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Ceremony Procedure Options

Remember, the ceremony is the real wedding, so don't neglect it in the whirlwind of planning your reception.

Exchanging your vows will be both a public and a private pronouncement of the love you two share, and you'll want it to be unique and meaningful. Options abound for making a ceremony uniquely yours. Many couples prefer a traditional religious ceremony, officiated by a clergy member and personalized with selected readings, poems, original vows, or symbolic candle lighting. Others might prefer a civil ceremony performed by a public official, or a nondenominational ceremony held in a Unitarian church for a spiritual essence without religious restrictions. And if you're an interfaith couple, you may choose an ecumenical ceremony in which an officiant from each faith is present. Whatever you desire, your ceremony should satisfy both your feelings and beliefs, and it should acknowledge the serious nature of the commitment you're making.

Your officiant can usually provide you with a list of recommended readings and music selections and explain the basic order of the proceedings. Then it's up to the two of you to decide whether you'll follow that exact format or add your own touches.