What Happens During a Celebrant Wedding?

Even though we talk about your wedding being unique, there is a loose structure which celebrants follow. This is only a guide and can be changed to suit you and your partner’s needs.

Each element of the ceremony is personal to you, and can include:

Welcome/Opening

The celebrant would welcome all guests and introduce themselves. They will give any instructions regarding phones and photography, which you would have discussed prior to the day.

Welcoming the bridal party

The celebrant will welcome the bridal party, the bridesmaids, the bride and the person (if any) giving them away. Traditionally, this was the father of the bride, but it can be anyone you would like to accompany you down the aisle.

Introduction to the ceremony

The celebrant will talk about why you are all there and what a special occasion it is; this sets the tone of the ceremony. This is also a time to acknowledge any loved ones who are no longer here.

First Reading/Poem

This is optional, but it is a great way to involve one of your family or friends to read a poem which has meaning to you. Alternatively, your celebrant can supply a selection of poems and readings from which to choose.

Couples Story

The celebrant will talk about you as a couple, where you met, what your hopes are for the future, what you love about each other, some funny anecdotes or memories, and what marriage means to you. Your story will come from meetings you have had with your celebrant and the answers in the questionnaires you will have completed.

Commitments to each other

You can choose either the traditional “I Do’s” or be creative and write your own, which may suit you more as a couple. They can be funny or serious but should convey your love and commitment to each other.

Vows

You will both read the vows you have written. These should be about your love and your hopes and dreams for your future together. Whilst your celebrant can not write your vows, they can guide you in the right direction if you need some help.

Ring Exchange

The celebrant will talk about the symbolic meaning of the rings, and then, as you exchange rings, you will repeat the promises after the celebrant.

Second Reading/Poem

This is optional, but some couples choose to have a second reading or poem.

Symbolic ceremony

Again, this is an optional element of the ceremony. It is a way to bring blended families together and also to include family and friends. There are so many different symbolic gestures, such as sand ceremonies, unity candles, handfasting, jumping the broom, ring warming, or a symbolic gesture from your own culture. Read more about symbolic gestures here.

Signing a certificate

Although this is not a legal ceremony, you may wish to sign a wedding certificate, asking a family member or a friend to witness your wedding. This is a memento from your day, which you can look back on forever.

Couple’s future

The celebrant will talk about the commitments you have made and what hopes and dreams you have for your future together.

Closing Words

 To close the ceremony, the celebrant will wish you well and thank you for asking them to be part of your special day.

The Kiss

The Celebrant will ask everyone to be upstanding and to celebrate, as you take your first kiss.