wedding officiant speech sample

• Bridal Shower
• Bachelor & Bachelorette Parties
• Engagement Party
• Rehearsal Dinner
• Wedding Checklists
• Wedding Hairstyle Ideas
• Wedding Vows Readings
• Wedding Music

In This Article

How To Prepare Wedding Officiant Speeches?

Best wedding officiant speeches, inspirational quotes and verses.

• Common Challenges
• Wedding Ceremony Speeches Dos And Don’ts
• Wedding Party & Reception

Wedding Officiant Speeches Ideas + Free Templates

aliceshootspeople via Instagram

Wedding officiant speeches could be a bit tough to put together, especially if the officiant is green at the ears. This poses the issue of anxiety, trying to over-impress, or flopping totally.

Well, there is no one size fits all wedding minister speeches, because you tailor your speech according to wedding style. The kind of relationship you have with the couple also matters in the structure of your speech.

Quick Navigation

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the officiant introduce themselves.

The wedding officiant does not necessarily have to introduce themselves as everyone would know who they are and why they are there. They could start with a few lines such as: ‘Welcome everyone and thank you for being here to witness the union of (bride) and (bride).’

How does the officiant introduce wedding vows?

There is no official line for introducing the wedding vows, but a generic and one goes like this: ‘We have come to the point of your ceremony where you’re going to say your vows to one another. But before you do that, I ask you to remember that love, which is rooted in faith, trust, and acceptance, will be the foundation of an abiding and deepening relationship.’

ADVERTISEMENT

phuket_wedding_planner via Instagram

• If you’re officiating wedding speeches, you must discuss with the couple on what types of wedding ceremony they desire. Know their ideas, length, tone, style, and order of ceremony.
• Start of ceremony Begin your wedding minister’s speeches by welcoming the guests and passing on important information. Let them know if phones, pictures, or videos are prohibited.
• The processional Let the audience know it’s time for the couple to come in. “All guests stand as you see fit.” After the processional, ask them to sit. At this point, some officiants ask “who gives out the other.”
• The officiant’s speech Wedding ceremony speeches by officiants begin with a love story about the couple. You may also read a funny poem that makes meaning to the couple. Talk about love, commitment, and faithfulness.
• Rings exchange Say lines on commitment and ask them to repeat after you. For instance… “I honor you with this ring as a sign of my love…”
• Signing and pronouncements You’ll tell the guests what’s about to happen. After the couple signs, you’ll pronounce them as a couple.
• Close remarks Tell the guests what’s next. If there will be a photo session, reception, or get-together. Then thank them for coming.

kandkphoto via Instagram

Traditional Wedding Officiant Speech Sample

Traditional officiant wedding ceremony speeches follow the age-long template and procedure. Although things are changing, there are parts of the structure that remains untouched. And many other styles have adopted parts of the officiant speech template. Traditional speeches by officiant have depth and are particular about love, commitment, and faithfulness.

OPENING WORDS Friends, _____ and _____ have invited us here today, in the presence of God, to share in the celebration of their marriage. We who gather here today are separated by the many different experiences that we have had. Despite these differences, we gather here today in this place because we share something in common. We share a desire to affirm and support the relationship of _____ and _____. Marriage is an act of will. It requires a commitment to care for another person. By caring we show concern for the life and growth of those whom we love. Marriage requires a commitment to take responsibility for another person. By responding we experience the needs of that other person and try to help meet those needs. Today, guided by God’s love and wisdom, we affirm and celebrate _____ and _____ wedding day. [READINGS] THE QUESTION OF INTENT Before God, your friends, and your families, I ask you to affirm your willingness to enter the covenant of marriage and to share all the joys and sorrows of your lives and your relationship, whatever the future may hold. _____, do you take this woman to be your wife? Do you promise to love her, comfort her, honor and keep her, in sickness and in health as long as you both shall live? Groom: I do _____, do you take this man to be your husband? Do you promise to love him, comfort him, honor and keep him, in sickness and in health as long as you both shall live? Bride: I do Repeat after me. I take you, _____, this day as my wife/husband. I promise to walk by your side forever as your best friend and your soul mate. You are my beloved one and I am proud to marry you. I promise to support your dreams and to be there for you all our lives. EXCHANGE OF RINGS From the earliest times, the circle has been a symbol of completeness, a symbol of committed love. An unbroken and never-ending circle symbolizes a commitment of love that is also never-ending. This ring should be a reminder of the commitment to love each other that you have made today. Repeat after me. I, _____, give you _____, this ring as a symbol of my commitment to love, honor, and respect you. [THE UNITY CANDLE CEREMONY] BLESSING _____ and _____, you have now affirmed your love for each other before your family and friends. You have come from different background, have walked different paths. You are different individuals. Your love has transcended these differences. In the years before you may the richness of the traditions that have nurtured you enhance and brighten your lives as you help to create and shape the future. CLOSING WORDS May God bless you and keep you. _____ and _____, by the power vested in me, I now pronounce you husband and wife. Groom, you may kiss the bride. PRESENTATION OF THE NEW COUPLE It is my pleasure to present to you _____ and _____ as husband and wife.

Wedding Officiant Speech For A Friend’s Wedding

If you’re officiating a friend’s wedding, then you’ll have a relaxed environment. Your tone should be playful and even comedic. Get creative by lacing your speech with fun stories of your years together. But you must study and understand your audience so you don’t come across as crass and unappealing.

INTRODUCTION Welcome everyone! On this beautiful day, _______ and _______ have brought us together to celebrate their love and union in matrimony. Thank you all for joining us and being a part of their love story. After years of nurturing a beautiful, strong relationship, it’s great to see these two taking the next step towards building a family. I remember the day _______ told me about their first date. There was a light in her eyes that I’d never seen before. She was excited and nervous. She worried that ______ didn’t feel the same connection she felt. It warms my heart to see the way _______ looks at _______. He looks at her as if she’s the last and only woman on Earth, and to him, I know she is. I’ve seen these two be there for each other through life’s unexpected twists and turns, only growing closer and stronger from each setback. I’ve seen them share laughs, exchange inside jokes and most shocking of all, I’ve seen _______ share his dinner with _______, which is when I knew this was serious. Marriage isn’t easy but I trust these two. I have trust in their love, their friendship, and their commitment to one another. With that, I think it’s time to let them speak on their love. DECLARATION OF VOWS AND COMMITMENT _______ and ______, have you come here today of your own free will to declare your commitment to one another? We have. Do you promise to be there for each other in the good and the bad? To grow with, understand and respect one another during your life together? We do. Then please face each other and share your vows. [EXCHANGE OF VOWS] [EXCHANGE OF RINGS] Let these rings represent your eternal love and the promises you have made here today. Let them be a symbol of your unbreakable bond and this new beginning of your life together with no end in sight. ______, take _____’s ring and place it on her finger and repeat after me: With this ring, I promise to love and cherish you to the end of my days. ______, take _____’s ring and place it on his finger and repeat after me: With this ring, I promise to love and cherish you to the end of my days. Your love has now been strengthened by the promises you have made here today and the rings you have exchanged. PRONOUNCEMENT ______ and ______, we have heard the sincerity in your promise to share your lives in marriage. We recognize your love and support your decision to build a home together. By the power vested in me, I now pronounce you husband and wife. _______, you may kiss your bride! Everyone, give it up for Mr. and Mrs _______.

Funny Wedding Officiant Speech

A funny ceremony speech has humor-laced all over the script by officiants. The officiant uses humor to relay life facts. Humor gets easier if you have a personal relationship with the couple. But if you aren’t close and you’re not sure about how much to say, keep it light.

Welcome to all of you. Thank you for being here today. We are glad you could make it and hope you enjoy the day. We’d like to take a moment to also remember the people who can’t be here today. We are sure they are with us today in spirit. Marriage is so many things and we’ve created this ceremony to express many aspects of marriage. And the best the advice can come from the most interesting places. “Gravitation cannot be held responsible for people falling in love. How on earth can you explain in terms of chemistry and physics so important a biological phenomenon as first love? Put your hand on a stove for a minute and it seems like an hour. Sit with that special girl (or in the case of the reason we gather today, special boy or girl) for an hour and it seems like a minute. That’s relativity.” On cold winter nights, love is warm. It lies between you and lives and breaths and makes funny noises. Love wakes you up all hours of the night with its needs. It needs to be fed so it will grow and stay healthy. Love doesn’t like being left alone for long. But come home and love is always happy to see you. It may break a few things accidentally in its passion for life, but you can never be mad at love for long. Is love good all the time? No! No! Love can be bad. Bad, love, bad! Very bad love. Love makes messes. It leaves you little surprises here and there. Love needs lots of cleaning up after. But love makes you meet people wherever you go. People who have nothing in common but love stop and talk to each other on the street. Throw things away and love will bring them back, again, and again, and again. But most of all, love needs love, lots of it. And in return, love loves you and never stops. And now, for the wedding vows. Are you ready? Are you sure? Do you _____, solemnly swear that you will support and defend the institution of marriage against all enemies, foreign and domestic; Do you promise to honor and love _____ in sickness and in health, in good times and bad times, Do you promise to cherish her as your most beloved according to the regulations and the uniform code of love justice, so help you God? Yes, I do. Do you _____, solemnly swear that you will support and defend the institution of marriage against all enemies, foreign and domestic; Do you promise to honor and love _____ in sickness and in health, in good times and bad times, Do you promise to cherish her as your most beloved according to the regulations and the uniform code of love justice, so help you God? Yes, I do. EXCHANGE OF RINGS The wedding ring is an unbroken circle, which symbolizes unending and everlasting love. It is a visible symbol that represents your inner commitment to one another. Because these circles are designed without an ending they speak of eternity. May the incorruptible substance of these rings represent a love glowing with increasing luster through the years. May these rings which you give to each other be a sign of your love, trust, and faithfulness. Repeat after me: _____, I give you this ring as a sign of my lifelong devotion. Wear it and know that I love you. _____, I give you this ring as a sign of my lifelong devotion. Wear it and know that I love you. May your home be filled with laughter and the warm embrace of a summer day. And may you find peacefulness and beauty, challenge, and satisfaction, humor and insight, healing and renewal, love and wisdom, as in a quiet heart. May you always feel that what you have is enough. I now pronounce you Husband and Wife! You may kiss the bride!!!

Same-sex Wedding officiant Script template and Speech

martailardo_photos via Instagram

Even as an officiant, it might not always be easy to give great wedding officiant speeches. This template can serve as a guide to writing speeches for wedding officiants, for any type of wedding.

• Make the research – You could start by doing your homework. Go on the internet, and check places such as Google, Pinterest, Instagram, or Youtube for marriage officiant speech samples for same-sex weddings. You could streamline your search to find only funny speeches or more regular speeches and get unique ideas to work with.
• Start writing the draft – The beginning is always the hard part, so don’t procrastinate writing your officiant speech for a wedding ceremony. Even if you feel like you haven’t researched enough, just start. You can always edit your draft as you go along or write another one.
• To write awesome wedding speeches for an officiant for a same-sex wedding , you have to keep an open mind. A lot of the material you will find online would be for CIS heterosexual couples, so always keep your couple in mind and edit your speech where necessary. Create that speech that is uniquely theirs.

Same-Sex Wedding Ceremony Speech Template

lucy_till_french_weddings via Instagram

This can be considered an official guide or template for wedding officiant ceremonies and speeches for same-sex weddings. Following each step, you wouldn’t need to worry about getting your speech done anymore.

• Welcome Everyone No matter the type of wedding, whether you’re making a Persian wedding officiant speech or non-denominational, you’ll begin by welcoming all the guests and thanking them for their support to witness the couple get married and celebrate with them. Lots of them might have canceled schedules or traveled far to be there, so it would be nice to appreciate them.
• Talk About Marriage The body of officiant wedding speeches usually includes some lines about marriage. Since it’s the topic of the day, you could talk about it in general, reminding the couple why they are there and the seriousness of their commitment. You could also give them some advice on the ups and downs of marriage, the sweet and the bitter, the highs and the lows. Also, how the love that they share is what will get them through anything that life throws their way.
• Share a Personal Story (If you have one and time permits) Some of the best wedding officiant speeches come with a story. Stories are often the best way to pass a message across because it helps you to connect with people. It also helps them remember the message. So, if you have any stories about marriage to share, this would be the perfect place to share them. As the officiant, you might have a personal bond with the brides or grooms. Sharing your stories would be meaningful to them, and you could choose to share a sentimental and loving story or even an embarrassing one that could crack them up. You could also share an experience that you’ve had with the couple. A most loving or affectionate one that lets you know that they can weather any storm together. After this, you can continue with the vows.
• In Closing Wedding speeches for the officiant at same-sex weddings are usually not very different from those of CIS heterosexual couples. You can only make your wedding ceremony officiant speech unique by factoring in the specific couple when writing your speech. If their experiences and your experiences with them are present in the speech, then it should be perfect.

Every couple is unique so wedding officiant speeches should be crafted to fit each couple, same-sex, CIS gender, heterosexual or other. With these tips, you can hone your craft and write the best wedding officiant speeches ever.

• Selecting Appropriate Quotes: When choosing quotes for your wedding officiant speech, consider ones that reflect love, unity, and the couple’s journey. For instance, a quote like “Love is not about how many days, months, or years you have been together. Love is about how much you love each other daily.” – Unknown, can emphasize the enduring nature of their love.
• Incorporating Religious Verses or Texts: If the couple has a religious background, incorporate meaningful verses or texts from their faith. For example, you might use Corinthians 13:4-7 from the Bible, which speaks about love’s qualities: “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud…”
• Non-religious Inspirational Quotes: Opt for non-religious inspirational quotes for secular ceremonies. A quote like “The best thing to hold onto in life is each other.” – Audrey Hepburn, beautifully conveys the idea of cherishing the relationship and finding strength in each other.

Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them

• Nervousness or Stage Fright: When thinking about what to say when officiating a wedding, practice the speech several times beforehand, focus on slow, deep breathing, and make eye contact with friendly faces in the crowd to ease anxiety. Review your wedding officiant speech script until you’re comfortable with the flow.
• Handling Unexpected Situations: Stay calm and composed, acknowledge disruptions with humor or grace, and smoothly transition back into the wedding officiant speech script without dwelling on interruptions.
• Personal or Emotional Topics: Pause briefly if emotions overwhelm you, take deep breaths, and focus on the joy of the occasion. Keeping tissues or water nearby can also help manage emotional moments when delivering what to say when officiating a wedding.

Wedding Ceremony Speeches Dos And Don’ts

nicholsphoto via Instagram

•  Do get creative with your speech by blending in a sweet short story of the couple. If you’ve been a part of their lives for a long time, then you’re in the best position to make it rain. Talk about everything that’s okay for public ears. Tell their love story.
• Don’t veer off-topic or get over-excited that you start to sound boring. Stay on point and if you don’t have so much to say, keep it short. We advise that you have discreet cue cards that you can refer to. It helps keep you in check.
• Do keep humor light especially if you’re not close to the family. You don’t want to end up looking like a clown because your joke fell flat. Humor is a great icebreaker for weddings. But when you’re not sure about what to expect, keep it light. Don’t go overboard.
• Don’t forget to practice your speech until you can recite it naturally and off the heart. Also, spend some time learning the names you’d be pronouncing. You want to call these names right so you don’t end up pissing off guests.
• Do give a copy of the speech to the couple for keep.

Wedding officiant speeches can be very interesting and fulfilling if done right. You only need a few expert hacks to get by. You’ll consider the wedding style, the tone the couple wants to set, and the length of the wedding. This will help you determine how creative you can get with the officiant’s wedding speech. For creative inspiration, we’ve dropped some tips for writing officiant wedding speeches and officiant speech etiquette.

Thank you for reading. Please let us know how we did.

Your feedback helps improve and provide content that matters to you!

Was this article helpful?

Stories You Might Like

Great Parents Dance Wedding Songs: 30...

30 Beautiful Single-Stem Wedding...

Outstanding Wedding Table Decorations...

Sparkler Photo Ideas & Tips For Your...

Sexy Wedding Photos Guide 2024

Wedding Sexy Boudoir Photos For Groom

How to Craft the Perfect Mother of Groom...

24 Beatles Wedding Songs Everyone Will...

Wedding Balloon Decorations 25+ Best...

Bring The Tropics To Your Wedding With...

Creative Wedding Photo Ideas &...

6 Most Popular Wedding Types You Should...

25 Free Wedding Planning Checklists

Fill in all required * fields below to receive the checklists bundle.

By submitting this form you agree to receive promotional emails from Wedding Forward about other checklists, wedding planning articles, products, and other wedding related topics. You may unsubscribe at any time. Check out our Privacy Policy for more information.

Wedding Officiant Speech Script For Memorable Ceremonies

Wedding ceremonies are moments filled with love, joy, and sentimental memories. As a wedding officiant, your role becomes even more significant as you have the opportunity to add a personal touch to the ceremony through your speech. Crafting a well-prepared wedding officiant speech can create a lasting impact and make the ceremony truly memorable. In this article, we will explore the importance of a wedding officiant speech, provide tips on writing an effective script, and offer examples to inspire your own speech.

Importance of a Wedding Officiant Speech

A wedding officiant speech holds great significance as it serves as a bridge between the couple and their loved ones. It is a moment where you have the chance to express heartfelt sentiments, share personal anecdotes, and convey your blessings for the newlyweds. This speech not only sets the tone for the entire ceremony but also creates a warm and intimate atmosphere, leaving an enduring impression on everyone present.

Understanding the Role of a Wedding Officiant

Before delving into the specifics of crafting a wedding officiant speech script, it is essential to grasp the responsibilities of a wedding officiant. Your primary role is to solemnize the marriage, but beyond that, you also serve as a guide, a supporter, and a storyteller. As a wedding officiant, you have the unique opportunity to connect with the couple and their guests, ensuring that the ceremony reflects their love story and values.

Preparing for the Wedding Officiant Speech

Basic structure of a wedding officiant speech.

When it comes to structuring your wedding officiant speech, it is helpful to follow a basic outline to ensure a well-organized and engaging delivery. Start with an engaging opening line that captures the attention of the audience. Then, proceed to share personal stories and anecdotes about the couple, showcasing their journey and unique qualities. Express your sentiments and well wishes for their future together. Take a moment to acknowledge and thank the guests for their presence. Offer words of wisdom and advice based on your own experiences or observations. Finally, end the speech on a memorable note, leaving everyone with a sense of joy and celebration.

Writing a Wedding Officiant Speech Script

When writing your wedding officiant speech script, it is crucial to strike the right tone and style. You want to create a balance between formality and warmth, ensuring that your words resonate with both the couple and the guests. Incorporate LSI keywords and synonyms related to love, marriage, and commitment to optimize your script for search engines.

Personalizing the speech is key, so take the time to understand the couple’s story, their values, and their relationship dynamics. This will enable you to craft a speech that feels authentic and tailored specifically to them. Organize your ideas in a logical flow to maintain the audience’s interest and understanding. You can also use relevant quotes or poems that encapsulate the essence of love and marriage.

Adding humor and light-hearted moments can help create a relaxed atmosphere. However, it is crucial to select appropriate and respectful jokes that align with the couple’s personalities and values. Practice your speech several times to familiarize yourself with the content and improve your delivery. This will help you convey your message with confidence and ensure a smooth and heartfelt delivery.

Tips for Delivering a Memorable Wedding Officiant Speech

While writing a well-crafted wedding officiant speech is essential, delivering it effectively is equally important. Here are some tips to help you deliver a memorable wedding officiant speech:

• Confidence and composure are key. Maintain a calm and confident demeanor throughout your speech.
• Pay attention to your body language and project your voice clearly so that everyone can hear you.
• Timing and pace are crucial. Pace your speech accordingly, allowing for pauses and emphasizing key moments.
• Engage the audience’s emotions by using heartfelt language, expressing your love for the couple, and sharing touching anecdotes.
• If desired, you can utilize visual aids or props to enhance your speech and captivate the audience.
• If you experience nervousness or public speaking anxiety, take deep breaths and remember that everyone is there to celebrate love and support the couple.

Examples of Wedding Officiant Speeches

To provide you with some inspiration, here are a few examples of wedding officiant speeches:

Speech for a Close Friend or Family Member

“Today, we gather to celebrate the love between [Couple’s Names]. As someone who has witnessed their journey from the beginning, I am overwhelmed with joy to stand here as their wedding officiant. From the moment they met, their connection was undeniable. Their love is a shining example of what true partnership and commitment look like. Through thick and thin, they have supported each other, making each day brighter with their unwavering love. I am honored to be a part of their special day and wish them a lifetime of happiness.”

Speech for a Couple You Are Less Familiar With

“On this beautiful day, we come together to celebrate the union of [Couple’s Names]. Although I may not have known them for a long time, it is clear that their love is something truly special. Their connection radiates joy and brings people together. It is a testament to the power of love and how it can transform lives. Today, we gather to witness the beginning of their lifelong journey, and I couldn’t be more excited to be a part of this momentous occasion. May their love be everlasting and their future filled with endless possibilities.”

Speech for a Traditional or Cultural Wedding

“Honored guests, family, and friends, today we gather to celebrate not only the love between [Couple’s Names] but also the rich traditions and customs that have blossomed throughout their journey. Their union represents the merging of two families and the continuation of longstanding heritage. Let us embrace the beauty of their culture and traditions as we come together as one community, united in love and respect. May their union be blessed with harmony, prosperity, and everlasting love.”

Crafting a memorable wedding officiant speech requires a thoughtful approach and a genuine connection with the couple. By following the tips provided in this article and drawing inspiration from the examples, you can create a script that resonates with both the couple and their loved ones. Remember that your words have the power to create lasting memories, so take the time to prepare and deliver a speech that truly captures the essence of love and celebration.

I officiated another wedding! Here’s my speech script…

Woohoo! I officiated another friend’s wedding 🙂 And I want to share the speech script in hopes that it helps others out there if they are asked to be a wedding officiant.

Before creating this script, I did a lot of googling, talked with older married couples , and pondered a lot about marriage. It took a few weeks of random note taking before I was able to piece together a nice flowing script.

Just like last time, I was given rough parameters:

• Can include a little religion, but not too much
• Please acknowledge relatives
• Keep it short and swift 🙂
• Couple have written their own vowels

That all being said, here is what I came up with 👇👇👇

Wedding Officiant Speech Script:

STAND UP STRAIGHT    |    BREATHE    |    SMILE

WELCOME everyone!!!!!

• Please be seated
• And please silence your cell phones
• My name is Joel, I have the pleasure of officiating this marriage 🙂

(OK, let’s see if I can get through this without crying (haha))

First off – [Groom’s Mom]… THANK YOU for inviting all these friends and family into your beautiful home, and everything you’ve done to host this special day.

[Groom’s Dad] – he’s here in spirit, and I can’t imagine him being more proud of you [Groom].

And [Bride’s Mom] and [Bride’s Dad]. Thank you for being here and supporting this marriage! [Bride] and [Groom] aren’t just officially starting their new family today, they are expanding yours. 🙂

<pause, take a breathe>

I’m convinced — that the foundations of a true marriage – begin way before the actual wedding day happens.

I’ve had the pleasure of watching [Bride] and [Groom] grow as a couple over the past few years, and they formed strong foundations in their relationship a while ago. They survived COVID together, they’ve traveled to exotic places together, merged both their day to day lives, as well as long term life plans.

One of the things [Bride] and [Groom] both told me (separately and early on in their relationship) about each other is that their morals are aligned. And that they were impressed with each other’s true character. How cool is that!?…

For two people who are – let’s be honest – quite different in their backgrounds and personalities and tendencies… For example… During Covid while [Groom] was clorox wiping down all the groceries and food packages in the house, [Bride] was still abiding by the 5 second rule.

But seriously, as opposite as some of these characteristics are —> [Bride] and [Groom] have actually found a perfect fit. Their core values match.

And the reason this foundation is so important is because a marriage continues to build and adapt for the rest of your life.

A wedding is not a validation of what you have today. Your not just agreeing that you both love each other currently… You’re agreeing that you will love each other —> forever, no matter what happens in life.. you’re agreeing to love the future person that your partner turns into.

You’re agreeing to hard work. You’re committing to tackle the scary and unknown together. You’re committing to sacrifice. You’re agreeing to set aside the things you want individually and prioritizing building the life that the other person dreams of.

You’re agreeing to give 100%, always and forever.

Scary, right? (lol)

Nah… it’s not scary.

Today was meant to be. Ask anyone here with a sole mate – “How do you know when you’ve found the right one?”…

They’ll tell you… “You just know”. You know because you trust them. Because you trust their core values and true character. Just like [Bride] and [Groom]  guys do.

(Oh yeah, marriage is also really fun – despite all the seriousness) LOL.

I have no doubt you guys are going to have a long and successful marriage.

So, if you’re ready… I’m gonna ask you some questions, so you can attest your commitment to each other…

<bride and groom nod they are ready>

• Do you both choose each other to be partners for life? [We do]
• Do you choose to trust and respect each other, and support one another in good times and in bad times? [We do]
• Do you love what you know about each other today, and trust what you do not yet know? [We do]

And now [Bride] and [Groom] are going to share some personal vowels they have written to each other.

