You’ve probably given careful consideration to the order of ceremony for your wedding as you get ready for the big day. The most crucial fact is that no two wedding ceremonies are the same. Even though most ceremonies follow the same general format, the couple is free to alter it to suit their particular preferences. Each couple can and should customize their ceremony to reflect their unique union, whether that entails adding in religious or cultural customs or raising a celebratory fist during the kiss. To help you plan your special day, we’ve put together a list of the wedding ceremony’s full order of business. We’ve got you covered for everything from the processional to the recessional. Don’t forget to include the ceremony’s components in your unique wedding program template. Mentioning the names of the wedding party members will allow you to properly thank your loved ones for contributing to the joy of this special day. Bridesmaids and groomsmen typically walk down the aisle together as the processional begins. Following the other bridesmaids and groomsmen, the best man and maid of honor make their way down the aisle. The flower girl will then follow the ring bearer in carrying the rings to the altar. In a conventional Christian processional, the groom waits at the altar while the father of the bride is led down the aisle. In a customary Jewish processional, the bride is escorted down the aisle by her parents before the groom is led down the aisle by his parents. The celebrant may then speak briefly about your love story or explain the importance of marriage to the audience. If you wish, you can specify in advance what your officiant should say as their opening statement.
