best speeches for wedding ceremony

Great Wedding Speech Examples

• Best Man , Bride , Father of the Bride , Groom , Maid of Honour , Mother of the Bride , New Ideas
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(*Of course, if you’re looking for more than ‘advice’, check out all the different ways the Speechy team can help you write & deliver a great speech. Or check out our new AI-powered team member, SpeechyAI .)

The Surprising Wedding Speech

We love hearing a speech from someone who isn’t part of the usual line up.

One couple asked the bride’s 84-year-old grandad to say a few words. They didn’t want him to get stressed about giving a formal speech so simply asked him to reveal his top five tips for a happy marriage. On the day he made everyone smile with a perfect mix of cheek, insight and nonsense. One of his tips included ‘no number twos in front of each other’. Even the best man couldn’t have gotten away with that.

Kids are also a great way to add humour to the speeches, as well as the cute factor. Get them to give you marriage advice too. We guarantee it will be priceless.

The Joint Speech

Whether it’s a bride and groom speech or a same-sex speech – joint speeches are a wedding trend that’s set to stay. It’s a great way of saying, BOOM, we’re a team. And who doesn’t love a double act?

It also makes a lot of sense – you  both  get to thank your friends and family, and you can practise without feeling the need to hide away in a cupboard.

Find out how to write and deliver a joint speech.  

The Funny Wedding Speech  

Of course, all speeches should be funny but some stand out.

One of the funniest speeches we’ve heard was a head-to-head between the best man and maid of honour where they debated who had lost the better friend. The bride and groom were then pitted against each other in different categories like ‘drinking ability’, ‘DIY skills’ and ‘comedic appearance’. The fact the best man and maid of honour couldn’t stop laughing throughout the speech only added to the comedy.

Read our blog on how to write a truly funny speech without resorting to Google gags.

The Heartfelt Wedding Speech

Guests want tears (they’re demanding like that) and it’s great to have an emotional epicentre to the day.

Careful though, a sentimental speech should NOT contain any clichés and platitudes. It needs to be genuine and unique.

One of the sweetest speeches we’ve heard was a dad who delivered a speech that was less than three minutes long. He didn’t bother giving us a chronological rundown of his daughter’s achievements – instead, he cut straight to the chase and listed the reasons he loved her.

Those insights included ‘tolerating my love of Bruce Springstein in the car’, ‘buying me a nose trimmer’, and ‘making me smile whenever you come home’. It was one of our favourite ever speeches.

The Revealing Wedding Speech

We love a speech which lets everyone in on a secret. One bride got everyone smiling (and a few people crying) when, during her speech, she called a waiter over, requested a cheese toastie with peanut butter and revealed to the guests that she was three months pregnant.

Obviously conceiving is a bit much when it comes to gathering good content but there are other options. A classic was the groom who confessed to his in-laws that he’d been seeing their daughter for six months prior to them knowing. He then amused the audience with tales of his undercover antics, even managing to get the in-laws laughing too!

The Spontaneous ‘Speech’

We’ve been to a couple of weddings which haven’t had any formal speeches but have been inspired by countries where everyone is welcomed to give a toast throughout the meal.

It’s a fun idea which allows everyone to get involved without anyone feeling under pressure. People can choose to be sentimental or funny but every speech is short and sweet. Warning – it can become rather raucous the more alcohol is consumed!

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The Speechy team  are TV-trained scriptwriters/comedians by trade & we’ve helped 1,000s of speakers around the world deliver their dream speech.

Our advice has been quoted everywhere from  The New York Times  to  Grazia  and from Forbes to The Observer . Our founder has also featured on the  BBC Sounds’ Best Men podcast with Jason Manford and written ‘ The Modern Couple’s Guide to Wedding Speeches’ , published by Little, Brown.

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In This Article

How To Prepare Wedding Officiant Speeches?

Best wedding officiant speeches, inspirational quotes and verses.

• Wedding Ceremony Speeches Dos And Don’ts
• Wedding Party & Reception

Wedding Officiant Speeches Ideas + Free Templates

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Wedding officiant speeches could be a bit tough to put together, especially if the officiant is green at the ears. This poses the issue of anxiety, trying to over-impress, or flopping totally.

Well, there is no one size fits all wedding minister speeches, because you tailor your speech according to wedding style. The kind of relationship you have with the couple also matters in the structure of your speech.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Does the officiant introduce themselves.

The wedding officiant does not necessarily have to introduce themselves as everyone would know who they are and why they are there. They could start with a few lines such as: ‘Welcome everyone and thank you for being here to witness the union of (bride) and (bride).’

How does the officiant introduce wedding vows?

There is no official line for introducing the wedding vows, but a generic and one goes like this: ‘We have come to the point of your ceremony where you’re going to say your vows to one another. But before you do that, I ask you to remember that love, which is rooted in faith, trust, and acceptance, will be the foundation of an abiding and deepening relationship.’

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• If you’re officiating wedding speeches, you must discuss with the couple on what types of wedding ceremony they desire. Know their ideas, length, tone, style, and order of ceremony.
• Start of ceremony Begin your wedding minister’s speeches by welcoming the guests and passing on important information. Let them know if phones, pictures, or videos are prohibited.
• The processional Let the audience know it’s time for the couple to come in. “All guests stand as you see fit.” After the processional, ask them to sit. At this point, some officiants ask “who gives out the other.”
• The officiant’s speech Wedding ceremony speeches by officiants begin with a love story about the couple. You may also read a funny poem that makes meaning to the couple. Talk about love, commitment, and faithfulness.
• Rings exchange Say lines on commitment and ask them to repeat after you. For instance… “I honor you with this ring as a sign of my love…”
• Signing and pronouncements You’ll tell the guests what’s about to happen. After the couple signs, you’ll pronounce them as a couple.
• Close remarks Tell the guests what’s next. If there will be a photo session, reception, or get-together. Then thank them for coming.

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Traditional Wedding Officiant Speech Sample

Traditional officiant wedding ceremony speeches follow the age-long template and procedure. Although things are changing, there are parts of the structure that remains untouched. And many other speech styles have adopted parts of the template. Traditional speeches by officiant have depth and are particular about love, commitment, and faithfulness.

OPENING WORDS Friends, _____ and _____ have invited us here today, in the presence of God, to share in the celebration of their marriage. We who gather here today are separated by the many different experiences that we have had. Despite these differences, we gather here today in this place because we share something in common. We share a desire to affirm and support the relationship of _____ and _____. Marriage is an act of will. It requires a commitment to care for another person. By caring we show concern for the life and growth of those whom we love. Marriage requires a commitment to take responsibility for another person. By responding we experience the needs of that other person and try to help meet those needs. Today, guided by God’s love and wisdom, we affirm and celebrate _____ and _____ wedding day. [READINGS] THE QUESTION OF INTENT Before God, your friends, and your families, I ask you to affirm your willingness to enter the covenant of marriage and to share all the joys and sorrows of your lives and your relationship, whatever the future may hold. _____, do you take this woman to be your wife? Do you promise to love her, comfort her, honor and keep her, in sickness and in health as long as you both shall live? Groom: I do _____, do you take this man to be your husband? Do you promise to love him, comfort him, honor and keep him, in sickness and in health as long as you both shall live? Bride: I do Repeat after me. I take you, _____, this day as my wife/husband. I promise to walk by your side forever as your best friend and your soul mate. You are my beloved one and I am proud to marry you. I promise to support your dreams and to be there for you all our lives. EXCHANGE OF RINGS From the earliest times, the circle has been a symbol of completeness, a symbol of committed love. An unbroken and never-ending circle symbolizes a commitment of love that is also never-ending. This ring should be a reminder of the commitment to love each other that you have made today. Repeat after me. I, _____, give you _____, this ring as a symbol of my commitment to love, honor, and respect you. [THE UNITY CANDLE CEREMONY] BLESSING _____ and _____, you have now affirmed your love for each other before your family and friends. You have come from different background, have walked different paths. You are different individuals. Your love has transcended these differences. In the years before you may the richness of the traditions that have nurtured you enhance and brighten your lives as you help to create and shape the future. CLOSING WORDS May God bless you and keep you. _____ and _____, by the power vested in me, I now pronounce you husband and wife. Groom, you may kiss the bride. PRESENTATION OF THE NEW COUPLE It is my pleasure to present to you _____ and _____ as husband and wife.

Wedding Officiant Speech For A Friend’s Wedding

If you’re officiating a friend’s wedding, then you’ll have a relaxed environment. Your tone should be playful and even comedic. Get creative by lacing your speech with fun stories of your years together. But you must study and understand your audience so you don’t come across as crass and unappealing.