—> Groom Vowels. (2 mins)

—> Bride Vowels. (3 mins)

Ok. Let’s get the rings….

RINGS: These rings are a symbol of life long commitment. They seal the vows you have just taken to love each other for the rest of your lives.

By the power vested in me, and by the strength of your own love, I now pronounce you, MARRIED!

You may kiss each other!

That’s it! The wedding went really well and I got great feedback from guests.

This is the second wedding I’ve officiated, and we’ll see if I get asked again. If you haven’t checked it out, here’s the original wedding officiant speech I wrote the first time. Hopefully this will give you ideas when writing yours.

Wishing you luck for the upcoming special wedding day!!

Share This:

• Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on LinkedIn (Opens in new window)

Photo Books

• Fleece Blankets
• Ceramic Mugs
• Wedding Invites
• Anniversaries
• Baby Showers
• Cards and Stationery
• Father's Day
• Photo Prints

Wedding Invitations

Christmas Cards

Canvas Prints

Photo Ornaments

Framed Prints

Photo Blankets

Photo Puzzles

Wedding officiant speech ideas for a friend’s wedding + templates.

Written by  Shutterfly Community Last Updated: Jul 14, 2023

Short And Sweet Wedding Ceremony Template

Playful and humorous wedding ceremony template, how to prepare.

• Meet with the couple beforehand to get an idea of what they expect or wish to see at their ceremony. Be sure to discuss the length, tone and order of your speech. Whether they prefer a short ceremony, a secular officiant script or want to add their own creative spin, you’ll be prepared to provide that for them.
• Start writing your speech as early as possible and ask the couple for feedback. It’s always best to have a third party review your speech for any errors.
• Ask the couple for any rules they wish to implement during the ceremony. They may want to ask guests to silence their phones or refrain from taking too many photos.
• Establish the order of the ceremony with the couple. Some couples opt to sign legal documents at the ceremony in front of their friends and family, while others prefer to sign them in private, either before or after the ceremony. Make sure you know how they wish to proceed with this component of their wedding.
• Confirm that the marriage license is valid. States have different laws regarding the window of time a license is valid and can be signed.
• Be prepared for how and when to submit legal documents. Once the license has been verified, complete all relevant fields. On their wedding day, make sure all required parties have signed including yourself, the couple and witnesses.
• Be aware of any filing deadlines in your state and return the license to its issuance office appropriately. In many states, the couple can return the marriage license themselves.

From An Acquaintance

Dos and Don’ts

• Do include a short and sweet anecdote about their love story. If you know how they met or got engaged, weave it into the speech to make it unique to the couple.
• Don’t get off topic. Avoid going on a tangent by keeping your script short and to the point.
• Do practice your speech and the names of important family members. Depending on the style of the wedding, some speeches thank or mention parents and grandparents of the couple so you want to make sure you’ve got their names down.
• Don’t go heavy on the jokes. Humor is great but when in doubt, keep it light. If you don’t know the family very well, some jokes may fall flat or not go over well with certain family members.
• Do type up a nice copy of your speech for the couple to keep afterward.

INTRODUCTION

Declaration of vows and commitment.

EXCHANGE OF RINGS

Shop Trending Categories

PRONOUNCEMENT

From a close friend or family member.

• Do include an endearing short story about the bride and/or groom. Use this story to add a little playfulness to your speech and pull at the heartstrings of friends and family.
• Don’t tell embarrassing stories about the bride or groom. Keep your stories light and focused on their love for one another.
• Do write a unique introduction. Since you know them personally, give yourself the freedom to stray from the traditional wedding ceremony introductions.
• Don’t go into too much detail. Although you know the couple well, they may have invited acquaintances and distant friends to the ceremony so keep your speech concise.
• Do type up a nice copy of your speech for the couple to keep afterward. A great wedding gift idea would be a framed print of their vows they can cherish for years to come.

Explore Categories

Custom Photo Blankets

Written by Shutterfly Community | View all posts

★ Lifestyle Expert

Shutterfly Community is here to help capture and share life's most important moments. Discover thoughtful gifts, creative ideas and endless inspiration to create meaningful memories with family and friends.

Visit their Website . You can follow on Instagram and Pinterest .

• Become a Minister
• Ministry Supplies
• Perform a Marriage
• Wedding Scripts
• Marriage Laws
• Find a Minister

How to Deliver the Perfect Wedding Officiant Speech

By The Wedding Officiant Experts at GetOrdained.org

It’s an enormous honor to be asked to officiate a wedding or vow renewal ceremony, and we all want to deliver that perfect heartfelt message.

But what if you’re unsure on what to say during the ceremony? You’re in the right place: this comprehensive guide breaks down how to write and execute a memorable wedding officiant speech.

It also features excerpts from our most popular, expertly-curated ceremony scripts and outlines to give you real examples of what your officiant speech could look and sound like.

But before you get too far into planning, take a moment to feel excited and proud about being asked to officiate a wedding! Couples typically invite an individual of deep significance to officiate their wedding ceremony, as it symbolizes the culmination of their journey into married life.

They wanted someone special to them to tie the knot, and that person is you. Congratulations!

FYI: if you need to order your official credentials or any other wedding supplies in advance of the day, you can find those in our online catalog .

Okay, now we’ve got a ceremony script to write.

How to Prepare an Officiant Wedding Speech

It often surprises first-time officiants when they learn that there is no formal framework for a wedding ceremony script. In fact, they don’t necessarily need to deliver a speech at all! Couples and officiants are free to plan the ceremony however they please, so long as a couple basic legal requirements are met.

With that said, when formulating a wedding script, examining the traditional framework of a marriage ceremony can be a helpful place to start.

What does an officiant do during the ceremony?

Generally, the wedding officiant will make an introductory speech, then lead the couple through the different parts of the ceremony – instructing them on when to share their wedding vows and exchange rings, when to kiss, etc. – and at the end, declare them married.

The officiant’s ultimate job is to guide the couple from section to section, ensuring both that the necessary legal obligations are met and that all the ceremony elements the couple wants are included.

What makes a wedding officiant speech stand out?

There’s a secret to delivering a killer officiant speech: don’t think of it as a presentation, think of it as a film.

The folks getting married are the stars, and as the officiant, you’re the writer and director (with a very special cameo)! The officiant’s primary job is to get everyone from point A to point B.

Similar to a film, each “cast member” has a distinct part to play, taking turns delivering dialogue from an established script; from the vows, to the kiss, to the pronouncement, most parts of a wedding are pre-scripted.

Your main creative contribution as the officiant comes in the introduction (sometimes called the “invocation”). This opening section of the ceremony involves greeting attendees, emphasizing the importance of the occasion, and relaying details about the couple's relationship.

So, what does this all look like in practice?

Let’s look at some real examples! The following is a sample wedding officiant speech, with excerpts pulled from various officiant speeches featured in our wedding ceremony script collection .

Overview of a Wedding Officiant Speech With Examples

1. invocation.

In this introductory section, the officiant greets guests and acknowledges the occasion for which everyone is gathered. These opening remarks typically focus on the importance of the occasion and how the couple got to where they are today.

Thank you for being here today as _______________ and _______________ enter into a lifelong civil union. Today we celebrate the separate journeys that brought them together, and we usher them toward the new journey they will embark upon as partners.

A true lasting marriage requires effort, commitment, and unending respect. As _______________ and _______________ declare their love on this day, we reflect on the meaning of partnership and its importance to a successful union. Partners, in life, think of one another as teammates, equally capable, but each arriving with their own special skills.

A marriage thrives when each partner chooses to value the other: for everything they are, and for everything they’re not. There is no limit to what a partnership can accomplish when trust and admiration flow abundantly. Today, _______________ and _______________ acknowledge this with excitement as they prepare to join hands in marriage.

Like this excerpt? It came from our non-denominational wedding script . All ULC sample scripts are free to download!

2. Declaration of Intent

In this section, the officiant leads the couple in affirming their desire to be married. This part is necessary for the wedding to be declared legal.

OFFICIANT (to couple) :

_______________ and _______________, you may join hands.

OFFICIANT (to Partner 1) :

_______________, do you take _______________ as your lawfully married partner?

OFFICIANT (to Partner 2) :

This sample declaration of intent comes from our quick wedding script , which is available for free.

3. Exchange of Vows

In this portion of the ceremony, the couple shares their wedding vows with one another – either by reciting statements spoken by the officiant or by reading or reciting vows they wrote themselves.

_______________ and _______________ will now share their written vows. _______________, you may go first.

[Partner 1 shares vows]

_______________, please share with us what you’ve written for _______________.

[Partner 2 shares vows]

Section sourced from this offbeat wedding script , available to download free of charge.

4. Ring Exchange

During the ring exchange, the bride and groom exchange their wedding rings. The officiant will typically reference the symbolism of this exchange and a reminder of its significance.

_______________ and _______________: as you exchange your rings today, you are also reinforcing your faithful commitment to trust, love, and romance. Each ring serves as a constant reminder that you are loved. Your beloved is giving you the most precious gift on Earth through love.

[Couple exchanges rings]

This excerpt is found in our romantic wedding script – which can be accessed for free!)

5. Pronouncement

During the Pronouncement, the wedding officiant may congratulate the couple and then pronounce them wed (this part is legally required) .

Well, there’s no turning back now! By the power vested in me by the Universal Life Church, I now pronounce you spiritually and legally united. You may kiss!

(This simple and approachable pronouncement comes from this cute wedding script , which can be downloaded free of charge).

Tips For the Best Wedding Officiant Speech

Hopefully this guide helped you to envision what your wedding ceremony script might look like.

Before we conclude, a few final bits of advice:

The goal of the wedding ceremony is to place emphasis on the couple and the love they share. You don't have to give a long-winded presentation – it’s important to keep the focus on the significance of the occasion. Injecting some humor into the proceedings can be a nice touch, but generally try not to overdo it.

Your job as the master of ceremonies is to compassionately guide the couple through every stage of their wedding ceremony, like acts in a play.

Finally, don’t sweat the small stuff. When all is said and done, they’ll be married! And that’s the most important thing.

Congratulations on a job well done, and don't forget to enjoy yourself!

Haven’t yet become ordained? Ordination is free, instant, and the first step to performing a legal wedding ceremony!

AMERICAN WEDDINGS BLOG

Stay up to date with the latest wedding ceremony trends, script writing inspiration, tips and advice for first-time officiants, and news that matters to couples and wedding ministers.

BLOG CATEGORIES

Trending tags, share this article.

first time officiants wedding and ceremony planning wedding ceremony script

A Simple Wedding Script to Use When a Friend Officiates Your Ceremony

Published Thursday, Aug. 4th, 2022

Written by Jessica Levey

Este articulo en español

This Friend Officiating wedding script makes it easy for a friend to officiate! Fill in the blanks for an officiant speech that's simple, short & sweet.

A Simple 'Friend Officiating' wedding ceremony script plus tips for officiating a friend's wedding 

C ongratulations! We can’t think of a better way to start a new chapter in life than standing side by side with the people you love the most. 

Your friend will need to get ordained , then you can start planning the perfect wedding ceremony together. For step-by-step instructions on what friends and relatives must do in order to officiate read: 

• Can you legally perform a wedding ceremony for your friends and family? Yes!
• Get ordained online free with American Marriage Ministries

Once the initial paperwork is taken care of, all that’s left is finding the perfect wording to celebrate the happy occasion. 

To make it easy, we created the simple wedding ceremony template below for you, your partner, and your friend officiant to complete together. 

How to use this Wedding Ceremony Script Template with a Friend Officiant: 

Fill in each blank section with details from you and your partner’s relationship by answering the provided questions. This can be completed in only a few minutes, but we suggest you take your time and make a fun day of it. 

Put it all together, and you’ve got a sweet wedding script that’s ready to go on the wedding day! 

The Perfect Wedding Script for a Friend Officiant 

A ‘Friend Officiating’ Wedding Ceremony Script Template. Add details from your love story for a custom ceremony that's unique to YOU! 

• See this wedding script in Spanish

PROCESSION / PROCESSIONAL

• GUESTS ARE SEATED. THE COUPLE ENTERS & THE CEREMONY BEGINS.

OFFICIANT TO THE RECEPTION

Welcome friends and family. A wedding is such a wonderful occasion, filled with hopes, dreams, and excitement. We’ve gathered here today to celebrate the love between [PARTNER A] and [PARTNER B], and to witness the depth of that love as they join together in the commitment of marriage. 

In the [number of months or years] that they’ve known each other, these two have had countless adventures together, made joyful memories, and supported and comforted each other through difficult days and weeks.  

They’ve ____________________________________, ____________________________________, and ____________________________________. 

For the couple: What are three of your favorite memories together? What is something the two of you overcame that you could never have done alone? Include your most important moments here to share with friends and family.

And with patience, understanding, laughter, and honesty, they’ve grown into the couple you see before you. 

Now, they are ready to spend the rest of their lives together, building new memories as [husband and wife / partners for life / etc.]

OFFICIANT TO THE COUPLE

The foundations of a true marriage begin long before the wedding day, and the efforts of marriage continue long after the ceremony ends. A brief moment in time and the stroke of a pen are all it takes to form the legal bond of marriage, but it takes a lifetime of love, commitment, and compromise to make marriage durable and everlasting.

When you asked me to share this special day with you, my heart filled with joy. I can’t imagine two people better suited to each other. I’ve had the privilege of know you both for [amount of time], and watched you  ____________________________________ and ____________________________________. I’ve witnessed your respect and love for each other as you weathered ups and downs together, strengthened by your __________, __________, and __________. 

For the officiant: What are two of your favorite memories of the couple? These can be activities the three of you did together, or memories you have of them that demonstrate their compatibility and strengths.  For the officiant: What are the couple’s best qualities as a team? What qualities do they bring out in each other? For example: humor, compassion, and devotion.  

Today you declare your commitment to each other before family and friends.

DECLARATION OF INTENT

OFFICIANT TO PARTNER A

Do you [PARTNER A], take [PARTNER B] to be your [wife/ husband/ spouse], to love, honor, and cherish, through all of life’s ups and downs, sharing the days in joy and comfort, from this day forward?

• PARTNER A RESPONDS WITH AN AFFIRMATION.

OFFICIANT TO PARTNER B

Do you [PARTNER B], take [PARTNER A] to be your [wife/ husband/ spouse], to love, honor, and cherish, through all of life’s ups and downs, sharing the days in joy and comfort, from this day forward?

• PARTNER B RESPONDS WITH AN AFFIRMATION.

RINGS EXCHANGE

You’ve chosen to exchange rings [or gifts] as a symbol of the promises you make here today. They will be a reminder to you of the love you’ve cultivated these past [number of years], and of all the joys yet undiscovered, that lie on your journey ahead. 

When you’re ready, [Partner A], you can go first.  

PARTNER A TO PARTNER B

[PARTNER B], I give you this ring as a symbol of my love. I promise to  ____________________________________, ____________________________________, and ____________________________________. I will never  ____________________________________, and always ____________________________________. I love you always.  

• PARTNER A PLACES THE RING ON PARTNER B'S FINGER.

For Partner A: What are three promises you want to make to your partner on your wedding day? Or, what are the three things you value most about being someone’s spouse?  Then, what is one thing you promise never to do? This is a good opportunity to add humor, something light hearted and funny to make your partner smile. Or, if it suits the tone, choose something that you know is very important to your partner.  And last, what is something you promise to do every single day of your marriage? 

  OFFICIANT TO PARTNER B

[Partner B], you’re up.

PARTNER B TO PARTNER A

[PARTNER A], I give you this ring as a symbol of my love. I promise to  ____________________________________, ____________________________________, and ____________________________________. I will never  ____________________________________, and always ____________________________________. I love you always. 

• PARTNER B PLACES THE RING ON PARTNER A'S FINGER.

For Partner B: What are three promises you want to make to your partner on your wedding day? Or, what are the three things you value most about being someone’s spouse?  Then, what is one thing you promise never to do? This is a good opportunity to add humor, something light hearted and funny to make your partner smile. Or, if it suits the tone, choose something that you know is very important to your partner.  And last, what is something you promise to do every single day of your marriage? 

PRONOUNCEMENT

OFFICIANT TO THE RECEPTION AND COUPLE

It is my great honor to stand beside you both today, joined by the people that love and support you the most, as you take this next step. 

By the power vested in me by the State of [Name of Wedding State], I pronounce you [husband and wife / wife and wife/ partners for life / married/ etc.]. 

You may kiss!

Family and friends, I present to you for the first time, the newlyweds! Let’s celebrate them! 

recession/ RECESSIONAL

• End of the Wedding Ceremony.

Not what you're looking for?    Visit the Wedding Ceremony Script Library

We know that writing a ceremony from scratch can be a daunting process, especially if you’re officiating on short notice.   To make things easier, we keep our Sample Wedding Ceremony Scripts Library well stocked with wedding ceremony templates and sample scripts for you to choose from. These scripts are a great starting point, with sections to add to, leave out, or reorganize, as you personalize a ceremony.    You'll find a variety of religious and non-religious ceremonies to choose from.  

Become a Wedding Officiant with AMM and Officiate a Wedding! 

American Marriage Ministries is a nondenominational inclusive internet church that ordains and trains ministers to officiate marriage ceremonies. We are a recognized 501(c)(3) nonprofit church, and welcome people of all backgrounds and beliefs.

Officiating weddings is an incredible honor, and a great way to show your love and support for the people getting married. As a wedding officiant, you will help to create memorable ceremonies and memories that last a lifetime.

Our ordinations are free, accessible, and never expire. Just  click here to start the online ordination application,  it only takes a minute to complete.

AMM Ministers are authorized to officiate weddings in every state* (it's much harder in  Virginia , where we're looking into our options). After getting ordained with AMM, you might need to register your ordination with your local county clerk’s office. Click the links below to get started! 

• Become an AMM Minister today!
• Weddings by State: Officiant Registration Requirements

  You might also like: 

• More Than Words: 5 Body Language Tips for New Officiants
• The secret to a perfect wedding officiant speech (with examples)  

One of our favorite ways to find the perfect wording for a wedding officiant speech or wedding script is to think of the ceremony as a theater play, with you and your couple performing unique roles. Read the full article here. 

  Browse  Articles for First Time Officiants  

Lead Staff Writer & Illustrator

Jessica loves exploring the history and magic of ritual, the connections between people and places, and sharing true stories about love and commitment. She's an advocate for marriage equality, LGBTQ+ rights, and individuality, and is an ordained Minister with AMM. When she’s not writing or illustrating for AMM, she enjoys city hikes, fantasy novels, comics, and traveling.

Last Article:

Next Article:

How To Officiate By State

Who Will Officiate Your Wedding?

Choose Your Officiant with our "Will You Marry Us?" Gift Package.

Signature Wedding Officiant Package

Our premiere package contains everyting you need to officiate like a pro.

The Book of Wedding Vows and Ceremonies

It's finally here! Timeless scripts and heartfelt vow inspiration to bring life to your ceremony.

Professional Wedding Officiant Certification Course

Learn from the Pros to Officiate with Confidence!

POPULAR ARTICLES

How to Perform a Unity Candle Ceremony (for Wedding Officiants)

Celebrating 5 Years of AMM’s 'American Weddings' Blog!

How Much Does it Cost to Get Ordained Online in Maine to Officiate a Wedding?

Most Weddings Include a ‘Moment of Silence’ or Memorial Table for Deceased Lo...

Tickets on Sale NOW for AMM’s Chicago Wedding Officiant Education & Networkin...

Avoiding a Terrible Wedding Toast -- What *Not* To Do

Donate to amm.

Your generosity keeps American Marriage Ministries running.

Wedding Officiant Training

Everything you need to know to officiate.

Sample Wedding Ceremony Scripts

Need inspiration? Check out our free ceremony scripts!

Subscribe To Our Newsletter!

Become a Wedding Officiant with Our Free Online Ordination!

• Certified Officiants

Officiate With This Perfect 10-Part Wedding Ceremony Script

So you need to write a wedding ceremony script and officiate a wedding . Instead of grabbing a canned pre-written sample from one of the 695,691 webpages out there, start with the 10-part wedding ceremony script outline I use every weekend instead.

A canned script is restrictive right out of the gate. It says, “I’m not really sure what I’m doing.” When we use a wedding ceremony script outline , it communicates to our couple that we’re structured and flexible. The process ends up being way more collaborative, and the finished script ends up being way more personal.

It’s the difference between “Hey, I bought this cake. Now eat it,” and “Hey, let’s make a cake!” Or… something.

Call up your couple, sit down with them for an hour over a drink, and brainstorm through this standard 10-part wedding ceremony script outline. Talk over the personal elements they might want to add. I’ve included some of the most common variations when relevant so you can discuss some options.

Here is the ceremony script outline I start with for 100% of the weddings I officiate.

1. Officiant Opening Remarks

The wedding officiant takes the front with Partner 1 and Partner 1’s party (down the aisle or from the side), and then the officiant makes some brief opening remarks.

• Welcome the guests.
• Announce whether photos are allowed.
• Ask guests to please turn phones to silent.
• “With that, let’s begin!” That’s the cue for the processional.

Variations:

• After the officiant and Partner 1 and Partner 1’s party enter, maybe some grandparents or other important family members enter and are seated in the front row before the officiant speaks.
• If Partner 1 and his/her party are part of the processional, the officiant can enter alone and make the opening remarks alone before anyone else enters.

2. The Processional

The music starts, and the wedding processional begins.

• Ring boys and/or flower girls and/or junior bridesmaids enter.
• Partner 2’s party enters in single file.
• The officiant asks guests, “Please stand for [Partner 2] as you’re able.”
• Partner 2 enters with parent(s), walk the aisle, and stop at the front row.
• Partner 1 steps forward to receive Partner 2 at front row.
• Partners and parents exchange handshakes, hugs, and kisses with parent(s).
• Partner 1 and Partner 2 stand in front of the officiant, facing each other holding hands.
• The officiant invites guests to be seated.
• Sometimes when Partner 2 and his/her escort arrive at the front row, the music fades and the officiant asks who gives Partner 2 away or who supports this union. Partner 2’s escort answers, “I do.”
• The ring boys and/or flower girls and/or junior bridesmaids can enter either first in the processional or just before Partner 2.

3. The Officiant’s Speech

What makes today so important in the life of this couple? It’s the promises they are making to always be there for each other (“vows”) in front of their closest friends and family. Here’s where the officiant says some things about that.

Some suggestions for what to say:

• share a story about the couple,
• read a poem or excerpt from a book that is meaningful to the couple,
• say something deep and philosophical about commitment and faithfulness,
• add some prayers or blessings from the couple’s religious tradition.

Be creative, respectful, and remember everyone there wants to have fun and be engaged! (Well, except the couple. They don’t wanna be engaged anymore. Heh. See what I did there…? Ohhhkay.)

We may be legally required to say a couple of things in the ceremony, and I like to add them to the end of the speech. A couple of those things might be:

• “If anyone knows of any legal reason why these two may not be married today, please speak now.”
• “[Partner 1] and [Partner 2], do you stand here today to give yourselves to each other in marriage.”

How do we know if we have to include these things in the ceremony? Google up on the laws in your state or province.

4. The Exchange of Vows

This is when the couple makes promises to each other. It’s kinda the biggest part of the day. No pressure.

Have no fear! See my two blog posts on the three ways to say wedding vows and my curated list of favourite wedding vows.

5. The Exchange of Rings

The Best Man is usually holding both rings. The officiant states that the couple will now exchange rings as a physical symbol of the promises they’re making today.

• The Best Man gives Partner 2’s ring to Partner 1.
• Partner 1 slides the ring on Partner 2’s finger.
• The officiant asks Partner 1 to repeat a few lines about giving this ring as a symbol and a reminder of his/her commitment (i.e. “I give you this ring/as a sign of my commitment to you.”).
• The Best Man gives Partner 1’s ring to the officiant. (So that he doesn’t have to cut across the front.)
• The officiant gives the ring to Partner 2.
• Partner 2 slides the ring on Partner 1’s finger.
• The officiant asks Partner 2 to repeat a few lines about giving this ring as a symbol and a reminder of his/her commitment (i.e. “I give you this ring/as a sign of my commitment to you.”).

6. Pronouncing the Couple as Married

“Well now, in front of your closest friends and family (and by the authority given be by the province/state of _________ ), I pronounce you husband and wife/married! [Partner 1], you may kiss [Partner 2]!”

• Some officiants put this element after the signing, but I like to put it before. That way, everyone has clapped and cheered and the signing is more relaxed with a party-like atmosphere, rather than stiffer and more ceremonial.

7. Signing the Legal Documents

Is this a legal ceremony? The officiant tells the guests that the couple is going to sign some papers and we will all be back in just a few minutes.

• Music starts.
• If the officiant is legalizing the ceremony (or someone else in attendance is doing that), head over to the table and sign with the required number of witnesses (usually the Best Man and Maid of Honour).
• When finished, everyone comes back to the centre as before and the officiant gets ready to make some closing remarks.
• Sometimes the couple opts to do this in private with the witnesses before or after the ceremony.
• Some countries do this before or after the ceremony, so you can leave this out if it’s not customary where you’re from.

