Wedding tips and ideas
- Make the time of the wedding on the invitations fifteen minutes earlier than it actually is, as people are often a bit late due to traffic and personal inconveniences.
- Set the stage. What do you want the site of your wedding to look like? Consider how you are going to arrive and enter the 'ceremony space' and with whom you will walk down the aisle.
- Also how you, as a married couple, will leave. Do you want 'special effects' or music played to accompany your entrance and exit?
- If you have music, consider having one person in charge and that they know exactly when to start and finish, and to make sure the volume is loud enough to be heard.
- I think it is always a good idea to have seating, even a small amount, as parents and grand-parents really need to sit. It also adds some structure, and a path for the bridal party.
- Are you interested in having a ’theme’ to your ceremony, or do you prefer a 'traditional' approach? If you are being given away do you want special words spoken by your father/mother?
- There are usually two readings or poems delivered during the ceremony and I think it is better if someone close to you delivers them rather than the celebrant. It adds interest and variety to the proceedings and becomes more meaningful.
- How are you going to present the rings and who will do so? On a pillow, in the box, or sitting on a flower on the table are some possibilities. Do you want them 'blessed' by the celebrant or 'warmed' by significant family?
- Ceremonies generally last about 30 minutes, including the signing of the legal documents.
- Brides often ask which name to sign on the marriage certificate. You sign the same name you signed on the 'Notice of Intent to Marry' form. This is generally your maiden name or previous married name.
- Do you need a rehearsal on site, or can you run through things with the celebrant close to the wedding date and advise the wedding party of any pertinent details?
