friend's wedding 

C ongratulations! 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!
• Get ordained online free with American Marriage Ministries

Once the initial paperwork is taken care of, all that’s left is finding the perfect wording to celebrate the happy occasion. 

To make it easy, we created the simple wedding ceremony template below for you, your partner, and your friend officiant to complete together. 

How to use this Wedding Ceremony Script Template with a Friend Officiant: 

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. Add details from your love story for a custom ceremony that's unique to YOU! 

• 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 Wedding Ceremony Scripts 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.  

Become a Wedding Officiant with AMM and Officiate a Wedding! 

American Marriage Ministries is a nondenominational inclusive internet church that ordains and trains ministers to officiate marriage ceremonies. We are a recognized 501(c)(3) nonprofit church, and welcome people of all backgrounds and beliefs.

Officiating weddings is an incredible honor, and a great way to show your love and support for the people getting married. As a wedding officiant, you will help to create memorable ceremonies and memories that last a lifetime.

Our ordinations are free, accessible, and never expire. Just  click here to start the online ordination application,  it only takes a minute to complete.

AMM Ministers are authorized to officiate weddings in every state* (it's much harder in  Virginia , where we're looking into our options). After getting ordained with AMM, you might need to register your ordination with your local county clerk’s office. Click the links below to get started! 

• Become an AMM Minister today!
• Weddings by State: Officiant Registration Requirements

  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.

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• 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

Last updated June 10, 2024

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

• How Long Is Cocktail Hour? The Power of Happy Hour
• What to Eat On Your Wedding Day + 4 Foods to Avoid
• 10 of the Best Ways to Thank Wedding Vendors
• Funny Wedding Vow Ideas
• The Ultimate Wedding Day Emergency Kit List
• Should You Do a Garter Toss?
• Wedding Night Confessions: 10 Newlyweds Dish on How to Manage Expectations
• 15 Plant Wedding Favors Ideas You’ll Love
• How to Choose the Right Wedding Officiant for Your Ceremony
• Unique Rehearsal Dinner Ideas
• DIY Guest Book Templates

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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!

• Certified Officiants

• How To Officiate a Wedding Ceremony For the First Time

You’ve been asked to officiate a wedding ceremony for the first time. Your first reaction? You feel honoured! Now that you’re sitting down to actually figure it out, it’s overwhelming.

Maybe you feel pretty good in front of a crowd. But a wedding? It’s all too much.

There are a lot of moving parts when it comes to a wedding ceremony! The key is to understand the parts of a the ceremony itself. First, you need to know how to format a wedding ceremony script. But that’s just the beginning. You also need to know when and what meetings to have with your couple, how to be ready for the details of the wedding day, and how to present and deliver in front of the couple and their guests.

Scary stuff? Nah. Not anymore. Because you found… this! 

Here’s the definitive 10-step guide for how to officiate a wedding for the very first time. Follow these steps, and no one will ever guess it’s your first time to officiate a wedding ceremony. It’ll be our secret.

1. Understand The Timeline of Your Process

When you get asked to officiate a wedding ceremony, all the ceremony-related responsibility falls to you. That means you’re charged with taking your couple through a series of steps to crafting their perfect wedding ceremony. Your couple have put themselves in your hands. And now… you’re their guide. Think of them as Luke (the hero!), and yourself as Yoda (the master). It’s okay if you don’t feel that way yet. You’ll get there.

Your couple are gonna have questions. And it’s okay when you don’t know everything . You’ll learn a lot as you go. But the one thing you’ll want to be able to answer for them right out of the gate is: “What’s the process?”

When couples reach out to me to book me as their professional officiant, a description of the process is where I start. The couple and I meet for what I call our “chemistry check,” and I explain to them how we’ll get to their perfect ceremony on their wedding day. This fills them with confidence that we have a roadmap. I know where we’re going, and I know how we’ll get there.

Now, chances are you already know your couple. But in this respect, it’s no different for you: tell your couple exactly what they can expect in the days and weeks to come. They’ll be so glad they picked you – right from the start.

Here’s a general 5-part timeline of the process for crafting the ceremony and getting ready for the wedding day. We’ll cover these in more detail below. But when your couple asks, “What’s the process for putting together out wedding ceremony?”, this is what you can tell them. They’ll be impressed!

#1 Meet with your couple for the ceremony planning session.

Four to six weeks before the wedding, conduct a ceremony planning session with your couple. You want the ceremony to be exactly what they want. So the best thing to do is sit down with them and cover every detail. More on that below.

#2 Write their script and send it to them along with a questionnaire.

After your meeting with them, you know exactly what they want and don’t want. That means you’re ready to write their wedding ceremony script. And you’ll need to ask them a few questions so you can write your ceremony speech. Fire them off their script and their questions within a few days of your ceremony planning session. More on that below.

#3 Run the wedding ceremony rehearsal.

The day or two before the wedding, get everybody together for the rehearsal. The script is filled with all the ceremony details – from the moment you take the front to the recessional and everything in between. That means you can run the rehearsal like no one else. Keep it tight, keep it fun, and don’t skip it. A wedding ceremony walkthrough is crucial – especially when it’s your first time. More on that bel… you get it now.

#4 Prepare the final draft of your wedding ceremony script.

The day before the wedding, the ceremony script should be done and polished. The rehearsal may have changed a few things, so make those final tweaks. Then prepare the final version that you’ll read from at the front. Yep, we’ll cover this too… below.

#5 Officiate the wedding.

This is the day we’ve all been working towards; the moment we’ve all been waiting for. It’s the wedding day! You’re gonna show up early and make sure everything is ready. I’ll tell you how – if you make it to the end of this article, that is. Because this is the very last step.

Whether you have six days or six weeks, that’s the process. Ideally, you’ll have four to six weeks to move through the milestones. But even if you have just a week, those 5 steps are your game plan. And this process is what you tell your couple you’re going to guide them through.

Now you have an overview of the road ahead and you’ve told your couple about the process they can expect. It’s time for us to get our heads around the parts that make up a traditional wedding ceremony.

2. Start With a Traditional 10-Part Ceremony Outline

Most people who get asked to officiate a wedding ceremony for the first time just wanna get their hands on a wedding ceremony script. There’s comfort in just grabbing what’s already out there and following it word for word. Read it rote, and you barely have to do any work.

Here’s the problem with officiating with a wedding ceremony script you didn’t actually write. It’ll show. And it’ll be boring.

You’ll go through the motions, say the weird-sounding scripting that makes you sound like a 16th-century vicar. Yeah, everyone will survive the ceremony – and you will be told you did a “lovely” job. But who really wants that?

Remember: you want to be your couple’s guide . That means you need to understand all the parts of a traditional wedding ceremony. Then you can make sure that the ceremony will be everything your couple wants – and none of the things they don’t want! Plus, ideally, you want to sound down-to-earth and put together a wedding ceremony that your couple and their guests will genuinely enjoy.

Here’s how to make this happen. First, understand the 10 parts of a traditional wedding ceremony.

#1 The Wedding Officiant Opening Remarks

Okay here’s a confession off the top: these are all traditional parts of a wedding ceremony. But I’ve tweaked some of them for a contemporary experience that’s more engaging for everyone. Such is the case with the opening remarks. You may be more familiar with the officiant walking up to the front, smiling silently, and then the music starts and everyone comes in. Then the first words said are something like, “Dearly beloved….”

After hundreds of weddings, I’m here to say there a much better way. In fact, it’s my magic bullet to everyone thinking you’re the best officiant they’ve ever seen. Ready? Here it is:

Walk to the front at start time, turn, smile at the guests, and then… say hi!

I always start off playfully with the guests. Ask them if they’re excited for your couple to come out there and get married moments from now. Then tell them 3 things:

• Introduce yourself. This is not the time to give out a resume or a list of qualifications! Just your name and how you’re related to the couple. No one cares who you are – yet. But when you blow ’em away with the ceremony… they will.
• Tell the guests whether or not they can take photos. Your couple will have told you how they feel about that in your ceremony planning session with them. Some couple say it’s okay; others want it totally “unplugged,” which means no phones or cameras. So tell the guests what the couple has decided about this.
• Tell the guests to turn off their phones. Remind everyone that we don’t want to be interrupted by devices going off. Oh – and any members of the wedding party that may be up there with you… remind them too. It’s a funny moment.

With that, it’s time to start the ceremony! I always ask, “Should we get to it?” The guests cheers and whoop, and then you say, “Let’s begin.”

#2 The Wedding Ceremony Processional

When you say “let’s begin,” the wedding ceremony processional begins. All the people who are walking – the parents, the kids, the wedding party – and even the animals and whoever and whatever your couple has chosen will make their way down the aisle and get to the front. And when everyone has arrived and they’re standing where they’re supposed to, it’s time to start talking.

#3 The Wedding Officiant Speech

This is the part where the officiant – that’s you! – says a bunch of things for a few minutes. There’s lots you can do. You can read scripture from a faith tradition. You can recite poetry. You can give advice, reflect on love, or discuss the meaning of commitment. You can do all of the above.

I’d recommend starting off with your couple’s story. I’ve built an entire brand around writing and telling every couple’s love story. It wows every bride and groom and absolutely thrills their guests. Besides, nothing hooks everyone’s attention like a great story. So even of you do any or all of the above, start with the story and then go deeper. More on that when we get into writing the speech below.

#4 The Declaration of Intent and/or Exchange of Vows

There’s a lot of confusion around the Declaration of Intent and the Exchange of Vows. Are they the same? Different? Do you have to do both or just one?