8. Officiant Closing Remarks

This is mostly practical, next-steps stuff. The officiant tells the guests 1) what the couple is doing next, 2) what the guests need to do next, and 3) thank you for coming. For example:

• “[Partner 1] and [Partner 2] are heading out briefly for photos and will rejoin us shortly,”
• “In the meantime, you are all invited out to the terrace where drinks and refreshments will be served, with the reception to follow shortly after.”
• “On behalf of the happy couple, thanks for coming and have a wonderful evening!”

9. Presentation of the Couple

Here’s where the couple gets officially presented to everyone for the first time. This is what I typically say:

• “Finally, stand with me now; it is my distinct honour to present to you for the first time: _______ and _______ as husband and wife/married!” or an alternative (i.e. “Mr. and Mrs. _______!”).

10. The Recessional

• The recessional music starts immediately.
• The couple heads up the aisle.
• When the couple has cleared the aisle completely (no photo-bombing and traffic jams!), the two wedding parties follow in pairs, linking arms and starting with Best Man and Maid of Honour.
• The officiant goes to Partner 2’s family, offers congratulations, and motions them to exit up the aisle.
• The officiant goes to Partner 1’s family, offers congratulations, and motions them to exit up the aisle.
• Finally, the officiant stands and motions the subsequent second rows to exit.

There you have it!

Now, one thing to note here at the end. This is a standard 10-part wedding ceremony outline. Our couple may expand it out to 22 parts or 648 parts by adding readings or rituals involving multiple family members, fire, sand, doves, F-18 flyovers, clowns, alcohol, etc.

Just go with it! And remember: it’s not our job to coordinate all the minute details like bringing all the candles and birdcages! Our role as Officiant is to facilitate and accommodate what they want their ceremony to look like and make the space for it to happen. Use my standard 10-part ceremony script outline as a starting point, and craft any style of perfect wedding ceremony from there.

If you feel you need more help, I offer a full wedding script + 1-on-1 coaching service here , and a full wedding officiating course called Unboring!Wedding Academy here.

Now get out there with your script and deliver the Best. Ceremony. Ever.

What To Read Next:

You're officiating a wedding. You make the last check of the five details, walk to the front…

A toast to the happy newlyweds isn't just for the wedding reception. Often, couples ask…

How to create and officiate a wedding ceremmony

Search the blog for a topic (ex: “vows”), popular articles.

• How to Commemorate Lost or Absent Loved Ones During the Wedding Ceremony
• The Wedding Officiant’s Formula for Every Unity Ritual
• How To Transition From One Wedding Ceremony Element To The Next
• 5 Questions to Ask Your Same-Sex Couple About Their Wedding Ceremony
• How to Choose the Best Songs for The Wedding Ceremony
• The 5 Essential Questions to Ask Your First-Time Wedding Officiant
• How To Officiate a Wedding Ceremony For the First Time
• How (And Why!) to End the Wedding Ceremony with a Grand Finale

Live and in-person every Monday, I host a free masterclass that will teach you my exact 5-step wedding ceremony process!

Enter your name and best email address here. I’ll send your instant guide right away and that will register you for our free live masterclass... then I'll see you Monday!

Can't attend live? Now worries. You'll be sent the replay!

Crafting the Perfect Wedding Officiant Speech: A Step-by-Step Guide

• Intro • First subsection

The role of an officiant in a wedding ceremony is significant, and crafting an exceptional officiant speech requires a thoughtful approach. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the key steps to create a memorable marriage officiant speech, ensuring it leaves a lasting impression on the couple and their guests.

Step 1: Don't Forget the Basics for the Wedding Ceremony Script

Before delving into the script, it's vital to align with the couple on essential details. Discuss the desired length, preferred tone, and specific inclusions or exclusions. This initial conversation sets the foundation for a personalized and meaningful ceremony script.

Step 2: Elevate the Ceremony with Wedding Rituals and Readings

Enhance the overall ceremony experience by incorporating meaningful rituals and readings. Ask the couple if there are any traditional or non-traditional moments they want to include in the ceremony. Perhaps they want to include the exact rituals that people have done for generations in their culture, or maybe they want to adapt the traditions and create their own. Some couples may not be religious, but they share favorite movies (e.g. Disney ), songs , or they just resonate with non-traditional, secular readings they found in the Wedding Rituals and Readings Library . This vast selection allows you to tailor the ceremony to the couple's values and cultural preferences, creating a unique and memorable event.

Step 3: Personalize Officiant Speech with the Couple's Love Story

The best officiant speech incorporates the couple's love story. Use curated questions to unveil unique characteristics, memories, and moments of love. This personalized touch not only engages the audience but also creates a lasting memory for the couple.

‍ Step 4: Tailor Declarations and Pronouncements

Tailor the Declaration of Intent and Pronouncement to align with the couple's preferences. Offer a range of options, accommodating both traditional and modern approaches . Customize the wording to reflect the couple's personalities and set the desired tone for their special day.

Step 5: Make the Officiant Speech Writing Process Easy

Eliminate the challenges of starting with a blank page or using generic templates. Efficiently transform discussions into a polished first draft. Edit and refine the script until it perfectly encapsulates the essence of the ceremony. Ensure a seamless flow with built-in blocking cues, guiding the officiant on when to engage the audience or handle important ceremonial aspects.

FAQs: Answering Your Officiant Speech Questions

How long should an officiant speech be.

The ideal length of an officiant speech varies, but aim for around 5-7 minutes. Ensure it's long enough to convey meaningful, personalized content but short enough to maintain audience engagement.

Do I have to include traditional elements in the wedding ceremony script?

No! The guide provides a diverse range of religious and non-religious options to tailor the ceremony according to the couple's preferences.

How can I make the officiant speech more engaging?

Incorporate specific anecdotes the couple shared, humor, and expressive language to connect with the couple and the audience emotionally.

More about this topic

• Skip to primary navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar
• Skip to footer

Wedding Officiants

Great Ceremonies Begin Here

Wedding Ceremony Script

At  WeddingOfficiants.com  – The Wedding Officiant Directory , we’ve been working with engaged couples and professional wedding officiants for more than 15 years, and our site has become a top resource on the web for officiants to grow their businesses. We’ve curated a collection of the best wedding ceremony scripts submitted by our officiant members, and offer them here as a resource to anyone in need of a script for a wedding ceremony.

Below, you’ll find advice on creating your own custom wedding ceremony script, wedding ceremony samples, and links to both a religious wedding ceremony and a non-religious ceremony. The basics of writing a ceremony script start with an outline – the wedding ceremony template. Once you’ve decided on the structure of the ceremony, you can select individual wedding readings, wedding vows, and other ceremony elements to include in your script. Of course, you could also just copy a sample wedding ceremony script below and use it without any further customization.

The wedding scripts below have been created by experienced, professional wedding officiants. If you are already an officiant, we would love to have you join us as a member of our wedding officiant directory – you can view our membership packages here. If you are a new officiant, or if you’ve been tapped by a friend of family member to perform a wedding ceremony, there’s a chance you may really enjoy performing your first wedding and want to do it more often. If so, take a look at our  Officiant Resources  page, with advice on  how to get ordained ,  how to become a wedding officiant , and much more.

Writing a Wedding Ceremony Script

Most popular articles:.

• Wedding Ceremony Readings
• Why You Should Hire a Professional Officiant
• What is a Wedding Officiant?
• How to Find a Wedding Officiant

Creating a wedding ceremony script from scratch can be a daunting task if you haven’t done it before, it’s not as simple as writing a collection of words and poetry. A marriage ceremony is a time-honored ritual which requires a bit of structure to feel sufficiently “ceremonial” for the couple and their guests. That’s not to say that there are firm rules when deciding how to write a wedding ceremony script – there are no “official” rules to speak of – but a lack of structure or organization can leave attendees feeling confused and actually detract from the overall feeling of the ceremony.

We highly recommend sending the couple a copy of your wedding ceremony script once you’ve finished it so they can see exactly what you plan to say – that way, if there are any changes they feel are necessary, you can make them before the big day. Surprises may be fun on most days, but surprising a couple with the content of their wedding ceremony will probably not go over very well.

Wedding Ceremony Script Ideas

Keep in mind that there are many different religious and cultural wedding traditions as well, but we’ve kept this list to the most common ideas for wedding ceremonies of all types.

Traditional Wedding Ceremony Elements:

• Processional:  The “wedding procession” is simply a fancy way of referring to the beginning of the ceremony when everyone walks in.  This includes parents, wedding party, the officiant, and the couple, and is typically accompanied by music.
• Opening Words / Welcome:  This is typically the first thing that is said at the beginning of the wedding ceremony. The opening words will often include some sort of welcome to the guests and a few remarks about the covenant of marriage.
• Charge to Couple:  This is a short passage about the covenant of marriage and the importance of the occasion, and also usually includes a bit of practical marriage advice from the officiant. It doesn’t need to be terribly long, one to three short paragraphs is more than enough.
• Wedding Readings:  It’s traditional to include one or more  wedding readings  during the ceremony, which are typically scripture or poetry. Ceremony readings can also be anything that is meaningful to the couple, and will typically reflect something about their love and their relationship.
• Pledge / Declaration of Intent:  This part of the ceremony is when the couple will face one another, and affirm their intentions to be united in marriage. The officiant leads each of them through a series of statements or questions, which are answered with “I Do” or “I Will”.
• Blessing of the Rings:  The ring blessing is a short statement or prayer by the officiant to bless or charge the couple’s wedding rings prior to the ring exchange. It can take the form of a few sentences, or a “ring warming” where the rings are passed to all the guests for their well-wishes.
• Exchange of Vows:  Sometimes done simultaneously with the exchange of rings, the wedding vows can either be led by the officiant as a series of phrases repeated by the couple, or something completely unique written by each of them to one another.
• Exchange of Rings:  The ring exchange during the ceremony is typically led by the officiant, with each member of the wedding couple repeating a series of short phrases while placing a wedding ring on their partner’s finger.
• Pronouncement and Kiss:  Upon the exchange of vows and rings, the officiant will pronounce the couple as being officially married, and invite them to kiss. Typically followed by applause by the wedding guests, this may be the end of the ceremony if there are no closing words by the officiant.
• Closing Words:  Traditionally, the officiant will offer some words to officially close the wedding ceremony, blessing the couple or offering encouragement for their journey as a married couple. This typically marks the official end of the wedding ceremony.
• Recessional:  The recessional is the part of the ceremony where the couple and their attendants exit the ceremony, beginning with the couple and proceeding in the reverse order as the processional when everyone entered. The last person to exit before the guests is typically the officiant.

Unique Wedding Ceremony Ideas:

• Honoring the Parents:  Usually performed at the beginning of the ceremony, the officiant takes a few moments to acknowlege the role the couple’s parents have played in raising them and bringing them up to this moment when they will be married.
• Moment of Silence:  Also normally toward the beginning of the ceremony, taking a moment of silence to remember those friends and family who have passed away or could not attend the wedding ceremony for one reason or another.
• Handfasting Ceremony:  An ancient Pagan and Celtic tradition, handfasting invlolves tying the hands of the couple together with a ribbon, rope, or braided cord to symbolize the unity between them and the connection they share.
• Unity Candle Ceremony:  This candle lighting ceremony can be performed at any time during the wedding ceremony, and can be done in a number of ways. The popular version involves the couple lighting a single candle with two smaller candles to symbolize their new life together.
• Wine Box Ceremony:  A newer tradition, the couple write love letters to one another and seal them in a wine box with a bottle of wine, opening the box on their first or fifth wedding anniversary to read one another’s letters and share the bottle of wine to celebrate their marriage.
• Blended Family Ceremony:  For couples with children who wish to incorporate their kids into their wedding ceremony as well, this ceremony includes the children of the couple in saying vows to one another affirming their commitment and promises as a family.
• Rose Ceremony:  There are two versions of this ceremony, one involving the couple presenting one another with a single rose to communicate their love and commitment, and the other with the couple presenting a rose to their mothers as a way of thanking them for their love and support.
• Ring Warming Ceremony:  Typically done at the beginning of the ceremony prior to the vows, the officiant passes the couple’s wedding rings around throughout the wedding guests and asks each person to infuse the rings with their blessings and well-wishes for the couple’s marriage.
• Jumping the Broom:  A tradition which found it’s way to the states as a part of African-American weddings, the couple has a broom placed in front of them and jumps over it as they exit the ceremony, popularized in the novel and miniseries,  Roots  by Alex Haley.
• Sand Ceremony:  Similar in intent and execution to the Unity Candle Ceremony, the couple instead pours two separate containers of colored sand into a single vessel to symbolize their union. A great alternative for a windy wedding day!
• Breaking the Glass:  A Jewish wedding tradition, the couple stomps on a glass to shatter it at the end of the wedding as their guests shout “Mazel Tov!” to congratulate them.

Wedding Ceremony Template

When creating a wedding ceremony script, it can be helpful to start with a general template to help you structure the ceremony, adding in the specific wording once you’ve designed the overall flow and order of the individual elements. While it can be tempting to include a lot of different elements and traditions (or let the couple pick as many as they’d like), keep in mind that the overall length of the ceremony will depend on how much you try to squeeze into it. Most non-religious wedding ceremonies should be about 20 minutes in length from the processional to the recessional – certainly not more than 40 minutes. Wedding guests get restless and stop paying attention after about 20 minutes, so the longer the ceremony lasts, the more bored and distracted the guests will be.

Generally speaking, most weddings will follow a standard order, with variations based on the couple’s needs or the amount and type of elements and traditions that are included. The basic wedding ceremony template for most weddings is:

• Processional
• Gathering Words
• Declaration of Intent
• Charge to Couple
• Exchange of Vows
• Exchange of Rings
• Pronouncement and Kiss
• Recessional

You can certainly make the ceremony more complex than this, but this template is the bare-bones structure of a standard wedding ceremony script. Start with this order and add any additional elements, readings, songs, and traditions where it makes the most sense. In general, you’ll want to place most of those additional elements toward the beginning of the ceremony, because the guests will expect that the exchange of vows will be one of the last items in the wedding ceremony order.

Wedding Ceremony Samples

To help you create your wedding ceremony script, we’ve included several wedding ceremony samples below – a Wedding Officiant Script and a Marriage Ceremony Script. We’ve chosen to only include generic sample wedding ceremonies here, so if you are interested in looking at samples for a non-religious wedding ceremony, a Christian wedding ceremony, an interfaith wedding ceremony, or a non-denominational wedding ceremony you’ll need to visit those specific pages to see the included sample scripts. These are examples of a standard wedding script following the template mentioned above, and should give you a solid head start.

Because the ceremony samples below are very basic and do not include any additional elements such as  wedding readings , a ceremony based solely on these scripts will be 10-15 minutes in length. We highly recommend keeping the total length of the wedding ceremony to around 20 minutes, so be selective with the number of additional elements you include. Please feel free to use these wedding ceremony samples for your own private or professional use, but bear in mind that they are copyrighted works so please do not publish them anywhere online.

Wedding Officiant Script

2. Seating of the Mothers

3. Officiant, Grooom, and Groomsmen Enter

4. Bridesmaids Enter

5. Flower Girl and Ring Bearer Enter

6. Bride Enters, Escorted by Her Father

Welcome to all who have gathered here this day to share in this marriage ceremony of [Name] and [Name].

These words, spoken today between [Name] and [Name] are indeed important and sacred, but they are not what joins these two together, nor is this marriage ceremony. We are not here to witness the beginning of their relationship, but to acknowledge and celebrate a lasting bond that already exists between them. [Name] and [Name] have already joined their hearts together and chosen to walk together on life’s journey, and we have come to bear witness to a sybolic union and a public affirmation of the love they share.

8. Gathering Words

Those of us in attendace today are present to witness a statement of lasting love and commitment between [Name] and [Name]. The ceremonial union of two people in marriage, in its primordial form, is as ancient as our very humanity and yet is still as fresh as each day’s sunrise. The commitment of love between [Name] and [Name] speaks of their shared experience together and their dreams for the future, of the importance of each of them as individuals as well as the special bond they share, and of the importance of their community of family and friends.

Everyone gathered here today was invited to this ceremony because you have played a special role in [Name] and [Name]’s lives. You are present at this ceremony to celebrate their marriage and to witness their vows of love to one another. Will all of you, gathered here to witness this union, do all in your power to love and support this couple now, and in the years ahead? If so please respond, “we will.”

Guests: We will.

9. Declaration of Intent

And [Name] and [Name], have you come here today with the intention to be legally joined in marriage? Do you pledge to choose respect, kindness, and compassion toward one another, to listen deeply to one other, and to speak to one another truthfully, today and always?

Couple: We do.

10. Charge to Couple

[Name] and [Name],   your love is something that you both cherish, so much so that it’s moved you join in the union of marriage and create a home together. Today, you dedicate your lives to giving one another happiness and support. To be certain, entering into the covenant of marriage is an act of deep trust and faith in the strength of your love. It would be a fool’s error to base your marriage on the hope that your partner will change to become something they are not, or do something in the future that they do not already do today. Your marriage must be based on the heartfelt and sincere acceptance of one another, as you are, in each moment.

The pledge you make today expresses your devotion to one another and to the love you share, and the words spoken here will support your marriage if you are able to sustain your commitment through the inevitable hardships you’ll face together. Today, in the presence of your families and friends, you pronounce your love for each other and make a commitment that will define the next phase of your journey. We celebrate it with you, and wish you well.

11. Exchange of Vows  (Repeat after the officiant)

I, [Name], take you, [Name], to be my 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; until we are parted by death.

I, [Name], take you, [Name], to be my 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; until we are parted by death.

12. Exchange of Rings

May I please have the rings? (officiant is handed both rings)

Since ancient times, the ring has been a symbol of the unbroken circle of love, with no beginning and no end. Love given freely has no giver and no receiver, for each is the giver and each is the receiver. May these rings always remind you of the freedom and power of this commitment you make here today.

[Name], placing the ring on [Name]’s finger, repeat after me: [Name],I give you this ring, as a sign of my vow to love, honor, and cherish you.

And [Name], placing the ring on [Name]’s finger, repeat after me: [Name],I give you this ring, as a sign of my vow to love, honor, and cherish you.

13. Pronouncement and Kiss

[Name] and [Name], inasmuch as you have pledged yourselves, each to the other, and have declared the same in the presence of this company by the exchange of vows and the giving and receiving of rings, by the power vested in me I now pronounce you husband and wife.

You may now kiss the Bride! (Applause)

Ladies and Gentlemen, it is my pleasure to present to you, the new Mr. and Mrs. ________________ !

15. Recessional

Marriage Ceremony Script

Welcome to the wedding of [Name] and [Name]. On behalf of the couple, I welcome you to this celebration of love, and ask that all of you take a moment to silence your mobile devices. Thank you.

A wedding ceremony is a joyous occasion, filled with hopes, dreams and excitement. We are here today to acknowledge and honor the love that [Name] and [Name] share, and to bear witness to the commitment which will begin their journey as married partners.

Marriage is a time-honored tradition, and should never be entered into lightly. [Name] and [Name] have made a very serious and important decision in choosing to marry one other today, entering into a sacred covenant as life partners. While the responsibility to honor and sustain their commitment ultimately lies with the two of them, each of you gathered here today are here because you play an important role in their lives. As their community of support, there may be times that [Name] and [Name] will need your wisdom, guidance, and encouragement to work through the inevitable difficulties that lie ahead. I ask that all of you choose love in your thoughts, words, and actions toward them and their marriage, and do all you can to help them nurture and deepen their bond.

As when tending a garden, the quality of your marriage will be a reflection the effort that the two of you put into nurturing this relationship. You have the opportunity to go forward from this day to create a faithful, kind and tender bond. We wish for you the wisdom, compassion, and constancy to create a peaceful sanctuary in which you both can grow in love. [Name] and [Name], do you understand and accept this responsibility and do you come here freely to enter into the covenant of marriage?

[Couple] We do.

10. Reading

The following is an excerpt from Union, by Robert Fulghum.

“You have known each other from the first glance of acquaintance to this point of commitment. At some point, you decided to marry. From that moment of yes, to this moment of yes, indeed, you have been making commitments in an informal way. All of those conversations that were held in a car, or over a meal, or between baseball innings – all those conversations that began with, “When we’re married”, and continued with “I will” and “you will” and “we will” – all those late night talks that included “someday” and “somehow” and “maybe” – and all those promises that are unspoken matters of the heart.

All these common things, and more, are the real process of a wedding. The symbolic vows that you are about to make are a way of saying to one another, “You know all those things that we’ve promised, and hoped, and dreamed – well, I meant it all, every word.” Look at one another and remember this moment in time. Before this moment you have been many things to one another – acquaintance, friend, companion, lover, dancing partner, even teacher, for you have learned much from one another over these years. Shortly you shall say a few words that will take you across a threshold of life, and things between you will never quite be the same. For after today you shall say to the world – This is my husband. This is my wife.”

11. Exchange of Vows

[Name], please look into [Name]’s eyes and repeat after me:

I, [Name] take thee, [Name] to be my wedded wife, to laugh with you in joy, to grieve with you in sorrow, to grow with you in love, as long as we both shall live.

And [Name], please look into [Name]’s eyes and repeat after me:

I, [Name] take thee, [Name] to be my wedded husband, to laugh with you in joy, to grieve with you in sorrow, to grow with you in love, as long as we both shall live.

May I have the rings please?

Wedding rings are symbolic reminders of the unbroken circle of eternal love. Within the safety and comfort of a true marriage, love given freely has no beginning and no end. Love freely given has no separate giver and receiver. Each of you gives your love to the other, and each of you receives love from the other. May these rings serve to remind you of the freedom and power of your love.

[Name], placing the ring on [Name]’s finger, repeat after me:

With this ring, I give you my promise, to honor you, to be faithful to you, and to share my love and life with you, in all ways, forever.

And [Name], placing the ring on [Name]’s finger, repeat after me:

And now, having entered into the covenant of marriage by the exchanging of vows and the giving and receiving of rings, by the power vested in me I now pronounce you husband and wife.

You may now seal these vows with a kiss!

14. Closing Words

[Name] and [Name], our best wishes go forward from this day with you and we wish for you a fulfilling life, rich in caring and in happiness. May you find a gentle and peaceful life that nurtures and comforts you, and that reflects your honesty, kindness and integrity. There is a wonderful life ahead of you. Live it fully, love it’s changes and choices, and let life amaze you and bring you great joy.

It is my pleasure to introduce, __________________________!

Interested in Becoming a Professional Officiant?

It’s not uncommon for people to catch the officiant “bug” after performing their first few ceremonies, and decide to pursue a career as a professional officiant. If this sounds like you, we recommend reading the rest of the  Officiant Resources  available on our site, and we hope you will consider joining  WeddingOfficiants.com – The Wedding Officiant Directory . To view our different advertising options,  visit our membership page  and click the button below to search our database of local wedding officiants!

• ⭐ Find vendors
• New Reader?
• Submissions

Search Offbeat Wed (was Offbeat Bride) For:

To search, type and and press enter.

Offbeat Wed (was Offbeat Bride)

Altar your thinking: alternative wedding planning

Super thorough non-religious wedding ceremony script PLUS readings and music suggestions

When Emily and Jack shared their non-religious wedding ceremony script with us, we were blown away by how incredibly thorough it was — this secular wedding officiant script includes ideas for music suggestions and a beautiful secular wedding reading from Neil Gaiman. Instead of the traditional wedding vows, they used the concept of “Love notes,” where Emily and Jack read each other short loving messages they'd written for each other.

If you're officiating for a friend, this is the ULTIMATE wedding officiant script! So if you're looking for some non-religious wedding ceremony ideas to steal, this wedding script is full of 'em… you won't find a single mention of prayer, Corinthians, holy matrimony, the covenant of marriage, or solemn vows. Do your own variation, add your own promises or declaration of intent, insert your own blessings, and make it yours for your big day!

Unity Processional:

[Pachelbel Canon in D playing]

Welcome. At the request of the couple, I invite you all to turn off your cellphones and put down your cameras during the ceremony. The talented photographers with us today will capture and share these moments – we encourage you to enjoy the celebrations, without the distraction of technology.

[Stand By Me starts playing]

[Groom and Mom enter, hug, Mom sits in place of honor]

Please stand for the bride

[Bride and Dad enter, hug, Dad sits]

Welcome. Please be seated.

[to Bride and Groom]

{Names}, today we are gathered here to celebrate the love you have discovered in each other and support the commitment you are about to make.

Marriage is more than two people standing here and repeating vows. There is an entire lifetime ahead of you and there are skills to be learned and practiced daily.

Part of marriage is finding happiness. Continue to search for the good, the fun, and the beautiful in this life to share with each other.

Part of marriage is being flexible. So, within your marriage cultivate flexibility, patience, and understanding, all while maintaining a sense of humor and joy.

Part of marriage is companionship. Strive to comfort one another and develop the capacity to forgive and heal your differences day by day.

Remember that your love can always prevail in times of turmoil. It will drive you to not only learn and to grow as individuals, but become stronger partners together.

Today, as you join yourselves in marriage, there is a vast and unknown future stretching out before you. Today you enter as individuals, but you will leave here as husband and wife; your lives blending together and expanding the ties of your family and best friends. You are embarking upon a great adventure, through which all of us here know you will prevail.

[to guests]

{Names} present themselves to be married today, cheerfully surrounded by the people they love the most. They, and I, want to thank you for your presence here today. They ask for your encouragement and lifelong support in their decision to be married.