INTRODUCTION Welcome everyone! On this beautiful day, _______ and _______ have brought us together to celebrate their love and union in matrimony. Thank you all for joining us and being a part of their love story. After years of nurturing a beautiful, strong relationship, it’s great to see these two taking the next step towards building a family. I remember the day _______ told me about their first date. There was a light in her eyes that I’d never seen before. She was excited and nervous. She worried that ______ didn’t feel the same connection she felt. It warms my heart to see the way _______ looks at _______. He looks at her as if she’s the last and only woman on Earth, and to him, I know she is. I’ve seen these two be there for each other through life’s unexpected twists and turns, only growing closer and stronger from each setback. I’ve seen them share laughs, exchange inside jokes and most shocking of all, I’ve seen _______ share his dinner with _______, which is when I knew this was serious. Marriage isn’t easy but I trust these two. I have trust in their love, their friendship, and their commitment to one another. With that, I think it’s time to let them speak on their love. DECLARATION OF VOWS AND COMMITMENT _______ and ______, have you come here today of your own free will to declare your commitment to one another? We have. Do you promise to be there for each other in the good and the bad? To grow with, understand and respect one another during your life together? We do. Then please face each other and share your vows. [EXCHANGE OF VOWS] [EXCHANGE OF RINGS] Let these rings represent your eternal love and the promises you have made here today. Let them be a symbol of your unbreakable bond and this new beginning of your life together with no end in sight. ______, take _____’s ring and place it on her finger and repeat after me: With this ring, I promise to love and cherish you to the end of my days. ______, take _____’s ring and place it on his finger and repeat after me: With this ring, I promise to love and cherish you to the end of my days. Your love has now been strengthened by the promises you have made here today and the rings you have exchanged. PRONOUNCEMENT ______ and ______, we have heard the sincerity in your promise to share your lives in marriage. We recognize your love and support your decision to build a home together. By the power vested in me, I now pronounce you husband and wife. _______, you may kiss your bride! Everyone, give it up for Mr. and Mrs _______.

Funny Wedding Minister Speech

A funny ceremony speech has humor-laced all over the script by officiants. The officiant uses humor to relay life facts. Humor gets easier if you have a personal relationship with the couple. But if you aren’t close and you’re not sure about how much to say, keep it light.

Welcome to all of you. Thank you for being here today. We are glad you could make it and hope you enjoy the day. We’d like to take a moment to also remember the people who can’t be here today. We are sure they are with us today in spirit. Marriage is so many things and we’ve created this ceremony to express many aspects of marriage. And the best the advice can come from the most interesting places. “Gravitation cannot be held responsible for people falling in love. How on earth can you explain in terms of chemistry and physics so important a biological phenomenon as first love? Put your hand on a stove for a minute and it seems like an hour. Sit with that special girl (or in the case of the reason we gather today, special boy or girl) for an hour and it seems like a minute. That’s relativity.” On cold winter nights, love is warm. It lies between you and lives and breaths and makes funny noises. Love wakes you up all hours of the night with its needs. It needs to be fed so it will grow and stay healthy. Love doesn’t like being left alone for long. But come home and love is always happy to see you. It may break a few things accidentally in its passion for life, but you can never be mad at love for long. Is love good all the time? No! No! Love can be bad. Bad, love, bad! Very bad love. Love makes messes. It leaves you little surprises here and there. Love needs lots of cleaning up after. But love makes you meet people wherever you go. People who have nothing in common but love stop and talk to each other on the street. Throw things away and love will bring them back, again, and again, and again. But most of all, love needs love, lots of it. And in return, love loves you and never stops. And now, for the wedding vows. Are you ready? Are you sure? Do you _____, solemnly swear that you will support and defend the institution of marriage against all enemies, foreign and domestic; Do you promise to honor and love _____ in sickness and in health, in good times and bad times, Do you promise to cherish her as your most beloved according to the regulations and the uniform code of love justice, so help you God? Yes, I do. Do you _____, solemnly swear that you will support and defend the institution of marriage against all enemies, foreign and domestic; Do you promise to honor and love _____ in sickness and in health, in good times and bad times, Do you promise to cherish her as your most beloved according to the regulations and the uniform code of love justice, so help you God? Yes, I do. EXCHANGE OF RINGS The wedding ring is an unbroken circle, which symbolizes unending and everlasting love. It is a visible symbol that represents your inner commitment to one another. Because these circles are designed without an ending they speak of eternity. May the incorruptible substance of these rings represent a love glowing with increasing luster through the years. May these rings which you give to each other be a sign of your love, trust, and faithfulness. Repeat after me: _____, I give you this ring as a sign of my lifelong devotion. Wear it and know that I love you. _____, I give you this ring as a sign of my lifelong devotion. Wear it and know that I love you. May your home be filled with laughter and the warm embrace of a summer day. And may you find peacefulness and beauty, challenge, and satisfaction, humor and insight, healing and renewal, love and wisdom, as in a quiet heart. May you always feel that what you have is enough. I now pronounce you Husband and Wife! You may kiss the bride!!!

Same-sex Wedding officiant Script template and Speech

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Even as an officiant, it might not always be easy to give great wedding officiant speeches. This template can serve as a guide to writing speeches for wedding officiants, for any type of wedding.

• Make the research – You could start by doing your homework. Go on the internet, and check places such as Google, Pinterest, Instagram, or Youtube for wedding officiant speech samples for same-sex weddings. You could streamline your search to find only funny speeches or more regular speeches and get unique ideas to work with.
• Start writing the draft – The beginning is always the hard part, so don’t procrastinate writing your officiant speech for a wedding ceremony. Even if you feel like you haven’t researched enough, just start. You can always edit your draft as you go along or write another one.
• To write awesome wedding speeches for an officiant for a same-sex wedding , you have to keep an open mind. A lot of the material you will find online would be for CIS heterosexual couples, so always keep your couple in mind and edit your speech where necessary. Create that speech that is uniquely theirs.

Same-Sex Wedding Ceremony Speech Template

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This can be considered an official guide or template for wedding officiant ceremonies and speeches for same-sex weddings. Following each step, you wouldn’t need to worry about getting your speech done anymore.

• Welcome Everyone No matter the type of wedding, whether you’re making a Persian wedding officiant speech or non-denominational, you’ll begin by welcoming all the guests and thanking them for their support to witness the couple get married and celebrate with them. Lots of them might have canceled schedules or traveled far to be there, so it would be nice to appreciate them.
• Talk About Marriage The body of officiant wedding speeches usually includes some lines about marriage. Since it’s the topic of the day, you could talk about it in general, reminding the couple why they are there and the seriousness of their commitment. You could also give them some advice on the ups and downs of marriage, the sweet and the bitter, the highs and the lows. Also, how the love that they share is what will get them through anything that life throws their way.
• Share a Personal Story (If you have one and time permits) Some of the best wedding officiant speeches come with a story. Stories are often the best way to pass a message across because it helps you to connect with people. It also helps them remember the message. So, if you have any stories about marriage to share, this would be the perfect place to share them. As the officiant, you might have a personal bond with the brides or grooms. Sharing your stories would be meaningful to them, and you could choose to share a sentimental and loving story or even an embarrassing one that could crack them up. You could also share an experience that you’ve had with the couple. A most loving or affectionate one that lets you know that they can weather any storm together. After this, you can continue with the vows.
• In Closing Wedding speeches for the officiant at same-sex weddings are usually not very different from those of CIS heterosexual couples. You can only make your wedding ceremony officiant speech unique by factoring in the specific couple when writing your speech. If their experiences and your experiences with them are present in the speech, then it should be perfect.

Every couple is unique so wedding officiant speeches should be crafted to fit each couple, same-sex, CIS gender, heterosexual or other. With these tips, you can hone your craft and write the best wedding officiant speeches ever.

• Selecting Appropriate Quotes: When choosing quotes for your wedding officiant speech, consider ones that reflect love, unity, and the couple’s journey. For instance, a quote like “Love is not about how many days, months, or years you have been together. Love is about how much you love each other daily.” – Unknown, can emphasize the enduring nature of their love.
• Incorporating Religious Verses or Texts: If the couple has a religious background, incorporate meaningful verses or texts from their faith. For example, you might use Corinthians 13:4-7 from the Bible, which speaks about love’s qualities: “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud…”
• Non-religious Inspirational Quotes: Opt for non-religious inspirational quotes for secular ceremonies. A quote like “The best thing to hold onto in life is each other.” – Audrey Hepburn, beautifully conveys the idea of cherishing the relationship and finding strength in each other.

Wedding Ceremony Speeches Dos And Don’ts

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•  Do get creative with your speech by blending in a sweet short story of the couple. If you’ve been a part of their lives for a long time, then you’re in the best position to make it rain. Talk about everything that’s okay for public ears. Tell their love story.
• Don’t veer off-topic or get over-excited that you start to sound boring. Stay on point and if you don’t have so much to say, keep it short. We advise that you have discreet cue cards that you can refer to. It helps keep you in check.
• Do keep humor light especially if you’re not close to the family. You don’t want to end up looking like a clown because your joke fell flat. Humor is a great icebreaker for weddings. But when you’re not sure about what to expect, keep it light. Don’t go overboard.
• Don’t forget to practice your speech until you can recite it naturally and off the heart. Also, spend some time learning the names you’d be pronouncing. You want to call these names right so you don’t end up pissing off guests.
• Do give a copy of the speech to the couple for keep.