The Declaration of Intent is basically a question you will ask your couple. This element of the ceremony is just what it sounds like: you’re asking the couple to declare what they intend to do here today.

Are your couple here to get married? And they understand that getting married is what’s happening? Again: this is a very traditional part of the ceremony. And you can tell it comes from a time in history when you really had to confirm that the two people in front of you weren’t under any false pretences.

Typically, this is a form of this simple question: “Do you stand here today of your own free will to give yourself to this person in marriage?” The answer is “I do,” which is where the famous “I do’s” from.

The Exchange of Vows can be a lot more eloquent and specific. It’s where our couple make promises to do certain things for each other: be faithful, never leave, be a partner and companion, make coffee in the morning, etc.

The vows can take 3 forms:

• personal words they write and then read to each other in the ceremony,
• a statement they repeat after the officiant line by line,
• a question asked by the officiant – like the Declaration of Intent but more specific; each of them answer, “I do.”

Do you need to do both? Maybe.

In some places, legal requirements mean that the officiant or the couple have to say certain words during the ceremony. So of you’re officiating in a legal capacity, it’s important to find out whether there are specific things you need to say or get your couple to say.

If there are no legal requirements you need to follow around this, then it’s really up to your couple!

#5 The Exchange of Wedding Rings

After your couple have exchange vows in the style of their choice, typically they will exchange wedding rings. This is often as simple as someone coming forward and giving Marrier A the ring. Marrier A places it on Marrier B’s finger, and you ask Marrier A to repeat a few words about the significance of wearing it. I’d recommend a more modern take on the old “with this ring/I thee wed.” Then it’s Marrier B’s turn.

And with that, vows are made and rings are on. We’re almost done the wedding ceremony!

#6 The Pronouncement of the Couple

When the couple have made promises to each other and they’re wearing rings as a symbol of those promises, it’s time to pronounce them married! As the officiant, that power is in your hands. As with the Declaration of Intent and the Exchange of Vows, you may need to say very specific wording here to make this legal. So double-check with your governing authority that registers marriages.

Whatever you say, this usually ends with, “You may kiss!” Then you step out of the way so you’re not leering over your best friend frenching their newlywed spouse. Creepy. So make yourself scarce.

#7 The Signing of The Marriage License

Okay, I know this is less common in the States. But in British commonwealth countries, for some reason we sign the legal docs right in the ceremony. There are pretty much no downsides to this, so I recommend it! You don’t need to wrangle your couple after the ceremony, everyone gets to see it, and – the best part – when your couple chooses a fun song to play (think “Signed, Sealed, Delivered” by Stevie Wonder or something like that), the party is really getting started before we’re even done the ceremony!

This is why I’ve put another twist on the tradition here. Typically, the signing comes after the vows and the rings and it’s all tense and whispery and set to serious music. But when you move this to happen after the pronouncement and all the wedding guests have clapped and cheered and our couple has kissed, it’s like the cork has popped and you’re not putting that cerebration-genie back in the bottle! The fun has started, everyone starts chair dancing, and it’s an awesome rowdy atmosphere for our last 3 steps of the wedding ceremony.

#8 The Wedding Officiant Closing Remarks

After you’ve all signed the paperwork, our couple comes back to stand front and centre. But instead of facing each other as they had been during the ceremony, now they’re facing their guests while you make some quick, high-energy closing remarks. This is the best way to build the anticipation for the wedding ceremony’s grand finale to come. They’re beaming at their guests, the guests are beaming back at them, and everyone is psyched for a great party to come.

There are 3 things you want to say in your closing remarks:

• Tell the guests what the couple are doing now.  Typically they’re heading out for photos or stepping out for a breather and some privacy together. But they might be heading straight for the bar, too! As the VIPs of the day, their whereabouts are important, so tell the guests where they’re going and when they’ll join the rest of us again.
• Tell the guests what they are doing now.  Usually it’s cocktail hour and guests need to know where to go. Keep it down to a sentence or two, maybe tell them what time the reception starts, and make sure they know what’s next for them.
• Thank everyone for coming. On behalf of the couple (and their families if appropriate), end the ceremony and start the night by thanking everyone for celebrating with them and making their day so special.

#9 The Presentation of The Couple

With that, it’s time to wrap this thing up! Invite everyone to get on their feet as they’re able. Then, in your best “let’s get ready to rumble” or Oprah “you get a car, you get a car!” voice, present your couple for the very first time! Your couple will have decided exactly what you say here in your ceremony planning session. It might be “Mr. and Mr. last name” or “first name and first name as husband and husband” or a variation on that.

Whatever it is, this is the very last word you’re saying in the ceremony, and it’s the cue for the DJ or the band to hit that recessional music.

#10 The Recessional

Your couple head up the aisle first, and you want to stay to the side so you’re photobombing their classic “heading up the aisle” shot. No one comes up behind your couple!

After they’ve made it all the way to the end, you can then move back to centre and direct any wedding party members out. Typically, they leave two by two. When the last of the wedding party has made it out, then you’ll move to the front row, congratulate them, and gesture for them to head up the aisle. Then you can stand and direct the second row to head up, then the third, etc.

That’s it! The 10 parts of a traditional wedding ceremony.

3. Meet With Your Wedding Couple for a Ceremony Planning Session

Now that you know what the ten-part traditional ceremony looks like, you can do two things:

• adapt these traditional elements to your couple’s needs and preferences,
• add any other elements they want to include.

That’s why it’s best to take your understanding of the 10 parts into a ceremony planning session with your couple. You’ll be the Yoda to their Luke, and you’ll help them craft the ceremony they want. Plus, you won’t miss a single detail – and they’ll be so glad they chose you .

As we worked through the 10 parts of a traditional wedding ceremony above, you noticed (right?) that there are multiple ways to do each of the things. Not hundreds (thank goodness!), but definitely a few. That’s just one of the reasons why it’s necessary to walk through the outline and vision-cast the ceremony with them.

So for Part 1 The Opening Remarks, for example, ask them whether or not the guests can take photos. You’ll pass this along to the guests after you introduce yourself and tell guests to silence their devices.

For Part 2 The Processional, you’ll get the full list of who’s walking in, when, and in what order. You’ll talk about what happens when the Marrier gets to the end of the aisle (Do they have an escort? Do you ask that escort a question about their blessing for the marriage?) and how they’re standing.

For Part 3 The Officiant Speech, you’ll ask them what they’d like you to say and their expectations around your speech.

For Part 4 The Exchange of Vows, you’ll ask them how they want to say their vows and the wording they’d like you to lead them through.

And so on and so on… until you get through all the 10 parts and find out all the things they want – and all of the things they don’t want.

After you’ve made it through all 10 parts together, you’re not done yet! We’ve only covered the 10 traditional essentials of a wedding ceremony! Your couple may want to add a few things.

That’s why in the ceremony planning session, we need to ask them 3 more questions.

• Does your couple want someone else to participate in the ceremony? You’re the officiant and doing most of the talking and leading. However, they may want a friend or family member to come up and read a poem or share some words. This can happen either at the front, off to the side, or at the reader’s seat. Make sure you ask and work out the logistics.
• Does your couple want any religious elements? It’s important never to assume your couple’s preferences when it comes to faith traditions. Whether you assume they want to add religious elements and you don’t add them, or you assume they don’t want anything like that and you do – either way, it’s a bad scene and a sore memory to mess this part up. Make sure you understand their expectations around faith elements and what they want and don’t want.
• Does your couple want to add a unity ritual? There are lots of different physical re-enactments to signify their union in a wedding ceremony – everything from mixing sand to a handfasting to a quaich to doing shots. Some rituals symbolize the couple coming together; sometimes it’s the union of the two families. Prompt them to think about if they’ve seen anything at other weddings or whether there’s a unity ritual that’s common practice in their ethnic heritage or faith tradition they’d like to perform.

That’s it! When you’ve walked your couple through the 10 parts and the 3 additional questions, you have all the information you need about their perfect ceremony. ‘Time to take all that data and craft their wedding ceremony script.

4. Create a Detailed, Shareable Wedding Ceremony Script

It’s time to write the wedding ceremony script. When you were in that meeting with your couple, maybe you were filling out a spreadsheet. Maybe you were using a note-taking app on your phone. Maybe you were scribbling on a napkin (not recommended!). Either way, your shorthand is not what you’re sending your couple. No, you’re going to write a very detailed, easy-to-read rundown of everything that happens and everything you say in the wedding ceremony.

As a wedding officiant course creator and coach, I see far too many scripts that consist of nothing but the words the officiant is going to say. But the spoken bits are just half of the wedding ceremony. The other half is all the moving parts and people! There are cues, songs, standing, walking, sitting, moving objects like rings and microphones, etc. etc.

So a script that has only the words is just as incomplete as a script that has only actions. A proper wedding ceremony script is filled out with every action that’s going to happen and every word that people are going to say.

That means it’s time for you to go back through all the notes you took in the wedding ceremony planning session with your couple. Start at the beginning and make headings of all the 10 ceremony parts, plus any parts your couple added. Next, mentally put yourself at the venue half an hour before ceremony start time on the wedding day and start writing every detail in concise bullet points.

Make the wedding ceremony script easy for anyone to read – especially you. Ideally, this is the wedding ceremony script you’re going to carry into the ceremony and read from at the front. There’s no reason to make multiple versions of the script. Your “stage copy” will be the same one your couple sees.