The bride and groom would like also to give a special thank you to their families who have loved and supported them every step of the way.“

My aggressively atheist non-religious wedding vows and ceremony script

Our wedding ceremony was admittedly what some might call “aggressively atheist,” and my bridesmaids noticed that a few people looked...surprised? I think those who didn’t know us especially well expected we would do what our own parents did and go with something more standard and semi-religious. We certainly are not in peoples faces about our atheism, but we wanted to be VERY clear about who we are and a wedding is a great time to make yourself known. Feel free to steal these atheist wedding vows!

{Groom}’s sister {Name} will join us now to read All I Know About Love, by Neil Gaiman.

This is everything I have to tell you about love: nothing. This is everything I've learned about marriage: nothing . Only that the world out there is complicated, and there are beasts in the night, and delight and pain, and the only thing that makes it okay, sometimes, is to reach out a hand in the darkness and find another hand to squeeze, and not to be alone. It's not the kisses, or never just the kisses: it's what they mean. Somebody's got your back. Somebody knows your worst self and somehow doesn't want to rescue you or send for the army to rescue them. It's not two broken halves becoming one. It's the light from a distant lighthouse bringing you both safely home because home is wherever you are both together. So this is everything I have to tell you about love and marriage: nothing , like a book without pages or a forest without trees. Because there are things you cannot know before you experience them. Because no study can prepare you for the joys or the trials. Because nobody else's love, nobody else's marriage, is like yours, and it's a road you can only learn by walking it, a dance you cannot be taught, a song that did not exist before you began, together, to sing. And because in the darkness you will reach out a hand, not knowing for certain if someone else is even there. And your hands will meet, and then neither of you will ever need to be alone again.

NEW Neil Gaiman wedding readings

If you know about writer and novelist Neil Gaiman, you already know that he's a super cool human whose talent for the written word knows no bounds. His friends have tapped him to write something poignant for their weddings. We've seen the results of that endeavor and it's MAGICAL, so here are some of our favorite Neil Gaiman wedding readings , including a NEW ONE!

Signing of Marriage License

Thank you {Name.} I’d like to now welcome {Groom}’s cousin, {Name}, to perform one of the couple’s favorite songs while they sign their marriage license.

This is the section of the wedding ceremony script that might usually be called VOWS, but we love that this couple framed it as love notes. If you need help learning how to write vows, we can help with that !

The bride and groom will now exchange a few words they’ve written.

[Bride reads to Groom (200-300 words)]

[Groom reads to Bride (200-300 words)]

Traditional Vows / Wedding Ring Exchange

So are you ready to make this official?

[Bride takes Groom’s hand for exchange of vows]

{Groom}, do you take {Bride Full Name} to be your lawfully wedded wife, to have and to hold from this day forward; for better and for worse, for richer and for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish, till death do you part?”

[Bride puts ring on Groom as exchange of wedding bands]

[Groom takes Bride’s hand]

{Bride}, do you take {Groom’s Full Name} the fifth to be your lawfully wedded husband, to have and to hold from this day forward; for better and for worse, for richer and for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish, till death do you part?”

[Groom puts ring on Bride]

Outro and Pronouncement

{Names}, you have come here today of your own free will and, in the presence of your family and friends, have declared your love and commitment to each other.

By the power vested in me by the internet and the State of [your state], I now pronounce you husband and wife!

[Feeling Good starts at 0:33]

[BUM BUM] [First kiss as married couple]

[Congratulations! Laughter! Guests clap & cheer]

[Couple walk out to begin their new life together]

Looking for even more ideas for your wedding ceremony script? Have we ever got MORE for ya…

Guest Post By: Emily & Jack

Meet our fave wedding vendors.

8 Wedding Ceremony Scripts to Borrow & Printables

Find beautiful wedding ceremony scripts ranging from unique to traditional. Print and borrow them, or get inspiration to write your own!

By Allison Cullman

Last updated June 10, 2024

Inside this article:

Simple wedding ceremony script

Modern wedding ceremony script, humorous wedding ceremony script, inclusive wedding ceremony script, christian wedding ceremony script, catholic wedding ceremony script, jewish wedding ceremony script, protestant wedding ceremony script, 4 tips for writing your own ceremony script, simple wedding ceremony script starter outline, faqs about wedding ceremony scripts, summarizing ceremony and officiant wedding scripts.

In the midst of the organized chaos of wedding planning, the wedding ceremony is often left until the last minute. But the ceremony is quite significant—after all, it’s the part where you and your future spouse actually become joined in marriage.

We all know about the “I do’s” of a wedding ceremony, but the rest of your ceremony is just as important. While you want to create a wedding ceremony script that’s meaningful and personal to you and your future spouse, figuring out how to do this can leave some couples scratching their heads. If you’re wondering where to begin writing your wedding ceremony script, our tips and examples below are here to help.

This script has been reviewed by Rev. Lisann G. Valentin, an ordained minister at Universal Life Church .

For a nonreligious wedding ceremony, there’s no standard script you need to adhere to. The script below can be a helpful starting point for a simple wedding ceremony you can build upon and personalize however you like.

Opening words/welcome

The ceremony will begin with the officiant addressing the reception.

Officiant: “Welcome friends, family, and loved ones. We’re gathered here today to celebrate [PARTNER A] and [PARTNER B] in their lifelong commitment of love to each other. Finding your life partner is a true joy, and the commitment to share in life’s ups and downs as one is no small feat. While marriage will bring its own challenges and triumphs, let this day be a reminder of what your love has already accomplished, as well as the possibilities for your partnership as you grow together for years to come.”

While a simple wedding ceremony might omit this part altogether, some couples like to personalize their ceremony wedding scripts with a chosen reading or song to celebrate their union. A close friend or family member, the officiant, or the couple themselves might perform readings. For example, the officiant might call upon a chosen friend or family member to perform an original poem or share a story about the couple’s relationship.

Officiant: “As our reading today, [PARTNER A/B] has asked [his, her] [friend/cousin/other family member] to recite an original poem in honor of their union.”

[Reading proceeds.]

Vows and ring exchange

Couples may choose to write their own vows or omit reciting vows altogether.

Officiant to reception: “[PARTNER A] and [PARTNER B] will now exchange rings as a symbol of their love and lifelong commitment.”

At this point, couples may exchange their vows (if desired) before placing their rings on each other's fingers. Below is an example of vows that might be exchanged:

Partner A to Partner B: “With this ring, I promise to support you, care for you, laugh with you, share in your burdens, be honest with you, and be faithful to you in all that we may face in the years ahead. I promise to love you with everything I have, from this day forward and beyond.”

Partner B to Partner A: “With this ring, I promise to love you and commit myself to you for the rest of my life. I promise to stand by your side, be there for you always, and to find laughter and joy even in tough times. I promise to love and accept you just as you are, and grow with you for every year to come.”

Declaration of intent

Officiant to Partner A: “Do you, [PARTNER A], take [PARTNER B] to be your lawfully wedded [husband, wife, partner]? Will you honor and cherish them, continue to deepen your understanding of them, and treat them with love and compassion in joy and pain, sickness and health, and whatever life might throw your way?”

Partner A: “I will” or “I do.”

Officiant to Partner B: “Do you, [PARTNER B], take [PARTNER A] to be your lawfully wedded [wife, husband, partner]? Will you honor and cherish them, continue to deepen your understanding of them, and treat them with love and compassion in joy and pain, sickness and health, and whatever life might throw your way?”

Partner B: “I will” or “I do.”

Pronouncement

Finally, the officiant will pronounce the couple as married. To capture the perfect moment, couples might also request that the officiant steps to the side for the kiss during the wedding nuptials.

Officiant to all: “By the authority vested in me, and with the trust of you all here today, I now declare you joined in love. You may now kiss!"

Officiant to all: “Thank you all for joining in this momentous occasion for [PARTNER A] and [PARTNER B]! They now invite you to join them for a reception at [LOCATION]. Thank you all!”

This script has been reviewed by Sheena Wheadon, licensed wedding officiant at Why Knot Weddings .

Any wedding ceremony can take a modern spin. Any number of personal touches can be added to your ceremony to make it more modern—whether you want to include your pets, switch up how your wedding party is presented, or simply add some modern flair to your wedding vows and readings. Personalizing your wedding ceremony script is a great way to infuse who you really are into your big day.

The officiant script will begin by welcoming the reception.

Officiant: “Good afternoon and welcome! We’d like to thank everyone on this beautiful day for coming to support [PARTNER A] and [PARTNER B] in this exciting endeavor and union. Your friendship and support has helped to strengthen them as they’ve made their way to this moment, and they thank you for being here.”

Couples may choose to include a reading in their marriage ceremony script. This reading can be anything you wish, whether it’s a special poem, a reading from a book, a quote from a movie, or a story about the couple’s relationship shared by a close friend or family member.

Vows Exchange

Many modern couples opt to write their own wedding vows or omit them altogether. It’s up to you! Below is an example of modern wedding vows:

Officiant to couple: “[PARTNER A] and [PARTNER B], please exchange your vows.”

Partner A to Partner B: “[NAME], you’re my best friend. I’m in awe of your lightness, your kindness, and the purity of what it looks like to be loved by someone like you. It’s a love with no expectations, no strings attached, only a desire to support me and see me fulfilled. To know and be known by you is a gift and a privilege. I know we were made for each other. So here’s what I promise:

I vow always to strive to be the best version of myself so that I can show up for you every single day. I vow to seek joy and hope even in dark times and be there for you when you need me. I vow to trust you and love you unconditionally. I vow to continue to learn from the examples of patience and selflessness that you have always embodied.”

Partner B to Partner A: “[NAME], I love you with my whole heart. You’ve loved me with a loyalty that I’d never experienced before, and didn’t even know existed. You have seen every part of me, and even at my lowest you have stood by my side. You’ve never given up on me, and I have no doubt that you are the person I’m meant to spend my life with. I vow to keep a soft heart when challenges come, and to be aware of my words and actions and how they affect you. I vow to support you in all things, to love you well, and to create a life we’re proud of. Life is fleeting, and I want to cherish every minute of it with you.”

Officiant to couple: “[PARTNER A] and [PARTNER B], do you take one another as partners from this day forward?”

Couple in unison: “We do.”

Officiant: “Will you love, honor, and cherish one another as partners for the rest of your lives?”

Couple responds: “We will.”

• Ring exchange

Officiant to reception: “[PARTNER A] and [PARTNER B] have chosen these rings as a symbol of their unbreakable love. Please place these rings on each other’s fingers and repeat after me:

‘I give you this ring as a reminder of our love that unites, inspires, and celebrates what we have.’”

[Couple repeats to each other.]

Finally, the officiant will pronounce the couple as legally wed:

Officiant to all: “By the authority vested in me, it is with joy that I pronounce you married. Now kiss and go celebrate!”

Officiant to all: “Thank you all for joining in this beautiful occasion for [PARTNER A] and [PARTNER B]! They now invite you to join them for a reception at [LOCATION]. Thank you all!”

There’s no rule that says your wedding ceremony has to be serious from start to finish. Some couples prefer to add a bit of humor to their ceremony for a more lighthearted affair. The following funny wedding ceremony script has all the required legal elements of becoming legally married, with a humorous touch to keep your guests on their toes.

The officiant will begin by welcoming the crowd and introducing the ceremony.

Officiant to all: “Hello and welcome! We’re here today because [PARTNER A] and [PARTNER B] have decided they love each other so much that they want to get the government involved! But in all seriousness, a huge thanks to all who have joined us. We promise we’ll get these two hitched quickly so you can make a beeline to the open bar!

I’d like to take this opportunity to ponder the meaning of marriage. Now I know I made a joke about these two loving each other so much they’ve decided to get the government involved, but we know that’s not all marriage is. It’s a tradition, yes, but it’s so much more. It might take a lot of work and compromise, but at the end of the day, this is about choosing your person until the end of this thing we call life. So no matter how many dishes they leave in the sink, no matter how horrible their cooking is, no matter how bad their mood might be on occasion—you’ve got someone who chooses to stick with you through it all. And that’s what marriage is about!”

Including readings in your ceremony is optional, but some couples opt to personalize their ceremony with a particular reading, quote, or story. Some humorous wedding ceremonies might involve a close friend or family member sharing a lighthearted account of the couple’s relationship, with some light humor to get a laugh out of the crowd. The wedding ceremony officiant script can even include fun elements,

Officiant: “As our reading today, [PARTNER A/B} has asked [his, her] [friend/cousin/other family member] to share a personal story of their relationship in honor of their marriage today.”

At this point, couples may exchange vows if they’ve chosen to write them. Here’s an example of wedding vows with a little humor:

Officiant to Partner A: “Now, it’s time to put a ring on it! [PARTNER A], repeat after me: ‘I give you this ring as a symbol that I will love and cherish you, and that I’ll try to keep my mouth shut when it’s your turn to choose the movie we watch.’”

[Partner A repeats.]

Officiant to Partner B: “[PARTNER B], repeat after me: ‘I give you this ring as a symbol that I will love and cherish you, and that I’ll consider making you dinner every once in a while.’”

[Partner B repeats.]

Officiant to Partner A: “Do you, [PARTNER A], take [PARTNER B] to be your lawfully wedded [husband, wife, partner], to love and cherish them for better or for worse, in sickness and in health, and reap as many tax benefits as you can for as long as you both shall live?”

Partner A: “I do.”

Officiant to Partner B: “Do you, [PARTNER B], take [PARTNER A] to be your lawfully wedded [wife, husband, partner], to love and cherish them for better or for worse, in sickness and in health, and reap as many tax benefits as you can for as long as you both shall live?”

Partner B: “I do.”

Now, the officiant will pronounce the couple as legally wed:

Officiant: “What a romantic exchange. Now, I guess there’s only one thing left to do: By the power vested in me, I now pronounce you [husband and wife, husband and husband, wife and wife]! Now kiss!”

Officiant to all: “That’s a wrap on the formal proceedings of today. [PARTNER A] and [PARTNER B] will greet you in [LOCATION] at [TIME]. We thank you for coming—now get out of here and go celebrate!”

While traditional gender roles often make up the bulk of how many sample wedding ceremony scripts are written, this doesn’t have to be the case for a more inclusive ceremony. The following example script does away with gendered language and puts the focus on the love shared between the couple and what that means for them.

The officiant will begin by welcoming the reception. This is also when the wedding officiant script can include any specific announcements, like requesting guests to silence their phones.

Officiant: “Welcome friends, family, and loved ones! We’re gathered here today in celebration of (Partner A) and (Partner B) and to bear witness as they join their lives in marriage. On behalf of (Partner A) and (Partner B), it’s a true pleasure to have you here to celebrate this incredible moment.

Love is one of the greatest gifts life has to offer. Love offers hope, joy, comfort, and security, in good times and bad. Love is what spurs our personal growth and allows us to face life and all its challenges, with the unending support of the person we’ve chosen to commit our lives to. (Partner A) and (Partner B) stand before you today to share the love and happiness in their hearts as they take their relationship to a deeper level of commitment by making a passage into marriage.”

While totally optional, couples can choose to include a reading of their choice in their ceremony. This can be anything from a particular poem or section from a book to a special movie quote or personal story about the couple’s relationship. Couples might have the officiant perform the reading or have a loved one come up to share instead.

Officiant: “(Partner A) and (Partner B) have selected a reading from [SOURCE] that represents their unique journey and the commitment they’re making today.”

Vows exchange

Couples who have chosen to write their own wedding vows will recite them here. These could be in a question-and-answer format or long-form vows written beforehand (or a combination of both). Couples can also ask their officiant to step to the side during the vow readings—it helps make the moment more intimate!

Here’s an example of wedding vows for you to work from:

Officiant to couple: “Marriage is a lifelong commitment to love and care for each other to the best of your ability. Are you both ready to take this step together?”

Couple responds: “Yes!”

Officiant to couple: “Do you promise to care for each other, treat each other with respect and compassion, and to always move toward love in your efforts to support one another?”

Couple responds: “We do.”

Officiant to couple: “Do you promise to meet each challenge and triumph with integrity, gratitude, and patience, and to strive to learn and grow together for all of your days?”

Affirmation of family and friends

Officiant to reception: “Do you, the family and friends of (Partner A) and (Partner B), give your full support today and wish them a lifetime of happiness together?”

Reception responds: “We do.”

Expression of intent

Officiant: “In the presence and witness of the loved ones you have gathered here today, I now ask you to state your intentions.

(Partner A) and (Partner B), have you come here freely and without reservation to give yourselves to each other in the commitment of marriage?”

Couple responds: “Yes.”

Officiant: “Once more, will you love, honor, and cherish one another as partners for the rest of your lives?”

Officiant to reception: “(Partner A) and (Partner B), please repeat after me:

‘I give you this ring as a symbol of the vows we’ve made today. I pledge to you my love, respect, and commitment. With everything that I am, I honor you.’”

Officiant: “Now that you, (Partner A) and (Partner B), have promised to give yourselves fully to each other, to love each other through the vows you have made, and through the giving and receiving of these rings, it is my great pleasure by the power vested in me to now pronounce you married! You may now kiss!”

Closing/invitation to reception

Officiant to all: “Thank you all for joining in this joyous occasion for (Partner A) and (Partner B)! They now invite you to join them for a reception at [LOCATION]. Thank you all!”

This script has been reviewed by the ordained ministers at Universal Life Church Monastery .

As the name indicates, this script for weddings includes religious aspects, such as Bible readings and prayers. Feel free to personalize this idea to your liking and include more or fewer scriptural elements.

Processional

The processional is simply the beginning of the wedding ceremony, when guests are seated, followed by the entrance of the bridal party.

Officiant to reception: "Welcome, loved ones. We are gathered here today in the sight of God and these witnesses to join together [PARTNER A] and [PARTNER B] in holy matrimony.”

The declaration of intent is a crucial element of any wedding ceremony, and is legally required to show consent among both parties to be married.

Officiant to the couple: "[PARTNER A] and [PARTNER B], you have come together this day so that the Lord may seal and strengthen your love in the presence of this minister of his word and this community of family and friends and so, in the presence of this gathering, I ask you to state your intentions:

Have you both come here freely and without reservation to give yourselves to each other in marriage? If so, answer by saying 'I have.'"

[Couple responds in unison with ‘I have.’]

A reading from the Bible is a common component in many Christian wedding ceremonies. While choosing a passage from Corinthians isn’t required, it’s a popular choice for many.

Officiant to reception: “A reading from the Apostle Paul, 1 Corinthians 13:4-7: ‘Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.’

Let us pray for this couple as they make their marriage vows.

Father, as [PARTNER A] and [PARTNER B] pledge themselves to each other, help them and bless them that their love may be pure, and their vows may be true. Through Jesus Christ our Lord, amen."

Today’s wedding vows are often personalized according to whatever feels right to the couple. However, a traditional statement of vows is also common in Christian wedding ceremonies.

Couple to each other: “I, [NAME], take thee, [NAME], to be my wedded (husband, 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 us part. This is my solemn vow.”

Officiant to Partner A: "[PARTNER A], please take the ring you have selected for [PARTNER B]. As you place it on his/her finger, repeat after me:

‘With this ring, I thee wed.’"

[Partner A repeats the phrase as they place the ring on Partner B’s finger]

Officiant to Partner B: "[PARTNER B], please take the ring you have selected for [PARTNER A]. As you place it on his/her finger, repeat after me:

[Partner B repeats the phrase as they place the ring on Partner A’s finger]

One distinction of a Christian wedding ceremony script is including a prayer of blessing over the union.

Officiant to the couple: "May Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior, always be at the center of the new lives you are now starting to build together, that you may know the ways of true love and kindness. May the Lord bless you both all the days of your lives and fill you with His joy. Amen."

Officiant to reception: “By the power vested in me by the state of [STATE], I now pronounce you [husband and wife, husband and husband, wife and wife]! You may kiss the bride!”

Officiant to all: “Thank you all for joining in this joyous occasion for [PARTNER A] and [PARTNER B]! They now invite you to join them for a reception at [LOCATION]. Thank you all!”

As with the Christian script, this version includes religious elements. However, Catholic ceremonies are greatly rooted in tradition and include formal aspects at their core. The officiant is typically a priest, and these services traditionally take place in the church.

Entrance rite

As the entrance song is played, the assembly stands while the priest, ministers, and servers take their places, followed by the wedding party. The rest of this part of the processional can take two forms.

In the first form, the vested priests and servers greet the bridal party at the church door, and then all enter as is customary for Mass. In the second form, the priest and servers wait in the sanctuary area prepared for the couple to greet them when they arrive. In both forms, the priest always leads the procession.

Once everyone is in place and the music has ended, the priest leads the sign of the cross, or the traditional beginning of Christian prayer, before greeting the assembly.

Priest: “In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the holy spirit.”

All respond: “Amen.”

Priest: “Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.”

Collect (opening prayer)

The priest invites the assembly to pray. After he prays over the couple, the assembly is seated for the Liturgy of the Word.

Priest: “Be attentive to our prayers, O Lord, and in your kindness uphold what you have established for the increase of the human race, so that the union you have created may be kept safe by your assistance. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever.”

Liturgy of the word

The liturgy of the word outside of mass usually includes three readings proclaimed by the priest, one from the Old Testament, one from the New Testament aside from the Gospel, and one from the Gospel. At the conclusion of each reading, the lector will say, "The Word of the Lord," and the assembly will respond, "Thanks be to God."

Priest: “A reading from the book of Genesis 1:26-28:

Then God said: ‘Let us make man in our image, after our likeness. Let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, the birds of the air, and the cattle, and over all the wild animals and all the creatures that crawl on the ground.” God created man in his image; in the image of God he created him; male and female, he created them. God blessed them, saying: “Be fertile and multiply; fill the earth and subdue it. Have dominion over the fish of the sea, the birds of the air, and all the living things that move on the earth.” God looked at everything he had made, and he found it very good. The word of the Lord.’

Assembly responds: “Thanks be to God.”

Priest: “A reading from the New Testament, 1 John 4:7-12:

Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God. Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love. This is how God showed his love among us: He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through him. This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins. Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another. No one has ever seen God; but if we love one another, God lives in us and his love is made complete in us.

The word of the Lord.”

All respond: “Thanks be to God.”

Priest: “A reading from the Gospel, Matthew 5:13-16:

You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot. You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”

All respond: “Praise to you, Lord Jesus Christ.”

Assembly is seated.

The assembly is seated while the priest (or deacon) offers a homily taken from the Scripture readings. The priest uses this text to discuss the sacredness of Christian marriage, the dignity of conjugal love, the grace of the sacrament, and the responsibilities of married people.

Priest: "John 3:30 says ‘He must increase, but I must decrease.’

Those simple, direct words of St. John the Baptist, whose feast we celebrate today, summarize the life of the Christian disciple. In all things, we want Jesus to increase and our own will, our own desires, our own attachments, to decrease. In my heart, in my prayer, in my family, in my parish, in my work, in my study, in my leisure, in my entertainment - may the Lord Jesus increase!"

Celebration of matrimony

All stand, and the couple comes to the altar, flanked by their witnesses. The priest will address the couple with a celebration of matrimony:

Priest: “Dearly beloved, you have come together into the house of the church so that in the presence of the church’s minister and the community, your intention to enter into marriage may be strengthened by the Lord with a sacred seal.”

If both parties are Christian: “Christ abundantly blesses the love that binds you. Through a special sacrament, he enriches and strengthens those he has already consecrated by holy baptism, that you may be enriched with his blessing, so that you may have the strength to be faithful to each other forever, and assume all the responsibilities of married life. And so, in the presence of the church, I ask you to state your intentions.”

Address and statement of intentions

All stand, including the couple and witnesses, while the priest asks the couple some questions to state their intentions about their freedom of choice, fidelity to each other, and the acceptance and upbringing of children (if necessary).

Priest to couple: “[PARTNER A] and [PARTNER B], have you come here to enter into marriage without coercion, freely and wholeheartedly?”

Couple in unison: “I have.”

Priest to couple: “Are you prepared, as you follow the path of marriage, to love and honor each other for as long as you both shall live?”

Couple in unison: “I am.”

Exchange of consent

The couple will declare their consent to be married by stating their vows. If you’re writing your own vows, they must be prepared with the wedding script beforehand.

Partner A: “I, [NAME], take you, [NAME], to be my [wife, husband]. I promise to be faithful to you, in good times and in bad, in sickness and in health, to love you and to honor you all the days of my life.”

Partner B: “I, [NAME], take you, [NAME], to be my [husband, wife]. I promise to be faithful to you, in good times and in bad, in sickness and in health, to love you and to honor you all the days of my life.”

Blessing and giving of rings

Priest: “Bless, O Lord, these rings which we bless in your name. so that those who wear them may remain entirely faithful to each other, abide in peace and in your will, and live always in mutual charity. Through Christ our Lord.”

Assembly responds: “Amen.”

The priest now sprinkles the wedding rings with holy water before handing them to each partner.

Partner A: “[NAME], receive this ring as a sign of my love and fidelity. In the name of the father, and the son, and the holy spirit.”

[Partner A places the ring on Partner B’s finger]

Partner B: “[NAME], receive this ring as a sign of my love and fidelity. In the name of the father, and the son, and the holy spirit.”

