Help - ceremony script

[KMS'sGlassSlipper]

Hey guys... I'm in need of some serious help. My wedding is a week and a half away and I'm still struggling with a ceremony script. The officiant is a friend, and is very flexible and I will be getting some ideas and suggestions from him as well, but I was wondering if you guys could give me some tips/suggestions about order and everything. I'm thinking that it will go as follows:

- Processional
- Short Intro/welcome
- Giving away of the bride
- Declaration of Intent
- Reading - "The Art of Marriage"
- words by the officiant
- vows
- exchange of rings
- sand ceremony
- kiss
- exit

Is this the right order? Am I missing anything?

Did any of you do a declaration of intent? I really want to say the big "I do", but I want to recite the tradition in sickness and in health vows, so I guess a declaration of intent would be the chance to say "I do". So I'm looking for something for the officiant to say about coming into this marriage with a free heart or not having any reservations, etc. but I'm kind of just overwhelmed!

All and any help would be greatly appreciated!!!

 

[princess lil]

It looks like you've got everything covered, I don't see anything missing. You can really have the ceremony in any order that you want; the readings are often right after giving the bride away. Personally, I like having the sand (or other ceremony) right after the vows and before the rings, even though that's not as common. I feel like it's a continuation or sealing of the vows. And some couples have the officiant give a blessing/community support to the marriage right before the pronouncement and kiss. Or you might want to add an extra poem or quote to round out the closing. The most important thing is that you and your DF feel comfortable and like the way everything flows. Good luck!

 

[torsie24]

Looks fine to me - ours is pretty similar:

- Processional
- Short Intro/welcome
- Giving away of the bride
- Declaration of Intent
- Reading
- words by the officiant
- vows
- Another reading
- exchange of rings
- Unity Candle ceremony
- kiss
- exit