Wedding officiant speeches can be very interesting and fulfilling if done right. You only need a few expert hacks to get by. You’ll consider the wedding style, the tone the couple wants to set, and the length of the wedding. This will help you determine how creative you can get with the officiant’s wedding speech. For creative inspiration, we’ve dropped some tips for writing officiant wedding speeches and officiant speech etiquette.

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A Complete Guide to Wedding Vows, Toasts, Speeches & Readings

If the thought of speaking at a wedding stresses you out – you’re not alone. Studies have shown that more people are afraid of public speaking than they are of death! It's indeed a significant moment, often in front of friends and family, where you want to deliver a heartfelt and memorable speech. What do you do when you are asked by a best friend or a family member to stand in front of 200 people at a wedding? Take a deep breath – and trust that with a bit of guidance and preparation, anyone can overcome this fear and deliver an impressive speech.

In this complete guide, we've sought out expert advice from Steven Greitzer, the CEO of Provenance , a site that offers easy-to-use tools and professional speech-writing support to help you create personalized and meaningful ceremonies, vows and toasts.. Drawing from Provenance’s pool of expertise, we'll provide you with golden tips and advice on how to ace your wedding vows, toasts, speeches, and readings.

Writing Your Wedding Vows

Your wedding vows are perhaps the most important part of the ceremony. They are a public declaration of your love and commitment to your partner, and they should reflect your unique personalities, authenticity, and values.

Tips on how to write your vows:

Crafting personal vows is indeed an art, a gentle balance between speaking from the heart and painting a vivid picture of your shared journey. Greitzer suggests honing in on the specifics, those little anecdotes and quirks that are unique to your relationship.

Imagine sharing a light-hearted story that perfectly encapsulates your partner's delightful silliness, like the endearing insistence on everyone having a wig collection, or the joyful Harry Styles singalongs that grace your Sundays.

So, when you find yourself seeking those perfect words, dive deep into your well of shared memories, and choose details that are as joyous and real as your love story. It's those little specifics, expressed earnestly, that will bring warmth and a personal touch to your vows, creating a beautiful moment that truly celebrates your unique bond.

How long should your vows be?:

Finding the perfect length for your vows is super important. Steven Greitzer advises aiming for around 2-3 minutes to keep things heartfelt without going overboard.

Break it down like this: spend about a minute sharing 4-5 sentences of personal anecdotes and words of appreciation, another minute to voice 4-5 solid promises you're making to your partner. Then, set aside 30 seconds to give a shoutout to your community, and wrap things up with a 30-second declaration of your love, hinting at the bright future ahead.

And don't forget to sync up with your partner on the length of the vows & possibly even tone to avoid any awkwardness on the big day. Keeping it balanced means there won't be a big difference between one person’s few lines and the other’s long speech. It's all about keeping things even and true to both of your styles.

Mistakes to avoid when writing your vows:

Navigating the do’s and don’ts while writing your vows can be a tightrope walk. Steven Greitzer suggests avoiding clichés and steering clear of overly romantic language that doesn’t feel true to your story.

Keep the promises realistic and achievable, bypassing the temptation to share overly intimate details or to turn the spotlight solely onto your partner’s LinkedIn achievements.

Another crucial tip is to ensure your vows match your partner's in both length and tone, maintaining a harmonious vibe during the exchange.

And for those drafting vows at the last minute — though it’s not the recommended route — make it a point to practice them aloud several times before the big moment. This helps in delivering them smoothly, avoiding any hiccups when all eyes are on you.

Crafting a Memorable Wedding Toast

Wedding toasts are an opportunity to celebrate the couple and offer well-wishes for their future together. However, delivering a toast can be nerve-wracking, especially if you're not used to public speaking.

How to write a killer wedding toast:

Crafting that killer wedding toast is all about structure. Steven Greitzer advises starting strong with an opening that grabs attention.

Move on to share 2-3 stories that really paint a picture of the person you're closer to, but don't forget to spotlight the other partner and their standout traits. A good rule of thumb is a 70-30 split between the two.

Round it all off by highlighting how they’ve grown individually and as a pair, aiming for a takeaway that has everyone nodding in agreement, thinking “yup, that’s so them.” It might feel overwhelming, but this blueprint can help keep you on track.

How long should a wedding toast be?

When it comes to the ever-important wedding toast, the golden rule is to check in with the couple or the wedding planner, suggests Steven Greitzer. They’ll often have a vision for the flow of the day, which would guide the length of the speech.

Yet, if a direct guideline remains elusive and you’re aiming to hit just the right note, a roundabout perfect pitch could be a toast lasting approximately 3 minutes. It’s a timeframe that allows for a sweet spot of heartfelt words without holding up the festivities for too long. It’s like a cozy chat that leaves everyone with warm smiles and perhaps a glistening eye or two!

Do’s and don't’s of wedding toasts:

Do keep it short and sweet, do practice beforehand, and do speak clearly and confidently, suggests Greitzer. It's equally important to steer clear of certain don'ts: avoid drinking too much before your toast, refrain from using inside jokes understood only by a few, and ensure you celebrate both halves of the couple rather than just your friend. And, perhaps most importantly, avoid embarrassing stories that might leave anyone red-faced.

If you’re unsure about certain content, the couple can provide guidance on what to avoid. The perfect toast harmonizes humor and sentimentality, utilizing personal stories to convey genuine affection and well wishes for the couple.

How to overcome your nerves and deliver a memorable toast with confidence

“Practice, practice, practice!” stresses Greitzer. Run through your toast multiple times before the big day, and don’t hesitate to ask friends for honest feedback during rehearsal sessions. In your quiet moments, visualize yourself on stage, radiating confidence as you deliver a memorable speech.

Doing a Wedding Reading (or the whole Ceremony Script)

Whether you’re doing one reading during the ceremony, or you’re officiating the whole thing, it’s important to be intentional and personalize the moment for the couple.

How to choose the right reading for the occasion:

Choosing the right reading can be a significant task, especially when aiming to find something that truly resonates with the couple, shares Greitzer. He advises to deeply consider the couple's unique blend of beliefs and values, coupled with the envisaged tone and style of the ceremony. Whether the choice swings towards a profound religious text or something as light-hearted and classic as a quote from “When Harry Met Sally,” the core idea is to echo the heartbeat of the couple's relationship in the reading.

How many wedding readings should there be?

Traditionally, the sweet spot tends to be around 0-2 wedding readings, which generally unfold over a span of roughly five minutes, with each reading lasting between 1-3 minutes, shares Greitzer. However, he notes that he has witnessed ceremonies where readings become a vibrant canvas representing the couple's diverse cultures, involving as many as 14 friends and family members each sharing passages in different languages, adding a rich texture of inclusivity and celebration to the ceremony.

How to make your ceremony script personal and meaningful:

Undoubtedly, officiating a wedding is both a great honor and a substantial responsibility, Greitzer points out. To craft a ceremony script that is both personal and brimming with meaning, it’s essential to delve deep into the couple’s love story. Engaging with them to understand their vision for the wedding can be a vital step.

Do’s and don't’s of wedding officiant ceremony scripts

Greitzer shares some golden nuggets to ace this role!

Do aim to wrap things up in 20 minutes or so, keeping it crisp to hold everyone’s attention (but always stick to what the couple wants). A little rehearsal never hurt anybody; in fact, rehearsing aloud in front of a friend for feedback is the way to go to perfect that script.

Avoid making it the ‘me' show; a tiny snippet about your bond with the couple is more than enough. The spotlight should evenly grace both the bride and the groom, ensuring a balanced and harmonious narrative that's 50/50, a little different from the wedding toast scenario where a 70/30 ratio works just fine.

As D-day approaches and it's time to hold the mic, remember to pace yourself, articulating each word with warmth. Engaging with the gathered friends and family through spontaneous eye contact adds that magical touch. Let your heartfelt joy resonate through gentle body language, creating a ceremony brimming with love and shared happiness.

FAQ about Wedding Vows, Toasts, Ceremony Scripts, and Readings.

In this section, Greitzer answers some frequently asked questions about wedding ceremony scripts, vows, toasts, speeches, and readings.

How can I personalize my wedding ceremony script?

You can personalize your wedding ceremony script by including readings or passages that are meaningful to you, writing your own vows or speeches, and incorporating cultural or religious traditions that are important to you.

What if I'm not a good public speaker?

If you're not a good public speaker, don't worry! Practice beforehand, take deep breaths, and speak slowly and clearly. You can also consider enlisting the help of a friend or family member to deliver a speech or reading on your behalf. Public speaking coaches can help give you that final confidence boost as well!

