Dear friends:
We hope this package will be helpful in providing additional
information which you can use in writing your ceremony. Feel
free to use our package with any other material in customizing your
ceremony. Please remember that all items used in the ceremony must be
provided by you. For all Courthouse Ceremonies, these items
(i.e., unity candle, sand ceremony, wine ceremony, memorial candle,
etc.) cannot be used. Let your minister know of any questions that you
may have.
YOU
CAN CUSTOMIZE ANY
CEREMONY THAT YOU WOULD LIKE.
THANKS FOR THE OPPORTUNITY TO SERVE YOU.
READINGS
SELECTIONS
CEREMONY CUSTOMIZATION
INFORMATION (26 page document)
ADDITIONAL
CONSIDERATIONS
WEDDING PLANNING
WEBSITES
Ceremony
A; NON-RELIGIOUS
Ceremony B; SEMI-RELIGIOUS
Ceremony C; SEMI-RELIGIOUS
Ceremony D; CHRISTIAN
Ceremony E: CONTEMPORARY-
NON-RELIGIOUS, INCLUDING SAND CEREMONY
Ceremony F: CHRISTIAN
INCLUDING UNITY CANDLE
Ceremony G: NON-DENOMINATIONAL
INCLUDING JUMPING OF BROOM AND UNITY CANDLE
Ceremony H: NON-RELIGIOUS
Ceremony I: NON-DENOMINATIONAL
INCLUDING HANDS CEREMONY
Ceremony J: SEMI-RELIGIOUS
INCLUDING RELIGIOUS RING BLESSING AND BREAKING OF GLASS
Ceremony K:
CONTEMPORARY NON-DENOMINATIONAL WITH RECOGNITION OF PARENTS
MARRIAGE
LICENSE INFORMATION
READINGS
THE APACHE WEDDING BLESSING
Now you will feel no rain,
For each of you will be shelter for the other.
Now you will feel no cold,
For each of you will be warmth to the other.
Now there will be no loneliness, For each of you will be a companion to
the other.
Now you are two persons,
But there is only one life before you.
Go, now, to your dwelling place, to enter into the place of your
togetherness,
And may your days be good and long upon the earth.
FROM THE PROPHET, BY KAHLIL GIBRAN
You shall be together forevermore.
You shall be together when the white wings of death scatter your days.
You shall be together even in the silent memory of God.
Let there be spaces in your togetherness,
and let the winds of the heavens dance between you.
Love one another, but make not a bond love;
let it rather be a moving sea between the shores of your souls.
Fill each other's cup, but drink not from one cup.
Give one another of your bread, but eat not from the same loaf.
Sing and dance together and be joyous, but let each one of you be alone,
even as the strings of a lute are alone,
though they quiver with the same music.
Give your hearts, but not into each other's keeping.
For only the hand of Life can contain your hearts.
And stand together, yet not too near together:
for the pillars of the Temple stand apart,
and the oak tree and the cypress grow not in each other's shadow.
A READING FROM THE BOOK OF RUTH
Do not press me to leave you, and to stop going with you, for wherever
you go, I shall go,
wherever you live, I shall live. Your people will be my people, and
your God will be my God.
Where you die, I shall die.
MARRIAGE IS A PROMISE OF LOVE, By Edmund O'NEILL
Marriage is a commitment for life-to the best that two people can find
and bring out in each other. It offers opportunities for sharing and
growth that no other relationship can equal, a
joining that is promised for a lifetime.
Within the circle of its love, marriage encompasses all of life's most
important
relationships.
A wife and a husband are each other's best friend, confidant, lover,
teacher, listener, and
critic.
There may come times when one partner is heartbroken or ailing, and the
love of the other
may resemble the tender caring of a parent for a child.
Marriage deepens and enriches every facet of life. Happiness is fuller;
memories are
fresher; commitment is stronger; even anger is felt more strongly, and
passes away more
quickly.
Marriage understands and forgives the mistakes life is unable to avoid.
It encourages and
nurtures new life, new experiences, and new ways of expressing love
through the seasons of
life.
When two people pledge to love and care for each other in marriage,
they create a spirit
unique to themselves, which binds them closer than any spoken or
written words. Marriage is
a promise, a potential, made in the hearts of two people who love,
which takes a lifetime to
fulfill.
THE ART OF A GOOD MARRIAGE, By Wilfred Arlan Peterson
Happiness in marriage is not something that just happens.
A good marriage must be created.
In marriage, the little things are the big things.
I is never being too old to hold hands.
It is remembering to say "I Love you" at least once a day.
It is never going to sleep angry.
It is at no time taking the other for granted;
the courtship should not end with the honeymoon,
it should continue through all the years.
It is having a mutual sense of values and common objectives.
It is standing together facing the world.
It is forming a circle of love that gathers in the whole family.
It is doing things for each other, not in the attitude of duty or
sacrifice, but in the
spirit of joy.
It is speaking words of appreciation and demonstrating gratitude in
thoughtful ways.
It is not looking for perfection in each other.
It is cultivating flexibility, patience, understanding, and a sense of
humor.
It is having the capacity to forgive and forget.
It is giving each other an atmosphere in which each can grow.
It is a common search for the good and the beautiful.
It is establishing a relationship in which the independence is equal,
dependence is mutual, and the obligation is reciprocal.
SELECTIONS
SELECTION 1 (FAMILIES AND FRIENDS)
MINISTER: Would the immediate families of (Bride) and (Groom) please
rise? (PAUSE) This is
an important day for the families of (Bride) and (Groom). And so, I ask
you: Do you bless
them as they are married to each other?
RESPONSE: WE DO
MINISTER: Will the other family members and friends of (Bride) and
(Groom) please rise?
(PAUSE) You are here today to witness this marriage. And so, I ask you:
Will you encourage
them and support them in their marriage?
RESPONSE: WE WILL
MINISTER: Let us pray for the families of (Bride) and (Groom) who have
given their blessing
to this union: LET US PRAY! O God our Father, who in infinite wisdom
has provided families
as the protecting and nurturing units of our natural existence, We
thank you for the
families (Bride) and (Groom), for the strength, character, and joy
which they have shared
with them through the years. Thank you also for such good friends,
whose love and friendship
has mutually enriched each others' lives. IN YOUR NAME WE PRAY, AMEN!
MINISTER: THANK YOU; PLEASE BE SEATED!
SELECTION 2 (MINOR CHILDREN STILL LIVING AT HOME)
MINISTER: (To the new step-parent) (Name), will you promise to guide,
nurture, and love
(names of children) with unfaltering devotion? Will you care for
(him/her/them) as your own
from this day forward?
