The Ultimate Wedding Ceremony Outline – Say “I Do” the Right Way

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Planning a wedding is one of the most exciting, albeit stressful times in a couple’s life. However, when it comes to planning the wedding ceremony, it can get a little daunting, especially if either partner has never attended a wedding before. Fret not, my dear bride-to-be! I’m here to give you the ultimate wedding ceremony outline, so you can say “I Do” with confidence, style, and a little bit of humor.

Section One: Prelude

The prelude includes music that plays before the wedding ceremony begins when guests are being seated and waiting for the ceremony to start. This can include anything from a live band, string quartet, DJ, or even a playlist of your favorite songs. Some popular song choices include “At Last” by Etta James, “Marry You” by Bruno Mars, and “A Thousand Years” by Christina Perri.

Section Two: Processional

This is where the bridal party enters the ceremony. Traditionally, the weddings begin with the entrance of the grandparents, followed by the parents of the bride and groom, then the groom and his attendants, and finally the bridesmaids, escorted by the groomsmen. The bride then enters and is escorted by either her father, mother, or a significant family member.

Section Three: The Welcome and Opening Remarks

This part of the ceremony is where the officiant welcomes all the guests and delivers an opening message. They will usually introduce themselves and explain the significance of the wedding ceremony. This could include some historical references on wedding traditions or some funny anecdote about the couple.

Section Four: The Vows

The vows are the heart of the wedding ceremony, where the couple publicly expresses their commitment to each other. The couple can either write their own personal vows or recite traditional ones. If you’re writing your own vows, here are some tips to make them unforgettable – keep it simple, be sincere, add humor, and don’t forget to say “I love you!”

Section Five: The Kiss and Recessional

Finally! The big moment where you get to seal the deal with a kiss. After you’ve been pronounced as the newest married couple, walk down the aisle and cheerfully exit as your wedding guests erupt in cheers and applause.

Planning the perfect wedding can be overwhelming, but with the right wedding ceremony outline, you can bring all the traditional aspects that make up a meaningful ceremony combined with some creative and personal touches that make it uniquely yours. It’s important to remember that this is your special day, so don’t be afraid to add some humor, inside jokes, and personal touches to your wedding ceremony. Remember, even if something doesn’t go as planned, the only thing that matters is that you and your partner are starting a new journey together. Good luck on your wedding day, and congratulations again, new Mrs!


Love Story Weddings is an Award-Winning Officiant Service for couples getting married in greater Chicago IL, Milwaukee WI, Indianapolis IN, Orlando FL, and beyond!

Owner & lead officiant, Rev. Brad Hughes has developed an expert team of officiants who create and officiate unforgettable wedding ceremonies full of life, love, and laughter!

All packages & pricing are based on each couple’s preferences after guiding you through an idea-filled sample ceremony over ZOOM! Click here to learn more and check availability.

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