How can I make my wedding toast stand out?

To make your wedding toast stand out, use personal anecdotes or stories about the couple, strike a balance between humor and sentimentality, and practice beforehand.

Can I include religious or cultural traditions in my wedding ceremony?

Yes, you can include religious or cultural traditions in your wedding ceremony. You also don’t have to! At the end of the day, delivering a memorable and heartfelt wedding vow, toast, ceremony script, or reading doesn't have to be stressful or overwhelming.

And there we have it, your one-stop guide to mastering the art of wedding words – from vows to toasts, and everything in between! Thanks to tips from Provenance's speech guru Steven Greitzer, you're now ready to craft messages that are both genuine and memorable.

Remember, the best speeches are the ones that feel true to you and the couple's journey. So, take a breath, embrace those little stories that make your relationship unique, and you'll nail it.

With a bit of prep and your personal touch, you’re all set to contribute to the day's joy with words that resonate. You’ve got this!

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Wedding Speeches: How to Write and Deliver a Memorable Toast

Wedding speeches are an important tradition that adds a personal touch to the wedding celebration. They allow loved ones to share their feelings and memories, express gratitude, and wish the newlyweds a lifetime of happiness. However, with the rising trend of online marriages due to the ongoing pandemic, wedding speeches have taken on a new form. Online marriages refer to weddings that take place virtually, with the couple and their guests participating from different locations through video conferencing platforms. 

In this post, we will discuss how to write and deliver a memorable toast, both for in-person and virtual weddings.

Who gives speeches at a wedding?

At a traditional wedding, certain people are expected to give speeches. These people include the father of the bride, the best man, and the maid of honor. 

Here is a breakdown of the traditional roles of speech givers at a wedding:

• Father of the Bride: This speech is typically the first one given, and it sets the tone for the rest of the speeches. The father of the bride welcomes the guests, thanks them for coming, and talks about his daughter and his relationship with her. He will usually end the speech by toasting the newlyweds.
• Groom: The groom will usually give a speech after the father of the bride. He thanks everyone for coming, talks about his bride and their relationship, and thanks her parents for their support. He will usually end the speech by toasting his bride.
• Best Man: The best man is responsible for giving the final speech of the night. He will typically start by thanking the groom for choosing him as his best man. He will then share stories about the groom, including some embarrassing ones, and end by toasting the newlyweds.
• Maid of Honor: The maid of honor will typically give a speech after the groom. She will thank the bride for choosing her as her maid of honor, share stories about the bride, and offer advice for a happy marriage. She will also usually end by toasting the newlyweds.

However, more modern variations have emerged over the years, and other people may give speeches at a wedding as well. These could include the mother of the bride, the bride herself, the groom's parents, or close friends of the couple. It's important to keep in mind the wishes of the couple and to ensure that all speeches are appropriate and in good taste.

Tips for Writing a great wedding speech

Here are some tips to help you write a great wedding speech:

• Prepare and Practice: Don't wait until the last minute to start writing your speech. Give yourself plenty of time to prepare and practice. Write down your thoughts and ideas, and then organize them into a logical structure. Practice delivering your speech several times, either by yourself or in front of a trusted friend or family member.
• Structure Your Speech: A great wedding speech typically follows a basic structure. Start with an attention-grabbing opening that will capture the audience's attention. Then, move on to the body of your speech, where you will share your thoughts, stories, and advice. Finally, end with a memorable conclusion and a toast to the newlyweds.
• Keep it Positive: A wedding is a joyous occasion, so keep your speech positive and uplifting. Share stories that celebrate the love and happiness of the couple, and offer words of encouragement and support.
• Use Humor Wisely: Humor can be a great way to connect with the audience and lighten the mood, but be careful not to go overboard. Avoid jokes that are inappropriate or offensive, and keep in mind that what may be funny to you may not be funny to everyone.
• Share Personal Anecdotes: Personal anecdotes are a great way to personalize your speech and connect with the couple and the audience. Share stories that highlight the couple's strengths and unique qualities, and that demonstrate the love and support they have for each other.
• Avoid Sensitive Topics: Avoid topics that may be sensitive or controversial, such as politics, religion, or past relationships. Stick to positive and uplifting messages that celebrate the love and happiness of the couple.

Tips for delivering a great wedding speech

Here are some tips to help you deliver a memorable speech with confidence:

• Manage Your Nerves: It's normal to feel nervous before giving a speech, but there are techniques you can use to manage your nerves. Take some deep breaths, visualize a positive outcome, and remind yourself that the audience is there to support you.
• Project Your Voice: Make sure you speak clearly and project your voice so that everyone in the audience can hear you. Take your time, speak at a moderate pace, and avoid rushing through your speech.
• Maintain Eye Contact: Maintain eye contact with the audience to help build a connection with them. Look around the room and make eye contact with different people, but avoid staring at one person for too long.
• Use Pauses: Using pauses can help you emphasize key points and give the audience time to digest what you're saying. Don't be afraid to take a moment to gather your thoughts and take a breath before continuing.
• Vary Your Tone: Varying your tone can help you keep the audience engaged and prevent your speech from sounding monotonous. Use inflection to emphasize key points, and adjust your tone to match the mood of the moment.
• Practice, Practice, Practice: The more you practice your speech, the more confident you'll feel on the day of the wedding. Practice in front of a mirror, record yourself or give your speech to a trusted friend or family member for feedback.

Examples of great wedding speeches

Here are some examples of great wedding speeches to inspire you:

• Father of the Bride Speech: This father of the bride speech is both touching and humorous. He speaks from the heart and uses personal anecdotes to illustrate his love for his daughter and his joy at seeing her marry the man she loves.
• Best Man Speech: This best man speech is funny, charming, and heartfelt. He tells stories about the groom that show both his good qualities and his quirks, and he ends with a touching message of support for the newlyweds.
• Maid of Honor Speech: This maid of honor speech is both heartfelt and inspiring. She talks about the bride's strengths and qualities and offers a message of love and support to the happy couple.
• Bride's Speech: This bride's speech is touching and emotional. She speaks about her love for her new husband and her gratitude for the support of her family and friends.

What makes these speeches effective is that they all have a clear structure, with an opening that captures the audience's attention, a body that tells personal stories or expresses heartfelt sentiments, and a conclusion that offers words of wisdom or congratulations to the happy couple.

For more inspiration, there are many online resources that offer examples of great wedding speeches, including Hitched , Wedding Forward , and LoveToKnow Weddings . 

Additionally, In the spirit of embracing new experiences, you may want to craft a heartfelt and personalized wedding speech by using Provenance , which has a number of modern online tools, including a Ceremony Builder, Vow Builder, and Toast Builder, as well as more in-depth services like professional speechwriting and public speaking services.

Wedding speeches are an important part of any wedding ceremony, as they provide an opportunity for loved ones to express their feelings and support for the happy couple. Whether you are the father of the bride, the maid of honor, or any other speech giver, there are certain tips and techniques you can use to write and deliver a great wedding speech that will be remembered for years to come.

Remember, a great wedding speech can have a profound impact on the newlyweds and their guests, and can create cherished memories that last a lifetime. So, if you have a wedding coming up, start preparing your speech early, and use the tips and resources we've discussed to create a memorable and meaningful tribute to the happy couple.

Common questions

What is the best time during the wedding for speeches?

Traditionally, speeches are given after the meal and before the cutting of the cake. This allows everyone to enjoy their food and drinks before the speeches begin and also ensures that the speeches do not run too late into the night. However, some couples may choose to have speeches earlier in the evening or during the reception, depending on their personal preference.

How long should a wedding speech be?

The length of a wedding speech can vary, but generally, it should be no longer than 5-7 minutes. This allows enough time to deliver a heartfelt message or share a few humorous anecdotes without losing the attention of the audience.

Is it okay to use humor in a wedding speech?

Yes, it is perfectly fine to use humor in a wedding speech, as long as it is appropriate and not at the expense of anyone present. However, it's important to balance humor with sincere sentiments, so that the speech doesn't become too light-hearted or frivolous.

What should I do if I forget my speech during delivery?

If you forget your speech during delivery, take a deep breath and try to remain calm. You can take a moment to gather your thoughts, look down at your notes (if you have them), or ask someone to prompt you with a question. If all else fails, you can simply speak from the heart and express your feelings in your own words.

How can I involve the audience in my speech?

One way to involve the audience in your speech is to ask them a question or invite them to participate in a brief activity. For example, you could ask them to raise their glasses for a toast or have them shout out a particular phrase or response at certain points in your speech.

How do I end a wedding speech?

A good way to end a wedding speech is to offer a message of congratulations or well wishes to the happy couple. You can also thank them for the opportunity to speak and express your gratitude to those who helped make the wedding day special. Finally, you can invite everyone to join you in raising a glass for a final toast to the newlyweds.