RESPONSE: I WILL
MINISTER: (To the natural/present parent) (Name), will you share the
joys and
responsibilities of (names of children) with (spouse)? Will you trust
(his/her) sincerity,
and accept (his/her) love for (names of children)?
RESPONSE: I WILL
MINISTER: (addressing children from previous relationships) (Names of
Children), You are
entering a new family! Will you give to this new family, your trust,
love, and affection?
RESPONSE: (I/WE) WILL
MINISTER: Let us pray for (this/these) (child/children) who (is/are)
entering this new
family life: LET US PRAY! O God, Father of us all, we ask you to bless
with your great love
(this/these) wonderful
(child/children_____________________________________________________________).
They deserve the warmth, security, and environment of a loving family.
Give to this new
family unit, the peace and power and love which you have promised to
all of us, Your
Children! IN YOUR NAME WE PRAY, AMEN!
SELECTION 3 (ADULT CHILDREN)
MINISTER: (Groom), Is there anything else special you would like to
promise (Bride)?
GROOM: (Bride), As I pledge you my love and promise to be a good
husband, I also promise to
love and support (names of children), and to treat them as if they were
my own. I welcome
(names of children) into my heart and my home.
MINISTER: (Bride), Is there anything else special you would like to
promise (Groom)?
BRIDE: (Groom), As I pledge you my love and promise to be a good wife,
I also promise to
love
and support (names of children), and to treat them as if they were my
own. I welcome (names
of children) into my heart and my home.
ADDITIONAL
CONSIDERATIONS
1. WEDDING ARCH
2. AISLE RUNNER (INFORM MINISTER IF RUNNER WILL BE USED)
3. CULTURAL AND ETHNIC TRADITIONS
4. RELEASE OF BUTTERFLIES OR DOVES
5. CEREMONIAL WASHING OF HANDS
6. HANDFASTING CEREMONY
7. COMMUNION (CHRISTIAN ORDINANCE)
WEDDING
PLANNING
WEBSITES
Feel free to visit all of the following websites to help gather ideas
to help you customize
your ceremony:
http://theknot.com
http://weddingchannel.com
http://hitched.co.uk/plan/readings/index.asp
http://todays-weddings.com/planning/readings.html
http://bible-reading.com/wedding-readings.html
http://usabride.com/wedplan/a_rose_ceremony.html
http://documentsanddesigns.com/wedding_vows.htm
http://african-weddings.com/do_it_yourself_-57k
http://ehow.com/how_5997_jump-broom-african.html
http://jumpingbrooms.com
CEREMONY
A:
CIVIL/NON-RELIGIOUS
Who brings this woman to marry this man? (Dad generally says "her
mother and I", or "I do").
(Groom) and (Bride), this is the time you have chosen to become husband
and wife. We are here not only to witness your commitment to each
other, but also to wish you both every happiness in your future life
together. Within its framework of commitment and loyalty, marriage
enables the establishment of a home, where through trust, patience, and
respect, the love and affection which you have for each other may
develop into a deep and lasting relationship. We who are witnessing
your marriage, hope that despite the stresses inevitable in any life;
Your Love, Respect for each other, Your Trust and Understanding of each
other, will increase your contentment and heighten your joy in living.
Everyday you live, learn how to receive love with as much understanding
as you give it. Find things within yourself, then you can share them
with each other. Do not fear this love! Have an open heart and a
sincere mind! Be sincerely interested in each other's happiness! Be
constant and consistent in your Love! From this comes security and
strength. All that we love deeply becomes a part of us on this day of
your marriage! Try to commit yourselves fully and freely to each other!
(Groom and Bride), before you are joined in marriage in my presence and
in the presence of these witnesses, I am to remind you of the serious
and binding nature of the relationship you are now about to enter! I
shall now ask you to make your marriage vows!
(Groom), do you take (Bride) to be your lawful wife? Do you promise to
love her, honor and keep her, in sickness and in health, and forsaking
all others, keep yourself only for her for as long as you both shall
live? (Response: "I do")
(Bride), do you take (Groom) to be your lawful husband? Do you promise
to love him, honor and keep him, in sickness and in health, and
forsaking all others, keep yourself only for him for as long as you
both shall live? (Response: "I do")
RING VOWS
Groom: (Bride), With this ring, I thee wed.
Bride: (Groom), With this ring, I thee wed.
(Groom and Bride), As you have consented together to be bound to one
another in lawful marriage, and have made special promises to each
other which have been symbolized by the joining of hands, taking of
vows, and by the giving and receiving of rings, and by the authority
vested in me, according to the laws of the __________ of __________, I
now pronounce you husband and wife! YOU MAY KISS THE BRIDE!
PRESENTATION (OPTIONAL)
CEREMONY
B:
SEMI-RELIGIOUS
INTRODUCTION (OPTIONAL)
Ladies and Gentlemen, it is my pleasure to welcome each of you, the
friends and family of (Groom and Bride) here to this ___________(WRITE
IN DESIRED WORDING) to celebrate their love and witness their marriage!
Who gives this woman to be married to this man? (Dad says "her mother
and I", or "I do").
OPENING
(Groom and Bride), You are here to pledge to each other to be loving
friends and partners in marriage; To talk and to listen, to trust and
appreciate one another; to respect and cherish each other's uniqueness;
and to support, comfort, and strengthen each other through life's joys
and sorrows. You must promise to share hopes, thoughts, and dreams, as
you build your lives together. May your lives be ever intertwined; your
love keeping you together!
(Groom and Bride), Will you now face each other and join both hands?
Do you (Groom) take (Bride) to be your wife? To join with you and to
share all that is to come, to give and to receive, to speak and to
listen, to inspire and to respond; a commitment made in love, kept in
faith, and eternally made new? (RESPONSE: " I DO".)
Do you (Bride) take (Groom) to be your husband? To join with you and to
share all that is to come, to give and to receive, to speak and to
listen, to inspire and to respond, a commitment made in love, kept in
faith, and eternally made new? (RESPONSE: "I DO".)
RING VOWS
(Groom and Bride), please receive your rings! As the rings have no end,
so your love should have no end! They are a perfect circle representing
the eternal nature of God.
GROOM REPEATS AFTER MINISTER: (BRIDE) I promise to love you, in good
times and bad, with all I have to give, and all I feel inside, in the
only way I know how, completely and forever. From this day forward, you
shall not walk alone. My heart will be your shelter, and my arms will
be your home.
BRIDE REPEATS AFTER MINISTER: (GROOM) I promise to love you, in good
times and bad, with all I have to give, and all I feel inside, in the
only way I know how, completely and forever. From this day forward, you
shall not walk alone. My heart will be your shelter, and my arms will
be your home.