[Partner B places the ring on Partner A’s finger]

The priest and the assembly sing or pray the Lord’s Prayer in unison.

Nuptial blessing

The couple kneels at the altar, where the priest faces them and prays over them.

Priest: “Now let us humbly invoke God’s blessing upon this bride and groom, that in his kindness he may favor with his help those on whom he has bestowed the Sacrament of Matrimony.”

The priest performs communion and distributes the body and blood of Christ to Catholics in the assembly, starting with the newly married couple. An appropriate song is usually sung as the assembly proceeds to the altar for communion.

Priest to reception: “By the power vested in me by the state of [STATE], I now pronounce you [husband and wife, husband and husband, wife and wife]! You may now kiss!”

Priest to assembly: “Go in peace to glorify the Lord with your life.”

Recessional

At the closing of the ceremony, the couple, bridal party, ministers, and the priest will proceed out of the church, often accompanied by music.

A Jewish wedding also has traditional elements, many of which are centuries old. Talk to your officiant (often a rabbi) about making changes and personalizing this wedding ceremony outline to fit your needs without breaking Jewish tradition.

Signing of the Ketubah

The Ketubah is an ancient marriage contract that documents the commitment between the couple. Typically, the groom signs the contract with the rabbi and two male Jewish witnesses present, along with the bride, in private before the main ceremony begins.

Officiant: “Please gather around for this ‘ceremony before the ceremony’, the signing of the Ketubah. Bride and groom, in this quiet moment before your public wedding ceremony begins, those closest to you are here to witness the signing of the important documents that make this day a remarkable moment for you both. As you become legally husband and wife, we delight in your happiness, and we wish you only good things to come as you face life together. This beautiful Ketubah has these words for you today, and I ask the groom’s witness [NAME] to read the words.”

[Groom’s witness reads the Ketubah.]

Officiant: “I ask you both to sign the Ketubah as the first ceremonial act of your wedding day celebration.”

[Couple signs the Ketubah.]

Officiant: “Now I ask your parents to sign the Ketubah.”

[Couple’s parents sign the Ketubah.]

Officiant: “And now I sign it as well.”

[Officiant signs the Ketubah.]

The ceremony begins once guests are seated.

Officiant to reception: “This is the day that [PARTNER A] and [PARTNER B] marry the person they love the most in the world…the one they will laugh with, live for, and love for the rest of their lives. So it is only fitting that those closest to them are here to witness this special day. Your presence at this wedding celebration is a reminder to [PARTNER A] and [PARTNER B] of how lucky they are to have you in support of their union.”

The chuppah

The chuppah is a canopy structure symbolizing the home the couple will build together following their marriage. Modern couples use the chuppah as an opportunity to customize their wedding and use it as a reflection of their unique taste and style.

Officiant: “The chuppah under which [PARTNER A] and [PARTNER B] stand is the traditional structure used in a Jewish wedding ceremony. What you see in the setting for this ceremony tells you so much about the path that brings [PARTNER A] and [PARTNER B] to be married. Today, their families are joined together, and the combined richness of their two heritages will be the foundation for their life together.

As the open sides of a chuppah symbolize hospitality, the chuppah in this ceremony invites you all to feel welcome today, for this is the day of all days that [PARTNER A] and [PARTNER B] want to share with you.”

After the couple enters the chuppah, the bride/groom circles the bride/groom seven times, symbolizing building a wall of love around the relationship. It also represents the seven days of creation.

Declaration of support

Officiant to the couple: “A marriage is a lifelong adventure. Today’s ceremony, while important, is only the beginning of that journey. Marriage is a challenge that will require [PARTNER A] and [PARTNER B] to have love and understanding. You must dedicate yourselves to each other, listen to each other, and be honest with each other. You will need laughter and forgiveness, tenderness and empathy.”

Sand ceremony

Officiant to the couple: “We will now begin the sand ceremony. Through it, [PARTNER A] and [PARTNER B] will symbolize the permanence of the commitment of their marital relationship. They will each pour separate containers of sand into one vessel.

Each of these grains represents a unique aspect of themselves. Their experiences, outlooks, feelings, and the events that shaped them into the person that stands before you. As these grains of sand intermingle in one shared vessel, they symbolize the merging of two individual lives into an inseparable pair.

[PARTNER A] and [PARTNER B], just as these grains of sand can never again be separated, so too will you be forever joined.”

Officiant to Partner A: "Do you, [PARTNER A], take this [woman, man] to be your lawfully wedded [wife, husband], to have and to hold, in sickness and in health, in good times and woe, for richer or poorer, keeping yourself unto [her, him] for as long as you both shall live? If so, answer 'I do.'"

Officiant to Partner B: "Do you, [PARTNER B], take this [man, woman] to be your lawfully wedded [husband, wife], to have and to hold, in sickness and in health, in good times and woe, for richer or poorer, keeping yourself unto [him, her] for as long as you both shall live? If so, answer 'I do.'"

Officiant to Partner A: "[PARTNER A], as a token of your intentions, please place this ring upon [PARTNER B]’s finger and repeat after me:

‘[PARTNER B], I give you this ring as a symbol of my love and faithfulness.’"

[Partner A repeats the words while placing the ring on Partner B’s finger.]

Officiant to Partner B: "[PARTNER B], as a token of your intentions, please place this ring upon [PARTNER A]’s finger and repeat after me:

‘[PARTNER A], I give you this ring as a symbol of my love and faithfulness.’"

[Partner B repeats the words while placing the ring on Partner A’s finger.]

Blessing of the hands

Officiant to the couple: "[PARTNER A] and [PARTNER B], please join hands. Look at these hands, for they are of your closest friend. They are strong and full of love. As you join hands today, you make the promise to love each other today, tomorrow, and forever.

Your future will be built by these hands. As the years pass, these hands will love you and cherish you. The slightest touch from these hands will give you comfort. These are the hands that will hold your children. These are the hands that will keep your family as one. When you have tears of sorrow or tears of joy, they will be wiped away by these hands."

The Seven Blessings

The Seven Blessings are now recited.

• Blessing over the wine as a symbol of joy
• Blessing praising God to whom all creation proclaims praise
• Blessing praising God as creator of humanity
• Blessing praising God who created humanity in the divine image
• Prayer of hope
• Prayer for the happiness of the couple
• Prayer for the individual hope for happiness for the couple combined with prayer for joy in the messianic future

Following the Seven Blessings, the couple shares a cup of wine.

Breaking the glass

The ceremony is concluded by the tradition of the groom (or bride) stomping on glass and shattering it. This signals the audience to cheer, dance, and shout “Mazal tov!”

After the ceremony concludes, the final ritual takes place in the yichud or “tent of seclusion.” This is considered to be one of the most private and intimate parts of the wedding day, where the newlyweds can savor their first moments alone before the celebration continues.

There are many denominations within the Protestant faith, and the standard ceremony for each may vary. Those with a more liberal interpretation of the wedding ceremony might be open to including more nontraditional elements in the wedding script. The script below is adapted from the Book of Common Prayer, and is just one of many possible variations of a Protestant wedding ceremony.

Introductory prayer

The officiant, known as the celebrant, faces the couple and congregation and offers an introduction:

Officiant: “Dearly beloved, we have come together in the presence of God to witness and bless the joining together of this couple in holy matrimony. The bond and covenant of marriage was established by God in creation, and our Lord Jesus Christ adorned this manner of life by His presence and first miracle at the wedding at Cana in Galilee. It signifies to us the mystery of the union between Christ and His church, and holy Scripture commends it to be honored among all people.

The union of marriage is intended by God for their mutual joy, for the help and comfort given each other in prosperity and adversity, and, when it is God’s will, for the procreation of children and their nurture in the knowledge and love of the Lord. Therefore, marriage is not to be entered into unadvisedly or lightly, but reverently, deliberately, and in accordance with the purposes for which it was instituted by God.”

The interrogation

Celebrant to the congregation: “Into this union [PARTNER A] and [PARTNER B] now come to be joined. If any of you can show just cause why they may not be lawfully wed, speak now, or else forever hold your peace.”

Celebrant to the couple: “I charge you both, here in the presence of God and the witness of this company, that if either of you know any reason why you may not be married lawfully and in accordance with God's word, do now confess it.”

Celebrant to Partner A: “[PARTNER A], will you have this [woman, man] to be your [wife, husband], to live together with [her, him] in the covenant of marriage? Will you love [her, him], comfort [her, him], honor and keep [her, him], in sickness and in health, and, forsaking all others, be faithful unto [her, him] as long as you both shall live?”

Partner A: “I will.”

Celebrant to Partner B: “[PARTNER B], will you have this [man, woman] to be your [husband, wife], to live together with [him/her] in the covenant of marriage? Will you love [him/her], comfort [him/her], honor and keep [him/her], in sickness and in health, and, forsaking all others, be faithful unto [him/her] as long as you both shall live?”

Partner B: “I will.”

Celebrant to the congregation: “Will all of you witnessing these promises do all in your power to uphold these two persons in their marriage?”

Congregation responds: “We will.”

The presentation

The presentation represents the traditional “giving away” of the bride, typically followed by a hymn. Modern Protestants may opt for a poem, romantic reading, or song of their choice in place of a hymn.

Celebrant: “Who gives [PARTNER A] to be married to [PARTNER B]?”

Partner A or B’s father: “[He, she] gives [himself, herself], with the blessing of [his, her] mother and father.”

Some modern Protestants might choose to write their own wedding vows, but the traditional vows most often recited are as follows:

Partner A to Partner B: “In the name of God, I, [NAME], take you, [NAME], to be my [wife, husband], to have and to hold from this day forward, for better or for worse, for richer and for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish, until death do we part. This is my solemn vow.”

Partner B to Partner A: “In the name of God, I, [NAME], take you, [NAME], to be my [husband, wife], to have and to hold from this day forward, for better or for worse, for richer and for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish, until death do we part. This is my solemn vow.”

The blessing and exchange of rings

The celebrant offers a blessing on the rings: “Bless, O Lord, these rings as a symbol of the vows by which this couple have bound themselves to each other, through Jesus Christ our Lord.”

Congregation responds: “Amen.”

Partner A and Partner B place the rings on each other’s fingers and say: “I give you this ring as a symbol of my love, and with all that I am, and all that I have, I honor you, in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.”

The celebrant joins the right hands of both partners and says: “Now that [NAME] and [NAME] have given themselves to each other by solemn vows, with the joining of hands and the giving and receiving of rings, I pronounce them [husband and wife, husband and husband, wife and wife] in the name of the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Those who God has joined together, let no man put asunder.”

Concluding prayers

The celebrant asks the congregation to stand and repeat the Lord’s Prayer:

All: “Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil, for thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen.”

In traditional Protestant weddings, the celebrant will direct the couple to kneel while further blessings and songs are offered. The celebrant then addresses the kneeling couple and recites another blessing:

Celebrant: “May God bless you and keep you; may the Lord mercifully with his favor look upon you, filling you with all spiritual benediction and grace; that you may faithfully live together in this life, and in the age to come have life everlasting. Amen.”

Celebrant to the congregation: “The peace of the Lord be with you always.”

All respond: “And also with you.”

Finally, the couple stands to face each other while the celebrant offers a final line to end the ceremony:

Celebrant: “[NAME] and [NAME], having witnessed your vows of love to one another, it is my joy to present you to all gathered here as [husband and wife, husband and husband, wife and wife]. You may now kiss!”

While writing your wedding ceremony script might feel daunting, these tips can help take the pressure off and provide some much-needed guidance on how to bring your ceremony vision to life—whatever that means to you.

1. Talk with your partner

Writing your script is an opportunity to reflect on the significance of your relationship before you enter into marriage. Talking with your partner about your ideas and desires for your wedding ceremony is an important first step—it helps you get aligned on a mutual vision and ensures the ceremony is a reflection of what matters most to you as a couple.

2. Work with your officiant

Your officiant can provide practical advice on how to get started crafting your ceremony script, and some might even have an outline for you to work from. Since your officiant has most likely conducted their fair share of wedding ceremonies, they’re an excellent resource for any questions you might have.

3. Don’t procrastinate

While you certainly don’t need to memorize your wedding ceremony script, don't put it off until the last minute—especially if you plan on writing your own vows . Procrastinating until the week of your wedding can add a ton of pressure to an already hectic time, so do yourself a favor and get started early!

4. Consider the length of your script

While your wedding ceremony script should be whatever you want it to be, being mindful of time and length is something your guests will appreciate. Anything longer than 30 minutes might leave guests checking their watches! Once you’ve written a draft and have the chance to rehearse it, you’ll find that you can pack plenty of meaning and resonance in less than 15 minutes.

Now that you’ve read some ceremony script examples, you can confidently start writing your own! No matter what you decide to include, what matters most is that the words shared are from the heart and represent what your marriage means to you. Here’s an ultra-simple outline to help you start formulating your own wedding script for officiants to use.

• Officiant’s welcome
• Short sermon to the congregation
• Charge to the couple
• Declaration of the intent to marry
• Pronouncement of marriage
• Conclusion and invitation to reception

Find answers to any lingering wedding ceremony script questions below.

How do I personalize my wedding ceremony script?

Start by nailing down the overall format of your script, including the order of the ceremony and the role of the officiant. Then weave in personal elements significant to you and your partner, such as customizing your vows, a special unity ceremony, or a reading that holds meaning. Remember, there’s no rule that says you have to follow a traditional wedding ceremony script.

How do I start a wedding ceremony script?

Most wedding ceremony outlines start with the wedding officiant welcoming guests and thanking them for joining in the wedding day. Religious ceremonies may start with a reading from the Bible or whatever is customary for different faiths. That said, your ceremony script can begin however you like, whether that’s opening with a meaningful quote, poem, or endearing story about you and your partner.

Where can I find wedding ceremony scripts?

The best place to find both religious and non religious wedding ceremony scripts is online. You can find downloadable pre-written scripts by searching for a specific religious denomination or the mood you want your ceremony to take. For extra inspiration, search for wedding ceremony videos on YouTube to get a feel for what different scripts sound like during a real ceremony.

How long should the officiant speak at the wedding?

Your officiant wedding script should get straight to the point while adding personality. Talk to your celebrant about the parts that are most important to you, such as giving a blessing to the couple . However, if the sermon isn’t essential to you, feel free to shorten it. The last thing you want to do is bore your guests, so concise yet interesting is best.

Although there is a bit of protocol surrounding the order of service, there is a lot of freedom within with most scripts. If you’re particularly religious, you may want to chat with your priest, rabbi, or pastor about how to best adapt your ceremony. However, if you’re not planning on a religious ceremony, chat with your partner about expectations and how to go from expected to highly personal.

As you finish off your wedding planning, Zola is here to help every step of the way. Whether designing custom wedding invitations or putting the final touches on your wedding registry , Zola has all the expert advice you’ll need to make your wedding vision come to life.

Even more answers

• 8 Rustic Wedding Favors
• Nautical Themed Wedding Favors
• Should You Buy Extra Wedding Favors?
• Who Does the Ring Bearer Give the Rings To?
• Guide to Wedding Vows: Examples + How to Write Your Own
• How Long Should a Rehearsal Dinner Be?
• 6 Ways to Include Your Kids in Your Wedding
• Wedding Coloring Pages for Kids: How to Include and Entertain Your Smallest Guests
• 6 Small Ways to Add Personal Touches to Your Reception
• Bohemian Wedding Favors for the Carefree Couple
• Funny Wedding Favors Guaranteed to Make Your Guests Chuckle
• 10 of the Best Ways to Thank Wedding Vendors

Find even more wedding ideas, inspo, tips, and tricks

We’ve got wedding planning advice on everything from save the dates to wedding cakes.

Getting engaged

Wedding planning 101.

• Real weddings
• Creating a budget
• Wedding websites
• Wedding planning tools
• Wedding planning questions
• Wedding decorations
• Wedding day

Wedding trends

• First Look Reports

Venues & vendors

• Wedding venues
• Photos & video
• Food & catering
• Florists & flowers
• Bands, DJs & music
• Cakes & desserts
• Bar & beverages

Invites & paper

• Save the dates
• Invitations
• Day-of paper

Registry & gifts

• Wedding registry basics
• Wedding gifts

Parties & events

• Engagement party
• Wedding shower
• Bachelorette party
• Bachelor party

Fashion & beauty

• Wedding Hair & makeup
• Wedding dresses
• Shoes & accessories
• Wedding attire
• Honeymoon planning
• Honeymoon destinations

Relationship advice

• Newly engaged couples
• Newlywed couples
• Anniversaries
• News & culture

Zola behind the scenes

• Sweepstakes
• Inside Zola

The Ultimate Guide to Crafting an Unforgettable Wedding Officiant Speech

Wedding officiant.

May 16, 2024

• Founder of Bridesmaid for Hire
• Creator of the #1 Speech & Vow Writing Tools
• Author of Always a Bridesmaid (for Hire)
• Creator of 1-800-Bridesmaid

Hi! I'm Jen Glantz

Hi, there.  Jen Glantz   here .  I’m a bestselling author, the first ever bridesmaid for hire, have planned 100s of weddings and written over 1000 wedding speeches for people all around the world! Crafting a wedding officiant speech is an honor and a responsibility that can set the tone for a couple’s special day.

This ultimate guide is designed to help you create a memorable and heartfelt speech, whether you’re an experienced officiant or stepping into this role for the first time.

We’ll cover everything from capturing the couple’s unique story to incorporating personal touches and handling unexpected moments with grace.

With these tips and insights, you’ll be well-equipped to deliver a speech that resonates with the couple and their guests, leaving a lasting impression.

Before we get started, here are some helpful resources for you as you prepare to become a wedding officiant: 

• Meet our  Wedding Officiant Speechwriting Tool :  we’ll write you a fully-custom wedding officiant script in just minutes.
• Looking for inspo? Eyeball our  wedding ceremony scripts  for some inspiration.
• Book a  1:1 speech delivery session . We’ll coach you on how to make sure you engage the audience during the entire ceremony.

Table of Contents

• Understand your role as the wedding officiant , which includes legally solemnizing the marriage and setting the tone for the ceremony.
• Craft a well-structured wedding officiant speech that includes an introduction, the couple’s love story, words of wisdom, and a closing statement.
• Personalize the wedding officiant speech by incorporating inside jokes, special memories, and cultural or religious traditions.
• Deliver the wedding officiant speech with confidence by practicing public speaking techniques, such as body language and vocal variety.
• Be prepared to handle unexpected situations, such as technical issues or disruptions, with grace and professionalism.

Understanding the Role of the Wedding Officiant

As an officiant, your primary responsibility is to legally solemnize the marriage by guiding the couple through the exchange of vows and the signing of the marriage license. However, your role extends far beyond the legal formalities. You are the one who sets the tone for the entire ceremony, creating a meaningful atmosphere that celebrates the union of two souls.

Think of yourself as the conductor of an orchestra, skillfully weaving together the various elements of the ceremony to create a harmonious and unforgettable experience. From selecting readings and incorporating cultural traditions to ensuring that the ceremony flows smoothly, your influence is felt throughout every aspect of the event.

Crafting the Wedding Officiant Speech

At the heart of your responsibilities as an officiant lies the crafting of a officiant speech that captures the essence of the couple’s love story. This is no ordinary speech; it’s a carefully woven tapestry of words that celebrates the journey that has brought the couple to this momentous occasion.

From the moment they first locked eyes to the countless moments that solidified their bond, your officiant speech should paint a vivid picture that transports the guests on a journey through the couple’s love story. But it’s not just about recounting the past; your words should also offer a glimpse into the future, a future filled with hope, love, and unwavering commitment.

The Structure of the Wedding Officiant Speech

A well-structured officiant speech is like a finely crafted novel, with each chapter building upon the last, leading the reader (or in this case, the audience) on a journey filled with emotion, laughter, and ultimately, a deeper understanding of the couple’s love story.

A typical officiant’s speech includes an introduction, the couple’s love story, words of wisdom or advice, and a closing statement. Much like a masterful storyteller, you’ll weave these elements together, captivating your audience from the moment you utter your first word until the final syllable fades into the air.

The Introduction

The introduction sets the stage for the entire speech, capturing the audience’s attention and setting the tone for what’s to come. It should be brief yet impactful, welcoming the guests and introducing yourself and your relationship to the couple.

Think of it as the opening scene of a captivating play, one that immediately draws the audience in and leaves them eager to witness the unfolding drama (or in this case, the unfolding love story).

The Love Story

At the heart of every officiant’s speech lies the couple’s love story, a narrative that weaves together the moments that brought them together and solidified their bond. From the serendipitous meeting to the countless

moments that solidified their love, your words should transport the audience on a journey filled with laughter, tears, and a deeper understanding of what makes this couple truly unique.

Think of yourself as a master storyteller, carefully selecting the most poignant anecdotes and personal details to paint a vivid picture that resonates with the couple and their guests alike.

Words of Wisdom

After sharing the couple’s love story, it’s time to offer some words of wisdom or advice for their marriage. This can take the form of a quote, a personal anecdote, or a heartfelt message about the importance of love, commitment, and partnership.

Think of it as a guiding light, a beacon that will help the couple navigate the inevitable ups and downs of married life, reminding them of the unbreakable bond they share.

The Closing Statement

As you approach the end of your speech, it’s time to deliver a powerful and memorable closing statement. This can take the form of a well-wish for the couple, a call to action for the guests to support the couple, or a final thought that ties the entire speech together.

Think of it as the grand finale, a crescendo of emotion and inspiration that leaves the audience in a state of awe and reverence for the love they’ve just witnessed.

Crafting the Wedding Officiant Speech: Common Questions

1. How does the officiant gather information for the couple’s love story?

Gathering information for the couple’s love story involves a mix of direct communication and subtle observation. Here are some steps:

• Interviews: Have a sit-down interview with the couple to discuss their relationship journey. Ask them about their first meeting, significant milestones, challenges they’ve overcome, and what they love most about each other.
• Questionnaires: Provide a questionnaire for the couple to fill out separately. This can reveal interesting and sometimes humorous perspectives on their relationship.
• Friends and Family: Reach out to close friends and family for additional anecdotes and insights. These can add depth and warmth to the officiant speech.
• Observation: Pay attention to the couple’s interactions during planning meetings or social events. Their dynamics can offer clues to their unique connection.

2. Should humor be included in the officiant’s speech?

Including humor in the officiant’s speech can be a wonderful way to engage guests and highlight the couple’s personalities. However, it’s essential to strike a balance between lighthearted moments and the ceremony’s sentimental aspects. Here are some tips:

• Know the Couple: Understand the couple’s sense of humor. What makes them laugh? Are they comfortable with jokes in a formal setting?
• Appropriate Jokes: Keep the humor appropriate for all guests. Avoid inside jokes that might alienate or confuse those not in the know.
• Blend with Sentiment: Mix humorous anecdotes with heartfelt reflections. This blend creates a well-rounded speech that honors the couple’s love story with warmth and joy.

3. How can the officiant ensure a natural delivery of the speech?

Natural delivery is key to an engaging and heartfelt officiant speech. Here are some strategies:

• Practice: Rehearse the speech multiple times. Familiarity with the content helps reduce reliance on notes.
• Eye Contact: Make eye contact with the couple and guests. This connection enhances the personal feel of the ceremony.
• Use a Script Wisely: “The key to reading naturally is not having to stick your eye six inches from the page. It’s being able to glance down without moving your head down or moving the script up. It’s seeing the words clearly.”
• Pace and Pauses: Speak slowly and clearly, using pauses for emphasis and to allow the couple and guests to absorb the words.

4. Are there examples of well-known officiants who have crafted memorable speeches?

Yes, there are many examples of celebrities who have officiated weddings and crafted memorable speeches. For instance, “ Euphoria ” star Colman Domingo, a lifelong friend of Anika Noni Rose, helped the “Princess and the Frog” voice actress and Jason Dirden make it official in October 2022 in Los Angeles. His close relationship with the couple and understanding of their journey likely contributed to a heartfelt and personal officiant speech.

In summary, crafting an officiant’s speech involves thoughtful preparation, gathering meaningful stories, and balancing humor with sentiment. With practice and a deep understanding of the couple’s journey, the officiant can create a memorable and engaging ceremony.

Personalizing the Wedding Officiant Speech

While crafting a well-structured speech is essential, it’s the personal touches that truly make it unforgettable. After all, this isn’t just any speech; it’s a celebration of two unique individuals and the love that binds them together.

By incorporating inside jokes, special memories, and meaningful traditions, you’ll transform your speech from a mere recitation of words into a living, breathing testament to the couple’s journey. It’s these personal touches that will make the audience laugh, cry, and ultimately, feel like they’ve been granted a glimpse into the heart of the couple’s love story.

Incorporating Personal Touches

A great officiant’s speech is not just about reciting the couple’s love story but also about infusing it with personal touches that make it unique and memorable. After all, this isn’t just any speech; it’s a celebration of two unique individuals and the love that binds them together.

Inside Jokes and Special Memories

Including inside jokes or special memories that only the couple and their close friends and family would understand can add a personal touch to the speech that makes it feel more intimate and meaningful. These small details can make the audience laugh, nod in recognition, and ultimately, feel like they’ve been granted a glimpse into the heart of the couple’s love story.