Now you’ve finished making a clear, easy-to-read wedding ceremony script will all the words and actions that will happen in the ceremony. The only thing missing will be your officiant speech, but that’s okay. We’re going to write that in the next few steps, For now, the priority is getting your couple their script so they can see what their wedding ceremony looks like.

5. Send Your Couple the Wedding Ceremony Script and Questionnaire

Now, you want to send the finished wedding ceremony script (all but your speech!) to your couple.

Ask them to look it over and sign off on all the language and check for anything that’s not quite right for them. That way, they’ve approved of everything you’re going to say and everything that’s going to happen. Now you don’t need to sweat that the ceremony won’t be what they’re looking for! On the contrary, you can be confident that you’re going to deliver exactly what they want.

But what about your wedding officiant speech?

I don’t let any of my couples see what I’m going to say in their wedding ceremony ahead of time. It’s the only surprise I keep in reserve for the couple. That said, remember: in the wedding ceremony planning session, we discussed Part 3 the Officiant Speech with our couple. We asked them what they’d generally like us to say there. Let that be your guide.

I always send my couple a questionnaire to personalize the ceremony and tell my couple’s story. My signature online course Unboring!Wedding Academy has a core two-hour lesson on how to write the ultimate, guaranteed-best love story. But the quick tips here would be to ask them 3 questions:

• How did they meet and what were their first impressions of each other?
• What was the first date like?
• How did the proposal go down?

So send them those questions and ask them each to separately tell their side of the story. You can also include any other questions you think will help you write a personalized speech that’s all about them. Just don’t give them too much homework! You don’t need a lot to write a little speech centred on your couple.

6. Write Your Wedding Officiant Speech

When you get their responses back to your questions, it’s time to start writing your wedding officiant speech!

After you write the love story for the ceremony, you may want to add other stuff like marriage advice, thoughts on commitment, quotes and lyrics, a faith-based sermon, or personal reflections about your relationship with the couple. But however you land the plane, when you start with the love story focused on the couple and end with something heartfelt, everyone will be riveted to your every word. I promise.

7. Format Your Final Wedding Ceremony Script So It’s Easy To Read

When you’ve finished writing your officiant speech, it’s time to create the final wedding ceremony script you’ll read at the front.

At this stage, you have two scripts: the script of your officiant speech, and the “everything else” script you sent to your couple. Simply make a copy of the full ceremony script you sent your couple and paste in your officiant speech.

Now you have your full wedding ceremony script – all the people, actions, cues, and every word you plan to say. So the first part of this Step 7 is done. The other part is making sure it’s easy to read!

I get asked a lot if the wedding officiant needs to memorize the ceremony script. Good news: nope! You don’t have to memorize any of it. It’s perfectly normal to read the whole thing. The crucial thing is to make sure it’s easy to read!

That means: use a large font, and avoid huge blocks of text in paragraph form that make you get lost. When you’re reading in the wedding ceremony, you want to be able to look up at your couple, look around at the guests, and look back down seamlessly. I break the script into lines and run my thumb down the page as I read. That way I can engage the reactions around me as I deliver in the wedding ceremony.

So as you practice reading, see that you’re able to look out and down again with huge pauses. Format your wedding ceremony script in a way that allows you do to that, and you’re ready!

8. Run The Wedding Rehearsal

When the wedding ceremony script is as detailed as the one you’ve made, you’re the most qualified person on the planet to run this wedding rehearsal.

Don’t even think about skipping the rehearsal. When it’s your first time, the rehearsal is as important for you as it is for everyone else.

And don’t outsource running it to the wedding planner either! The wedding planner is awesome , but they’re coaching from the back on the wedding day. You’re the one out front and in the spotlight with your couple. You need to call the shots.

I know it feels scary to finally come out from behind the computer and in front of your couple and their friends and family and handpicked wedding party. But the kind of well-run rehearsal you’re going to run will skyrocket everyone’s faith in you.

So: schedule when to get everyone together with your couple.

When that day comes, show up early and confirm with you couple that everything in your wedding ceremony is correct and that nothing has changed. Then run the wedding rehearsal in 3 parts.

• Talk through the wedding ceremony. Invite everyone to make a big circle and then fill them in on who needs to do what from the very beginning all the way to the end. This should take 5 to 10 minutes.
• Walk through the wedding ceremony.  Get everyone lined up at the back and walk in out as you will at the wedding. Iron out the kinks and go over cues and standing positions and every part that requires people to move around. This should take about 20 minutes.
• Walk it through a second time. Chances are, that first go-round was a bit chaotic. Now, line everybody up at the back again and go through it one more time. Everyone is gonna be 1000% better this time because they know what to do, where to go, and when to do it. This should take about 5 minutes.

With that, your couple and their wedding party are way more relaxed – not to mention, so are you! You’ve reduced a lot of anxiety for everyone and instilled confidence that you’re the right choice to officiate and deliver this wedding ceremony.

9. Show Up At The Wedding Ceremony Early For The Final Checks

It’s the big day! Grab that polished final draft of your wedding ceremony script and show up early. I always arrive 45 minutes before wedding ceremony start time. There’s a lot to do in that 45 minutes.

Make final checks that everything and everyone are where they’re supposed to be. Things can fall through the cracks, and the best person to catch those details is you.

Some of the most important things you want to make sure of:

• The person doing the music (DJ, live band, or friend with an iPhone) knows your cues.
• The marriage paperwork and pen are in place.
• Any accoutrements for a unity ritual are set out and ready.
• Your microphone is functioning well. Do a sound check!
• The person who is bringing out the wedding rings in the wedding ceremony does have the wedding rings.

With all those crucial details nailed down, you’ve done everything you can to sure there aren’t any unpleasant miscues during the wedding ceremony. When your couple are ready, get everyone lined up at the back and get ready to walk in and start the wedding ceremony!

10. Crush The Opening Remarks and Show ‘Em a Great Time

So you get to the front – either alone or with some or all of one of the Marrier’s wedding party – and you turn and face all those guests. They’re looking at you like goldfish in a bowl and you start to sweat. This is the most nerve-wracking moment of the whole wedding ceremony. It still is for me, and I’ve officiated hundreds of weddings!

Let’s vaporize this tension right out of the gate.

Remember Part 1 of our wedding ceremony outline we started with above? It’s time to deploy that secret weapon: your officiant opening remarks!

I always start by getting the guests involved. I recommend that the first thing out of your mouth addresses the guests directly: “Good afternoon, everyone!” No one – and I mean no one – will answer back. You’ll hear crickets. Maybe even literally if you’re outside.

Wedding guests don’t know they’re allowed to make some noise! People have been conditioned to sit silently and passively observe a wedding ceremony. But that’s not what we’re looking for, is it? No. Let’s get this thing started by unleashing the joy that gets everyone cheering for the couple who have brought us all together today.

So I always playfully say, “Oh come on now don’t go quiet on me. Today’s a celebration! Good afternoon, everyone!” With that, everyone is shouting back at me and we’re on our way to a great time together. We’ve broken the “fourth wall,” and guests feel drawn in and a part of this wedding ceremony. They feel attached to you as you buoyantly make those opening remarks about who you are (briefly!), whether or not they can take photos, and to silence their devices. You can be humourous about it, everyone will be smiling, and when you’re done, you ask, “With that said, are you ready to get these two hitched?” Everyone will holler a boisterous, “Yeah!” And then it’s your cue to get this whole wedding ceremony started:

“With that, let’s begin!”

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In This Article

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Voices of Love: Unforgettable Wedding Speeches

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Wedding speeches are an essential part of every wedding. They let all the members of the bridal party and guests share their overwhelming emotions about the big day. Best wedding speeches stay in our memory forever, marking the significance of the wedding day for everyone involved. It can be quite challenging to fit all the feelings you want to share into a single toast . In this article, you will find invaluable tips from the expert Amanda Layton, an experienced wedding vow and speechwriter, in crafting memorable wedding speeches.

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Wedding Speeches Examples

Best wedding speeches.

Writing a wedding speech can seem daunting, but with some preparation and guidance, you can deliver a heartfelt and memorable speech that will be cherished by the newlyweds and their guests.

Good evening, everyone. For those of you who don’t know me, my name is Sarah, and I’m the ___ I’ve known the bride, Emily, since we were little girls, and we’ve been best friends ever since. I remember the first time she told me about Alex, and how excited she was to go on a date with him. From that moment on, I knew he was something special. Seeing them together over the years has been such a joy, and I’m so happy to be here today to celebrate their love. Emily, you are the most kind, caring, and generous person I know. And Alex, you are her perfect match. I’ve never seen her so happy as she is with you. I know you will continue to be each other’s best friend, confidant, and partner in all of life’s adventures. So, let’s raise a glass to the newlyweds. May your love continue to grow stronger with each passing day. Congratulations!

Groom Wedding Speech

“I would like to thank my parents for all the help they have given me over the years, if it wasn’t for them I wouldn’t be here now. I would also like to thank (my wife’s) parents for making me feel like the son they never wanted, sorry the son they never had, right from day 2. Day 1 was a bit rough, but hey, they’re over it now. I would also like to thank them for having such a beautiful, intelligent, kind, and caring daughter. I hope to do you both proud and thank you both for everything you have done today and to make today happen.”

The groom’s wedding speech starts at the reception. On behalf of himself and his bride, he expresses his gratitude to everyone involved in the wedding preparations. He toasts his parents, bridesmaids, and the groom’s party, and mentions their help and support. His speech is often quite sentimental, as he shares some personal memories. He also mentions how his life has changed since he met his bride.