PRONOUNCEMENT
(Groom and Bride), May your marriage bring you all the exquisite
excitement marriage should bring, and may life grant you also patience,
tolerance, and understanding, May you always need one another-not so
much to fill your emptiness as to help you to know your fullness. May
you enter into the mystery which is the awareness of one another's
presence-no more physical than spiritual, warm and near when you are
side by side, and warm and near when you are in separate rooms or even
distant cities. May you have happiness, and may you find it making one
another happy. May you have love, and may you find it loving one
another. Marriage is not only the beginning of a relationship, but also
the end of a life-long search for the other half of your soul. By the
authority vested in me, I now pronounce you husband and wife! YOU MAY
KISS THE BRIDE!
PRESENTATION (OPTIONAL)
Ladies and Gentlemen, it is my honor to present to you, for the first
time as husband and wife: Mr. and Mrs. (GROOM'S FULL NAME).
CEREMONY
C:
SEMI-RELIGIOUS
INTRODUCTION / WELCOME (OPTIONAL)
Ladies and Gentlemen, it is my pleasure to welcome each of you, the
friends and family of (Groom and Bride), here to this __________ (WRITE
IN DESIRED WORDING), to celebrate their love and witness their marriage!
Who giveth this woman to be married to this man? (Dad says "her mother
and I" or "I do".)
(Groom and Bride), You are here to pledge to each other to be loving
friends and partners in marriage. To talk and to listen, to trust and
appreciate one another; to respect and cherish each other's uniqueness;
and to support, comfort, and strengthen each other through life's joys
and sorrows. You must promise to share hopes, thoughts, and dreams as
you build your lives together. May your lives be ever intertwined, your
love keeping you together. You will build a home that is compassionate
to all, full of respect and honor for others and each other. May your
home be forever filled with peace, happiness, and love.
CONSECRATION
LET US PRAY:
In joining you lives may God grant you both...
LOVE...to afford each other a special quality of time together.
JOY...in the accomplishments of one another.
UNDERSTANDING...that your interests and desires will not always be the
same.
FRIENDSHIP...based on mutual trust.
COURAGE...to speak of a misunderstanding, and to work on a solution
before the setting of the sun.
COMPASSION...to comfort each other in pain and sorrow.
FORESIGHT...to realize rainbows follow rainy days.
IMAGINATION...to keep with you part of the child you used to be.
MIRTH...from your sense of humor.
AWARENESS...to live each day with the knowledge that there is no
promise of tomorrow.
May God Bless You and Keep You in the palm of His Hand. AMEN!
(Groom and Bride), will you now face each other and join both hands?
Do you (Groom), take (Bride), as your lawfully wedded 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 you part? (Response: "I Do")
Do you (Bride), take (Groom), as you lawfully wedded 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, till
death do you part? (Response: "I Do")
RING VOWS
(Groom and Bride), please receive your rings! As the rings have no end,
so your love should have no end. They are a perfect circle,
representing the eternal nature of God!
GROOM REPEATS AFTER MINISTER: From this day forward, You shall not walk
alone.
My heart will be your shelter, and my arms will be your home. With this
ring, I thee wed.
BRIDE REPEATS AFTER MINISTER: I promise to love you, in good times and
bad, with all I have to give, and all I feel inside, in the only way I
know how, completely and forever. With this ring, I thee wed.
PRONOUNCEMENT
Now you will feel no rain, for each of you will be shelter for the
other.
Now you will feel no cold, for each of you will be warmth to the other.
Now there will be no loneliness, for each of you will be a companion to
the other.
Now you are two persons, but there is only one life before you.
May beauty surround you both in the journey ahead and through all the
years.
May happiness be your companion, and your days together be good and
long upon the earth.
Treat yourselves and each other with respect, and remind yourselves
often of what brought you together. Give the highest priority to the
tenderness, gentleness, and kindness that your connection deserves.
When frustration, difficulties, and fear assail your relationship, as
they threaten all relationships at one time or another, remember to
focus on what is right between you, not only the part which seems
wrong. In this way, you can ride out the storms when clouds hide the
face of the sun in your lives-remembering that even if you lose sight
of it for a moment, the sun is still there. And if both of you take
responsibility for the quality of your life together, it will be marked
by abundance and delight.
PRONOUNCEMENT
The greatest pleasure of life is love! God has joined you together-let
no one tear you apart! "May the Lord Bless You and Keep You; May His
Face Shine Upon You; May He Be Gracious to You and give you Peace,
Forever!" By the authority vested in me, according to the laws of the
__________ of __________, I now pronounce you husband and wife! YOU MAY
KISS THE BRIDE!
PRESENTATION (OPTIONAL)
Ladies and Gentlemen, before God we have all witnessed __________ and
__________ pledge their love for each other; it is my honor to present
to you, for the first time as husband and wife: Mr. and Mrs. (GROOM'S
FULL NAME)
CEREMONY
D:
CHRISTIAN
WELCOME TO FAMILY AND FRIENDS (OPTIONAL)
In the eyes of God, and each other, we are here today to celebrate
(Groom and Bride) being joined together in Holy Matrimony. Marriage is
a most honorable estate, created and instituted by God, signifying unto
us the spiritual union, which also exists between Christ and the
Church; so too may this marriage be adorned by true and abiding love!
Who giveth this woman to be married to this man? (Response: "Her mother
and I", or "I Do")
OPENING
(Groom and Bride) in the days ahead of you, there will be times of
difficulty and conflict. When you find yourselves in these situations,
I ask you to reflect on this marriage advice:
Let your love be stronger than your anger.
Learn the wisdom of compromise, for it is better to bend than to break.
Look for the best in your beloved rather than the worst.
Confide in your partner, and ask for help when you need it.
Remember that true friendship is the basis for any lasting relationship.
Give your spouse the same courtesies and kindnesses you bestow on your
friends.
Say "I Love You" every day!
And I ask you to remember what 1 Corinthians 13 teaches us of love:
"Love is patient and kind; love is not jealous or boastful; it is not
arrogant or rude. Love does not insist on its own way; it is not
irritable or resentful; it does not rejoice at wrong, but rejoices in
the right. Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all
things, endures all things. Love is never-ending."
(Groom and Bride), will you now face each other and join both hands?
(Groom), do you take (Bride), as you lawfully wedded wife, to live
together after God's holy ordinance in the holy estate of matrimony? Do
you promise to love her, honor and keep her, in sickness and in health:
and forsaking all others, keep yourself only for her, for as long as
you both shall live? (Response: "I Do")
(Bride), do you take (Groom), as you lawfully wedded husband, to live
together after God's holy ordinance in the holy estate of matrimony? Do
you promise to love him, honor and keep him, in sickness and in health:
and forsaking all others, keep yourself only for him, for as long as
you both shall live? (Response: "I Do")
(Groom and Bride), As You Know, it is a custom to exchange rings as a
symbol of your love, and to seal your holy covenant. May we have the
rings please?