Think of it as a secret language, one that only those closest to the couple can truly understand and appreciate, creating a sense of shared experience and connection.

Cultural or Religious Traditions

For many couples, incorporating cultural or religious traditions into their wedding ceremony is of great importance. As an officiant, it’s crucial to take the time to understand the significance and meaning behind these traditions. This may involve researching and consulting with the couple, their families, or cultural experts to ensure that you accurately represent and respect their beliefs and customs.

By seamlessly weaving these traditions into your speech, you’ll create a tapestry of words that not only celebrates the couple’s love but also honors their heritage and values, creating a truly meaningful and personal experience.

Personalizing the Wedding Officiant Speech: Common Questions

How much personal information should we include? Striking a balance is key. Include meaningful anecdotes and personal details that reflect the couple’s journey without oversharing. Aim for a blend of personal touches and universal themes to keep the speech engaging for all guests.

How do we incorporate cultural or religious traditions? Research and consult with cultural or religious experts to accurately represent traditions. Discuss with the couple to understand the significance and desired tone. This ensures the speech is respectful and authentic.

Why is professionalism important? Maintaining professionalism ensures the ceremony is respectful and runs smoothly. It helps balance personal stories with the formal aspects of the ceremony, making it memorable and meaningful.

Tips for Personalizing an Officiant Speech:

• Consult the Couple : Understand their preferences and any specific requests.
• Research Traditions : Accurate representation of cultural or religious elements is crucial.
• Balance Details : Share personal stories that resonate but avoid too much detail that could overshadow the ceremony.
• Review and Revise : Ensure the speech flows well and covers all necessary elements.

By focusing on these aspects, you can craft a personalized and heartfelt officiant speech that honors the couple’s unique story and traditions while maintaining the ceremony’s integrity.

Delivery and Presentation of the Wedding Officiant Speech

Delivering a memorable officiant’s speech is not just about the content but also about the presentation and delivery. After all, you could have the most beautifully crafted words, but if your delivery falls flat, their impact will be diminished.

Effective public speaking skills can help you engage the audience, convey the right emotions, and create a lasting impression. From maintaining good posture and making eye contact to varying your tone, volume, and pace, the way you deliver your speech can make all the difference in how it is received and remembered by the couple and their guests.

Public Speaking Tips

Delivering a speech, especially one as significant as an officiant’s speech, can be a daunting task, even for the most seasoned public speakers. However, by mastering a few key public speaking techniques, you can transform your delivery from a mere recitation of words into a captivating performance that leaves a lasting impression.

From body language and vocal variety to practicing and rehearsing, these tips will help you command the stage (or in this case, the altar) and deliver your officiant speech.

Body Language and Vocal Variety

Your body language and vocal variety can significantly impact how your speech is received. Maintaining good posture, making eye contact, and using appropriate gestures can help you appear confident and engaging, drawing the audience in and making them feel like they’re a part of the couple’s love story.

Varying your tone, volume, and pace can also help to keep the audience’s attention and emphasize key points, creating an emotional rollercoaster that takes them on a journey through the highs and lows of the couple’s relationship.

Practicing and Rehearsing

Practicing and rehearsing your speech is essential to ensure a smooth delivery. It can help you identify potential stumbling blocks, work on your timing, and build confidence. Consider practicing in front of a mirror or recording yourself to identify areas for improvement.

Remember, this is not a mere recitation; it’s a performance, a carefully choreographed dance of words and emotions that requires preparation and practice to truly shine. By dedicating time to rehearsing, you’ll be able to deliver your speech with the confidence and poise it deserves, creating a truly unforgettable experience for the couple and their guests.

Handling Unexpected Situations during your Wedding Officiant Speech

While thorough preparation and rehearsal can minimize potential issues, unexpected situations can still arise during the ceremony. As an officiant, it’s essential to be prepared to handle these situations with grace and professionalism.

From technical issues like microphone malfunctions or music glitches to disruptions or objections from guests, your ability to remain calm and adapt on the fly can mean the difference between a minor hiccup and a full-blown disaster. By having a backup plan and a deep understanding of how to navigate these situations, you’ll be able to weather any storm, ensuring that the couple’s special day remains a cherished memory.

Preparing for the Unexpected

While it’s impossible to anticipate every potential hiccup that could occur during a wedding ceremony, being prepared for the unexpected is crucial. This means having a backup plan for technical issues, such as a handheld microphone or a backup music source, and a deep understanding of how to navigate disruptions or objections from guests.

By taking the time to consider potential scenarios and develop contingency plans, you’ll be able to handle any curveball that comes your way with poise and professionalism, ensuring that the couple’s special day remains a cherished memory, despite any unexpected challenges.

Dealing with Technical Issues

Technical issues, such as microphone malfunctions or music glitches, can disrupt the flow of the ceremony. Having a backup plan, such as a handheld microphone or a backup music source, can help you navigate these situations smoothly.

The key is to remain calm and adapt quickly, without drawing too much attention to the issue. A skilled officiant will be able to seamlessly transition to the backup plan, ensuring that the ceremony continues without a hitch and that the couple’s special day remains the focus.

Managing Disruptions or Objections

While rare, disruptions or objections from guests can occur during the ceremony. As the officiant, it’s important to remain calm and professional, and handle the situation with tact and sensitivity.

If an objection is raised, you may need to pause the ceremony and address the issue privately with the couple and the objector to determine the appropriate course of action. If the objection is valid, you may need to postpone or cancel the ceremony.

Handling Unexpected Situations: Common Questions

What should we do if there are technical issues? Have a backup plan for common technical issues. For instance, if the microphone fails, ensure the officiant can project their voice. Test all equipment before the ceremony and have spare batteries or a backup microphone on hand.

How do we handle disruptions from guests? Remain calm and professional. If a guest becomes disruptive, designate someone (like a wedding planner or a trusted friend) to address the issue discreetly.

Tips for Managing Unexpected Situations in Wedding Officiant Speeches:

• Stay Calm : Maintain composure to keep the ceremony flowing smoothly.
• Preparation : Have contingency plans for technical issues and designate people to manage disruptions.
• Adaptability : Be ready to adjust the ceremony flow as needed.

By staying calm and prepared, you can handle unexpected situations efficiently and keep the ceremony enjoyable for everyone.

How Bridesmaid for Hire Can Help

While officiating a wedding is a significant responsibility, it can also be a rewarding and meaningful experience. However, for many couples, finding the right officiant can be a challenge, especially if they don’t have a strong connection to a religious or cultural institution.

This is where Bridesmaid for Hire can step in to provide a unique and personalized solution. R each out to learn more about our officiant speech writing tool . We’ll write you a custom officiant speech that will wow the audience. 

A Quick Recap

Officiating a wedding is a significant responsibility, one that requires careful preparation, attention to detail, and a deep understanding of the couple’s love story. From crafting a well-structured speech that captures the essence of their journey to incorporating personal touches and meaningful traditions, the officiant plays a crucial role in setting the tone for the entire ceremony.

By mastering public speaking techniques, remaining calm and professional in the face of unexpected situations, and infusing the ceremony with heartfelt emotions and personal anecdotes, you can create a truly unforgettable experience for the couple and their guests.

To recap, here are the key learnings:

• Understand the officiant’s responsibilities, including legally solemnizing the marriage and setting the tone for the ceremony.
• Craft a well-structured speech that includes an introduction, the couple’s love story, words of wisdom, and a closing statement.
• Personalize the speech by incorporating inside jokes, special memories, and cultural or religious traditions.
• Master public speaking techniques, such as body language, vocal variety, and practice, to deliver the speech with confidence and emotional resonance.
• Consider Bridesmaid for Hire as a unique and personalized solution for finding the right officiant and additional wedding planning support.

Final Thoughts on Wedding Officiant Speeches

Officiating a wedding is a sacred responsibility, one that requires a delicate balance of preparation, creativity, and emotional intelligence. As the officiant, you are entrusted with the task of not only legally solemnizing the marriage but also capturing the essence of the couple’s love story and setting the tone for their new journey together.

By following the guidance outlined in this comprehensive guide, you’ll be equipped with the tools and knowledge necessary to craft a truly unforgettable wedding ceremony and wedding officiant speech. From mastering the art of public speaking to seamlessly incorporating personal touches and meaningful traditions, you’ll be able to create an experience that resonates with the couple and their guests alike, leaving a lasting impression that will be cherished for years to come.

With this guide as your compass, you’ll be well-equipped to navigate the intricate journey of officiating a wedding, emerging as a true master of ceremony who can weave a tapestry of words that celebrates love, honors tradition, and creates memories that will endure for a lifetime.

• Meet our  Wedding Officiant Speechwriting Tool : we’ll write you a fully-custom wedding ceremony script in just minutes.

Related posts:

1-800-BRIDESMAID

The newlywed card game, something extra to love.

Read the weekly newsletter from Bridesmaid for Hire, 1-800-Bridesmaid , to hear about real stories, from strangers, who need advice on love, life, friendship, and so much more.

Looking for the perfect wedding gift for someone you adore? Grab The Newlywed Card Game. It's a fun and interactive game they can play on their honeymoon or future date nights.

Love Letters from a Professional Bridesmaid

Our adventure is one of the epic stories, honest tips, and heart-warming advice. We put it all inside a weekly newsletter delivered straight to your inbox. Join 50,000 others who eyeball what’s inside. 

Hey! I'm Jen Glantz

I started Bridesmaid for Hire 10-years-ago after being a bridesmaid for lots of friends. I’m a nonfiction author and content creator who lives in Brooklyn with Goofy (the dog), Gemma (the baby), and Adam (the husband). I love to share: advice & tips, secrets with strangers, and pizza. I eat a lot of pizza.

speech tool

Testimonials, maid of honor, bridesmaid for hire book, watch tiktok, read the true stories, become a pro bridesmaid, get on the email list, instant adventures.

Copyright 2023 Jen Glantz & Bridesmaid for Hire 

Terms of Services

Follow me on IG

Refund Policy

Privacy Policy

Welcome, friend!

Choose your

Read the Book

90 years of expert advice and inspiration, for every couple.

• Engagement Rings
• Wedding Bands
• Celebrity Weddings & News
• Wedding Planning
• Destination Wedding
• Invitations & Stationery
• Wedding Décor
• Flowers & Bouquets
• Food & Drink
• Wedding Cakes
• Photography
• Wedding Dresses
• Bridesmaid Dresses
• Makeup & Hair
• Accessories
• Groom Style
• Wedding Party Attire
• Wedding Guest Attire
• Bridal Fashion Week
• Skincare & Wellness
• Engagement Party
• Bridal Shower
• Bachelorette Party
• Rehearsal Dinner
• Registry Tips
• Anniversary Gifts
• Wedding Favors
• Friends & Family
• Marriage Proposal Ideas
• Married Life
• Love & Dating
• The Brides Team
• Editorial Guidelines
• Editorial Policy
• Terms of Use and Policies
• Privacy Policy
• Wedding Ideas & Advice
• Wedding Ceremony Ideas
• A Guide to Wedding Ceremony Order Who Walks Down the Aisle and When Everything to Know About Your Ceremony Exit Writing Tips From Experts

8 Sample Wedding Ceremony Scripts to Guide Your Own Celebration

Plus, we're sharing writing tips to customize your wedding vows and ceremony scripts.

Cristina Montemayor is a freelance writer and makeup artist whose work has appeared on HelloGiggles, Slate, Elite Daily, and Bustle.

Photo by Brittany Painter Photography

In This Article

The wedding ceremony is the heart of the big day. The attire, the flowers, and the food are all icing on the cake, but the wedding ceremony —the time when a couple exchanges vows and rings—is when two people actually become married. Considering the significance, it’s surprising that many couples often leave the wedding ceremony planning to the last minute, according to wedding officiant and professional vow writing coach Tanya Pushkine. “It’s so rare that the wedding ceremony is thought of as a priority,” says Pushkine. “It’s almost like an afterthought.”

Meet the Expert

Tanya Pushkine is a professional vow writing coach, ceremony planner, and officiant based in New York City. She’s known as the “vow whisperer” for her ability to craft authentic and memorable ceremonies that reflect the unique personalities and beliefs of the couple.

Pushkine recommends that couples start thinking about the ceremony early in the wedding-planning process so that they know what to ask for when they meet with their wedding planner or day-of coordinator. Religious ceremonies are typically more fixed in terms of the service, language, and traditions while secular/non-religious ceremonies give couples a lot more flexibility to personalize the ceremony to their unique tastes.

All weddings have a standard format ( processional , readings, vows, exchange of rings, pronouncement, first kiss, and recessional), but by changing up the readings, verbiage, and incorporating creative rituals into the service, you can make it completely your own and create a service that leaves your guests laughing, crying, and excited about what’s coming next. “Millennials are writing their own rules,” Pushkine says of modern wedding ceremonies . “They’re looking to create an experience, which is different than before, where couples just did what their parents did.”

Below, we’ve outlined wedding ceremony script writing tips and a few sample wedding ceremony scripts to inspire you.

Photo by Liz Andolina Photography

Wedding Ceremony Script Writing Tips

Whether you're working with a professional officiant , a member of a religious house of worship, a justice of the peace, or a friend or family member, you might decide to customize your wedding ceremony. If so, know that scripting your wedding ceremony can be a fun, joyful experience, but the pressure to do and say the right thing can interfere. Here's how to keep it from becoming overwhelming.

Start Early

Don’t leave writing your wedding ceremony until the last minute. Get ahead of it and start doing your research early on in the wedding-planning process so that you have plenty of time to find inspiration and craft a ceremony that reflects you as a couple. “It’s like a puzzle,” Pushkine warns. “There are so many different variations and themes to choose from when it comes to planning a wedding ceremony, so try to find unique elements that fit your personal style.”

Work With Your Officiant

The officiant is the most important person at the ceremony—more than the newlyweds—because they’re leading the entire service, and they hold the power to actually marry the couple. If your officiant is a religious leader or experienced wedding officiant , they might already have an outline for the wedding ceremony that you can add to, if you so choose. If you’re having a friend step in as the officiant, they’ll need some direction from the couple as to what they’ll want to include in the ceremony.

Don’t Procrastinate on Writing Your Vows

If you decide to write your own vows , make sure you dedicate plenty of time to not only writing your vows but practicing your delivery as well. Your vows are a lifetime promise that you’re making to your partner in front of your closest friends and family, so they should be meaningful and personal, but without being too revealing. Choose your words carefully, and rehearse until you feel confident and comfortable saying them aloud. 

Keep It Short and Sweet

Unless your ceremony involves a religious service, try to keep the ceremony length to no more than 30 minutes. Any longer and your guests might start looking at their watches. If you want a memorable ceremony that’s fun for everyone—not just the couple—try to make your ceremony interactive. “The best thing you can do to make your ceremony unique is to get people laughing,” Pushkine says. “Wedding ceremonies can be a lot of fun without completely disregarding the serious element involved.” 

Consider Printing Programs for Your Guests

Personalized wedding ceremonies can be entertaining, but the further away you get from the traditional ceremony format, the more confused your guests might be. Wedding programs are a great addition to make your guests feel more involved and aware of where the service is going.

Programs are also great to further explain more meaningful elements of the ceremony, like why you chose to include certain readings or rituals. 

Get a Second Opinion

Make sure to have someone look over your wedding script before the big day to make sure it flows well and sounds both authentic and natural. It never hurts to have a second pair of eyes to provide feedback and edit suggestions on what is likely the most important speech you’ll ever deliver.

Photo by Lance Nicoll

Sample Wedding Ceremony Scripts

Now that you’re ready to start writing your own wedding ceremony script, here are a few sample scripts to use as a jumping-off point, all prepared by American Marriage Ministries (AMM) .

Photo by Getty Images / Brides

Traditional Wedding Ceremony Script

PROCESSIONAL Beginning of the wedding ceremony. Guests are seated followed by the entrance of the bridal party.

INVOCATION Welcome, loved ones. We are gathered here today to join [Name] and [Name] in holy matrimony.

VOW EXCHANGE [Name], I promise to cherish you always, to honor and sustain you, in sickness and in health, in poverty and in wealth, and to be true to you in all things until death alone shall part us.

[Name] I promise to cherish you always, to honor and sustain you, in sickness and in health, in poverty and in wealth, and to be true to you in all things until death alone shall part us.

RING EXCHANGE AND DECLARATION OF INTENT With this ring I, [Name], take you, [Name], to be no other than yourself. Loving what I know of you, and trusting what I do not yet know, I will respect your integrity and have faith in your abiding love for me, through all our years, and in all that life may bring us.

With this ring I, [Name], take you, [Name], to be no other than yourself. Loving what I know of you, and trusting what I do not yet know, I will respect your integrity and have faith in your abiding love for me, through all our years, and in all that life may bring us.

PRONOUNCEMENT By the power vested in me by the state of [State], I now pronounce you [husband and wife/husband and husband/wife and wife]!

Nonreligious Wedding Ceremony Script

PROCESSIONAL Beginning of the wedding ceremony. Guests are seated.

INVOCATION Family and friends, thank you all for coming today to share in this wonderful occasion. Today we are here together to unite [Name] and [Name] in marriage.

DECLARATION OF INTENT Do you [Name], take this [woman/man/person] to be your lawfully wedded [husband/wife], to live together in matrimony, to love [her/him/them], comfort [her/him/them], honor and keep [her/him/them], in sickness and in health, in sorrow and in joy, to have and to hold, from this day forward, as long as you both shall live?

Do you [Name], take this [woman/man/person] to be your lawfully wedded [husband/wife], to live together in matrimony, to love [her/him/them], comfort [her/him/them], honor and keep [her/him/them], in sickness and in health, in sorrow and in joy, to have and to hold, from this day forward, as long as you both shall live?

RING EXCHANGE [Name] and [Name] have chosen rings to exchange with each other as a symbol of their unending love. As you place this ring on [Name]’s finger, please repeat after me. With this ring, I thee wed and pledge you my love now and forever.

[Name], as you place this ring on [Name]’s finger, please repeat after me. With this ring, I thee wed and pledge you my love now and forever.

PRONOUNCEMENT By the authority vested in me by the State of [State], I now pronounce you [husband and wife/husband and husband/wife and wife]!

RECESSIONAL End of the wedding ceremony.

Modern Wedding Ceremony Script

INVOCATION Welcome family and friends. We are gathered here today to witness and celebrate the marriage of [Name] and [Name]. This is not the beginning of a new relationship but an acknowledgment of the next chapter in their lives together. [Name] and [Name] have spent years getting to know each other, and we now bear witness to what their relationship has become. Today, they will affirm this bond formally and publicly.

[Name] and [Name] will mark their transition as a couple not only by celebrating the love between themselves, but by also celebrating the love between all of us—including the love of their parents, siblings, extended family, and best friends. Without that love, today would be far less joyous.

DECLARATION OF INTENT Do you [Name] take [Name] to be your lawfully wedded [husband/wife]? To have and to hold, in sickness and in health, in good times and not so good times, for richer or poorer, keeping yourself unto [him/her/them] for as long as you both shall live?

Do you [Name] take [Name] to be your lawfully wedded [husband/wife]? To have and to hold, in sickness and in health, in good times and not so good times, for richer or poorer, keeping yourself unto [him/her/them] for as long as you both shall live?

RING EXCHANGE A ring is an unbroken circle, with ends that have been joined together, and it represents your union. It is a symbol of infinity, and of your infinite love. When you look at these rings on your hands, be reminded of this moment, your commitment, and the love you now feel for each other.

[Name], place the ring on [Name]'s finger and repeat after me:

[Name], I give you this ring as a symbol of my love with the pledge: to love you today, tomorrow, always, and forever.

And now...[Name], place the ring on [Name]'s finger and repeat after me:

PRONOUNCEMENT Before these witnesses, you have pledged to be joined in marriage. You have now sealed this pledge with your wedding rings. By the authority vested in me by the great State of [State], I now pronounce you married!

Christian Wedding Ceremony Script

INVOCATION We are gathered here today in the sight of God and these witnesses to join together [Name] and [Name] in holy matrimony; which is an honorable estate, instituted of God, since the first man and the first woman walked on the earth. Therefore; it is not to be entered into unadvisedly or lightly, but reverently and soberly. Into this holy estate, these two persons present come now to be joined. Therefore, if anyone can show just cause why they may not be lawfully joined together, let them speak now or forever hold their peace.

READING A reading from the Apostle Paul, The first letter to the Corinthians, Chapter 13, verses 4 through 7: Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Father, as [Name] and [Name] pledge themselves to each other, help them and bless them that their love may be pure, and their vows may be true. Through Jesus Christ our Lord, Amen.

DECLARATION OF INTENT [Name] and [Name], you have come together this day so that the Lord may seal and strengthen your love in the presence of this minister of His word and this community of family and friends and so, in the presence of this gathering, I ask you to state your intentions: Have you both come here freely and without reservation to give yourselves to each other in marriage? If so, answer by saying 'I have.'

RING EXCHANGE [Name], please take the ring you have selected for [Name]. As you place it on [his/her] finger, repeat after me: With this ring, I thee wed.

[Name], please take the ring you have selected for [Name]. As you place it on [his/her] finger, repeat after me: With this ring, I thee wed.

PRAYER May Jesus Christ, Our Lord and Savior, always be at the center of the new lives you are now starting to build together, that you may know the ways of true love and kindness. May the Lord bless you both all the days of your lives and fill you with His joy. Amen.

PRONOUNCEMENT Those whom God has joined together, let no man put asunder. In so much as [Name] and [Name] have consented together in holy wedlock, and have witnessed the same before God and this company, having given and pledged their faith, each to the other, and having declared same by the giving and receiving of rings, I pronounce that you are husband and wife. I ask you now to seal the promises you have made with each other this day with a kiss.

Jewish Wedding Ceremony Script

SIGNING OF THE KETUBAH The Ketubah is an ancient document and is a marriage contract that lays out the commitment that the couple has to each other. It is signed by two Jewish witnesses, neither of whom can be blood-related family members to the couple.

BEDEKEN After the Ketubah signing, there is a short but meaningful ritual where the groom covers the bride’s face with her veil. The veiling itself is a symbol of modesty, based upon the biblical account of Rebecca meeting Isaac. Some couples put a modern spin on the tradition by having the bride place a yarmulke on the groom.

INVOCATION We are gathered here today to celebrate the union of [Name] and [Name]. A special thanks to all of you that traveled from far and wide to witness the promise these two are about to make to one another. We are here to offer our love and support, and to stand with [Name] and [Name] as they begin this new chapter of their lives.

RING EXCHANGE The couple will now exchange rings. These rings symbolize the never-ending love you feel for each other. The ring has neither a beginning nor an end, just as there is no beginning or end to what the partners give and receive. These rings will be a reminder of the vows you have taken today. By this ring, you are consecrated to me according to the law of Moses and Israel.

BLESSING OF THE HANDS [Name] and [Name], please join hands. Looks at these hands for they are of your closest friend. They are strong and full of love. As you join hands today, you make the promise to love each other today, tomorrow, and forever.

THE SEVEN BLESSINGS The Seven Blessings are now recited.

BREAKING THE GLASS The ceremony is concluded by the groom stamping on a glass and smashing it. This is the signal for the gathered people to cheer, dance, and shout “Mazal Tov!” Some couples choose to update this tradition by breaking the glass together with one swift smash in unison.

Baptist Wedding Ceremony Script

PROCESSIONAL Beginning of the wedding ceremony. Guests are seated followed by the entrance of the bridal party.

INVOCATION Dearly beloved, we are gathered here in the presence of God, family, and friends to witness a joyous occasion—the union of [Name] and [Name] in holy matrimony.

PRESENTATION OF THE BRIDE Who gives [Name] to be married to [Name]?

[Bride’s father or parent] I do.

DECLARATION OF INTENT [Name] and [Name], as you stand here before friends, family, and God, I ask you to declare your intentions to join in the sacred covenant of marriage.

Do you take [Name] to be your husband, to love him, comfort him, honor and keep him, in sickness and in health, and forsaking all others, be faithful to him, as long as you both shall live?

[Name], have you come here freely and without reservation to marry?

[Name], do you take [Name] to be your wife, to love her, comfort her, honor and keep her, in sickness and in health, and forsaking all others, be faithful to her, as long as you both shall live?

EXCHANGE OF VOWS AND RINGS [Name] and [Name] will now exchange rings as a symbol of their commitment and endless devotion.

 [Name], you may place the ring you’ve chosen on [Name]’s hand.

 And [Name], you may place the ring you’ve chosen on [Name]’s hand.

 [Couple exchanges rings.]

This marriage unites not just [Name] and [Name], but all of the families sitting here today. They ask now for your blessing. Do you promise to support [Name] and [Name] in their marriage, to keep them in your prayers, to hold them up with love, and to rejoice in companionship in Jesus as they walk this path together?

[Audience] We do.

Closing prayers.

PRONOUNCEMENT [Name] and [Name], having witnessed your marriage vows in the eyes of God and before all who are assembled here, by the authority invested in me by the State of [State], I pronounce you husband and wife. 

You may kiss the bride!

Protestant Wedding Ceremony Script

PROCESSION Beginning of the wedding ceremony. Guests are seated followed by the entrance of the bridal party. 

INVOCATION Dearly beloved, we’re gathered here today in the presence of God to witness and bless this union as [Name] and [Name] join together in holy matrimony. 