Wedding Speeches for Parents

When the kids find love, the parents are also happy. So, it rests upon them to give wedding reception speeches in honor of their children. Now, depending on the chosen style, you’ll have to fit in with the wedding theme. Most times, a funny speech is just perfect, because it works for every wedding. Below, we’ll see wedding speech examples for different parents.

Wedding Speeches for Mother of the Groom

“The first time I saw you, it was love. My little baby grew into a wobbly toddler, and then a smart child. The pre-teen and teen years and the next thing I knew, you’ve become a man. I am so proud of you. You’ve made us proud of everything you’ve done. And on your wedding today, we wish you only the best.”

As a mother of the groom, wedding speeches for your son will be an emotional one. You’ll talk about his growing up, the bond you share, and how he was well-raised. You can add one or two romantic quotes  and close. See the wedding speeches sample below.

Wedding Speeches for Mother of the Bride

“It’s no news that we love our kids so much, and seeing them grow up is hard. Everything they do fills you with pride. But you also miss the little girl who cuddles into you. And cried to you when she scraped her knee. Now my daughter is older and I’m grateful and proud that she found love in the groom. May your lives be long, happy, and peaceful together.”

The wedding speeches for mother of the bride isn’t a norm. But today, it’s becoming acceptable especially if the father isn’t involved. Tell your daughter that she’s beautiful and strong. Talk about the good memories in her growing years. And if her father has passed, talk about him with fondness.

Wedding Speeches for Father of the Groom

“My greatest blessing is having a son, one that mirrors me in many ways. But like his dream, he’s grown into his own person. He has taught me as much as I’ve taught him and I’m proud. My son is someone who goes the extra mile for people and I know he’ll make an amazing husband. I wish you every best, as we raise our glass to the groom and his amazing bride.”

Your son getting married excites you because he carries on the torch. Again, he will be looking to you for support and wisdom for marriage. So, good wedding speeches from the father of the groom must contain lots of quotes about marriage . Draw inspiration from talking about your own marriage, the bond you share, and why he’s a great son.

Wedding Speeches for Father of the Bride

“Looking at both of you in your beautiful dress and dapper suit, my wedding day comes to mind. We were quite excited, filled with love, merriment, and of course nervousness. From me to you, I’ll tell you for free that a successful marriage requires falling in love many times. And doing it with the same person always.”

As the father of the bride, you have responsibilities to your baby girl. From walking her down the aisle to the father-daughter dance. Throwing in a great speech is just perfect. Let your love for your baby shine through and talk about her growing up. Remember the groom, give them pieces of advice, and your best wishes. See the wedding speeches template below for some inspiration.

Wedding Speeches for Sister

Ladies and gentlemen, today I stand before you with immense pride and joy as I celebrate my sister’s union with [Groom’s Name]. As her older sister, I’ve had the privilege of watching her grow into the amazing woman she is today. She has found in [Groom’s Name] the love and support she deserves. Here’s to a lifetime filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories. Cheers to the newlyweds!

When delivering a wedding speech for your sister, begin by expressing your love and pride for her. Share heartfelt stories that illustrate her special qualities, highlight her relationship with the groom, and offer well-wishes for their future. End your speech by raising a toast to the newlyweds.

Best Man Wedding Speech

Take a look at this great example of a witty speech, presented by the best man.

“There comes a time in everyone’s life when they meet their one true love, their soul mate, the person that’s going to know and love them for the rest of their life. That moment came for the groom…3 years ago when he met me. Good afternoon ladies and gentlemen, for those of you that don’t know me my name, is Dan, What-would-you-like-to-drink. I hope you’ll come and say hello at the bar later, but please…call me by my full name. On behalf of the bride and groom, I’d like to thank you all for coming. And I want to give special thanks to the parents of the bride and groom… it’s amazing how far some people are willing to travel, just for some free food and drink. And finally, I’d like to thank my best friend (the groom), for giving me the first EVER opportunity…. to be able to speak for five minutes without him interrupting!”

Wedding speeches best man deliver are usually the most humorous of all the others. Thank you’s are also appropriate, especially to the bridesmaids and fellow groomsmen. Some anecdotes about the groom would be also much anticipated. People expect wedding best man speeches to be memorable, funny, with well wishes to the couple . Humor is a must.

100+ Best Wedding Toasts For Different Types Of Guests

Maid of honor speech.

“Before I go any further, I just want to say, Bride, you look absolutely beautiful and Groom, you’ve never looked more handsome. For those of you who don’t know me and for those who can’t tell, I’m Bride’s sister. Thank you Bride for the honor of being your bridesmaid. Obviously, I’ve known Bride all of my life and we know more about each other than we would probably care to. We’ve laughed together, cried together, and laughed until we’ve cried. We’ve also had the odd fight! We also have so many inside jokes that only we find funny.”

There is one thing all wedding speeches maid of honor makes have in common: they boost the bride. Like any other wedding speech, the maid of honor’s speech can be witty and humorous, but the most important feature of this category is love and sentimentality. Add a couple of memorable stories you have of the newlyweds. Don’t forget well wishes!

Wedding Speeches for Best Friends

“I’m here to talk about two very special people, John and Eve. I’ve been friends with Eve since kindergarten. On our first day at school, we met and formed a friendship that has lived two decades and some. We got into trouble a lot and got grounded many times by the parents. My bestie is free-spirited and has a strong will to date. James, I hope you’re prepared for marriage with a woman who is full of life and spirit. With her, you’ll never live the same day twice. I wish you heaven’s best all your life. A toast…”

Wedding Welcoming Speeches

“Welcome to the celebration of James and Eve’s wedding. A tale of love that promises to last forever. Today promises to be one of beauty, friendships formed, and bonds lasting forever. For you all who have come from far and near to celebrate, we hope you take joy home with you. The happiness of marriage is the highest happiness on earth. And this is what we’ve witnessed today. Sit back, relax, have the time of your lives, and thank you for choosing to share in our joy.

Funny Wedding Speeches

Good evening everyone! For those who don’t know me, I’m the groom’s brother. I’d like to start by saying that I’m delighted to see so many people here tonight, and I hope you’re all enjoying the celebrations as much as we are. Now, it’s not often that you get to make a speech at your brother’s wedding, so I thought I’d take this opportunity to share a few stories about him. Growing up, my brother was always the smart one. He was top of his class and excelled at everything he did. And then he met his beautiful bride-to-be, and everything changed. Suddenly he became clumsy, forgetful, and absent-minded. I guess you could say that love really does make you do crazy things. But in all seriousness, I couldn’t be happier for the two of them. They truly are a perfect match, and I have no doubt that they will have a long and happy life together. So let’s raise a glass to the newlyweds – may your marriage be filled with love, laughter, and lots of adventures!

Writing a funny wedding speech can entertain guests and create lasting memories. Keep it appropriate, short, know your audience, and practice for a smooth delivery.

Short Wedding Speech Ideas

“Groom, thank you for being an anchor, a friend, and brother. And I can’t be more proud that you married an amazing bride. Man! You’ve won a lottery! We celebrate both of you tonight, and all of the good things you are. You care for everyone and I’m sure you’ll care for her. We wish you success, laughter, and love. May your humor in bad times and appreciation in good times never leave you. May you get answers to prayers. May the friendship you share keep growing till death parts you. Cheers to you!”

Whether you’re giving wedding speeches for the bride, best man, or brother; the shorter the better. This will help make sure you don’t bore the audience. 11 /14

Wedding Thank You Speeches

“We (couple) worked really hard to make this day perfect. But we remembered that being bound to the one you love in the presence of your loved ones — is what makes the day perfect. I’m overjoyed that we had beautiful weather. The food and drinks were great and everyone is happy. Thank you all, especially my beloved, because today I’m bound to him to start a beautiful journey together. And after all my fears and jitters, today turned out to be much more memorable than we planned. Thank you.”

Wedding thank you speeches give you the opportunity to thank your guests. You will also extend your appreciation to everyone who made your day possible. If you intend to mention names, have a list, so that you don’t leave anyone out. This speech can come from the bride or groom. But it’s always better to skip the names. Also, infuse some humor. 12 /14

Wedding Officiant Speeches

“Shall we all sit? Today, we gather to witness and celebrate the matrimony of Eve and James. What they have is an existing bond, and we’ve come together to strengthen it. As family and friends, it’s our honor to witness today. Marriage is a lifetime commitment where two people work tirelessly to bring out the best in each other. You get an opportunity to share your joys, success, failures, and burdens with an ally for life. You get an opportunity to share and grow. One relationship which no other can equal. You are in for a physical and emotional binding that has the promise of a lifetime.”

Great wedding officiant speeches must be short, sweet, and have the perfect length to keep guests dialed in. The officiant should leverage the relationship and how much they know the couple. You must also tailor your speech in line with the wedding style. 13 /14

Wedding Anniversary Speeches

“Anniversaries are beautiful recollections of the past years and reflections for the years to come. The years past were happy and successful ones in many ways. They’re shrouded in a kaleidoscope of great relationships, supportive families, and happy memories. I’m not saying it’s smooth, but with your support, the journey became easier. We can only be grateful, even as we look forward to better years. As we celebrate our 50th year, I want to thank you for walking with us. It’s not a question of where you, it’s who goes with you. Thank you, everyone.”