GROOM REPEATS AFTER MINISTER: I, __________, give this ring to thee,
__________, in token and pledge, of my constant faith, and abiding
love, and with this ring, I thee wed, and with all my worldly goods, I
thee endow; in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy
Spirit.
BRIDE REPEATS AFTER MINISTER: I, __________, give this ring to thee,
__________, in token and pledge, of my constant faith, and abiding
love, and with this ring, I thee wed, and with all my worldly goods, I
thee endow; in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy
Spirit.
PRAYER OF CONSECRATION
God Bless this couple, __________ and __________, that you see before
you this day! Give them the strength to hold on during the storms of
stress and the dark of disillusionment. Keep them tender and gentle as
they nurture each other in their wondrous love. Help them to continue
building a relationship founded in your grace, rich in caring, and
devoted in reaching for your perfection. May __________ and __________
see each other as healer, protector, shelter, and guide. We ask this in
Jesus name, Amen!
PRONOUNCEMENT
__________ and __________, for as much as you have consented together
in Holy Matrimony, before God and His witnesses, and have shown and
pledged your love for each other, by giving and receiving rings, and by
the power invested in me, I now pronounce you husband and wife! "What
therefore God hath joined together, let no man put asunder." YOU MAY
KISS THE BRIDE.
PRESENTATION (OPTIONAL)
Please allow me to present to you, Mr. and Mrs. (GROOM'S FULL NAME)
CEREMONY
E:
CONTEMPORARY- NON-RELIGIOUS, INCLUDING SAND CEREMONY
CONVOCATION
This marriage and dedication of love has already taken place in the
hearts and minds of this
couple. We are here to listen to their vows for our own sake, and to
help them celebrate
their commitment to each other!
Who gives this woman to be married to this man? (Father of bride says;
"I DO", or "HER
MOTHER AND I DO.")
INTRODUCTION
(Groom) and (Bride), every experience you have ever had, everything you
have ever done,
everything you have ever learned, has brought you to this moment, as
you now stand before me
to take each other as husband and wife. New experiences lie before you
with opportunities to
grow deeper in love with each other. As you walk hand in hand into the
future, cherish each
moment as a gift, a gift given to strengthen the bond between you!
READING
(Groom) and (Bride), The miracle of love is like the miracle of a
flower. It thrives upon
the sunshine of a smile. It entwines itself around the heart. Its roots
are secured in the
memories of yesterday. And its petals breathe the promise of joy-filled
tomorrows. To be
loved is to know happiness and contentment. To give love is to know the
joy of sharing
oneself. It is through the miracle of love that we discover the
fullness of life. It is the
miracle of love that brings us together this day, and the miracle of
love that (Groom) and
(Bride) have found in each other.
ADDRESS
This is a new beginning for both of you and I'd like to offer some
gentle reminders to ease
your life-long task of living and growing together. Be kind to each
other. And when you
disagree, do it respectfully! Be gentle and forgiving with each other.
When you forgive,
your hearts make room for a little more love, a little more
understanding, and a little more
compassion. Communicate with each other. Share the joy that's in your
heart, and the sorrow
that burdens your soul. Open your hearts and find your love!
EXPRESSION OF INTENT
Your marriage begins with the vows and promises you speak to one
another today. The marriage
vow is a promise of fidelity and honesty.
(Groom), do you love (Bride) willingly and completely, withholding
nothing? Do you intend to
protect her, and give consideration of her feelings, desires, and
needs? (RESPONSE: I DO)
Do you intend to strive to keep your love flexible and adapt to
changing circumstances in
the marriage? And do you intend to be (BRIDES) counselor, helpmate,
sweetheart, and lover,
and her best friend, from this day forward? (RESPONSE: I DO)
(Bride), do you love (Groom) willingly and completely, withholding
nothing? Do you intend to
protect him, and give consideration of his feelings, desires, and
needs? (RESPONSE: I DO)
Do you intend to strive to keep your love flexible, and adapt to
changing circumstances in
the marriage? And do you intend to be (GROOMS) counselor, helpmate,
sweetheart, and lover,
and his best friend, from this day forward? (RESPONSE: I DO)
CONSECRATION
May your days together be long, and may they be seasoned with love,
understanding, and
respect!
THE VOWS
(Groom), please repeat after me: I (Groom), take thee (Bride), to be my
wife, and before
these witnesses, I promise to be a faithful and true husband.
(Bride), please repeat after me: I (Bride) take thee (Groom), to be my
husband, and before
these witnesses, I promise to be a faithful and true wife.
THE RING SYMBOLISM
May I have the rings please?
Marriage is a state in which two people come together and create a
union that is greater
than the sum of its parts. It is difficult to express in words the
profound relationship
that is love. Since the beginning of time, the ring has been an emblem
of the sincerity and
permanence of a couples' love for one another in regard for their
marriage. As the circle
can begin anew at any point, so a good marriage can pick any point to
renew itself. These
rings are symbols of your eternal love. Let them always be a reminder
of the vows, promises,
and intentions, you made to each other today.
EXCHANGE OF RINGS
(Groom), as you place the ring on (BRIDES) finger, please repeat after
me:
I give you this ring as a reminder that I will love, honor, and cherish
you: In all times,
In all places, and in all ways forever.
(Bride), as you place the ring on (GROOMS) finger, please repeat after
me:
I give you this ring as a reminder that I will love, honor, and cherish
you: In all times,
In all places, and in all ways forever.
SAND CEREMONY
(Groom) and (Bride) have chosen to create a physical reminder of their
vows on this day
through a sand ceremony. Using these individual containers of sand,
they will pour them into
this single vessel symbolizing their union and their willingness to
combine their two lives
into one. Just as the grains of sand can never be separated and
returned to their individual
containers, so the couple is no longer two, but now one, with no
willful intentions to
separate from one another.
BENEDICTION AND PRONOUNCEMENT
May light and love surround both of you and always guide you to right
action. May love, joy,
and peace be yours in great abundance. Throughout this ceremony, you
have vowed to be loyal
and loving towards one another. And you have formalized your bond with
words spoken, and the
giving and receiving of rings. Therefore, by the power invested in me,
by the __________ of
__________, I now pronounce you husband and wife.
KISS
You may now seal this marriage with a kiss!