Online Marriage with Courtly

In recent years, online marriage has emerged as a popular alternative to traditional in-person weddings. Online marriage allows couples to legally tie the knot without the need for physical presence in a courthouse or a place of worship. One platform that has garnered a lot of attention for its online marriage services is Courtly. We offer customizable ceremonies, licensed officiants, and a virtual marriage license, making the entire process streamlined and efficient. 

Couples can choose from a range of ceremony options, including secular, religious, and interfaith ceremonies. Furthermore, we offer additional services such as wedding planning, premarital counseling, and online resources to help couples prepare for their big day.

One of the key benefits of online marriage with Courtly is convenience. Couples can get married from the comfort of their own home, without the need for travel or extensive planning. This can be particularly appealing for those who have busy schedules, are unable to travel, or simply prefer a more intimate ceremony. Additionally, the online marriage option may be more affordable than a traditional wedding, as it eliminates many of the expenses associated with a physical ceremony.

However, it is important to note that online marriage is not without its drawbacks. Some may argue that an online ceremony lacks the personal touch and emotional impact of a physical wedding. Some countries may not recognize online marriage as a legally valid option, which can be a barrier for couples looking to obtain legal recognition of their union. It is important to do thorough research and ensure that online marriage is a legally valid option in your location before making any decisions.

Let us handle the paperwork.

Getting married is complicated. Courtly simplifies the process and provides everything necessary to get married online, including providing a licensed officiant who can perform a remote ceremony.

Get married online.

Getting married is complicated. Courtly simplifies the process and provides everything necessary to get married online.

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Wedding Speech Introduction Examples: How to Begin Your Wedding Speech

Got to give a speech but don't know where to begin? Our wedding speech introduction examples will help you get started

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It can be quite nerve-wracking, standing up and saying a few words at a wedding – whether that’s a groom’s speech , a father of the bride speech or the greatly anticipated best man’s speech . We explain how to begin your wedding speech with some wedding speech   introduction examples, so you can start strong and feel confident.

READ MORE:   We Reveal The Most Popular Wedding Poem

How to Start Your Wedding Speech

1. always introduce yourself.

Whether you’re the groom and everyone is there because you invited them or you’re the best man who has flown in from overseas for the occasion, it’s always polite to introduce yourself. Smile as you do it and make a bit of a joke if you feel tense, or reference how important the day is if you don’t feel like joking:

“Hi, I’m [GROOM’S NAME] – you should probably all know who I am, and if you don’t, well done for sneaking in unnoticed.”

“Hi, I’m [BEST MAN’S NAME], but you can call me by my full name: [BEST-MAN’S-NAME-WOULD-YOU-LIKE-A-DRINK].”

“Hello, I’m [FATHER OF THE BRIDE’S NAME] and I’m so delighted to welcome you all here on this beautiful day.”

It’s becoming more common for the maid of honour or bridesmaid to give a speech, as well as the bride . If you’re giving one, feel free to mix up these examples.

Image: Sally Rawlins Photography

Don’t go overboard with a long-winded introduction about yourself – a line or two about who you are and your role in the day will be enough. If you’re the best man, it’s fine to start with a joke – we’ve got some of the best, tried and tested best man jokes to inspire you, or scroll down for even more speech introduction examples…

2. Make Eye Contact

Pick a few reassuring faces in the crowd and pitch your speech to them – but don’t focus just on one person. Aim for a couple of different locations around the room so everyone feels as those they’re included in the speech. If the idea of making eye contact is too much, pick inanimate objects to focus on but mix them up.

READ MORE: Father of the Bride Speech Examples

3. Have Notes to Hand

Don’t think you need to know your whole speech off by heart – you’ll feel more confident if you have your notes to hand and no one will judge you for it. If you don’t want it to be too scripted, simply give yourself cue cards to work from.

4. Don’t Drink Too Much

Don’t try and drown your nerves – it’ll only make starting your speech more difficult. Save the celebratory drinks for after you’ve completed your speech – slur free!

Image: Danielle Smith Photography

Speech Introduction Examples

Here are a few more ways to introduce your speech, no matter what role you’re playing in the wedding day – just tweak it to suit you and your speech.

“Friends and family of [NAME] and [NAME], thank you for being here today to celebrate their marriage.”

“The highest happiness on earth is the happiness of marriage.”

If you love this William Lyon Phelps quote, you’ll love our edit of the most inspiring quotes about love and marriage .

“Welcome to the most important day in the lives of [NAME] and [NAME].”

READ MORE: The Best Maid of Honour Speech Examples

“Today, promises have become permanent and friends have become family.”

“Today is a celebration and we are here to celebrate with [NAME] and [NAME].”

“Thank you for joining us today on such a wonderful occasion.”

“We would like to welcome all of you here today to celebrate and thank you for choosing to spend the day with us.”

“Love has brought [NAME] and [NAME] and everyone in this room together today.”

READ MORE: Tips To Writing A Great Groom’s Speech

“My name is [BEST MAN] and it’s an honour to be here today as [GROOM]’s best man.”

“Hi, I’m [NAME] and it’s time for me to do this speech I scribbled down about an hour before the ceremony started.”

“I must admit, I’m not accustomed to public speaking. Up until I was asked to give this speech I thought a toastmaster was a kind of kitchen appliance!”

“Before I begin, I must admit that [NAME] and [NAME] have asked that I remove anything resembling innuendo from this speech – I’ve promised if I come across anything even slightly risqué, I’ll whip it out immediately.”

If you’re still worrying about your wedding speech, don’t miss our guide on how to deal with wedding speech nerves .

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The Best Wedding Speeches for When You Need Tears, Hugs, or LOLs

Can we talk about the cute kid in #5?

A few weeks ago when we wrote fourteen tips for slaying at your wedding speech , I started to get curious about what wedding speeches actually exist on the Internet. As a wedding photographer, I’ve seen more than my fair share of best man speeches, maid of honor speeches, adorable parent speeches, even a handful of wedding speeches from kids (which will make me cry a hundred percent of the time). But I’ve never actually gone down the rabbit hole of Internet viral wedding toasts.

Here’s what I have learned: any wedding speech video that says “You have GOT to see this!!!!!” is lying. Also, a lot of wedding speeches are a “you had to be there” kind of thing—not that they aren’t funny, but the humor doesn’t always translate to strangers on the Internet.

Having said that, it’s important to note that most wedding speeches are really similar—and that is completely fine. Sure, some of the ones linked below are a-maz-ing, but guys: I don’t think most people expect you to sing. If you watch these and are inspired to mix up your speech a little, remember to play to your strengths (and maybe don’t get hammered). For example, in one of the videos below, family members gathered to slow jam the toast a la Jimmy Fallon… but it turns out one of those family members used to have her own popular YouTube channel.

TL;DR: when it comes to wedding speeches, keep it fun, light, and packed with all the feelings that you feel. The rest will (most likely) fall into place. Let’s get inspired.

1. The Pop culture mash-up 

This sister/maid of honor decided to use a pop culture mash-up to review the bride’s entire life. The story goes like this: their mom decided the best way to get her eight-days-late baby Earthside was to have a days-long dance party… and it worked. The best part of this? The reactions of the bride and groom. Yaaaassss.

2. There’s a Beyoncé song in this one

The groom’s brothers decided that singing their speech was really the best way to go, and chose a handful of songs (including “Hero” by Enrique Iglesias and “Single Ladies” by Bey) to express all their feels. It’s not a hundred percent funny and I could do without the wigs, but their hearts are in the right place (and it’s just over five minutes).

3. Slow Jam the toast

Are you guys familiar with Jimmy Fallon’s slow jamming of the news? (If not, one of my recent faves is this one with Barack Obama .) Well, the maid of honor, the bride’s cousin, and the bride’s brother all decided they wanted to slow jam the wedding toast… and I kind of love it.

4. The drunk friends who can’t remember why it’s great their friends got married

The guy who kicks off this one says he’s “not really good for emotions” but come on, y’all look at that bottle. He’s great, and the group “Awwwwws” are even better. The group then also redoes the wedding, and other drunk people continue to give toasts throughout the ten (!) minutes this plays. Fair warning: there’s a lot of language, drunkenness, and references to drugs.

5. the kid with the cute accent

Okay, this one was included because (a) the bride’s eleven-year-old is giving the speech, (b) he references her over-parenting and it made me laugh, and (c) OMG GUYS HIS ACCENT IS SO PRECIOUS DIE.

Do you know of a great (or terrible) wedding speech that isn’t here? Share it!

Maddie Eisenhart

Chief Revenue Officer

Before joining the team at A Practical Wedding, Maddie was a sought after wedding photographer and an entertainment industry dropout with stints at the Academy Award-winning independent film house Focus Features, The Montel Williams Show, and Rosie O’Donnell’s documentary production company. She’s been with the APW team going on eight years, and now spends a significant amount of time thinking about internet trends and the future of feminist television. A Maine native, she lives on a pony farm in the Bay Area with her husband and their toddler.