A wedding anniversary speech must be heartfelt, sweet, and short. Whoever is giving the speech must know that it’s a time to reminisce and give good wishes. So, you’ll talk about the marriage, throw in some humor and bless the couple. If it’s the couple giving the speech, some advice will go a long way. 14 /14

Wedding Quotes for Speeches

“I’ve seen nothing more satisfying than two people coming together to become one. They share in each other’s pleasure, and bear each other’s pain. They crush their enemies together and make home with their friends.” “The pain and weight of life vanish from our lives by one word. It sets us free and we live again. It’s called LOVE.” “If you want to keep your marriage cup filled and running over, always admit your wrongs. And, if you’re right, be kind to shut up.”

Wedding Speeches Tips

Ready to seize the mic, command the room, and leave everyone applauding your wedding speech? Not quite yet? Amanda Layton, a Professional Wedding Speech Writer, shared top 5 tips to help you craft and deliver an epic wedding speech. With a little bit of guidance, you’ll be delivering an unforgettable wedding toast template that captures hearts and makes memories for years to come!

• Keep it Short and Sweet First things first–when it comes to wedding speeches less is more. Did you know that a 5-minute speech is approximately 700 words? It’s important to keep your speech concise and to the point, ensuring that every word is impactful and resonates with the audience.
• Skip the Roasts Steer clear of roasting the couple. It might sound funny in your head, but trust me, some things are better left unsaid. Avoid cringeworthy moments by focusing on heartwarming and positive anecdotes that celebrate the couple’s journey and love.
• Harness the Power of Storytelling Capture everyone’s attention by using storytelling to highlight either the bride or groom’s wonderful qualities. Is she loyal, adventurous, generous, or kind-hearted? Is he optimistic, resilient, hilarious, etc? Share a touching story that really showcases one of these character traits, allowing everyone to get a deeper insight into how amazing this person truly is.
• Celebrate the Path to Becoming a Husband or Wife Remember that this is a wedding celebration and your wedding speech is a great opportunity to encourage the bride in her new role as a wife or the groom in his new role as a husband. Share your heartfelt wishes and why you believe they will make an amazing partner in this new chapter of their life.
• Practice Makes Perfect Confidence is key! Practice your speech a few times to build up your self-assurance. Remember to speak slowly when practicing because you are more likely to speed up in front of a crowd. Think of the areas you might tear up at and remember to pause and take a second to breathe. You don’t have to rush through the toast. Everyone wants to hear what you clearly have to say. Here’s the thing, the audience wants you to succeed, so embrace those nerves and let them fuel your confident delivery! You’ve got this, my friend! With these tips and a little bit of preparation, your speech is bound to be a show-stopper that leaves everyone applauding and reaching for the tissues! Crafting a memorable wedding speech is an art form, and your words have the power to touch hearts and create lasting memories.

Wedding Speeches Order

The order of wedding speeches can vary depending on cultural traditions and personal preferences. However, a common order for wedding speeches is as follows:

• Father of the Bride: Welcomes guests, and expresses love and pride for his daughter.
• Groom: Thanks guests, expresses gratitude to both families, and shares love for the bride.
• Best Man: Shares humorous anecdotes about the groom, and proposes a toast.
• Maid/Matron of Honor: Expresses friendship and admiration for the bride, offers wisdom, and proposes a toast.
• Additional speeches: Other family members or friends may give shorter speeches or toasts as desired. Note: The order and inclusion of speeches can be customized to the couple’s preferences. Communication with the wedding party beforehand is essential for a smooth flow of the reception.

Wedding Speeches Template

Learning how to write a wedding speech involves creating a heartfelt and memorable outline.

Introduction:

• Greet the guests and introduce yourself.
• Express your gratitude for being chosen to speak at the wedding.

Personal Connection:

• Share a personal story or memory about the couple.
• Talk about your relationship with either the bride or groom (or both) and how you’ve seen their love grow.

Compliments and Qualities:

• Compliment the couple individually and as a pair.
• Highlight their qualities and what makes them a great match.

Anecdotes and Humor:

• Share light-hearted and funny anecdotes about the couple.
• Keep the humor appropriate and avoid embarrassing stories.

Words of Wisdom:

• Offer advice or lessons on love, marriage, or relationships.
• Use heartfelt and meaningful quotes or poems if desired.
• Raise a toast to the couple’s happiness and future together.
• Invite guests to join in raising their glasses and toasting.
• Express well wishes and congratulations to the newlyweds.
• End with a final heartfelt message or a toast to love.

Remember to personalize the speech to your relationship with the couple and make it heartfelt and authentic. Practice it beforehand to ensure a smooth delivery and consider keeping the speech around 3-5 minutes in length.

Things You’d Better Exclude From Any Wedding Speech

At the same time, there are things great wedding speeches avoid.

• Do not include any embarrassing information.
• Do not mention previous boyfriends or girlfriends of the newlyweds.
• Do not say rude things like ‘We thought that day would never come’.
• Do not include any crude language, there are all sorts of guests around, and what is totally appropriate in a group of friends is inappropriate at the celebration.
• Adding humor, don’t make fun of the bride or groom. This is your best friend’s wedding, do not spoil it! If in doubt – use examples above, but by no means copy them. It is only a piece of speech to boost your imagination.

Wedding Speeches can be tricky to write, but we hope that now you have everything you need to deliver a perfect speech. A couple of jokes, a sentimental story, and letting your love for the couple shine is all it takes.

What Not to Say in a Wedding Speech

• Embarrassing Stories : Steer clear of tales that could embarrass the couple.
• Negative Remarks : Refrain from negative comments or jokes.
• Excessive Inside Jokes : Ensure your speech is inclusive for all guests.
• Lengthy Monologues : Keep it concise and engaging.
• Controversial Topics : Avoid sensitive or controversial subjects.
• Overuse of Clichés : Aim for originality over clichés.
• Inappropriate Humor : Be mindful of cultural or personal sensitivities.

Frequently Asked Questions

What do you say in a wedding speech.

• Express your love and support for the couple.
• Share personal anecdotes or stories about them.
• Offer well-wishes for their future together.

How long should a wedding speech be?

What is an example of a short marriage speech.

To [Couple’s Name], may your love be as endless as the horizon, your laughter as infectious as a melody, and your journey together full of joy. Here’s to a lifetime of love and happiness. Cheers!

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Whether you’re a friend or family member stepping into the role of officiant, or a seasoned professional, our Wedding Officiant Speech Generator is your go-to resource. This free tool blends AI precision with emotional insight, helping you craft a speech that’s both touching and memorable.

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Universal Life Church

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The Ultimate Wedding Officiant Speech Guide

By The Marriage Experts at the Universal Life Church Ministries

As a wedding officiant, you have a unique role in the wedding ceremony.

You are the source of authority, the person holding the power to legally bind the couple together in marriage (which is obviously pretty important). But you’re also a performer, charged with delivering a wedding officiant speech that draws in the audience, reflects the couple’s style and personality, and fits their desired tone for the event.

That might seem like a lot of pressure. And it’s true that performing a wedding is a great responsibility. But it’s also a tremendous honor – you should feel proud that you’ve been asked to play such an important part in someone’s big day. Congratulations!

Heads up: if you need to order a copy of your official credentials prior to officiating, or any other wedding supplies, you can find those things in the minister catalog here on the site.

How to Plan an Officiant Wedding Speech

Whether you're aiming for a funny wedding officiant speech or something more serious and formal, the goal is to come prepared to the ceremony with a polished version of what you plan to say that has 1) been reviewed by the couple and 2) that you have practiced enough to be quite comfortable with.

If that sounds like a tall order, take a deep breath – we’re here to help. This step-by-step guide will explain how to build a wedding officiant speech script that keeps the audience engaged and gets them laughing or crying (or both), depending on what tone you’re going for. It will also offer tips on preparation and delivery of your speech, to ensure you’re fully ready when you step up there on the big day.

This might seem obvious, but it’s probably the most important point to underscore: prepare your wedding officiant speech in advance. Under no circumstances should you “just wing it.” Take it from the experts, that rarely goes well.

So, how do you go about planning your speech?

Ideally, a wedding speech script should be well-researched and written with plenty of time to spare in advance of the ceremony.

First and foremost, this event is about the couple. Whether you’re a professional officiant or a good friend who’s been asked to officiate, take the time to understand the couple and their love story. Gather information about their journey, their values, and what makes their relationship special.

Ask the couple what type of tone they prefer for their ceremony, what elements they want included (or excluded). Overall, the goal is to get a sense for what they want this event to look and feel like. This will help you personalize your speech and make the ceremony that much more meaningful.

Okay, enough on background research. Now let’s focus on creating the speech itself.

How to Write a Memorable Officiant Speech

Establish the tone.

Based on your discussion with the couple, the first step will be to decide what tone you want to set with your speech. Depending on the couple’s personality and preferences, the ceremony might be humorous and casual, formal and heartfelt, or a mix of styles. Consider the couple's wishes, the nature of the audience, and the overall atmosphere the wedding will have.

Structure the script

Create an outline and divide your speech into sections. Here is a sample section outline:

• Introduction
• Declaration of intent (legally required)
• Vow Exchange
• Ring Exchange
• Pronouncement (legally required)
• Closing Statement

Sticking to a defined structure will help you stay organized and draft a cohesive speech.

Draft your speech

With your structure dialed in, now you can start writing! Working off your outline, you can go section by section to fill out your script. If you need inspiration or ideas for what direction to go, check out our catalog of sample wedding ceremony scripts . This script archive includes a wide range of ceremony types and wedding officiant speeches that could provide helpful blueprints for you!