PRESENTATION
Friends, I present to you Mr. and Mrs. (GROOMS FULL NAME)
CEREMONY
F:
CHRISTIAN INCLUDING UNITY CANDLE
WELCOME TO FAMILY AND FRIENDS
We have come here today to celebrate love. We see it in the faces of
(Groom) and (Bride) who
stand before us. It is a love which is spoken of in all religions and
is our true home and
meeting place. It kindles our souls with hope. We are grateful to them
for inviting us to
witness and share in this precious moment. May all who gather here as
witnesses support and
encourage their union and be blessed and uplifted as we celebrate with
them!
Who giveth this woman to be married to this man? (FATHER OF BRIDE: "I
DO" or "HER MOTHER AND
I DO.")
OPENING
Marriage is a commitment for life, the best that two people can find
and bring out in each
other. It offers opportunities for sharing and growing that no other
relationship can equal.
It is a physical and an emotional joining that is promised for a
lifetime. As you enter into
marriage today, I ask you both to reflect on this advice: Let your love
be stronger than
your anger. Learn the wisdom of compromise, for it is better to bend
than to break. Look for
the best in your beloved rather than the worst. Confide in your partner
and ask for help
when you need it. Remember that true friendship is the basis for any
lasting relationship.
Give your spouse the same courtesies and kindnesses you bestow on your
friends.
SCRIPTURE
EPHESIANS 5:25, 28, 31, 33: Husbands love your wives even as Christ
also loved the Church
and gave himself for it. So ought men to love their wives as their own
bodies. He that
loveth his wife loveth himself. For this cause shall a man leave his
father and mother and
shall be joined unto his wife and they two shall be one flesh. However,
each one of you also
must love his wife as he loves himself, and the wife respect her
husband.
OPENING PRAYER
Heavenly Father, we pray that your love and your joy may flow through
us and around us at
this time. Shine your light upon (Groom) and (Bride) so that they may
give wholly to one
another in total joy. Nourish their minds with your wisdom. Enrich
their hearts with your
love. Feeds their souls with your peace. Bless their marriage with your
presence. Give them
the courage and inspiration to honor the vows they make here today!
Amen.
VOWS (EITHER REPEATED AFTER MINISTER, MEMORIZED, OR READ)
I, (Groom), take you, (Bride), to be my wife, to have and to hold, from
this day forward,
for better or for worse, for richer or for poorer, in sickness and in
health, to love and to
honor and to cherish unconditionally. Forsaking all others, I will be
faithful to you. In
the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen
I, (Bride), take you, (Groom), to be my husband, to have and to hold,
from this day forward,
for better or for worse, for richer or for poorer, in sickness and in
health, to love and to
honor and to cherish unconditionally. Forsaking all others, I will be
faithful to you. In
the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen
EXCHANGE OF RINGS
(Groom) and (Bride) have chosen rings as outward symbols of the
commitment they share. For
centuries, the ring has been a symbol of committed love. This unbroken
and never-ending
circle symbolizes a commitment to love that is also never ending.
(Groom), take the ring which you have selected and place it on (Brides)
finger and say to
her these words: I give thee this ring in token and pledge of my
constant faith and abiding
love.
(Bride), take the ring which you have selected and place it on (Grooms)
finger and say to
him these words: I give thee this ring in token and pledge of my
constant faith and abiding
love.
UNITY CANDLE
(Groom) and (Bride), you have exchanged vows and rings expressing your
desire to be united
as one in a Christ-honoring marriage. As you enter marriage, may the
light of his presence
in your life be seen as a light in the darkness. May that truth be
reflected as you now take
the flames from two separate candles and blend them into the one center
candle. May the Lord
unite you with one faith, one hope, and one love.
CLOSING PRAYER
As we close this blessed ceremony, let's take a moment to ask for God's
blessing upon
(Groom) and (Bride), and their new life together. Let us pray!
Heavenly Father, it is our prayer at this moment that your presence and
power shall rest
upon this couple to keep them in times of difficulty, to sustain them
in moments of
abundance as well as in moments of poverty. I pray that you will write
these vows indelibly
upon their hearts, so that they may walk with you as they walk with
each other. In Jesus
name I pray, Amen.
PRONOUNCEMENT AND KISS
(Groom) and (Bride), having witnessed your vows of marriage and by the
authority vested in
me, I announce with great joy that you are husband and wife. YOU MAY
KISS THE BRIDE!
PRESENTATION
It is my honor to present for the first time as husband and wife: MR.
and Mrs. (GROOMS FULL
NAME)
CEREMONY
G:
NON-DENOMINATIONAL INCLUDING JUMPING OF BROOM AND UNITY CANDLE
It is my pleasure to welcome each of you here to witness the joining
together of (Groom) and
(Bride). We have come here today to celebrate love. We see it in the
faces of (Groom) and
(Bride) who stand before us. It is a love which is spoken of in all
religions and to this
day they bring their love as a treasure to share with one another.
Who brings this woman to be this man's wife? (FATHER OF BRIDE: "I DO"
or "HER MOTHER AND I")
OPENING
Marriage is a commitment for life, the best that two people find and
bring out in each
other. It offers opportunities of sharing and growth that no other
relationship can equal.
It is a physical and an emotional joining that is promised for a
lifetime. Within its
framework of commitment and loyalty, marriage enables the establishment
of a home, where
through trust, patience, and respect, the love and affection which you
have for each other
may develop into a deep and lasting relationship. May all who gather
here as witnesses
support and encourage their union, and be blessed and uplifted as we
celebrate with them.
The institution of marriage is to be honorable among all, and therefore
should not be
entered into unadvisedly or lightly, but reverently and discreetly.
FIRST READING (OPTIONAL)
VOWS
(Groom) and (Bride), will you now turn and face each other and join
both hands?
(VOWS MAY BE REPEATED AFTER MINISTER, MEMORIZED, OR READ)
GROOM: (Bride), I give myself to you to be your husband. I promise to
love and sustain you
in the covenant of marriage, from this day forward, in sickness and in
health, in plenty and
in want, in joy and in sorrow, as long as we both shall live.
BRIDE: (Groom), I give myself to you to be your wife. I promise to love
and sustain you in
the covenant of marriage, from this day forward, in sickness and in
health, in plenty and in
want, in joy and in sorrow, as long as we both shall live.
SECOND READING (OPTIONAL)
RINGS
(Groom) and (Bride) have chosen rings as outward symbols of the
commitment they make today.
From the earliest of times, the ring has been a symbol of an unbroken
and never-ending
circle symbolizing a commitment to love that is also never ending. "MAY
I HAVE THE RINGS
PLEASE?" (RINGS ARE HANDED TO MINISTER: "WE BLESS THESE RINGS AND THIS
UNION"
GROOM REPEATS OR IS MEMORIZED: (Bride), I love you! Not only for who
you are, but for who I
am, when I am with you. With this ring, I thee wed.
