5 Types of Wedding Ceremonies
When it comes to planning a wedding there are many things to consider; the venue, wedding planner, date, time, bridesmaids, groomsmen, attire, reception, wedding officiant, guest list, invitations, florist, photographer, videographer, DJ, caterer/baker, just to name a few. There will be important decisions that must be made for each vendor every step of the way.
Once you have secured your venue, I would suggest securing your wedding officiant as soon as possible. Some couples don’t do this early enough because they haven’t thought about their ceremony or maybe don’t realize the importance of their ceremony nor the amount of time that goes into planning, creating and executing a flawless ceremony. Most couple make the mistake of thinking that all the officiant has to do is say a few words, do the “I do’s” and pronounce them. For some this may be just a formality and if that is the type of ceremony that you want and are comfortable with by all means have it that way. At Living Ceremonies, wedding ceremony details are highly important to us and we want your ceremony to be about the two of you. There are different types of wedding ceremonies to consider and your ceremony should reflect your values and you as a couple beginning your life together.
Here are 5 of the most popular types of wedding cremonies
Religious – This is one of the most common types of ceremonies. A religious ceremony is officiated by a pastor, clergy person, Priest or other religious leader. It is usually held in a church, mosque, temple, but can also be held in another site or venue. Couples usually invite members of their congregation to celebrate with them and stand in support of their union. Some congregations vow to walk along with the couple and to regularly pray for them.
Civil - A civil ceremony is a legal ceremony that usually happens at the court house and officiated by a Judge, Justice of the Peace or Mayor. The ceremony is usually quick and private, but you can have a few people come as witnesses.
Non-Religious/Humanist – This type of ceremony does not include in religious references. The couple usually write their own vows, add rituals that are meaningful to them, it can also have some of the traditional things of a wedding but mostly it is nontraditional.
Destination – A destination wedding ceremony is one that is held on location away from the couple’s hometown, inviting their guest to attend. It can be religious or not, they are filled with excitement and fun, sand rituals can be included especially if you are having a beach wedding. If you are going out of the country make sure your paperwork is officially done, marriage licenses vary from one country to the next. You may want to consider getting married before you leave for your destination.
Vow Renewal – Renewing wedding vows can require as much time and planning. Some decisions may not be needed this time around but it all depends on how elaborate you want your vow renewal to be. A vow renewal is when a married couple decides to renew or reaffirm their marriage and there are no legalities in place. It is truly a celebration.
Other ceremonies can be interfaith, green weddings, same sex, commitment ceremonies, and theme ceremonies just to name a few. What’s important is finding the right wedding officiant for you who will help you make formulate your ceremony.
Which type of wedding ceremony is right for you?
Consider the following questions when deciding on the type of ceremony you desire:
What is meaningful to us as a couple?
Do we want any type of unity ceremony?
What type of music?
Do we want to write our own vows?
Will our vows be traditional or nontraditional?
How do we want to be pronounced?
Do we want to include other members/friend in our ceremony?
Do we want family members who are no longer with us acknowledged?
Do we want any cultural elements added to the ceremony?
Your wedding ceremony is the most meaningful part of the day. It should be mindfully planned with intention to celebrate the beginning of your life together. Whatever style you chose should be a reflection of the both of you and your love for each other. Living Ceremonies, Nashville Wedding Officiant Services, will assist you in creating a wedding ceremony that you desire. Contact us today and let’s work together to create a wedding ceremony that is memorable, meaningful and marvelous.