Edit, edit, edit

There is a saying heard in writing circles: “write drunk, edit sober.” While we don’t necessarily encourage you to follow that advice literally, the spirit behind it is sound; begin by writing freely, letting the words fall on the page however they may. The goal here is to express the thoughts and feelings that will provide the foundation for your wedding officiant speech.

Then, come back later with fresh eyes and assess your work. Make changes where you see fit, ensuring that the final product aligns with the couple’s wishes for the ceremony and meets your personal standards.

Sample Wedding Officiant Speech Script With Examples

You might be thinking: what should a final product look like? We’ve put a sample together below so you can see the form a finished ceremony script might take.

1. Introduction

In the introduction (sometimes also called the Invocation), the officiant greets the couple, their families, and the guests, and announces why everyone has gathered. Typically, this is a time to acknowledge the importance of the occasion and gratitude for being able to witness it.

Welcome, everyone. Friends and family who have traveled to be with _________ and _________ today: we thank you for being here to share this special day. You may be seated.

_________and_________, love is the force that brings us all here today. In fact, love is the force behind much of what we do every day. Whether making a meal for our family, taking time to teach our children, or lending a listening ear to a friend—even in the mundane, commonplace routines, love is always the reason.

We are all here to support _________and _________ on their first day as husband/wife/partner and husband/wife/partner. As you go into married life, remember the reason: the reason you get up each morning, get ready, do your best in the world, and look forward to coming home. Remember the reason you sacrifice, the reason you give, and the reason you laugh. The reason you are legally becoming a family.

_________, let _________ represent love. And_________, let_________ represent love. This mutual love stays strong as long as you both invest in and cherish it. This love is alive: it is active, dynamic, and powerful. Cling to it during good times and bad. All marriages have ups and downs—if you will make a habit of returning to your “reason,” you will find the strength to choose each other in every moment, in every place, and at all times.

A strong and lasting marriage is built on love, trust, and respect.

Like this excerpt? It’s from our standard wedding script , which is free online for you to utilize.

2. Declaration of Intent

In this section, the officiant affirms that the couple desires to be married. This important component must be included for the wedding to be considered legally binding.

Officiant (to _________) :

Do you, _________ take _________ to be your husband/wife/partner? To not only give love, support and understanding, but also to fully accept these things as well?

_________: I do.

And do you, _________ take _________ to be your husband/wife/partner? To not only give love, support and understanding, but also to fully accept these things as well?

This minimalistic declaration is borrowed from our simple wedding script , the full version is free for you to use!

3. Exchange of Vows

In this section, the couple will share their wedding vows with one another. These can either be standard statements they recite with the help of the officiant, or vows that they wrote themselves.

Officiant (to couple) :

Let’s go ahead and exchange the vows at this time.

_______________, you may go first.

As the seasons pass and things change, what will never change is the love and appreciation I have for you. I vow to uphold and defend you during the ups and downs in our lives throughout all the seasons together.

_______________, it’s your turn to share your vows.

As the seasons pass and things change, what will never change is the love and appreciation I have for you. I vow to uphold and defend you during the ups and downs in our lives throughout all the seasons in our lives together.

Like this seasonal twist? We’ve made our full spring wedding script available online for free.

4. Ring Exchange

Now, the couple will exchange wedding rings. This section will often include a call-and-response style recitation.

With the vows professed between the couple, we will now move forward with the exchanging of the rings.

_______________, place your ring on _______________’s finger and repeat after me. “With this ring, I promise that I will love, appreciate, cherish, and defend you for the rest of our lives.”

With this ring, I promise that I will love, appreciate, cherish, and defend you for the rest of our lives.

Officiant (to Partner 2) :

There are a number of creative ways to exchange rings within the wedding ceremony. This excerpt is from our nonbinary wedding ceremony script , which is available for you to use - among many others!

5. Pronouncement

The final legally-required element, the Pronouncement is when the officiant declares the couple lawfully wed (and typically invites their first kiss).

_______________ and _______________, you have come forward and shown your love to us all today.

By the power vested in me by the Universal Life Church Ministries, I now pronounce you married! Kiss each other!

Short and sweet. And then, off to the reception! If you like this phrasing, you might like our full humanist wedding ceremony script , available for free on our site.

6. Closing Statement

Officiant (to audience) :

Beginnings are important. So important, that it’s the 1st noun in the Bible, which starts with “In the beginning.” What follows are the heavens and the earth; water and life; humanity. And now here we are at the beginning of _________ and _________’s married life.

You’ve got a great beginning here _________ and _________ – now it’s up to you to keep in your hearts that love and warmth given to you by God. Begin and end each and every day together with love, and you will enjoy an amazing marital life filled with joy and bliss.

This comes from our Christian wedding ceremony script would be great in more traditional weddings, Feel free to use it if you like, but we have plenty of other full wedding ceremony scripts available for free online.

Final Tips for Delivering Your Speech

As we’ve shown, performing a wedding and delivering a memorable officiant speech requires some thoughtful planning. But with the right preparation, you can ensure the event goes off without a hitch.

Some closing thoughts:

The essence of the wedding ceremony is to spotlight the couple, not the officiant. While you'll have some speaking parts, strive to keep it interactive and relaxed. And when crafting the ceremony script, you have total freedom to customize. For example, a formal speech or monologue from you is not even required – it’s just a part that’s typically included.

Remember that as the officiant, your ultimate job is to lead the couple through the ceremony – whatever shape it takes – and make sure they fulfill the legal obligations to formalize their marriage.

Kudos on being chosen to officiate, and remember to enjoy the moment!

Not yet ordained? Click the button below to become a minister for free and get authorized to perform legal wedding ceremonies!

How To Write A Marriage Officiant Speech

Table of Contents:

It can be a little nerve-racking to officiate your first wedding. You want to make sure that the ceremony is memorable for everyone, especially the couple, whether you are officiating for a relative or an acquaintance. They will be preoccupied with planning the wedding ceremony, selecting the color scheme, and sending out invitations. You should keep a list of deadlines, required legal documents, and steps involved in a typical wedding ceremony to assist them in preparing for the ceremony.

Your strategy for tailoring your speech will depend on your relationship with the couple after you have a general understanding of what a wedding ceremony entails. A smooth ceremony enables family and friends to concentrate on the main reason they are there on that special day: to celebrate the union of two people they love.

We put together this guide of things to get ready for, some dos and don’ts, and examples you can use for your own speech in order to assist you in writing a wedding officiant speech for an acquaintance or close friend.

What should you say in your eulogy?

Include a sweet tale about the bride and/or groom that you received from a close friend or family member. dot. Stay away from discussing the bride or groom in embarrassing ways. dot. Make sure your introduction is distinct. dot. Don’t get too specific. dot. For the couple’s future reference, type up a nice copy of your speech.

A little bit of anxiety can come with officiating your first wedding. You want to make sure that the ceremony is memorable for everyone, especially the couple, whether you are officiating for a relative or an acquaintance. They’ll be preoccupied with selecting their color scheme, sending out invitations, and creating a program for the wedding ceremony. You should keep a list of deadlines, required legal documents, and steps involved in a typical wedding ceremony to assist them in preparing for the ceremony.

The method you use to tailor your speech to the couple will depend on your relationship with them once you have a general understanding of what a wedding ceremony entails. A seamless ceremony enables the celebrants’ attention to be directed toward the true purpose of their gathering on that special day: to rejoice in the union of their loved ones.

How does the officiant conclude a wedding ceremony?

Examine your couple and declare them to be legally wed. Traditionally, the celebrant begins the ceremony with the words, “By the power vested in me… You may need to use this phrase or another one that is very specific in order for it to be legal in some states and provinces.

How to conclude the wedding ceremony with a bang—and why!—courtesy of Unboring! Wedding Academy.

The best way to end a wedding ceremony is with a grand finale, as stated by Unboring! Wedding Academy. All participants are standing. The couple is introduced by the officiant. The musical selections begin. A chorus of boisterous cheers and exuberant laughter from the guests accompany the couple as they walk down the aisle.

There is a precise formula for getting the moving parts to line up, so it won’t just happen on its own. This will guarantee a grand finale for the wedding ceremony.

How do you begin a sermon as a celebrant?

Officiants at weddings usually start their speeches by telling the couple’s love story. You could also read a humorous poem that has significance for the couple. Bring up topics like love, fidelity, and commitment. Ask them to repeat after you as you say a few lines about commitment. Cached.

It might be challenging to come up with wedding officiant speeches, especially if the officiant is inexperienced. This raises the potential for anxiety, over-impression, or complete failure.

Because each wedding is unique, there isn’t a single template for the minister’s speech. Your speech’s organization will depend on the nature of your relationship with the couple.

In this article, we’ll go over how to craft various wedding officiant speeches and the appropriate manners for them.

What not to say as the celebrant at a wedding

Stay away from discussing your personal relationships with the bride or groom or your friendship with them. The ceremony is a chance to concentrate on the couple’s union. Sometimes celebrants talk about how they first met the couple, fun times they had in college with the bride or groom, or what it was like sharing a room with them.

A friend officiates the wedding for about a third of our couples. This may be a lovely option, especially if the friend is capable of carrying out the assignment. Here are our top 10 suggestions for new officiants.

In terms of attire, the officiant should favor darker, more subdued hues and follow the same guidelines as the wedding party. Make your choice of a long, black gown if the bridesmaids are wearing floor-length attire. Do the same if the groomsmen are wearing suits. Be discrete and well-groomed while avoiding drawing attention. Officiants frequently appear in photos!