BRIDE REPEATS OR IS MEMORIZED: (Groom), I love you! Not only for who
you are, but for who I
am, when I am with you. With this ring, I thee wed.
UNITY CANDLE
(Groom) and (Bride), you have exchanged vows and rings expressing your
desire to be united
as one in marriage. As you enter marriage, may the light in your life
be seen as a light in
the darkness. May that truth be reflected as you now take the flames
from two separate
candles and blend them into the one center candle.
PRONOUNCEMENT AND KISS
(Groom) and (Bride), having witnessed your vows of marriage, and by the
authority vested in
me, I now pronounce you husband and wife. YOU MAY KISS THE BRIDE!
JUMPING OF THE BROOM (OPTIONAL AFRICAN-AMERICAN TRADITION)
Jumping of the Broom is a ritual, handed down from generation to
generation to remind us of
a time when our vows were not legally sanctioned. During slavery, our
ancestors sought the
legitimacy of marriage by jumping over the broom and into the bonds of
domesticity. For our
ancestors, this small ritual will be a legal and binding act connecting
them with the
heritage of the homeland, and giving legitimacy, dignity, and strength
to their union.
(Groom) and (Bride), you may now jump the broom!
CEREMONY
H:
NON-RELIGIOUS
INTRODUCTION
We are gathered here today to celebrate the love of (Groom) and (Bride)
who stand before us.
It is a love we experience in our own hearts as well. It is a love of
which is spoken in all
religions, and is our true home, our true meeting place. It kindles our
souls with hope. We
are grateful to them for inviting us to witness and share in this
precious moment. To this
day, they bring their love as a treasure to share with one another.
Who brings this woman to be this man's wife? (FATHER OF BRIDE: "I DO"
OR "HER MOTHER AND I
DO")
LOVE LETTERS
At this time, we will have the privilege of listening to the vows of
(Groom) and (Bride).
(Groom) and (Bride) have each meditated upon the vows that they will
take this day, and have
also written the words that they will share with each other. (EACH
SHARES VOWS WITH THE
OTHER)
RING EXCHANGE
GROOM REPEATS AFTER MINISTER: I, (Groom), give this ring to you,
(Bride), in token and
pledge of my constant faith and abiding love. And in appreciation of
our unique and precious
love, I give you this ring: To bind our hopes and dreams, and lives
together. With this
symbol of these promises, and those we have made in the past, I thee
wed.
BRIDE REPEATS AFTER MINISTER: I, (Bride), give this ring to you,
(Groom), in token and
pledge ofmy constant faith and abiding love, And in appreciation of our
unique and precious love, I
give youthis ring: To bind our hopes and dreams, and lives together.
With this symbol of these
promises,
and those we have made in the past, I thee wed.
UNITY CANDLE
(Groom) and (Bride), You have exchanged vows and rings expressing your
desire to be united
as one in marriage. Will you now light the unity candle symbolizing
this union in faith,
hope, and love?
PRONOUNCEMENT
For spirit we come, and to spirit we go: from their union the power of
love will flow. The
winds of reason will stir the air; and temper their quarrels with
respectful care. Their
bond is forged upon the fire and love will fill their hearts with
steady desire. The waters
of understanding will fill them up, and they will drink together from
wisdom's cup. The
earth and all heavens in her glory will smile upon this pair; health,
harmony, and happiness
will be theirs to share. For what goes around, returns again to those
who love. For the
spirit of union reflects the pattern above, as these two hearts have
combined like the flame
of their candles, made strong by love. May the light of their love
become a beacon by which
they may always find one another. These children of love have lit a
candle in the darkness
of the world. May it always burn with a steady light, and if it should
flicker or threaten
to go out, may both raise a hand to guard and shield it. For the candle
of their love may
well assist other travelers on the road of life. For as much as (Groom)
and (Bride) have
agreed together according to the laws of this state, I as a minister of
the gospel, declare
that they are husband and wife. YOU MAY KISS THE BRIDE!
PRESENTATION
It is my honor and privilege to present to you for the first time as
husband and wife:
Mr. and Mrs. (GROOMS FULL NAME)
CEREMONY
I:
NON-DENOMINATIONAL INCLUDING HANDS CEREMONY
OPENING
It is my great pleasure to welcome each of you here to witness the
joining together of
(Groom) and (Bride). We have come here today to celebrate love. We see
it in the faces
(Groom) and (Bride) who stand before us. It is a love which is spoken
of in all religions,
and to this day, they bring their love as a treasure to share with one
another.
As we come now to join these two together in matrimony, who gives this
woman to be this
man's bride? (FATHER OF BRIDE: "I DO" OR "HER MOTHER AND I")
HANDS CEREMONY
(Bride), please face (Groom) and hold his hands palms up, so you may
see the gift that they
are to you.
These are the hands of your best friend, young and vibrant with love,
that are holding yours
on your wedding day, as he promises to love you all the days of his
life.
These are the hands that will work alongside yours, as together you
build your future, as
you laugh and cry, as you share your innermost secrets and dreams.
These are the hands you will place with expectant joy against your
stomach, until he too,
feels his child stir within you.
These are the hands that look so large and strong, yet will be so
gentle as he holds your
baby for the first time.
These are the hands that will work long hours for you and your new
family.
These are the hands that will passionately love you and cherish you
through the years, for a
lifetime of happiness.
These are the hands that will countless times wipe tears from your
eyes: tears of sorrow and
tears of joy.
These are the hands that will comfort you in illness, and hold you when
fear or grief wrack
your mind.
These are the hands that will tenderly lift your chin and brush your
cheek as they raise
your face to look into his eyes: eyes that are filled completely with
his overwhelming love
and desire for you.
(Groom), please hold (Brides) hands, palms up, where you may see the
gift that they are to
you.
These are the hands of your best friend, smooth, young, and carefree,
that are holding
yours on your wedding day, as she pledges her love and commitment to
you all the days of her
life.
These are the hands that will hold each child in tender love, soothing
them through illness
and hurt, supporting and encouraging them along the way, and knowing
when it is time to let
go.
These are the hands that will massage tension from your neck and back
in the evenings after
you've had a long hard day.
These are the hands that will hold you tight as you struggle through
difficult times.
These are the hands that will comfort you when you are sick, or console
you when you are
grieving.
These are the hands that will passionately love you and cherish you
through the years, for a
lifetime of happiness.
These are the hands that will hold you in joy and excitement and hope,
each time she tells
you that you are to have another child, that together you have created
a new life.
These are the hands that will give you support, as she encourages you
to chase down your
dreams. Together as a team, everything you wish for can be realized.
LET US PRAY! God, Bless these hands that you see before you this day.