This holy bond is not to be entered into unadvisedly or lightly, but reverently, deliberately, thoughtfully, and in accordance with those purposes for which God created it. 

INTERROGATION AND CHARGE TO THE COUPLE If anyone present knows of any reason why this couple should not be joined in holy matrimony, speak now or forever hold your peace. 

[Name] and [Name], here in the presence of God, family, and friends, if either of you know any reason why you should not marry, do now confess it. 

PRESENTATION OF THE BRIDE Who presents [Name] to be married to [Name]?

DECLARATION OF INTENT Please face each other and join hands.

[Name] if it’s in your heart, please repeat after me. 

In the name of God,  I, [Name], take you, [Name],  to be my (wife/husband/spouse),  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,  until we are parted by death. This is my solemn vow.

[Partner repeats this vow.]

EXCHANGE OF RINGS Lord, bless these rings as you bless this union, in your infinite wisdom, today, tomorrow and always. Amen

[Partner] I give you this ring as a symbol of my love and devotion. With all that I am, and all that I have, I promise to honor and cherish you, in God’s name. 

[Partner repeats.]

PRONOUNCEMENT [Name] and [Name], remember to love each other faithfully, just as Christ loved the church, for marriage is a lasting promise of kindness, patience, forgiveness, and love. Trust in God with all your heart, and your path forward will be filled with joy and light for all the years to come. 

By the power vested in me by the beautiful state of [State], in the presence of God and the witness of friends and family, it is my great privilege to pronounce you husband and wife!

Catholic Wedding Ceremony Script

INVOCATION In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.  Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.

Opening prayer and readings.

CELEBRATION OF MATRIMONY All stand, and the couple comes to the altar flanked by their witnesses. The priest will address the couple with a celebration of matrimony:

Dearly beloved, you have come together into the house of the church so that in the presence of the church’s minister and the community, your intention to enter into marriage may be strengthened by the Lord with a sacred seal.

ADDRESS AND STATEMENT OF INTENTIONS [Name] and [Name], have you come here to enter into marriage without coercion, freely and wholeheartedly?

 [Couple] I have

Are you prepared, as you follow the path of marriage, to love and honor each other for as long as you both shall live?

[Couple] I am

 EXCHANGE OF CONSENT I, [NAME], take you, [NAME], to be my [wife/husband]. I promise to be faithful to you, in good times and in bad, in sickness and in health, to love you and to honor you all the days of my life.

[Partner two repeats this vow.]

BLESSING AND GIVING OF RINGS Bless, O Lord, these rings which we bless in your name. So that those who wear them may remain entirely faithful to each other, abide in peace and in your will, and live always in mutual charity. Through Christ our Lord.

[Priest sprinkles wedding rings with holy water, then hands them to each partner.]

[Name], receive this ring as a sign of my love and fidelity. In the name of the father, and the son, and the holy spirit.  

[Places ring on partner’s finger]

[Partner two repeats this vow and places ring on partner’s finger.]

PRAYER Priest leads congregation with the Lord’s Prayer.

COMMUNION Priest performs communion, starting with the married couple. 

PRONOUNCEMENT By the power vested in me by the state of [State], I now pronounce you husband and wife.

The best place to find ideas for your very own wedding ceremony script is, you guessed it, the internet. From wedding videography on YouTube to bridal blogs, wedding planning sites, and of course, Brides , there is certainly no shortage of inspiration.

Traditionally, a wedding script begins with the officiant seating the guests and thanking them for bearing witness to the marriage of the couple. While religious ceremonies may begin with a bible verse or another custom, a more modern approach may start the ceremony with a story of the couple.

While the format for your wedding ceremony script largely depends on how religious the occasion is, there are a variety of ways to make it personal to you as a couple. Incorporate guests who are taking witness to your marriage or include a story of how you met followed by a time where you rose above a challenge together to add a personal touch to the proceedings.

The Ultimate Wedding Ceremony Guide

• A Guide to Wedding Ceremony Order
• Who Walks Down the Aisle and When
• Everything to Know About Your Ceremony Exit
• currently on Writing Tips From Experts
• How to Create a Unique Wedding Ceremony
• How Long Should the Ceremony Last?
• Tips for Writing the Perfect Program
• Seating: Who Sits Where?
• Modern Ways to Walk Down the Aisle
• What Is a Unity Ceremony?
• Creative Ideas to Personalize Your Ceremony
• Questions to Ask Your Officiant
• How Much Does an Officiant Cost?
• How to Lead a Wedding Ceremony
• How to Write Your Own Vows
• Who Traditionally Goes First?
• Quotes About Love to Get You Started
• Traditional Vows to Inspire Your Own
• Unique Vow Ideas From TV Shows and Movies
• Should You Exchange Vows Before the Ceremony?
• The Best Vow Books to Keep Your Love Alive
• How to Choose Music for Your Ceremony
• Blessings and Prayers From Different Cultures and Religions
• The Best Songs to Play While Guests Arrive
• Non-Religious Readings We Love
• The Best Songs to Walk Down the Aisle To
• Incredible Altar Ideas
• Beautiful Ways to Decorate Your Aisle
• Unique Chair Layouts
• Stunning Ceremony Locations

Related Stories

• 38 Wedding Poems About Love That Are Perfect for Vows, Ceremony Readings, and Toasts
• How to Plan a Chinese Tea Ceremony for Your Wedding
• 32 Funny Wedding Vows to Exchange During Your Ceremony
• 27 Bible Verses Perfect for Your Vows and Ceremony Readings
• Everything You Need to Know About the Ketubah Signing
• 50 Fascinating Wedding Traditions Around the World
• 70 Mellow Wedding Prelude Songs to Play Before Your Ceremony Begins
• 16 Unity Ceremony Ideas to Consider for Your Wedding
• How to Plan a Civil Wedding Ceremony That Feels Special and Meaningful
• 40 Beautiful and Inspiring Bible Verses to Add to Your Wedding Invitations
• 32 Outdoor Wedding Light Decoration Ideas That Will Make Your Surroundings Sparkle
• Everything You Need to Know About a Commitment Ceremony
• How to Renew Your Wedding Vows: Your Ultimate Guide to Planning a Meaningful Celebration
• How to Plan and Prepare for a Nikah Wedding Ceremony
• The Ultimate Wedding Ceremony Outline
• 45 Unique Wedding Send-Off Ideas for an Unforgettable Exit

• NEW Wedding Ideas

Sample Wedding Ceremony Scripts You’ll Want to Borrow

A heartfelt thank you to Generation Tux for sponsoring this post! They really do simplify the suit and tuxedo rental process, Generation Tux has revolutionized the way we approach wedding attire. With an easy and enjoyable online experience, they eliminate the need for store visits, last-minute pickups, and ill-fitting garments.

Generation Tux ensures a stress-free wedding planning journey. Offering over 25 premium quality wool suits and tuxedos, they empower you to customize your look from bowtie to dress shoes.

Rest assured with their guaranteed fit, as their innovative fit technology, eTailor, utilizes an algorithm that automatically sizes you for a perfect fit. The seamless coordination of groomsmen and wedding party rentals is made effortless with event tracking and groomsmen management. Track all orders in your group from start to finish, receive automated alerts, and stay informed anywhere, anytime. Additionally, Generation Tux boasts an outstanding 5-star customer experience team and personal stylists, available seven days a week via phone or email, ensuring that your wedding attire journey is not only stress-free but also tailored to perfection.

Generation Tux goes above and beyond to enhance your wedding experience by offering a range of exclusive benefits. Enjoy a complimentary rental for the wedding couple with 5 or more paid rentals in your party, or savor a free look to keep for the couple with 7 or more paid rentals.

Now onto what you came for sample wedding ceremony scripts, because you're getting married. We must also mention that all the Groom's in this post are wearing Generation Tux .

Be on the same page.

Whether you and your partner decide to craft the ceremony yourselves or entrust the script to the officiant, the key is to ensure a shared vision. The ceremony is a celebration of your love, so it should genuinely mirror your preferences.Understanding the couple as well as the essence of their relationship, there is a commitment to crafting a ceremony that authentically captures their unique connection. Before drafting a sample script, sit down and listen to each other's desires.

DON’T WING THE VOWS.

Not every couple wants to exchange handwritten vows, and that’s okay!! Personalized vows certainly don’t supersede more traditional vows. That said, if you do want to write your own vows , it’s important that you and your fiancé both dedicate sufficient time to perfecting your prose. You’ll be making promises to each other, reminiscing on the most epic and monumental moments of your relationship (as much as you wish to share), and committing to a lifetime together, so your words should be reasonably rehearsed. Know that your vows are truly for you both, so you don’t need to feel pressure to appeal to any of your guests.

Yet, being on the same page with your officiant, you should have a game plan about how much time should be spent on each portion of your ceremony - and together, you’ll agree on an appropriate amount of time for your vow exchange.

Programs do have a purpose.

We’ll say it again: weddings do have a pretty familiar format, from one to another, in that they all usually have a processional, a welcome, readings or an anecdote/address/sermon of sorts, vows, exchange of rings, pronouncement, first kiss, and recessional. But apart from that, they can be as bespoke and tailor-made as possible. That’s why wedding programs aren’t just for show, they serve a purpose, especially if a bride and groom are having a religious ceremony or one that might be extraordinarily unique.

Providing guests with something to reference while they sit for the ceremony is super helpful - 1) to make guests feel included in the day and 2) to help them understand what is taking place during the wedding ceremony. I won’t lie, I love programs, and I think they’re the perfect place for couples to share messages with their guests and let them in on anything that’s particularly meaningful to them or their love story. Of course, creating their own wedding website can help with that, too!

Okay, here are some sample wedding ceremony scripts for your perusal! But before we jump in, just one really important thing for you to consider....

Only invite peple to the wedding, who you know will come to your wedding ceremony.

That’s like our most critical piece of advice, especially when you’re mulling over your biggest budget killer. People who don’t come to your ceremony (without a good reason, of course), don’t deserve to party with you. And yes, it’ll happen. Trust us when we say that, because there will be people who you’ll notice aren’t there. And those fine individuals aren’t actually fine, they suck👎. The wedding ceremony is the most important part of your big day and your happily-ever-after that follows, so guests should be there for it all .

If only there was a way to make it grossly clear that you expect your guests to be present for EVERY part of your wedding day - not just for the dance floor and open bar.... You could; however, make your own custom invitations (we've got a whole bunch of FREE printables ) and include whatever little FYIs... if you're so inclined.

short, sweet and funny wedding ceremony script

Welcome. Welcome. Welcome.

Officiant: Good afternoon, lovely folks! We're gathered here on this spectacular day to witness the union of [NAME] and [NAME]. You all look fabulous, and the weather's not too shabby either. So, let's dive into the good stuff!

[NAME] and [NAME], today is not just about pretty invitations and a stunning venue. It's about the wild ride you've been on since you first crossed paths. Remember the time when you first met? You figured out each other's quirks, learned how to make each other laugh, and discovered the art of supporting one another through life's less-than-simple moments. You even managed to blend your families, friends, and communities into a new village, filled with warmth and enthusiasm. And guess what? Today, you're the mayors of that love-filled village.

Marriages come with their fair share of challenges, but today is a celebration of the love that has already conquered many obstacles. So, let's keep this party rolling!

Officiant: As part of today's festivities, [NAME] has enlisted the poetic talents of [NAME] for an original poem. Brace yourselves for some poetic magic.

(Poem Reading to proceed) Thank you [NAME] for that Poem

Wedding Vows.

Officiant: [NAME] and [NAME], hold those hands tight and repeat after me:

Couple: [NAME], I solemnly promise/ to spice up our days with laughter and beauty,/ to cheer for your victories/ and inspire you in times of doubt./ I vow to be your partner, confidant, and biggest fan,/ loving you for all the days of my life.

(Officiant turns to the other partner and repeats the vows)

Officiant: So, [NAME] and [NAME], are you both up for this adventure called marriage? Shout out a hearty "We do!"

(Couple says “We do!”)

Officiant: And to everyone here, are you ready to support this dynamic duo, remind them of their vows, and showcase love and family at its finest? Let me hear you scream, "We do!"

(Crowd says “We do!”)

Exchange of Rings.

Officiant: Behold the rings, symbols of life's crazy, unbreakable circle and the love that binds you. Slip those beauties onto each other's fingers and repeat after me.

Couple: I give you this ring/ a reminder of today,/ when we declared that our love conquers all./ May it continue to unite, inspire, and celebrate us/ throughout our adventure together.

Officiant: [NAME] and [NAME], with immense joy, I declare you partners in crime, officially married for the first time! Now, seal the deal with a smooch and let the celebrations commence! Cheers!

Prepared by Generation Tux

PERSONAL FRIEND AS OFFICIANT WEDDING CEREMONY SCRIPT

Officiant: Please be seated.

First, I’d like to begin by welcoming everyone and thanking each and every one of you for being here on this most happy of days. It’s no accident that each of you are here today, and each of you were invited to be here because you represent someone important in the individual and collective lives of NAME and NAME.

I truly can’t think of a better venue than _________ [“paradise” for a destination wedding, “this beautiful church” for a more religious affair, etc.] for an occasion that I know is not only monumental for the wedded-couple-to-be, but for all of us who are lucky to know and love them as individuals; but even more so as a perfect pairing.

The most remarkable moment in life is when you meet the person who makes you feel complete. The person who makes the world a beautiful and magical place. The person with whom you share a bond so special that it transcends normal relationships and becomes something so pure and so wonderful, that you can’t imagine spending another day of your life without them. For NAME, that happened about 20 years ago when s/he met me and we became best friends [add some humor if your officiant is a friend]. But about X years ago s/he met NAME, who is pretty wonderful, too. I know how deeply these two care for and love one another, and I feel privileged to be here today among all of you as a witness of their commitment to a lifetime of love for one another.

I think I’ve had the good fortune to meet most of you here today at some point or another, but for those of you whom I haven’t met, my name is [short biographical info about how the officiant knows the couple].

The Love Story.

Officiant: Now, NAME and NAME have asked that I keep this speech short, classy, and family-friendly, and politely asked me to leave out stories that are unflattering to either of them. So I’ve had to redline stories about previous flings...drugs or alcohol...encounters with the police...but I do feel comfortable saying, “I told you so.” Which is exactly what I said when I learned that NAME and NAME’s relationship was becoming truly serious.

As a third-party spectator to their developing love, it was extremely clear that the two of them represent a perfect pairing because each of them complements the other so well. They balance one another, and while each of them are tremendous individuals on their own, together they are even better. And being better together, as a team, a unit, and partners in crime, is what has been many years in the making and ultimately leads us to being here today, witnessing their commitment to one another in front of those they love most.

I wish I could tell you a single story about NAME and NAME that summarizes their relationship and how they enrich each other’s lives, and the lives of each of us, but the truth is there isn’t one single event that is a good encapsulation of what they mean to me, to each other, and to all of us. But what I do know is that both of them care deeply and passionately for each other; they protect each other; they make each other laugh and think outside themselves; that time magically seems to both fly and slow down when they’re together. They help each other in ways that are obvious and unnoticed, but always appreciated.

I also know that it’s not just anyone with whom you can have communication with simply a look, or remember the weirdest names of each other’s Lyft drivers, or surprise each other with reservations at a restaurant you’ve been eyeing for years, or say “I’m sorry” every time it’s warranted (...eventually). They do that for and with each other.

But it’s also my personal experiences with NAME and NAME that highlight the quality of their love. It doesn’t matter if I’m with them in person, or simply in a bizarre group text with them—when I’m engaging with NAME and NAME, I am always enjoying myself. And I am certain that that’s part of what makes them so special to each of us: how happy and contented we feel when we are with them. And what I wish for them on their wedding day is that their lifetime together as a team is one of complete contentment; full of those moments that they wish would never end, and that they continue to make one another smile and laugh as they make each of us do.

So, without further ado…

Dearly beloved and honored guests:

We are gathered together here to join NAME and NAME in the union of marriage.

This contract is not to be entered into lightly, but thoughtfully and seriously, and with a deep realization of its obligations and responsibilities.

The grooms/brides/bride and groom have each prepared vows that they will read now.

[Exchanging of vows]

Officiant: And now:

NAME, do you take NAME to be your husband/wife?

Do you promise to love, honor, cherish, and protect him/her, forsaking all others, and holding only unto him/her forevermore?

And NAME, do you take NAME to be your husband/wife?

Officiant: NAME and NAME will now exchange rings as a symbol of love and commitment to each other. Rings are a precious metal; they are also made precious by you wearing them. Your wedding rings are special; they enhance who you are. They mark the beginning of your long journey together. Your wedding ring is a circle—a symbol of love never ending. It is the seal of the vows you have just taken to love each other without end.

NAME, please place the ring on NAME’s left hand and repeat after me:

As a sign of my love

[“As a sign of my love”]

That I have chosen you

[That I have chosen you”]

Above all else

[“Above all else”]

With this ring, I thee wed.

[“With this ring, I thee wed.”]

And NAME, please place the ring on NAME’s left hand and repeat after me:

The Good Wishes.

Officiant: To make your relationship work will take love. Continue to date each other. Take time to show each other that your love and marriage grows stronger with time.

It will take trust to know that in your hearts, you truly want what is best for each other.

It will take dedication to stay open to one another—and to learn and grow together.

It will take loyalty to go forward together, without knowing exactly what the future brings.

And it will take commitment to hold true to the journey you have both pledged today.

The Declaration of Marriage / "The Kiss"

Officiant: And now by the power vested in me by _______________, it is my honor and delight to declare you married. Go forth and live each day to the fullest. You may seal this declaration with a kiss.

I am so pleased to present the newlyweds, NAMES.

Prepared by Minted.com

Traditional Wedding Ceremony Script

Officiant: Welcome, family, friends and loved ones. We gather here today to celebrate the wedding of NAME and NAME. You have come here to share in this formal commitment they make to one another, to offer your love and support to this union, and to allow NAME and NAME to start their married life together surrounded by the people dearest and most important to them.So welcome to one and all, who have traveled from near and far. NAME and NAME thank you for your presence here today and now ask for your blessing, encouragement, and lifelong support, for their decision to be married.

Definition of Marriage.

Officiant: Marriage is perhaps the greatest and most challenging adventure of human relationships. No ceremony can create your marriage; only you can do that—through love and patience; through dedication and perseverance; through talking and listening, helping and supporting and believing in each other; through tenderness and laughter; through learning to forgive, learning to appreciate your differences, and by learning to make the important things matter, and to let go of the rest. What this ceremony can do is to witness and affirm the choice you make to stand together as lifemates and partners.

Declaration of Intent.

Officiant: Will you, NAME, take this woman to be your wedded wife?

Groom: I will

Officiant: Will you, NAME, take this man to be your wedded husband?

Bride: I will

Officiant: In the spirit of the importance of strong friendships to a marriage, NAME and NAME have asked two friends to read selections about love that especially resonate with them.1st READING, followed by 2nd READING.

Support of Community.

Officiant: Two people in love do not live in isolation. Their love is a source of strength with which they may nourish not only each other but also the world around them. And in turn, we, their community of friends and family, have a responsibility to this couple. By our steadfast care, respect, and love, we can support their marriage and the new family they are creating today.

Officiant: Will everyone please rise. Will you who are present here today, surround NAME and NAME in love, offering them the joys of your friendship, and supporting them in their marriage?

All: We will

Officiant: You may be seated.

Officiant: We've come to the point of your ceremony where you're going to say your vows to one another. But before you do that, I ask you to remember that love—which is rooted in faith, trust, and acceptance— will be the foundation of an abiding and deepening relationship. No other ties are more tender, no other vows more sacred than those you now assume. If you are able to keep the vows you take here today, not because of any religious or civic law, but out of a desire to love and be loved by another person fully, without limitation, then your life will have joy and the home you establish will be a place in which you both will find the direction of your growth, your freedom, and your responsibility. Please now read the vows you have written for each other.

Bride and Groom: I NAME/NAME, take you, NAME/NAME to be my husband/wife, my constant friend and partner, and my love. I will work to create a bond of honesty, respect, and trust; one that withstands the tides of time and change, and grows along with us. I vow to honor and respect you for all that you are and will become, taking pride in who we are, both separately and together.I promise to challenge you and to accept challenges from you. I will join with you and our community in an ongoing struggle to create a world we all want to live in, where love and friendship will be recognized and celebrated in all their many forms. Our home will be a sanctuary and a respite for us and for those whom we cherish. Above all, I will give you my love freely and unconditionally. I pledge this to you from the bottom of my heart, for all the days of our lives.

Officiant: May I have the rings, please?

Please repeat after me: I give you this ring, as a daily reminder of my love for you.

Officiant: By the power of your love and commitment, and the power vested in me, I now pronounce you husband and wife! You may kiss each other!

Prepared by Nina Calloway for The Spruce

Modern Wedding Ceremony Script

Officiant: Good afternoon. NAME, NAME and I would like to welcome everyone on this gorgeous day. It’s because of all of you—because of this strong community—[NAME] and [NAME]’s relationship has strengthened and grown and led them to this very moment. Thank you for being here, now let’s begin.

[NAME] and [NAME], what you’ve accomplished here today is no small feat. Your journey began way before you sent out the invitations, chose this beautiful venue or even decided to spend the rest of your lives together.

Your journey began the moment you first met. You took the time to learn what makes the other person smile, what makes them laugh and how to best support them when life is less than simple. You welcomed each other’s families, communities and lifelong friends, and joined them together with warmth and enthusiasm. You built a new village with your love, and have worked every day to support this village as it changes and grows.

Marriages bring hard days, just as they bring beautiful ones. This day is a reminder of what your love has already accomplished, and the amazing possibilities of what it can continue to accomplish and overcome in the many, many years ahead of you.

Officiant: As our reading today, [NAME] has asked his/her cousin to perform an original poem to honor their vows.

(Reading to proceed)

Officiant: [NAME] and [NAME], please take each other’s hands and repeat after me:

Couple: [NAME], I swear to you/ that I will dedicate my life from this day forward/ to filling our days with beauty and laughter./ I will celebrate your spirit and all of your accomplishments/ work to inspire you/ and be here to remind you of your beauty and strength./ I take you today as my partner/ my confidant/ my other half/ and I will love you for the rest of my life.

(Officiant turns to other partner and repeats the vows)

Officiant: [NAME] and [NAME], do you take one another as partners, form this day forward, as husband and wife/husband and husband/wife and wife? Please yell a hearty “We do!”

Officiant: And to everyone here, do you promise to stand by this couple, to remind them of their vows, and to act as an example of love and family? Please yell a hearty “We do!”

Officiant: [NAME] and [NAME] have chosen these rings to represent the unbreakable circle of life and love. Please place them on each other’s ring fingers and repeat after me.

Couple: I give you this ring/ to remind you of this day/ when in front of our closest community/ we vowed that our love can overcome all things/ that our love unites, inspires and celebrates/ and will continue do so for the rest of our lives.

Officiant: [NAME] and [NAME], it is with such joy that I now send you out into the world to spread the beautiful light that you share with those around you. By the power vested in me, I now, for the first time, pronounce you married. Now kiss and go celebrate! Prepared by Shutterfly editors

Once more, a big thank you to Generation Tux for their sponsorship of this post and for ensuring that all the grooms and groomsmen appear incredibly sharp.

Continue to next story

Universal Life Church

• Minister Training
• Wedding Training

The Ultimate Wedding Officiant Speech Guide

By The Marriage Experts at the Universal Life Church Ministries

As a wedding officiant, you have a unique role in the wedding ceremony.

You are the source of authority, the person holding the power to legally bind the couple together in marriage (which is obviously pretty important). But you’re also a performer, charged with delivering a wedding officiant speech that draws in the audience, reflects the couple’s style and personality, and fits their desired tone for the event.

That might seem like a lot of pressure. And it’s true that performing a wedding is a great responsibility. But it’s also a tremendous honor – you should feel proud that you’ve been asked to play such an important part in someone’s big day. Congratulations!

Heads up: if you need to order a copy of your official credentials prior to officiating, or any other wedding supplies, you can find those things in the minister catalog here on the site.

How to Plan an Officiant Wedding Speech

Whether you're aiming for a funny wedding officiant speech or something more serious and formal, the goal is to come prepared to the ceremony with a polished version of what you plan to say that has 1) been reviewed by the couple and 2) that you have practiced enough to be quite comfortable with.

If that sounds like a tall order, take a deep breath – we’re here to help. This step-by-step guide will explain how to build a wedding officiant speech script that keeps the audience engaged and gets them laughing or crying (or both), depending on what tone you’re going for. It will also offer tips on preparation and delivery of your speech, to ensure you’re fully ready when you step up there on the big day.

This might seem obvious, but it’s probably the most important point to underscore: prepare your wedding officiant speech in advance. Under no circumstances should you “just wing it.” Take it from the experts, that rarely goes well.

So, how do you go about planning your speech?

Ideally, a wedding speech script should be well-researched and written with plenty of time to spare in advance of the ceremony.

First and foremost, this event is about the couple. Whether you’re a professional officiant or a good friend who’s been asked to officiate, take the time to understand the couple and their love story. Gather information about their journey, their values, and what makes their relationship special.