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Stay up to date with the latest wedding ceremony trends, script writing inspiration, tips and advice for first-time officiants, and news that matters to couples and wedding ministers.

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The secret to a perfect wedding officiant speech (with examples)

Published Wednesday, Oct. 5th, 2022

Written by Jessica Levey

Find the perfect wording for your wedding officiant speech or wedding ceremony script by thinking of a wedding ceremony as a theater play, with you and your couple performing unique roles. Use this simple advice for first-time officiants to write an original wedding script, using examples of the invocation, vows and rings exchange, pronouncement, and more, from some of AMM's most popular ceremony scripts and outlines.

Write a memorable wedding officiant speech or wedding ceremony script with this simple advice from the pros. 

A sked to officiate a close friend or relative’s wedding ceremony, but have no idea what to say (or do) during your speech? 

First off, congratulations on being asked to officiate! It’s a huge honor to be chosen to conduct a wedding or vow renewal ceremony. As you’ve probably guessed, couples generally ask someone special to officiate, someone who’s been an important part of their journey toward marriage. 

So before you get too stressed out about what you’re going to say on the big day, take a moment to appreciate being asked. And remember: They chose you because they know you’ll do a wonderful job. 

• Don’t forget to order your AMM Minister Credentials and supplies to prepare. 

Now, about that speech… 

It might come as a surprise to learn that a wedding officiant does not need to deliver a wedding ‘speech’ at all, at least not in the traditional sense. Take a look at the typical outline of a wedding ceremony included below, and you’ll see what we mean.

Instead of delivering a single speech, the wedding officiant speaks at several important moments throughout the wedding ceremony. You’ll also instruct the couple on when to exchange wedding vows and rings, and guide them from each part of the ceremony to the next. 

Related: The Parts of a Wedding Ceremony

The secret? 

It helps to think of a wedding ceremony as a theater play.  .

It helps to think of a wedding ceremony as a theater play, instead of as delivering a speech. Although you will need to do some talking, you can keep things conversational and collaborative. 

Like a play, each person on stage has a unique role, and everyone will take turns delivering their lines from a script. (Professionals call this a wedding ceremony script. ) Most importantly, the officiant will act as the stage director of a ceremony, rather than just another actor. 

The officiant’s longest speaking part is usually the ‘invocation.’ This is when you’ll welcome guests, talk about the meaning of the day, and share a few details about the couple’s love story. This is often the part of the wedding ceremony people are thinking about when they refer to an ‘officiant’s speech.’

The ceremony outline below includes examples from several sample wedding ceremony scripts.

This outline can help you better understand what to say on the big day, and the officiant’s important role as a ‘director’ in guiding the wedding ceremony. 

It's helpful to think of the wedding ceremony as a theater play,

with the officiant serving as an on-stage director. 

Photo: Unsplash / Natasha Dale

Outline of a Wedding Ceremony  with sample scripts

Part One: The wedding ceremony begins. The wedding officiant welcomes guests, introduces the couple, and talks about the meaning of the day and the couple’s relationship. This part of the ceremony is probably the most similar to a traditional speech or toast.

Officiant to Guests: 

"Dear friends and family, we are gathered here today to witness and celebrate the union of [PARTNER A] and [PARTNER B]. In the years that they have been together, their love for each other has grown, turning them into the couple you see before you. Now, they are ready to spend the rest of their lives together as husband and wife."

Officiant to the Couple: 

"A true marriage begins well before the wedding day, and the efforts of marriage continue well beyond the ceremony. A brief moment in time and the stroke of the pen are all that is required to create the legal bond of marriage, but it takes a lifetime of love, commitment, and compromise to make marriage durable and everlasting."

Today you declare your commitment to each other before family and friends."

( Taken from the full sample wedding script: Short Non Religious Wedding Ceremony With Heartfelt Invocation ) 

Declaration of Intent

Part Two: The couple publicly declares their intent to marry, guided by the officiant. 

Officiant to the Couple:

"With this wisdom – and your love - in mind, I now ask you:"

Officiant to Partner A:

"(Partner A), do you welcome (Partner B) to be your (wife/ husband/ spouse), and your cherished best friend?"

( Partner A responds ‘I do.’ )

Officiant to Partner B:

"(Partner B), do you welcome (Partner A) to be your (husband/ wife/ spouse), and your cherished best friend?"

( Partner B responds ‘I do.’ )

( Taken from the full sample wedding script: Lighthearted Wedding Ceremony Script with Funny Reading on Marriage )

Vows Exchange

Part Three : The couple exchange their wedding vows, either by repeating after the officiant or by reading personal vows written before the ceremony.

"Your wedding vows are an outward sign of your love and commitment. While there is a legal aspect of this wedding, a signed document does not create a marriage. What creates a marriage is the promises made and kept in your hearts.

As you look lovingly at each other, you’ll speak the promises that you’re pledging for a lifetime."

"(Partner A), please repeat after me:   Today, I give you my heart to hold and my life to keep I take you as my partner in life and with this promise: I will support you and encourage you, during the good times, and the trying times. I will laugh with you, and cry with you,  And love you faithfully, for all the days and sea sons ahead of us both."

(This section is repeated for Partner B )

( From the full sample wedding script: Fall Wedding Ceremony Script with Reading From "Harvest Moon" ) 

Rings Exchange

Part Four: The couple exchanges their wedding rings, sometimes this is combined with the vows. 

"The wedding ring serves as a reminder of the promises you make today to each other. 

The circle is a symbol of an eternal bond -- there is no beginning and no end. That means you two are stuck with each other!"

"(Partner A), place this ring on (Partner B)’s finger and repeat after me."

"I give you this ring as a symbol of my commitment and devotion. I choose you to share in my life’s journeys.  I give you this ring as a pledge to love you,  today, tomorrow, always, and forever. With no take-backs.

( Partner A repeats each of these lines in turn)

( From the full sample wedding script: Funny Wedding Ceremony Script with Simple Unity Ritual )

Pronouncement

Part Five: The wedding officiant says a few closing words on the importance of marriage and love, offers any final blessings, and pronounces the couple officially married.  

"Now that you have joined yourselves in matrimony, may you strive all your lives to meet this commitment with the same love and devotion that you now possess.

By virtue of the authority vested in me by the State of (Name of State) and American Marriage Ministries, I now pronounce you husband and wife (or "spouses for life," or whatever descriptors the couple prefers)"

( From the full sample wedding script: Quick & Simple Civil Wedding Ceremony Script )

The couple should be the focus of the wedding day, not the officiant. 

Photo by Leonardo Miranda

Bringing it all together

As you can see, there’s no need for you to stress out about writing a complicated speech! 

The purpose of the wedding ceremony is to keep the focus on the couple, not the wedding officiant. You will need to do some talking, but you can keep things collaborative and conversational. You do not need to deliver a monologue, or a speech in the traditional sense.

Your role as officiant is to lovingly guide and direct the couple through each part of the wedding ceremony, while sharing details of their love story with their guests. 

Congratulations on being asked to officiate, and don’t forget to have fun! 

Get ordained online for free with american marriage ministries and start officiating weddings right away.   .

Asked to give a wedding speech or toast? 

Here are some examples of what NOT to do! 

Avoiding a Terrible Wedding Toast -- What *Not* To Do  

Asked to Officiate

Your step-by-step guide to the perfect wedding ceremony

Asked to Officiate is the most comprehensive and easy-to-use guide ever written for wedding officiants, designed to help new and first-time officiants to write and conduct an original wedding ceremony. 

ORDER NOW 

This 'how to' guide contains detailed advice on how to write personalized wedding vows, a heartwarming invocation, and everything that goes into officiating a successful ceremony. Written by wedding professionals, this book is like having an experienced wedding officiant looking over your shoulder every step of the way!

You might also like: 

• Are there legal wording requirements in a wedding ceremony?  
• Write a Wedding Ceremony Using a Classic Story Arc
• Everything You Need to Know About California’s Confidential Marriage Licenses  
• Can you get married without a marriage license? What if you lost it? Or forgot it?

What should you do if you lose your marriage license, forget to bring it to the wedding ceremony, forget to mail it after it's signed, or never even apply for one? Read the full article here. 

Lead Staff Writer & Illustrator

Jessica loves exploring the history and magic of ritual, the connections between people and places, and sharing true stories about love and commitment. She's an advocate for marriage equality, LGBTQ+ rights, and individuality, and is an ordained Minister with AMM. When she’s not writing or illustrating for AMM, she enjoys city hikes, fantasy novels, comics, and traveling.

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The 7 Most Beautiful Wedding Ceremony Scripts…Ever

by islandmike | May 24, 2020

Ready to find the perfect ceremony script for your wedding?

This post includes a compilation of 7 of the most beautiful wedding scripts in the history of weddings.