Although many people choose iPads for the ceremony script, have a backup plan. Wi-Fi issues and other technical issues frequently prevent using the iPad during the ceremony. The best course of action is to print a hard copy and have it available at both the ceremony and the rehearsal.

How does the officiant begin a wedding?

Beginning of the ceremony The wedding officiant enters the front with Partner 1 and Partner 1’s party (down the aisle or from the side), and then he or she makes a few brief introductions. Greet the visitors. Declare whether or not photographs are permitted. Request that guests turn their phones off.

Thus, you must both write and conduct a wedding ceremony. Start with the 10-part wedding ceremony script outline I use every weekend rather than grabbing a canned, pre-written sample from one of the 695,691 websites available.

A prewritten script is restrictive from the start. I’m not really sure what I’m doing; it reads When we use a wedding ceremony script outline, it shows our couple that we are organized and adaptable. The final script is significantly more intimate as a result of the process’ increased collaboration.

It’s the distinction between saying, “Hey, I bought this cake. Hey, let’s make a cake!” and “Now eat it.”.

How long should the wedding officiant speak?

The officiant’s task is to get the bride and groom ready for their journey after 5 to 15 minutes. The length of this message can range from five to fifteen minutes, depending on the lessons it imparts and the wisdom it inspires.

The practice of having a close friend or family member officiate wedding ceremonies is becoming more and more popular among millennials. It’s a fun way to make weddings memorable for everyone in attendance, but especially for the happy couple and the celebrant.

Pastors have received years of training and have participated in countless rituals. They never make mistakes and are as adept at managing weddings as they are at reciting the Ten Commandments.

We’re here to help your officiant become proficient so the ceremony goes off without a hitch. The majority of the work is completed in the months and weeks leading up to the wedding, similar to any public speaking occasion. A great ceremony will result from creating a basic wedding ceremony script as early as possible.

How does the marriage ceremony officiant begin?

Beginning of the ceremony The wedding officiant enters the front with Partner 1 and Partner 1’s party (down the aisle or from the side), and then he or she makes a few brief introductions. Thank you for having us. Declare whether or not photographs are permitted. Please request that guests turn their phones to silent.

Thus, you must both write and conduct a wedding ceremony. Start with the 10-part wedding ceremony script outline. I use it every weekend rather than grabbing one of the 695,691 pre-written canned samples that are available online.

Beginning with a canned script is limiting. I’m really not sure what I’m doing; it reads The couple can tell that we are organized and adaptable when we use a wedding ceremony script outline. The process becomes much more collaborative, and the final script becomes much more intimate.

It’s the distinction between saying, “Hey, I bought this cake. Now eat it,” and “Hey, let’s bake a cake!” or… something.

What should the celebrant say at the wedding?

Do you (Name), take this (woman/man/person) to be your legally 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 dot? Cached.

The wedding ceremony is the focal point of the day. The ceremony is where two people actually become married—legally, spiritually, and literally—while the dress, flowers, and food are just the frosting on the cake. Tanya Pushkine, a wedding officiant and professional vow writing coach, finds it surprising that many couples frequently put off planning their wedding ceremonies until the last minute. The wedding ceremony is rarely given priority, according to Pushkine. It’s practically an afterthought.”.

Tanya Pushkine is a New York City-based officiant, ceremony planner, and professional vow-writing coach. Because of her talent for designing memorable ceremonies that capture the distinctive personalities and beliefs of the couple, she has earned the nickname “vow whisperer.”.

Pushkin advises couples to begin considering the ceremony as early as possible in the planning process so that they are prepared with questions for their wedding planner or day-of coordinator. Secular or non-religious ceremonies give couples a lot more flexibility to personalize the ceremony to their unique tastes, while religious ceremonies are typically more fixed in terms of the service, language, and traditions.

What are the most effective introductions for a celebrant?

Welcome to everyone who has gathered to witness this significant event in the lives of the bride and groom. I implore you to join me in recognizing and celebrating this day and the vows they will be making. You are a witness to their commitment to one another and the truth of their love by being there.

Setting the tone for the wedding ceremony are the opening words and introduction. It makes a statement about the wedding, the couple getting married, and the significance of the occasion to the world.

We are honored to have you here on this special day, friends and family of the bride and groom.

We’re here to marry the bride and groom and celebrate their incredibly special love.

What is the procedure for introducing officials?

The audience will be curious about who you are and your position. Thus, begin by briefly introducing yourself and outlining how or why you met the couple or why you were chosen. Share those two or three particular stories that you generated yourself or obtained from the public. Zoom out lastly.

Having received your ordination, someone has asked you—yes, you—to officiate their wedding. These days, the dress is custom, the cake is boutique, and even the napkins are bespoke, so why wouldn’t they? It makes sense that the couple would want to personally choose the celebrant for the “I dos.”. The only issue is that you paid money to a website that only gave you a real certificate without any real instructions on how to do the dang thing. What happens next, then?

Too Legit to Quit You’re here today to legally unite two people in marriage, but keep in mind that you’ll also need to follow the law. There are some forms that must be filled out even if you are not required to take an oath. Many interfaith or religious institutions offer online ordination. Check all the appropriate boxes before you check out, because requirements differ from state to state.

The ceremony functions because of homework. You are playing arguably the most significant role of the day. Do not wing it. Meet with the couple, or better yet, have several meetings, to go over what is expected of you. Aside from making sure the facts are correct, ask the couple how long they want the ceremony to last, whether they want to make their own vows, and what kind of atmosphere they are hoping for. They’ll give you a roadmap; don’t hit the open road alone. You could have sworn the couple met by a romantic beach fire, but was it really a tiki bar in Chinatown?

What’s the best way to end a wedding ceremony?

The first step in the grand finale formula is to declare your couple legally married, because you play a crucial role in orchestrating that and making it happen as the wedding officiant.

What does the celebrant say at the start of the wedding?

The only elements that are essential or necessary are the declaration of intent (i.e., the official “I dos” and legal affirmation that “yes, I want to marry this person, and yes, I’m here by choice,” are exchanged) and the pronouncement, in which the officiant declares the couple is legally wed.

Okay, so we have definitely covered something old, a lot of something new (check out our latest, everything is trendy/new/what’s hot in weddings RN), and recently a lot of something blue, but borrowed isn’t as obvious. Unless we’re talking about wearing mom’s or grandma’s dress or giving your own dress to charity after the wedding. That is why I thought today would be a good day to talk about wedding ceremonies. Why? Because marriage has been practiced for thousands of years, and despite the fact that recent weddings have become extremely personal, the fundamental format and structure of a wedding ceremony remain largely constant. The wording will therefore sound fairly familiar from one wedding to the next, as you might have guessed; in fact, it’s the most obvious instance of something being stolen.

My husband has been carefully pondering what he will say on their special day for at least half a year because he will be officiating my sister and future brother-in-law’s wedding next month. And over the past few months, he has devoted whatever evening free time he has to searching through sample scripts in search of verses and language that he feels fits with their overall tone and personality. That’s where borrowing comes into play, big time. At least that’s what A Practical Wedding tells us—there’s nothing wrong with a little wedding plagiarism here!

When it comes to secular or non-religious weddings, ceremonies can be much more open-ended than religious weddings. While most couples who get married in a religious ceremony typically defer to the preferences of the religious leader and the tie-the-knot traditions typical of their house of worship, secular/non-religious wedding ceremonies can be much more straightforward. In this situation, planning the order of the service is up to the soon-to-be newlyweds and their chosen officiant(s). The only requirements or must-haves are the statement of intent (i.e., the pronouncement, in which the officiant declares that the couple is legally married, the formal “I dos” and legal acknowledgement that “yes, I want to marry this person, and yes, I’m here by choice.”. Everything else is an empty (vow) book, ready for the couple to write as many or as few sentiments as they choose. Their day has come!

Does the officiant enter the room first?

Officiant. The officiant may enter the procession in the front row and proceed first down the aisle. As an alternative, the officiant can enter the ceremony from the side of the location and take a seat at the altar.

Once you’ve determined the sequence of events for your wedding ceremony, it’s time to start planning how everyone will enter the ceremony and take their places in the front. Processional (a. k. a. It’s crucial to master the wedding processional order because the entrance of the wedding party signals the beginning of the ceremony and is a highly anticipated moment.

One of the most touching and treasured parts of a couple’s special day for both them and their guests can be the wedding processional. Everyone’s attention is focused on the bride as soon as she starts down the aisle. The bride and groom finally say their vows, and it’s the time when their new life together officially begins.

This blog post covers all the components of wedding processionals for various wedding styles so you can get ready for a seamless ceremony, from choosing the music to selecting who walks down the aisle and when.

The ceremony was written by the officiant

The key here is to be on the same page, regardless of whether you and your partner decide to write your ceremony yourself or leave it up to your officiant to write the script. This ceremony should entirely reflect your preferences because it is about you and your significant other.

Okay, so we’ve covered a lot of something new, a lot of something old (check out our latest, Everything is New and Hot in Weddings RN), and recently a lot of something blue, but borrowed isn’t as obvious. Unless you want to wear your mother’s or grandmother’s gown, in which case you should donate it after the wedding. In light of this, I thought that a discussion of wedding ceremonies was appropriate for today. Why? Because weddings have been performed for thousands of years, and despite the fact that recent weddings have become extremely personal, the fundamental format and structure of a wedding ceremony remain largely constant. The wording will therefore sound fairly familiar from one wedding to the next, as you might have guessed; in fact, it’s the most obvious instance of something being stolen.

