How to Officiate a Wedding: A 10-Part Ceremony Guide

Introduction

• Presented by Mark Alyn Grello, a professional wedding officiant in Toronto, Canada.
• Focus: Officiating a wedding and writing a perfect 10-part wedding ceremony.

1. Ceremony Kickoff

• Enter with the groom/groom's party, no music change.
• Make announcements:
  • Welcome guests.
  • Photo policy.
  • Ask to turn off devices.
• Start with a light joke.
• Transition to the processional with "Let's begin."

2. Processional

• Music starts, and the bridal party walks down the aisle:
  • Bridesmaids, then maid of honor, and then the bride.
  • Possible inclusion of ring bearers and junior bridesmaids.
• Bride arrives with escort, maybe a parent.
• Exchange formalities between groom and escort.
• Couple stands in front of officiant and holds hands.

3. Officiant Speech

• Talk about the significance of witnessing a couple's commitment.
• Possible elements:
  • Share the couple's story.
  • Readings or poems about love and marriage.
  • Philosophical statements on commitment and faithfulness.
  • Incorporate religious elements if applicable.

4. Exchange of Vows

• Heart of the ceremony.
• Three typical ways:
  • Couple writes and reads their own vows.
  • Couple repeats vows after the officiant.
  • Officiant asks vows in question form, and couple replies "I do."

5. Exchange of Rings

• Rings symbolize promises made.
• Best man usually holds the rings.
• Each partner places a ring on the other's finger with a vow.

6. Pronouncement

• Officiant declares marriage:
  • "I now pronounce you husband and wife."
  • Options for the phrase used and referred titles.
  • Couple kisses, and guests cheer.

7. Signing Legal Documents

• Legal requirement varies by location.
• In Ontario:
  • Go to signing table with two witnesses.
  • Fun music in the background.
  • Photos are taken during this process.

8. Closing Remarks

• Announce that the couple is legally married.
• Communicate next steps for the couple and guests:
  • Photo session.
  • Cocktail hour details.
• Express gratitude and good wishes to attendees.

9. Official Presentation

• Present couple to guests officially:
  • "Mr. and Mrs. [Last Name]" or using first names.
  • Confirm with the couple on preferences for presentation.

10. Recessional

• Couple exits down the aisle followed by the wedding party.
• Procedure:
  • Allow the couple to clear the aisle first.
  • Wedding party exits in pairs.
  • Party atmosphere with music.

Conclusion

• This ceremony structure is adaptable and has been well-received.
• Encourage personalization to fit individual preferences.
• References additional resources:
  • Blog post and free ceremony guide.
  • Subscribe for more guidance on officiating weddings.