Months of planning is the norm for couples looking forward to their wedding day. Many of the plans revolve around the reception such as caterer choices, meal options, picking the appetizers to be served, the type of cake, dessert options for their guests, first dance song, and playlist for the DJ. Since the reception typically lasts longer than the ceremony, all the reception planning sounds appropriate. But it is equally important to devote time to planning the wedding ceremony.
A critical component of the wedding day is the ceremony. The wedding is a very special day and the ceremony embodies the purpose of the day. This is the start to a couple’s marriage and planning the various components of the ceremony is important.
- Spend some time as a couple putting a personal touch to your ceremony. This may be writing your own vows, choosing music that is meaningful to you, honoring family members as a part of the ceremony, or using a creative unity symbol.
- Choose an officiant that makes you feel comfortable. This person may also be involved in premarital counseling. Presiding over the ceremony and adding authentic and personalized sentiments helps the couple relax and sets the tone for a meaningful ceremony. The officiant can assist in adding faith elements to your ceremony.
- Try to keep the ceremony to around 30 minutes. There are some elements that cannot be cut short but avoid lengthy ceremonies. Otherwise, you may have some guests, especially children, get a bit antsy.
- Don’t forget to add décor to the ceremony space. Take a look at the whole space, beyond the altar and the aisle. Couples can also make the entrance a welcoming space, add decor to the chairs, and other areas. Be creative!
This is your special day and the start of your married life. Take some time to plan the crucial elements of your ceremony as well as the reception.