Ask the couple what type of tone they prefer for their ceremony, what elements they want included (or excluded). Overall, the goal is to get a sense for what they want this event to look and feel like. This will help you personalize your speech and make the ceremony that much more meaningful.

Okay, enough on background research. Now let’s focus on creating the speech itself.

How to Write a Memorable Officiant Speech

Establish the tone.

Based on your discussion with the couple, the first step will be to decide what tone you want to set with your speech. Depending on the couple’s personality and preferences, the ceremony might be humorous and casual, formal and heartfelt, or a mix of styles. Consider the couple's wishes, the nature of the audience, and the overall atmosphere the wedding will have.

Structure the script

Create an outline and divide your speech into sections. Here is a sample section outline:

• Introduction
• Declaration of intent (legally required)
• Vow Exchange
• Ring Exchange
• Pronouncement (legally required)
• Closing Statement

Sticking to a defined structure will help you stay organized and draft a cohesive speech.

Draft your speech

With your structure dialed in, now you can start writing! Working off your outline, you can go section by section to fill out your script. If you need inspiration or ideas for what direction to go, check out our catalog of sample wedding ceremony scripts . This script archive includes a wide range of ceremony types and wedding officiant speeches that could provide helpful blueprints for you!

Edit, edit, edit

There is a saying heard in writing circles: “write drunk, edit sober.” While we don’t necessarily encourage you to follow that advice literally, the spirit behind it is sound; begin by writing freely, letting the words fall on the page however they may. The goal here is to express the thoughts and feelings that will provide the foundation for your wedding officiant speech.

Then, come back later with fresh eyes and assess your work. Make changes where you see fit, ensuring that the final product aligns with the couple’s wishes for the ceremony and meets your personal standards.

Sample Wedding Officiant Speech Script With Examples

You might be thinking: what should a final product look like? We’ve put a sample together below so you can see the form a finished ceremony script might take.

1. Introduction

In the introduction (sometimes also called the Invocation), the officiant greets the couple, their families, and the guests, and announces why everyone has gathered. Typically, this is a time to acknowledge the importance of the occasion and gratitude for being able to witness it.

Welcome, everyone. Friends and family who have traveled to be with _________ and _________ today: we thank you for being here to share this special day. You may be seated.

_________and_________, love is the force that brings us all here today. In fact, love is the force behind much of what we do every day. Whether making a meal for our family, taking time to teach our children, or lending a listening ear to a friend—even in the mundane, commonplace routines, love is always the reason.

We are all here to support _________and _________ on their first day as husband/wife/partner and husband/wife/partner. As you go into married life, remember the reason: the reason you get up each morning, get ready, do your best in the world, and look forward to coming home. Remember the reason you sacrifice, the reason you give, and the reason you laugh. The reason you are legally becoming a family.

_________, let _________ represent love. And_________, let_________ represent love. This mutual love stays strong as long as you both invest in and cherish it. This love is alive: it is active, dynamic, and powerful. Cling to it during good times and bad. All marriages have ups and downs—if you will make a habit of returning to your “reason,” you will find the strength to choose each other in every moment, in every place, and at all times.

A strong and lasting marriage is built on love, trust, and respect.

Like this excerpt? It’s from our standard wedding script , which is free online for you to utilize.

2. Declaration of Intent

In this section, the officiant affirms that the couple desires to be married. This important component must be included for the wedding to be considered legally binding.

Officiant (to _________) :

Do you, _________ take _________ to be your husband/wife/partner? To not only give love, support and understanding, but also to fully accept these things as well?

_________: I do.

And do you, _________ take _________ to be your husband/wife/partner? To not only give love, support and understanding, but also to fully accept these things as well?

This minimalistic declaration is borrowed from our simple wedding script , the full version is free for you to use!

3. Exchange of Vows

In this section, the couple will share their wedding vows with one another. These can either be standard statements they recite with the help of the officiant, or vows that they wrote themselves.

Officiant (to couple) :

Let’s go ahead and exchange the vows at this time.

_______________, you may go first.

As the seasons pass and things change, what will never change is the love and appreciation I have for you. I vow to uphold and defend you during the ups and downs in our lives throughout all the seasons together.

_______________, it’s your turn to share your vows.

As the seasons pass and things change, what will never change is the love and appreciation I have for you. I vow to uphold and defend you during the ups and downs in our lives throughout all the seasons in our lives together.

Like this seasonal twist? We’ve made our full spring wedding script available online for free.

4. Ring Exchange

Now, the couple will exchange wedding rings. This section will often include a call-and-response style recitation.

With the vows professed between the couple, we will now move forward with the exchanging of the rings.

_______________, place your ring on _______________’s finger and repeat after me. “With this ring, I promise that I will love, appreciate, cherish, and defend you for the rest of our lives.”

With this ring, I promise that I will love, appreciate, cherish, and defend you for the rest of our lives.

Officiant (to Partner 2) :

There are a number of creative ways to exchange rings within the wedding ceremony. This excerpt is from our nonbinary wedding ceremony script , which is available for you to use - among many others!

5. Pronouncement

The final legally-required element, the Pronouncement is when the officiant declares the couple lawfully wed (and typically invites their first kiss).

_______________ and _______________, you have come forward and shown your love to us all today.

By the power vested in me by the Universal Life Church Ministries, I now pronounce you married! Kiss each other!

Short and sweet. And then, off to the reception! If you like this phrasing, you might like our full humanist wedding ceremony script , available for free on our site.

6. Closing Statement

Officiant (to audience) :

Beginnings are important. So important, that it’s the 1st noun in the Bible, which starts with “In the beginning.” What follows are the heavens and the earth; water and life; humanity. And now here we are at the beginning of _________ and _________’s married life.

You’ve got a great beginning here _________ and _________ – now it’s up to you to keep in your hearts that love and warmth given to you by God. Begin and end each and every day together with love, and you will enjoy an amazing marital life filled with joy and bliss.

This comes from our Christian wedding ceremony script would be great in more traditional weddings, Feel free to use it if you like, but we have plenty of other full wedding ceremony scripts available for free online.

Final Tips for Delivering Your Speech

As we’ve shown, performing a wedding and delivering a memorable officiant speech requires some thoughtful planning. But with the right preparation, you can ensure the event goes off without a hitch.

Some closing thoughts:

The essence of the wedding ceremony is to spotlight the couple, not the officiant. While you'll have some speaking parts, strive to keep it interactive and relaxed. And when crafting the ceremony script, you have total freedom to customize. For example, a formal speech or monologue from you is not even required – it’s just a part that’s typically included.

Remember that as the officiant, your ultimate job is to lead the couple through the ceremony – whatever shape it takes – and make sure they fulfill the legal obligations to formalize their marriage.

Kudos on being chosen to officiate, and remember to enjoy the moment!

Not yet ordained? Click the button below to become a minister for free and get authorized to perform legal wedding ceremonies!

Wedding Officiant Speeches: What Does a Wedding Officiant Say?

If you’re in the middle of planning your wedding ceremony, you may find yourself wondering, “What does the priest say at a wedding again?” Sure, you’ve heard a million wedding officiant speeches over the years but you can’t remember what they actually say.

So you know you need someone to marry you, but you’re not sure what they should say at your ceremony. Besides the vows and rings, what else happens? What should go into a wedding ceremony script?

As wedding officiants here at Young Hip & Married, we kind of consider ourselves experts on the subject. So let’s dive into what wedding officiant speeches should (and should not ) include so you can enjoy the ceremony you’ve always dreamed of – that doesn’t put your guests to sleep!

What is a wedding officiant speech?

A wedding officiant speech, also known as a wedding officiant script or wedding ceremony script, is simply the words spoken during your ceremony.

The wedding ceremony script will outline every part of your ceremony – what happens, when it happens, and what is being said. This will include moments like your vows , ring exchange , declaration of intent and any wedding readings .

If you’re specifically looking at what your wedding officiant will say, this part may be referred to separately as the wedding officiant speech or wedding officiant script. Part of the larger ceremony script, this speech would be the specific words your officiant speaks throughout. These can include words of welcome, passages about marriage, sharing your love story and giving your guests instructions for after the ceremony.

What should be included in wedding officiant speeches?

Wedding officiant speeches (the part of the ceremony where your officiant is speaking) should consist of two parts: 1) any legal requirements, 2) what’s important to you.

Depending on where you are getting married and who is marrying you, that person may need to include things in their ceremony script in order to legally marry you. Check in with your wedding officiant, marriage commissioner or justice of the peace to ensure they’re fulfilling any of their legal requirements.

Next comes the fun part! What do you want your officiant to say during your ceremony? Contrary to what we see in movies and on TV, most of the traditional parts of a wedding ceremony are not actually required. Throw all of that out and only include the bits you find meaningful and important to you.

Find out what happens during a wedding ceremony and check out our wedding ceremony FAQs for some inspiration in planning your big day!

This is your chance to tell your unique love story! In a Custom & Creative Ceremony , your Young Hip & Married wedding officiant will work with you to write a completely personalized wedding ceremony script. This can include sharing your love story with your guests, special readings , prayers and/or quotes , creative elements , and anything else unique to you .

Do we need a wedding ceremony script?

Absolutely! Click the link above for precisely why having a wedding ceremony script is so important.

Your wedding ceremony is a once in a lifetime moment. It’s the reason for the awesome party afterwards and deserves to be treated with care. More than that, it deserves to represent you and your love! Every word and moment of your ceremony should be meaningful and approved by you – not something that bores you or, worse, makes you cringe!

Can you have a fun wedding officiant script?

Absolutely! Your wedding officiant script can and should be fun! The whole reason we started Young Hip & Married was to eradicate boring wedding ceremonies from the face of the earth. If every couple is unique, why have we all been to the same boring, stuffy wedding ceremony?

You are allowed to have fun at your wedding ceremony! Yes, it’s a serious commitment you are making. But that doesn’t mean you can’t smile, laugh, share private jokes or even break into song. The best wedding ceremonies we officiate (and attend!) are the ones that feel deeply personal to the couple and have everyone – the couple and their guests – smiling from ear to ear.

How do you officiate a wedding?

It takes more than just a wedding officiant speech to officiate a wedding – but having one is an important step.

To officiate a legal wedding, you need to be licensed. In Canada, only wedding officiants, marriage commissioners, some justices of the peace and certain religious representatives can legally marry couples. Unlike in the United States or in the movies, friends cannot get ordained online in Canada .

But officiating a wedding is more than just having a licence and a script to read from. We like to think there’s a certain combination of personality, training and experience that create a great wedding officiant – and our couples think so too!

A great wedding officiant brings warmth, professionalism and care to their ceremonies. They lead, without stealing the spotlight, and share their couple’s love story, without making guests feel excluded. They support their couples – from meeting in person over coffee and answering questions via email to facilitating the wedding rehearsal and officiating the ceremony on the big day.

A great wedding officiant makes your wedding ceremony personal, stress-free and everything you’ve dreamed of!

Ready to book your wedding officiant? Meet our team and get in touch to book your ceremony package . Or if you’re looking for help with your wedding officiant speech or ceremony script, reach out!

Wedding Officiant Speech

Wedding officiant speech is a short speech that is given by the officiant in front of the couple and their guests. It is a tradition for the officiant to wish the couple well and congratulate them on their marriage.

A funny wedding officiant speech can be a great way to get your guests laughing, breaking the ice and loosening up. This can be an excellent way to start off your ceremony or reception with lots of laughs and good vibes.

A best wedding officiant speech is one that has relevant information about marriage, love, commitment, and what it means to be married. The best wedding officiant speeches are usually short but they are also filled with lots of wisdom and advice for couples who want to get married in today’s world.

If you are tired of serious conversations, please read our Funny Sister Wedding Speeches article and have some fun.

Table of Contents

• Welcome everyone to the ceremony and introduce yourself as the officiant.
• Share a brief story or anecdote about the couple and how you know them.
• Explain the purpose of the ceremony and the significance of marriage.
• Share a passage or poem that reflects the couple’s love and commitment to each other.
• Ask the couple to exchange vows.
• Ask for the rings and lead the couple in the ring exchange.
• Declare the couple married and invite them to share their first kiss as a married couple.
• Introduce the newlyweds to the audience and thank everyone for attending.

You can customize this outline to make the speech more personal and meaningful to the couple. For example, you may want to include a reading from a religious text or incorporate cultural traditions into the ceremony.

Officiant Speeches for Weddings Examples

Good afternoon, everyone. I’m honored to be here today as the officiant for [bride] and [groom]. I’ve known [bride] for many years and have always admired her kind and compassionate nature. And when she met [groom], I could tell right away that he was the perfect match for her.

Their love for each other is evident in everything they do and it has been a joy to witness their relationship grow and blossom over the years.

As we come together today to celebrate their love, it’s important to remember the significance of marriage. Marriage is a commitment to love, support, and care for each other through all of life’s ups and downs. [Groom] and [bride], as you exchange your vows and rings, know that you are not just committing to each other, but to a lifetime of partnership and growth.

Now, [groom] and [bride], if you’ll join me in exchanging your vows.

Wedding Officiant Speech Script

Good morning, friends and family. It’s a pleasure to be here today as the officiant for [bride] and [groom]. I first met [bride] and [groom] when they were just teenagers and it’s been such a joy to see them grow into the amazing adults they are today.

Their love for each other is truly special and it’s an honor to be able to officiate their wedding.

As we come together to celebrate this momentous occasion, let us remember the importance of marriage. It’s a commitment to love and support one another, to be there for each other through thick and thin. [Groom] and [bride], as you exchange your vows and rings, know that you are embarking on a journey together, hand in hand, as partners in life.

Now, if you’ll join me in exchanging your vows.

Short Wedding Officiant Speech

Welcome, friends and family, to the wedding of [bride] and [groom]. As the officiant, it is my honor to be here today to witness the love and commitment that [bride] and [groom] have for each other.

Marriage is a beautiful and sacred commitment to love, support, and care for each other through all of life’s ups and downs. [Groom] and [bride], as you exchange your vows and rings, know that you are not just committing to each other, but to a lifetime of partnership and growth.

I now invite you to exchange your vows.

(After the vows)

I now pronounce you husband and wife. [Groom], you may kiss your bride.

Ladies and gentlemen, it is my pleasure to present to you, for the first time, Mr. and Mrs. [groom’s last name].

I'm a wedding speech expert with years of experience in public speaking and writing. They have a passion for helping others find their voice and deliver a heartfelt and memorable speech on one of the most important days of their lives.

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

This website uses cookies to improve your experience. We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish. Accept Read More

Words at Ease

How to Thank Vendors in Wedding Speech (20 Cool Samples)

As you bask in the afterglow of your picture-perfect wedding day, your heart swells with gratitude for the incredible team of vendors who helped bring your vision to life.

From the talented photographer who captured every magical moment to the innovative caterer who wowed your guests with culinary delights, each vendor played a vital role in creating the wedding of your dreams.

Thanking your wedding vendors is not just a formality; it is a heartfelt gesture that acknowledges their hard work, creativity, and dedication to making your special day truly unforgettable.

By expressing your appreciation, you not only strengthen your relationship with these professionals but also show that you value their contributions to your once-in-a-lifetime celebration.

How to Thank Vendors in Wedding Speech

Get ready to be inspired by these 20 cool sample messages that will help you craft the perfect thank-you for your wedding vendors:

1. A Toast to Our Dream Team of Vendors

We want to raise our glasses to the incredible team of vendors who made our wedding day a fairytale come true. Your talent, creativity, and dedication have left us in awe, and we cannot thank you enough for your hard work in bringing our vision to life. Cheers to every one of you!

Commentary: This message is perfect for a wedding speech, as it acknowledges all of your vendors collectively and raises a toast to their hard work and dedication. It is a great way to start or end your vendor thank-you portion of the speech.

2. Capturing Love Through the Lens

[Photographer’s Name], words cannot express how grateful we are for your incredible talent and artistic eye. You have a gift for capturing the essence of love and joy in every shot, and we know that our wedding memories will be cherished for a lifetime thanks to you. Thank you for being a part of our special day.

Commentary: This sample message is ideal for thanking your photographer, either in a speech or a personal note. It highlights their talent and the important role they played in preserving your wedding memories.

3. Culinary Masterminds

A huge shoutout to our amazing catering team, [Caterer’s Name]! Your innovative menu and impeccable service have left our guests raving about the delicious food and unforgettable dining experience. Thank you for going above and beyond to make our wedding reception a true success.

Commentary: This message is perfect for expressing gratitude to your caterer, whether in a speech or a thank-you card. It acknowledges their creativity and hard work in creating an exceptional dining experience for your guests.

4. Floral Artistry at Its Finest

[Florist’s Name], your breathtaking floral arrangements added so much beauty and romance to our wedding day. Your creativity and attention to detail in bringing our vision to life left us speechless. Thank you for sharing your talent and passion with us on our special day.

Commentary: This sample message is great for thanking your florist in a speech, a handwritten note, or even a social media post. It recognizes their artistic skills and the important role they played in creating a beautiful atmosphere for your wedding.

5. Rhythm and Soul of the Party

Let’s hear it for our incredible DJ, [DJ’s Name]! Your ability to read the crowd and keep the dance floor packed all night long was truly impressive. Thank you for being the rhythm and soul of our wedding reception and for helping us create unforgettable memories with our loved ones.

Commentary: This message is suitable for acknowledging your DJ’s talent and their role in keeping your guests entertained throughout the reception. You can use it in a speech, a thank-you email, or even a text message.

6. The Mastermind Behind the Scenes

[Wedding Planner’s Name], we cannot thank you enough for your expertise, organization, and unwavering support throughout our wedding planning journey. Your attention to detail and problem-solving skills made our big day run smoothly from start to finish. We are so grateful to have had you by our side.

Commentary: This sample message is perfect for expressing gratitude to your wedding planner for their guidance and support throughout the planning process and on the big day itself. It works well in a speech, a heartfelt note, or an email.

7. Capturing Memories in Motion

To our talented videographer, [Videographer’s Name], thank you for chronicling our love story through your lens. Your creativity and skill in weaving together the most meaningful moments of our day have left us with a priceless keepsake that we will treasure forever. We are so grateful for your artistry and dedication.

Commentary: This message is ideal for acknowledging your videographer’s talent and the significant role they played in documenting your wedding day. You can use it in a speech, a personal note, or even a comment on their social media post featuring your wedding highlight reel.

8. Mixology Masters

A special shoutout to our fantastic bartenders, [Bartenders’ Names]! Your creative cocktails and friendly service kept our guests happy and the good times flowing all night long. Thank you for your hard work and dedication to making our reception an unforgettable celebration.

Commentary: This sample message is great for thanking your bartenders for their excellent service and their contribution to creating a festive atmosphere at your reception. You can use it in a speech, include it in a tip envelope, or even mention it on your wedding website.

9. Makeup Magic

[Makeup Artist’s Name], I cannot thank you enough for helping me feel like the most beautiful version of myself on my wedding day. Your talent and creativity in highlighting my best features and making me feel confident and radiant were truly magical. Thank you for being a part of my special day.

Commentary: This message is perfect for expressing gratitude to your makeup artist for their skill and the important role they played in helping you feel your best on your wedding day. You can use it in a personal note, an email, or even a review on their professional website.

10. Soulful Serenade

Let’s give a round of applause to our incredible wedding band, [Band’s Name]! Your talent, energy, and ability to keep our guests dancing and singing along all night long created an unforgettable atmosphere. Thank you for providing the perfect soundtrack to our celebration of love.

Commentary: This sample message is ideal for acknowledging your wedding band’s talent and their role in creating a fun and memorable reception. You can use it in a speech, a social media post, or a message sent directly to the band leader.

11. Illuminating Love

[Lighting Technician’s Name], thank you for using your expertise in lighting design to transform our wedding venue into an enchanting and romantic space. Your attention to detail and ability to create the perfect ambiance added so much depth and beauty to our special day. We are grateful for your hard work and dedication.

Commentary: This message is great for thanking your lighting technician for their skill and the significant role they played in creating the perfect atmosphere for your wedding. You can use it in a speech, an email, or a comment on their professional portfolio.

12. Crowning Glory

To my incredibly talented hair stylist, [Hair Stylist’s Name], thank you for creating a stunning bridal hairstyle that made me feel like royalty on my wedding day. Your creativity, skill, and patience in bringing my vision to life were truly remarkable. I am so grateful to have had you as a part of my special day.

Commentary: This sample message is perfect for expressing gratitude to your hair stylist for their artistry and the important role they played in helping you look and feel your best. You can use it in a personal note, an email, or a review on their professional website.

13. Serving with a Smile

A huge thank you to our amazing catering staff for your hard work, dedication, and friendly service throughout our wedding reception. Your attention to detail and ability to anticipate our needs made our celebration run smoothly and kept our guests happy. We are so grateful for your efforts in making our day perfect.

Commentary: This message is ideal for acknowledging the catering staff’s hard work and their role in ensuring your wedding reception was a success. You can use it in a speech, include it in a tip envelope, or send it directly to the catering manager.

14. Love’s Official Seal

[Officiant’s Name], thank you for creating a beautiful and heartfelt ceremony that perfectly captured the essence of our love story. Your warmth, sincerity, and guidance throughout the process made our wedding ceremony a truly unforgettable and meaningful experience. We are so grateful to have had you as a part of our special day.

Commentary: This sample message is great for expressing gratitude to your officiant for their role in creating a personalized and memorable wedding ceremony. You can use it in a speech, a handwritten note, or a message sent along with a small gift of appreciation.

15. Stationery Savants

Let’s raise a toast to our incredibly talented stationery designer, [Designer’s Name]! Your creativity and attention to detail in crafting our wedding invitations and day-of stationery added a touch of elegance and personality to our celebration. Thank you for helping us create a cohesive and stunning visual story for our special day.

Commentary: This message is perfect for acknowledging your stationery designer’s talent and their role in setting the tone for your wedding. You can use it in a speech, an email, or a comment on their professional portfolio.

16. Decor Dreamweavers

A big thank you to our amazing rental company, [Rental Company’s Name], for providing the perfect decor elements to bring our wedding vision to life. Your expertise, professionalism, and attention to detail in selecting the right furniture, linens, and accents made a significant impact on the overall look and feel of our special day. We are so grateful for your hard work and dedication.

Commentary: This sample message is ideal for expressing gratitude to your rental company for their role in creating a beautiful and cohesive wedding design. You can use it in a speech, an email, or a review on their business website.

17. Sound Check Superstars

[Sound Technician’s Name], thank you for your expertise and hard work in ensuring that our wedding ceremony and reception had flawless sound quality. Your attention to detail and ability to manage all the audio aspects of our day made a huge difference in creating a seamless and enjoyable experience for us and our guests. We are so grateful for your dedication.

Commentary: This message is great for acknowledging your sound technician’s skill and the crucial role they played in ensuring your wedding had optimal sound quality. You can use it in a speech, a personal note, or a message sent along with a small token of appreciation.

18. Sweet Masterpiece

To our incredibly talented cake designer, [Cake Designer’s Name], thank you for creating a wedding cake that was both stunning and delicious. Your artistry and attention to detail in bringing our vision to life added a sweet and memorable touch to our celebration. We are so grateful for your hard work and for being a part of our special day.

Commentary: This sample message is perfect for expressing gratitude to your cake designer for their skill and the important role they played in creating a beautiful and tasty centerpiece for your wedding. You can use it in a speech, a handwritten note, or a review on their professional website.

19. Transportation Trailblazers

[Transportation Provider’s Name], thank you for your professionalism, reliability, and exceptional service in providing seamless transportation for our wedding day. Your attention to detail, punctuality, and flexibility in accommodating our needs made a significant difference in ensuring that our day ran smoothly. We are so grateful for your dedication to making our celebration stress-free.

Commentary: This message is ideal for acknowledging your transportation provider’s excellent service and the crucial role they played in ensuring your wedding day logistics were flawless. You can use it in a speech, an email, or a message sent along with a gratuity.

20. Venue Virtuosos

A heartfelt thank you to the incredible staff at [Wedding Venue’s Name] for your hard work, dedication, and exceptional service throughout our wedding day. Your attention to detail, professionalism, and ability to bring our vision to life made our celebration truly unforgettable. We are so grateful for your role in helping us create the wedding of our dreams.

Commentary: This sample message is great for expressing gratitude to the staff at your wedding venue for their role in ensuring your big day was a success. You can use it in a speech, a note left at the venue, or a review on their business website.

Other Ways to Show Your Appreciation

In addition to expressing your gratitude through words, there are several other ways to show your wedding vendors how much you appreciate their hard work:

• Write glowing reviews on their websites and social media pages
• Recommend them to friends and family planning their weddings
• Send a small gift or token of appreciation along with your thank-you note
• Provide a gratuity for exceptional service, if appropriate and within your means
• Include them in your wedding album or highlight reel and share it with them

Wrap-up: Expressing Gratitude to Wedding Vendors

Thanking your wedding vendors is an essential part of the post-wedding experience.

By taking the time to express your appreciation for their hard work, creativity, and dedication, you strengthen your relationships with these professionals and show that you value their contributions to your once-in-a-lifetime celebration.

Whether you opt for a heartfelt speech, a thoughtful note, or a special gesture of gratitude, your efforts will be cherished and remembered by the talented individuals who helped make your wedding day truly unforgettable.