Just to give you an idea.
Prelude Music – Candle Lighting – Guest seating
Seating of the Grandparents
Seating of the Mothers…they can light the side candles, if doing Unity Candle
Groom, Groomsmen (if not escorting Bridesmaids) and Pastor enter
Bridesmaids’ Processional
Flower Girls/Ring Bearers (if applicable)
Bride’s Processional
Words of welcome and celebration and God’s plan for marriage – oneness
Prayer
Presentation of Bride (optional): Who gives this woman to be married to this man?
Declarations of Intent
This is the statement that you are agreeing to enter into the covenant of marriage with that person who’s all dressed up and standing next to you. The pastor reads and you simply respond with “I do.”
Optional: Affirmations of Parents
To parents: “Do you give your blessing to _____ & _____ and promise to do everything in your power to encourage them in their marriage? If so, say WE DO.”
Optional: Affirmation of Family & Friends
To all who are gathered: Will all of you witnessing these vows do everything in your power to encourage _____ & _____ in their marriage? If so, say WE WILL.”
Optional place for a song (or after Scripture)
Scripture or Special Reading (Can be a friend, a family member or pastor)
Message
Marriage Vows
These are the longer, more personal vows where you promise to love each other through all of your life together. Traditionally the pastor will read a phrase that you repeat to your fiancé. You may also choose to write your own vows using portions of the different vows here or completely being creative on your own. You can choose to read them to each other or have the pastor guide you as above.
Exchange of Rings
These are the vows you make stating that the rings you are giving each other are a symbol of the covenant you just made.
Optional: Lighting of Unity Candle mixing of sand.
Another spot for a song.
Closing prayer for couple
Declaration of Marriage
Based on the vows you have made to each other before God and these witnesses, And having sealed these vows with the giving and receiving of rings, By the authority given to me through Jesus Christ and the state of Ohio, I now pronounce you husband and wife.
Kiss
Benediction: options include a verse (like Matthew 19:5, Colossians 3:17, Ephesians . 3:20-21), or a traditional benediction like “And now may the Lord bless you and keep you, the Lord make His face shine upon you, and give you peace,” or a family heritage type benediction (like an Irish blessing).
Presentation & Recessional