• A Deeply Moving Non-Religious Ceremony Script
• Mildy Religious Wedding Ceremony
• Super Simple (and Short) Civil Ceremony
• A Traditional Religious Ceremony
• A Civil Ceremony – Short and Powerful
• A Lovely Religious Script with Corinthians Chapter 13
• Playful Civil Ceremony

PLEASE NOTE: Feel free to modify any of these scripts to fit your style.  You can always make a non-religious ceremony religious by adding a prayer and scripture reading.   Or you can change out the vows if you found something better.  (You may also find helpful The Most Comprehensive Guide Ever on Traditional Wedding Vows .)

ADDITIONALLY: Some minor changes were made to some of the scripts for aesthetics by world-famous wedding officiant Island Mike.

FINALLY: If you are having a family member or friend perform your wedding ceremony, make sure they are legally ordained: Get Ordained Now (* Wanderlust Bay Ministries can have them ordained and prepared to perform the most beautiful wedding in the world by the weekend. )

1. A Sweet, Secular Ceremony Script From The Knot   INTRODUCTION AND WELCOME:

Good evening everyone!

From this place (here the minister or officiant should describe something about your chosen ceremony venue/location, about the significance or beauty of the location), we take ourselves out of the usual routines of daily living to witness a unique moment in the lives of ______ and ______. Today they join their lives in the union of marriage.

To all their guests, they are happy to share this moment with you. They have known most of you  for many years. You watched them grow up, you went to school with them, or you worked  with them. Because you are the ones who have supported them and known them so well, it is  only fitting that you are the ones to share this once-in-a-lifetime moment with them.

______ and _____ are pleased to have their parents in the front row…close to them for the  ceremony.

______ thanks her mother for providing her with every opportunity possible and being  the best mother anyone could ask for.

______ appreciates all the love and support his parents gave him over the years.

A wedding day is often a day when couples miss family members no longer with them. For ______  and ______, there are family members whose memories they hold dear.

(Here you can insert references to loved ones that have passed away.  Or you can mention loved ones that couldn’t be present for other reasons.)

And so it is that _____ and _____ present themselves to be married today…surrounded by the  people they love the most.

As _____ and _____ prepared for the ceremony part of this wedding celebration, they reflected  on what it is that they love about each other.  And this was was the easiest part of planning this wedding!

To the Groom:

______ (Groom’s name), ______ (Bride’s name) loves that you blend in so comfortably with her family.  She sees in you a funny, kind, and sweet  man. She loves that you think she is funny and that you always find a way to compliment her.

She loves that you always want to be close to her. You remember details of the stories she tells. You  want to be part of her family and circle of friends. You help her around the house. Most  importantly, you are so close that even when she is at her worst, you have never made her feel  like you want anything but to be closer to her.

______ (Bride’s name), _____(Groom’s name) loves that you ______________________(fill in the  blank). He loves your brain, your smile, and your beauty. He appreciates that  you are “low maintenance.” He likes that you can be really silly. He loves your emails and  texts. He loves your cooking. He loves your kisses. He just really loves you!

You both look to a shared future that includes raising a happy &  healthy family. That future also  includes a richly lived life together…going out to restaurants, hanging out with  family, relaxing at home in front of the TV, singing and dancing…Bride will do the singing, and  Groom will do the dancing.

The years will come and go…you won’t take each other for granted, you will laugh a lot, you  will be the best parents you can be, you will grow older and wiser together. It’s a good story, and the ending is not in sight!

(Optional Reading)

MARRIAGE VOWS:

We come now to the words ____ and _____ want to hear the most today…the words that take  them across the threshold from being engaged to being married.

A marriage, as most of us understand it, is a voluntary and full commitment. It is made in the  deepest sense to the exclusion of all others, and it is entered into with the desire and hope that it  will last for life.

Before you declare your vows to one another, I want to hear you confirm that it is indeed your  intention to be married today.

____, do you come here freely and without reservation to give yourself to _____ in  marriage? If so, answer “I do.”

_____, do you come here freely and without reservation to give yourself to _____ in

marriage? If so, answer “I do.”

_____ and _____, having heard that it is your intention to be married to each other, I now ask  you to declare your marriage vows.

Please face each other and hold hands.

Groom, please repeat after me…

I, _____ take you, _____  to be my wife.

I will share my life with yours,

and build our dreams together,

Support you through times of trouble,

and rejoice with you in times of happiness.

I promise to give you

respect, love and loyalty .

This commitment is made in love,

kept in faith,

lived in hope,

and made new every day of our lives.

Bride, please repeat after me…

I, _____,  take you, _____,  to be my husband.

Build our dreams together,

EXCHANGE WEDDING RINGS

Your wedding ring are the outward and visible sign of the inward and invisible bond which  already unites you two hearts in love.

Groom, place the ring on Bride’s finger and repeat after me….

I give you this ring.

Wear it with love and joy.

As this ring has no end,

My love is also forever.

Bride, place the ring on Groom’s finger and repeat after me….

May the wedding rings you exchanged today remind you always that you are surrounded by  enduring love.

Everyone has advice for newlyweds.  _____  and ______, I offer these good wishes to you on this special day.

May your life together be blessed with prosperity and good health.   May you always share open and honest communication between each other.   May you respect each other’s individual talents and gifts and give full support to each  other’s professional and personal pursuits.

May you cherish the home and family you will create together.   May all the years to come be filled with moments to celebrate and renew your love.   May your love be a life-long source of excitement, contentment, affection, respect, and  devotion for one another.

DECLARATION OF MARRIAGE

And so now by the power vested in me by __________________, it is my honor and delight to declare

you husband and wife. You may seal this declaration with a kiss.

I am pleased to present the newlyweds, Mr. and Mrs. ______________!

  2. Mildly Religious Ceremony Ceremony found on Erin’s Blog .

We are gathered together on this day to witness and celebrate the marriage of __________ & _________. We come together not to mark the start of a relationship, but to acknowledge and strengthen a bond that already exists. This ceremony is a public affirmation of that bond and as their dearest family and friends, it is our honor and privilege to stand witness to this event.

This day is made possible not only because of your love for each other, but through the grace and support of your family and friends. It is our hope that your fulfillment and joy in each other will increase with each passing year.

Marriage is a commitment in life, where two people can find and bring out the very best in each other. It offers opportunities for sharing and growth that no other human relationship can equal, a physical and emotional joining that has the promise of a lifetime.

OPENING PRAYER

Let us bow our heads in prayer. Lord, we thank you for gathering everyone here today. We ask that you help _____ and _____ to remember the strong love that they share. To work that love into practical things so that nothing can divide them. May their love always inspire them to be kind in their words, considerate of the other’s feelings, and concerned for the other’s needs and wishes. Increase their faith and trust in You. Bless their marriage with peace and happiness and make their Love fruitful for Your glory and their joy, both here and in eternity. Amen.

While the commitment begins with the two of you, its effect radiates outward. It touches your family and friends and ultimately all of society. When this commitment is seriously made and continuously fulfilled, it leads to the richest and most rewarding of human relationships.

Your relationship will take more than love. It will take trust, to know in your hearts that you want only the best for each other. Dedication, to stay open to one another, to learn and grow, even when it is difficult to do so. And faith, to go forward together without knowing what the future holds for you both.

While love is our natural state of being, these other qualities are not as easy to come by. They are not a destination, but a journey. Marriage is a give and take between two personalities, a mingling of two endowments which diminishes neither, but enhances both.

CHARGE TO THE COUPLE

Seeing that no moment is without meaning, we ask that you take this marriage as a beginning of your lives together. Today signifies the creation of a new home and a new family for you both. May you be fulfilled by each other’s love and friendship. May you be overjoyed by the promises you are about to make and the life together you will create.

Remember that in every marriage, there are good times and bad, times of joy and times of sorrow. Marriage is a journey – a time of adventure and excitement enhanced by the love, trust, dedication and faith you share in one another.

May the promises you make to one another today, be lived out to the end of your lives. Tomorrow can bring you the greatest of joys, but today is the day it all begins.

_____ and _____, do you, with your family and friends as your witnesses, present yourselves willingly and of your own accord to be joined in marriage?

Will you promise to care for each other in the joys and sorrows of life, come what may, and to share the responsibility for growth and enrichment of your life together?

Groom, please repeat after me.

I, ____, take you ____, to be my wedded wife

I give to you in the presence of these witnesses

My promise to stay by your side,

In sickness and in health, in joy and in sorrow,

As well as through the good times and the bad.

I promise to love you without reservation,

Comfort you in times of distress

Encourage you to achieve all of your goals,

Laugh with you and cry with you,

Grow with you in mind and spirit

Always be open and honest with you,

And cherish you for as long as we both shall live

Bride, please repeat after me

I, _____, take you _____, to be my wedded husband

EXCHANGING OF THE RINGS

Having this love in your hearts, you have chosen to seal your vows by exchanging rings.