May they always be
held by one another. Give them the strength to hold on during the
storms of stress and the
dark of disillusionment. Keep them tender and gentle as they nurture
each other in their
wondrous love. Help these hands to continue building a relationship
founded in your grace,
rich in caring, and devoted in reaching for your perfection. May
(Groom) and (Bride) see
their four hands as healer, protector, shelter, and guide. We ask this
in your name, AMEN!
PERSONAL VOWS AND RING EXCHANGE
(COUPLE SAYS OWN VOWS AND THEN EXCHANGES RINGS)
PRONOUNCEMENT
The greatest pleasure of life is love! By the authority vested in me,
by the
__________of_________,
I now pronounce you husband and wife!
KISS
YOU MAY KISS THE BRIDE!
PRESENTATION
Allow me to present, Mr. and Mrs. (GROOMS FULL NAME)
CEREMONY
J:
SEMI-RELIGIOUS INCLUDING RELIGIOUS RING
BLESSING AND BREAKING OF GLASS
WELCOME
Good (morning/afternoon/evening)! It is my great pleasure to welcome
each of you here today
to witness and celebrate an act of deep love. (Groom) and (Bride), in
their devotion,
respect, and love for each other wish to unite in the holy bond of
marriage and to dedicate
themselves to each other's happiness and well-being as life mates and
partners. On behalf of
them, I welcome you all!
Who giveth this woman to be married to this man? (FATHER OF BRIDE: "I
DO" OR "HER MOTHER AND
I DO."
Although this is their day, it is also a tribute to all of you. For
knowing you and
interacting with you has helped to make (Groom) and (Bride) who they
needed to be to find
each other. They would like to thank you all for that. All of you are
the threads of which
are woven the tapestry of their lives. Each one of you is an important
piece in the story it
tells. It is the fabric that they wrap around themselves and take
comfort in when the world
seems cold. And on days like today, when everything is right in their
world, that tapestry
is proudly spread out and displayed for everyone to see, with all the
glorious colors and
textures that your diversity adds. You will hold a place in their
hearts reserved for those
that they have chosen to call "family" and "friends" and they are
deeply grateful for each
and every one of you here today.
FOUNDATION
Marriage is an opportunity for great personal and spiritual growth.
Marriage endures through
the ages of trends and fads. As long as individuals are drawn by God,
marriage will be a
natural unfolding of that relationship.
Feelings come alive at a wedding! Great happiness! Some sadness.
Apprehension. And sometimes
pure relief! There is an acute awareness that something special is
about to happen.
Something is gone forever and something is born and tender. Something
to be nurtured and
cared for, protected and cherished, challenged and strengthened-your
never before created
marriage.
Each of you brings gifts to the other today. Gifts of hope and
laughter, focus and
seriousness of purpose. Sensitivity and recognition of the beautiful
and profound. But these
gifts are not to be yours alone. A strong and resilient marriage is not
an escape from the
world, but a contribution to it. (Groom) and (Bride), may you now
combine and strengthen
your gifts, to be offered as a distinct and beautiful gift to the
world. For the world is in
need of the beautiful and the good, and nothing is better suited to
evoke that than a good
marriage.
And now you stand before this loving community of family and friends,
ready to acknowledge
to the world: THIS IS MY BELOVED, THE ONE WITH WHOM I CHOOSE TO DEVOTE
THE REST OF MY LIFE.
SILENT BLESSING
(Groom) and (Bride) would like to bring to mind their loved ones who
could not be here
today. Though they are absent physically, we invoke, through our
thoughts and prayers, their
loving presence.
THE QUESTIONS
(Bride) and (Groom), if you are ready to step into the holy circle of
matrimony, assuming
all its rights, obligations, and abundant joys, please so indicate by
joining hands.
Do you, (Bride), take this man, (Groom), as your husband, to love him
and to honor him, to
nurture, serve, and support him, in times of joy and in times of
difficulty? Do you promise
to remain by his side regardless of what trouble befalls you, and in
the presence of
temptation to forsake this love, do you promise to remain steadfast and
true? Do you promise
with all your heart and soul to honor this vow till death do you part?
If so, answer now, "I
DO."
Do you, (Groom), take this woman, (Bride), as your wife, to love her
and to honor her, to
nurture,serve, and to support her, in times of joy and in times of
difficulty? Do you promise to
remain by her side regardless of what trouble befalls you, and in the
presence of temptation
to forsake this love, do you promise to remain steadfast and true? Do
you promise with all
your heart and soul to honor this vow till death do you part? If so,
answer now, "I DO."
RING CEREMONY
And so we come, (Bride) and (Groom), to the presentation of rings by
which you symbolize
and bind your love.
The circle has long been a symbol of spirit and power. The sky and
earth are round. The wind
in its greatest power swirls. The sun and moon, both round, come forth
and go down again in
a circle. Even the seasons form a great circle in their changing and
always come back again
to where they were. Without beginning or end, and with no point of
weakness, the circle is a
reminder of the eternal quality of God, and of unending strength. Let
the seamless circle of
these rings become the symbol of your endless love and unending
faithfulness. You wedding
rings are most special because they say that even in your uniqueness
you have chosen to be
bonded, to allow the presence of another human being to enhance who you
are. Your rings
carry a potent double message: WE ARE INDIVIDUALS AND YET WE BELONG; WE
ARE NOT ALONE. As
you wear them through time, they will reflect not only who you are, but
also the union that
you are now creating. MAY I HAVE THE RINGS PLEASE? "GOD BLESS THESE
RINGS AND THIS UNION."
(Bride), place the ring on (Grooms) finger and repeat after me: With
this ring, I pledge my
love and faithfulness to you, today, tomorrow, and always.
(Groom), place the ring on (Brides) finger and repeat after me: With
this ring, I pledge my
love and
faithfulness to you, today, tomorrow, and always.
WEAR THESE RINGS AS THE ENCLOSING BOND OF REVERENCE AND TRUST. FULFILL
THE CIRCLE OF LOVE
THAT NOW MAKES YOU ONE.
BREAKING OF THE GLASS
It is a Jewish custom to end the wedding ceremony with the breaking of
a glass. The exact
origins of this custom are unknown. There are various interpretations
of why this is done.
It is seen as a reminder of the destruction of the Holy Temple in
Jerusalem and the many
losses suffered. It was also meant to remind us, on a happy occasion
like this, that the
world is full of less fortunate people. Just as a broken glass can
never be reconstructed,
so too is this relationship forever. As (Groom) breaks the glass, I
invite everyone to shout
"Mazel Tov", or GOOD LUCK.
