How are things are setup at Church House? The same as any ceremony, just on a smaller scale. Here is a quick overview. Your ceremony can be formal or casual, it's your choice.
You may have your own music, and there may be blessings offered by family or friends, just let me know before the ceremony. Additions like a Unity Candle, Sand Ceremony etc must be OK'd in advance.
You may walk down the aisle with an escort, i.e. father, mother, grandparent, friend etc. or walk alone.
The groom/bride stands up at the front with me.
The music played is the traditional Richard Wagner's Here Comes The Bride. This rendition is played on a harp and is perfect for the room.
If escorted in, I ask "Who gives their blessing to this union?", after the question is answered the escort sits down.
During the ceremony the couple faces each other, holding hands.
Couples may write their own vows. I don't read or have couples repeat after me when the vows are personal.
If there is a young ring bearer, I will ask "May we have the rings?" The youngster will then come and stand in front of me and present the rings, sometimes there are two ring bearers and the process is just repeated.
I will guide all of you through the entire ceremony.
After the pronouncement, you may take your 1st dance together.
After the dance you may chat with guests, followed by photos and the signing of the certificate.
When it's time to depart, I ask all your guests to go outside and line the walkway.
Birdseed or bubbles are handed out, while the two of you take a minute to yourselves inside. After the seed or bubbles have been distributed, I come back in and turn on the traditional exit music, unless you have different music you want played.
I introduce you, and you exit. The music continues playing until everyone has dispersed.
We cater to elopements, and short and no notice weddings 503-540-0610