My husband has been carefully pondering what he will say on their special day for at least half a year because he will be officiating my sister and future brother-in-law’s wedding next month. And over the past few months, he has spent his evening free time looking through sample scripts and finding verses and language that he feels fits with their overall aesthetic and personality. That’s where borrowing comes into play, big time. Because, at least according to A Practical Wedding, there’s nothing wrong with a little wedding plagiarism here!

When it comes to secular or non-religious weddings, ceremonies can be much more open-ended. While most couples who get married in a religious ceremony typically defer to the preferences of the religious leader and the tie-the-knot traditions typical of their house of worship, secular/non-religious wedding ceremonies can be much more formal. Planning the order of the service in this case is up to the soon-to-be newlyweds and their chosen officiant(s). The declaration of intent (i.e., the official “I dos”) and legal affirmation that “yes, I want to marry this person, and yes, I’m here by choice” are exchanged, as well as the pronouncement, in which the officiant declares the couple is legally wed. Everything else is an empty vow book waiting to be filled with as many or as few sentiments as the couple chooses. Their day has arrived!

Related Articles:

• How To Write A Wedding Speech. How To Write Your Best Man Speech Or Maid Of Honour Speech
• How Long Should A Wedding Officiant’S Speech Be?
• How To Write A Wedding Toast & How To Write A Wedding Speech By King Of Print
• How To Write A Marriage Ceremony As An Officiant
• How To Write The Best Wedding Speech
• How To Write A Wedding Welcome Speech

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What Does The Marriage Ceremony Mean?

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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
• currently on 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
• 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

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• 16 Unity Ceremony Ideas to Consider for Your Wedding
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• 40 Beautiful and Inspiring Bible Verses to Add to Your Wedding Invitations
• Everything You Need to Know About a Commitment Ceremony
• 32 Outdoor Wedding Light Decoration Ideas That Will Make Your Surroundings Sparkle
• How to Plan and Prepare for a Nikah Wedding Ceremony
• How to Renew Your Wedding Vows: Your Ultimate Guide to Planning a Meaningful Celebration
• The Ultimate Wedding Ceremony Outline
• How to Plan a Courthouse Wedding
• 40 Beautiful Wedding Aisle Décor Ideas for Your Ceremony
• The Best "Something Old, New, Borrowed, and Blue" Ideas for Your Wedding
• 14 Hindu Wedding Ceremony Traditions
• 15 Modern Ways for Brides to Walk Down the Aisle at Their Wedding Ceremony
• How to Write Your Own Wedding Vows—Plus, 30 Examples from Real Couples
• Round Wedding Tables Are Trending Again: Here's How to Arrange, Group, and Decorate Them

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Altar your thinking: alternative wedding planning

Super thorough non-religious wedding ceremony script PLUS readings and music suggestions

When Emily and Jack shared their non-religious wedding ceremony script with us, we were blown away by how incredibly thorough it was — this secular wedding officiant script includes ideas for music suggestions and a beautiful secular wedding reading from Neil Gaiman. Instead of the traditional wedding vows, they used the concept of “Love notes,” where Emily and Jack read each other short loving messages they'd written for each other.

If you're officiating for a friend, this is the ULTIMATE wedding officiant script! So if you're looking for some non-religious wedding ceremony ideas to steal, this wedding script is full of 'em… you won't find a single mention of prayer, Corinthians, holy matrimony, the covenant of marriage, or solemn vows. Do your own variation, add your own promises or declaration of intent, insert your own blessings, and make it yours for your big day!

Unity Processional:

[Pachelbel Canon in D playing]

Welcome. At the request of the couple, I invite you all to turn off your cellphones and put down your cameras during the ceremony. The talented photographers with us today will capture and share these moments – we encourage you to enjoy the celebrations, without the distraction of technology.

[Stand By Me starts playing]

[Groom and Mom enter, hug, Mom sits in place of honor]

Please stand for the bride

[Bride and Dad enter, hug, Dad sits]

Welcome. Please be seated.

[to Bride and Groom]

{Names}, today we are gathered here to celebrate the love you have discovered in each other and support the commitment you are about to make.

Marriage is more than two people standing here and repeating vows. There is an entire lifetime ahead of you and there are skills to be learned and practiced daily.

Part of marriage is finding happiness. Continue to search for the good, the fun, and the beautiful in this life to share with each other.

Part of marriage is being flexible. So, within your marriage cultivate flexibility, patience, and understanding, all while maintaining a sense of humor and joy.

Part of marriage is companionship. Strive to comfort one another and develop the capacity to forgive and heal your differences day by day.

Remember that your love can always prevail in times of turmoil. It will drive you to not only learn and to grow as individuals, but become stronger partners together.

Today, as you join yourselves in marriage, there is a vast and unknown future stretching out before you. Today you enter as individuals, but you will leave here as husband and wife; your lives blending together and expanding the ties of your family and best friends. You are embarking upon a great adventure, through which all of us here know you will prevail.

[to guests]

{Names} present themselves to be married today, cheerfully surrounded by the people they love the most. They, and I, want to thank you for your presence here today. They ask for your encouragement and lifelong support in their decision to be married.

The bride and groom would like also to give a special thank you to their families who have loved and supported them every step of the way.“

My aggressively atheist non-religious wedding vows and ceremony script

Our wedding ceremony was admittedly what some might call “aggressively atheist,” and my bridesmaids noticed that a few people looked...surprised? I think those who didn’t know us especially well expected we would do what our own parents did and go with something more standard and semi-religious. We certainly are not in peoples faces about our atheism, but we wanted to be VERY clear about who we are and a wedding is a great time to make yourself known. Feel free to steal these atheist wedding vows!

{Groom}’s sister {Name} will join us now to read All I Know About Love, by Neil Gaiman.

This is everything I have to tell you about love: nothing. This is everything I've learned about marriage: nothing . Only that the world out there is complicated, and there are beasts in the night, and delight and pain, and the only thing that makes it okay, sometimes, is to reach out a hand in the darkness and find another hand to squeeze, and not to be alone. It's not the kisses, or never just the kisses: it's what they mean. Somebody's got your back. Somebody knows your worst self and somehow doesn't want to rescue you or send for the army to rescue them. It's not two broken halves becoming one. It's the light from a distant lighthouse bringing you both safely home because home is wherever you are both together. So this is everything I have to tell you about love and marriage: nothing , like a book without pages or a forest without trees. Because there are things you cannot know before you experience them. Because no study can prepare you for the joys or the trials. Because nobody else's love, nobody else's marriage, is like yours, and it's a road you can only learn by walking it, a dance you cannot be taught, a song that did not exist before you began, together, to sing. And because in the darkness you will reach out a hand, not knowing for certain if someone else is even there. And your hands will meet, and then neither of you will ever need to be alone again.

NEW Neil Gaiman wedding readings

If you know about writer and novelist Neil Gaiman, you already know that he's a super cool human whose talent for the written word knows no bounds. His friends have tapped him to write something poignant for their weddings. We've seen the results of that endeavor and it's MAGICAL, so here are some of our favorite Neil Gaiman wedding readings , including a NEW ONE!

Signing of Marriage License

Thank you {Name.} I’d like to now welcome {Groom}’s cousin, {Name}, to perform one of the couple’s favorite songs while they sign their marriage license.

This is the section of the wedding ceremony script that might usually be called VOWS, but we love that this couple framed it as love notes. If you need help learning how to write vows, we can help with that !

The bride and groom will now exchange a few words they’ve written.

[Bride reads to Groom (200-300 words)]

[Groom reads to Bride (200-300 words)]

Traditional Vows / Wedding Ring Exchange

So are you ready to make this official?

[Bride takes Groom’s hand for exchange of vows]

{Groom}, do you take {Bride Full Name} to be your lawfully wedded wife, to have and to hold from this day forward; for better and for worse, for richer and for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish, till death do you part?”

[Bride puts ring on Groom as exchange of wedding bands]

[Groom takes Bride’s hand]

{Bride}, do you take {Groom’s Full Name} the fifth to be your lawfully wedded husband, to have and to hold from this day forward; for better and for worse, for richer and for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish, till death do you part?”

[Groom puts ring on Bride]

Outro and Pronouncement

{Names}, you have come here today of your own free will and, in the presence of your family and friends, have declared your love and commitment to each other.

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

[Feeling Good starts at 0:33]

[BUM BUM] [First kiss as married couple]

[Congratulations! Laughter! Guests clap & cheer]

[Couple walk out to begin their new life together]

Looking for even more ideas for your wedding ceremony script? Have we ever got MORE for ya…

Guest Post By: Emily & Jack

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Tools to help you ace your wedding, ceremony builder.

Our Ceremony Builder guides couples and their officiants through every detail, crafting wedding ceremonies that feel uniquely theirs... without the stress. Use our tools and examples to write the perfect personalized Wedding Script. Generate, edit, download.

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Our Vow Builder helps couples overcome the anxiety of that blinking cursor on a blank page, giving them what they need to reflect on their relationship and speak about their love on the big day. Share the time and length with your partner. Generate, edit, download.

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Guests can create their own accounts or be invited by other members. Our Toast Builder gets ideas flowing and structure set, accelerating guests toward epic speeches that have everyone cheersing with joy. It’s easy, personalized and stress free!

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