PRONOUNCEMENT AND KISS
Forasmuch as you, (Bride) and (Groom), have openly declared your wishes
to be united in
marriage, and in the presence of these witnesses, have pledged your
love to each other, and
have confirmed the same by joining hands, exchanging rings, and
declaring your vows, and I
having witnessed these vows, and by the authority vested in me, now
pronounce you husband
and wife. YOU MAY NOW KISS THE BRIDE!
PRESENTATION
Friends, I present Mr. and Mrs. (GROOMS FULL NAME)
Ceremony K: CONTEMPORARY NON-DENOMINATIONAL WITH RECOGNITION OF PARENTS
INTRODUCTION:
(Groom) and (Bride),
The step which you are
about to take is the most important into which human brings can come.
It is a
union of two people founded upon mutual respect and affection. Your
lives will
change, your responsibilities will increase, but your joy will be
multiplied if
you are sincere and earnest with your pledge to one another.
GIVING
OF BRIDE:
Who
gives this women to be married to this man?
Father-
Her mother and I do.
READING OF
LOVE:
(Groom)
and (Bride), Just as two very different
threads woven in opposite directions can form a beautiful tapestry, so
can your
two lives merge together to form a beautiful marriage.
To make your marriage work will take love. Love should be the core of your marriage; love is the reason you are here. But it will also take trust- to know in your hearts you want the best for each other. It will take dedication- to stay open to one another; to learn and to grow together even when this is not easy to do.
It will take faith- to always be willing to go forward to tomorrow, never really knowing what tomorrow will bring. And it will take commitment - to hold true to a journey you both now will share together.
RECOGNITION OF PARENTS:
Before we go on
to say more about love, it is
important to recognize from where love comes in our lives. Of course,
someone
first loved (Bride) and (Groom). Someone cared for them as
children,
showed them what love, compassion, kindness, and care is. Of course we
are
speaking of the parents. The work of our parents is critical in
preparing us to
be the loving adults we are, so today, (Bride)
and (Groom) want to
make special recognition of their parents today, for making today
possible. I
speak for everyone here when we say "thank you mom's and dad's for
beginning in (Groom) and (Bride) something so
special."
EXCHANGE OF VOWSs:
(Bride) and
(Groom), Will you face each other and join both
hands?
(Groom), will you have this woman to be your wedded wife, to love her, comfort her, honor and keep her, and forsaking all others, keep you only unto her, for as long as you both shall live?
Response: I WILL
(Bride), will you have this man to be your wedded husband, to love him, comfort him, honor and keep him, and forsaking all others, keep you only unto him, for as long as you both shall live?
Response: I WILL
(Repeat after me Vows):
.I,
(Groom), take you, (Bride), to be my wedded wife, to have
and to hold, for better for worse, for richer for poorer, to love and
to
cherish, from this day forward.
I, (Bride), take you, (Groom), to be my wedded
husband, to have and to hold, for better for worse, for richer for
poorer, to
love and to cherish, from this day forward.
EXCHANGE OF RINGS:
These are the rings that (Bride) and (Groom) will wear for the rest of their lives, that express the love that they have for one another. Let us take a moment and send your prayers, our thoughts, and our love to these rings, so that as they wear them, they will carry our love with them as well.
(Groom), Do you have a ring for this bride?
Response: yes
(Groom), Please place the ring on (Bride's) finger and say: With this ring, I thee wed.
(Bride), Do you have a ring for this groom?
Response: yes
(Bride), Please place the ring on (Groom's) finger and say: With this ring, I thee wed.
(Bride)
and (Groom), Let these rings be given and received
as a token of your affection, sincerity and fidelity to one another.
CHARGE TO THE COUPLE:
(Bride) and (Groom), as the two of you have joined this marriage uniting as husband and wife, and as you this day affirm your faith and love for one another, I would ask that you always remember to cherish each other as special and unique individuals, that you respect the thoughts, ideas and suggestions of one another. Be able to forgive, do not hold grudges and live each day that you may share together - as from this day forward you shall be each other's home, comfort and refuge, your marriage strengthened by your love and respect.
PRONOUNCEMENT AS MAN AND WIFE:
(Bride) and (Groom), in so much as the two of you have agreed to live together in Matrimony, have promised your love for each other by these vows, the giving of these rings and the joining of your hands, I now declare you to be husband and wife.
Congratulations, you may kiss!!!!!!
Family and Friends, it is my honor to present to you, for the first time as Husband and Wife, Mr. and Mrs. (GROOM'S FULL NAME) , (When necessary, academic and military titles are used: i.e., Dr., Commander, Colonel, etc.)
MARRIAGE
LICENSE INFORMATION
MARYLAND - The law requires that you obtain your license in the local
jurisdiction where
the ceremony will be performed. FOR EXAMPLE: If the ceremony will be
performed in Montgomery
County, the license MUST BE obtained in Montgomery County. There is a
two day waiting
period, and no blood test, and the license is valid for six months. THE
LICENSE CANNOT BE
USED ANYWHERE ELSE IN OR OUT OF THE STATE OF MARYLAND.
Dorchester County - 410-228-0480
Prince George's County - 301-952-3288, 1
Charles County - 301-932-3300, 7, 6, 1
Anne Arundel County - 410-222-1434
Calvert County - 410-535-1660
Howard County - 410-313-2111, 4
Frederick County - 301-600-1906/1975
Baltimore City - 410-333-3780, 4
Baltimore County - 410-887-2607, 3
Carroll County - 410-386-2022
Montgomery County - 240-777-9450/9460
WASHINGTON, DC - The law requires that you obtain your license in the
District of Columbia, if your ceremony will be performed in the
District of Columbia.. There is no blood test, and there is a three
full business days waiting period between the day you apply for the
license and the day that it is issued! . THE LICENSE CANNOT BE USED
OUTSIDE OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA
District of Columbia Marriage Bureau: 202-879-4840
VIRGINIA - The law requires that you obtain your license in one of the
local jurisdictions
in Virginia, if your ceremony will be performed in Virginia. FOR
EXAMPLE: If your ceremony
will be performed in Arlington County, you may obtain your license in
Arlington County, or
any other circuit court in Virginia. There is no blood test, and no
waiting period. The
license is valid for 60 days. THE LICENSE CANNOT BE USED OUTSIDE OF THE
COMMONWEALTH OF
VIRGINIA.
Arlington County - 703-228-4372
Stafford County - 540-658-8750
Alexandria City - 703-838-4044, 1, 1
Virginia Beach - 757-385-8926
Fairfax County - 703-691-7320, 3, 6, 1, 2, 0
King George - 540-775-3322
Prince William County - 703-792-6040/6045
Henrico County - 804-501-4202
Loudoun County - 703-777-0270, 1
Buckingham County - 434-969-4734
Warren County- 540-635-2435
Fauquier County - 540-347-8610
Fredericksburg - 540-372-1066