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(Please note: The legal aspects are
highlighted in a purple font and must by law
be included within the wedding ceremony.)
THE INTRODUCTION;
an introduction can include a welcome to
your guests. The opportunity to introduce
the members of the bridal party to your
guests as well as an explanation on the
meaning of marriage to yourselves.
THE GIVING AWAY:
This is optional. Although the Bride's
father usually gives her away, other
people may do so. Her mother may
perform this ritual, or both
parents together. Other family members or
friends may also be requested to give the
bride to the care of the Groom and the
reciprocal may also be a
consideration, with both parties being
given away to each others care.
THE ASKING; This is
also an optional inclusion. Should you wish,
I can ask each of you whether you will take
each other as husband and wife.
Traditionally - and the oft heard response
is usually "I do." Please note that there is
no legal requirement for this option and
some couples now skip this section.
CELEBRANT AUTHORITY:
It is a requirement of the Marriage Act
1961, that I, your celebrant use a given
definition of my authority with which to
conduct the ceremony, and also the nature of
the marriage relationship. This wording will
be explained at our interview.
THE VOWS:
The Bride and Groom, exchange their
wedding vows and make their legal commitment
to each other.
The legal
requirements are for a minimum wording of...
"I call upon
the persons here present, to witness that I,
First Name, Middle Name, Surname (Family
name), take you, First Name, Middle Name,
Surname (Family name) to be my lawful wedded
wife/husband."
Exceptions to
this are, to leave the middle names (if
applicable) out, or under certain
circumstances, it may be possible to use
First Name and Middle Name only. This can be
done only if the couple state their full
names prior to the vows, usually stated
during the opening address.
THE EXCHANGE
OF RINGS: This also is an optional inclusion.
It is not compulsory to exchange rings if a
couple prefers not to. For those who wish to
exchange rings, I provide a choice of
prelude wording explaining the symbolism of
the wedding ring. A further ring blessing is
also a consideration. Some couples exchange
other items at this point, such as a rose,
jewellery item, photograph or personal
verse.
SYMBOLIC RITUALS: There are rituals which may be incorporated into a wedding ceremony,
which demonstrate or symbolise aspects
of the commitment that the Bride and
Groom are making to each other. Couples
marrying with children may wish to include a
family component, such as a sand blending or
candle lighting.
READINGS: Readings may be inserted as and
where you would like. They may be self
penned, or chosen from a vast resource
folder that I will have to show you at our
interview. Readings may be in the form of
poetry, verse or a statement from
any relevant party. They may be read by
whomever you choose, your friends, family,
yourself or myself.
CONCLUDING REMARKS:
This will include comments of good will for
your future happiness and prosperity and
will conclude with a statement by myself
declaring you to be husband and wife.
The usual final response at this point is
the sealing of your marriage with a kiss.
Cultural and individual wishes are
considered within this aspect.
THE RECESSIONAL:
A short time out whereby the documentation
is signed and witnessed, prior to the final
presentation and conclusion to the service.
THE PRESENTATION:
Unless otherwise discussed all couples are
presented formally with their certificate,
addressed to their guests in the manner
which they are comfortable with, such as "It
is now my pleasure to present Mr and Mrs
Surname or John and Mary, your happily
married couple.
CONGRATULATIONS/BRIDAL PROMENADE: The
opportunity to make a final bridal promenade
as the couple lead through the guests to the
rear and accept congratulations at that
point will be discussed and coordinated
during our prior consultations.
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