From the earliest times, the circle has been a sign of completeness. The rings that you have chosen to wear have neither beginning nor end, much like your love for one another. They are a symbol of the words that you speak today. May these rings be from this day forward, your most treasured adornment, and may the love they symbolize, be your most precious possession. As you wear these rings, may they be constant reminders of these glad promises you are making today.

_____, take this ring, place it on _____’s finger and repeat after me.

I give you this ring as a symbol

of my love and faithfulness to you.

_____, take this ring, place it on _____’s finger and repeat after me.

_____ and _____ from this moment forward you will never be alone. You will carry with you the love of another person, giving you a completeness and renewed lightness. May your life together be immersed in love and excitement. May you strive to enrich each other in every possible way. And may you work to bring the peace you find to this world.

Having pledged their fidelity to one another, to love, honor and cherish one another in the presence of this gathering and by the authority vested in me by the constitution and the laws of this state, it is my honor to now pronounce you husband and wife. You may kiss the bride.

Ladies and Gentlemen, it is my honor to be the first to introduce you to: Mr. and Mrs. _____________.

BECOME AN ORDAINED MINISTER NOW

3. Super Simple (and Short) Civil Ceremony I found this one on Snippet and Ink . WELCOME REMARKS:

Welcome, family, friends and loved ones. We are gathered here today,  surrounded by the beauty of creation and nurtured by the sights and sounds of nature to  celebrate the wedding of _____ and _____.

You have come here from near and from far away  to share in this commitment now they make to one another, to offer your love and support to  their union, and to allow ______ and ______ to start their married life together surrounded by the  people dearest and most important to them.

_____ and _____ thank you for your presence here today. They ask for your blessing,  encouragement and lifelong support, for their marriage and life shared together. They also remember  other loved ones who cannot be here to share this moment.

_____ and ____, marriage is the promise between two people who love each other, who trust that love, who honor one another as individuals in that togetherness, and who wish to spend  the rest of their lives together. It enables the two separate souls to share their desires,  longings, dreams, and memories, their joys and sorrows, and to help each other through all u ncertainties of life.

A strong marriage also nurtures each of you as separate individuals and allows you to maintain your unique identity and grow in your own way through the years  ahead. It is a safe haven for each of you to become your best self.

You are adding to your life not only the affection of each other, but also the companionship  and blessing of a deep trust. You are agreeing to share strength, responsibilities and love. It takes more than love to make this relationship work.

It takes trust, to know in your  hearts that you want only the best for each other. It takes dedication, to stay open to one  another, to learn and grow, even when it is difficult to do so. And it takes faith, to go forward  together without knowing what the future holds for you both.

DECLARATION OF INTENT AND SHARING OF VOWS

_________ and _________, please join hands, look at one another now and remember this moment in

Officiant: Groom, do you take Bride to be your wife? I do.

Officiant: Bride, do you take Groom to be your husband? I do.

Officiant: _____, please take _____’s hand and repeat after me.

________, I take you as you are/ loving who you are / I promise from this day forward/ To be grateful for our love and our life/ To be generous with my time, my energy and my affection/ To be patient with you and with myself/ To fill our life with adventure and our home with laughter/ To inspire you to grow as an individual / To love you completely/ These things I pledge to you

_____, I take you as you are,/ loving who you are/ I promise from this day forward/ To be grateful for our love and our life/ To be generous with my time, my energy and my affection/ To be patient with you and with myself/ To fill our life with adventure and our home with laughter/ To encourage you to grow as an individual / To love you completely/ These things I pledge to you

GIVING OF RINGS

Officiant: Please present the rings

Your wedding ring is a symbol of your promise to one another. The ring, an unbroken, never ending circle, is a symbol of committed, unending love.

_____, as you place this ring on Bride‘s finger, repeat these words after me:

This ring symbolizes my love for you/ and the commitments we made today

_____, as you place this ring on Groom‘s finger, repeat these words after me:

CONCLUSION & PRONOUNCEMENT

______ and _____, you have come here today of your own free will and in the presence of family and friends, have declared your love and commitment to each other. You have given and received a ring as a symbol of your promises. By the power of your love and commitment to each other, and by the power vested in me, I now pronounce you husband and wife.

You may now share your first kiss as husband and wife.

Congratulations. Friends and family, I now present to you the newly married couple. Let’s hear it for ‘em!

4. A Traditional Religious Ceremony Found on A Paper Proposal OPENING PRAYER

We are gathered here in the presence of God, family and friends to unite _____ and _____ in holy matrimony. Marriage is an honorable estate, and is therefore not to be entered into lightly, but reverently, advisedly, soberly and with God’s blessing. Today, they will receive God’s greatest gift; another person to share with, grow with, change with, be joyful with and to stand with as one when trials and tribulations enter their lives. It is fitting, therefore, that we should on this occasion begin by asking for God’s blessing on this marriage. Let us pray.

Heavenly Father, we gather to celebrate your gift of love, and its presence among us. We rejoice that these two people have chosen to commit themselves to a life of loving faithfulness to one another. We praise you, Lord, for the ways you have touched our lives with loving relationships such as _____ and _____’s, and we give thanks for the special love and friendship you have put in their hearts. Renew within us an affectionate and loving spirit. Enrich our lives with the gracious gift of your love so that we may embrace others with that same love. May our participation in this celebration of love and commitment, give to us a new joy and responsiveness to the relationships that we cherish. In your loving arms we pray, Amen.

You may all be seated.

DEFINITION OF COMMITMENT 

Marriage is a joyous occasion. It is connected in our thoughts with the charm of love, the warmth of home, and with all that is pleasant, as being one of the most important events of our lives. Its sacredness and unity is the most significant and binding covenant known in human relations.

______ and _____, let me charge you both to remember that your future happiness is to be in mutual consideration, patience, kindness, confidence and affection. It is the duty of each of you to find your greatest joy in the company of the other; to remember that your love pledged today must remain undivided for a lifetime.

It is your duty, _____, to be to _____, a considerate, tender, faithful, and loving husband: to support, guide and cherish her in prosperity and trouble; to thoughtfully and carefully enlarge the place she holds in your life; to constantly show to her the tokens of your affection, to shelter her from danger, and to love her with an unchangeable love.

It is your duty, _____, to be to _____, a considerate, tender, faithful, and loving wife; to comfort, guide and cherish him in prosperity and trouble; to give to him the unfailing evidences of your affection; to continue making the place he holds in your heart, broader and deeper; to support him, value him and work with him to make your marriage the very best that it can be.

I call your attention to the seriousness of the decision which you have made and the covenant you are about to declare before God. The vows you are about to take are not to be taken without careful thought, for in them you are committing yourselves exclusively to one another for as long as you both shall live.

WEDDING VOWS

If you are ready to assume the obligations and duties before God, as I have defined them, you will unite your hands and pledge your love and your lives to each other.

Groom, repeat after me.

I ____, take you, _____, to be my lawfully wedded wife, to have and to hold, from this day forward, for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish, for as long as we both shall live. This is my solemn vow.

Now Bride, please repeat after me.

I _____, take you, _____, to be my husband, to have and to hold, from this day forward, for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish, for as long as we both shall live. This is my solemn vow.

EXCHANGE OF RINGS

You will now exchange rings as a symbol of the lifelong commitment and abiding love which you as husband and wife have promised to each other.

Groom, please place the ring on _____’s finger, and repeat after me.

I give you this ring as a sign of my love and faithfulness.

And Bride, please place the ring on _____’s finger and repeat after me.

(Great Place for a Reading)

CLOSING PRAYER

Eternal God, help _____ and _____ to fulfill the promises they have made here today and to reflect your steadfast love in their commitment to each other. Give them kindness and patience, affection and understanding, happiness and contentment. May their family and friends continue to support them in difficult days, so that their love for each other may continue to grow as long as they both shall live.

Let us all pray.

Our Father, who art in heaven,

Hallowed be thy name,

Thy kingdom come,

Thy will be done,

On Earth as it is in heaven.

Give us this day our daily bread,

And forgive us our trespasses,

As we forgive those who trespass against us,

And lead us not into temptation,

but deliver us from evil.

For thine is the kingdom,

And the power, and the glory,

Forever and ever.

_____ and _____, having witnessed your vows for marriage before God and all who are assembled here, by the authority invested in me, I now pronounce you husband and wife. You may now kiss the bride!

It is my pleasure to introduce to you for the first time…

5. A Civil Ceremony – Short and Powerful Found at Wedding Bee WELCOME AND INTRODUCTION

Welcome! Good afternoon, family and friends.  We have come here today to celebrate the wedding  of ______ and ______.  On behalf of the bride and groom, thank you for joining us.   By your presence, you celebrate with them the love they have discovered in each other,  and you support their decision to commit themselves to a lifelong relationship.

Marriage is a bond to be entered into only after considerable thought and reflection.  By making this commitment today, ______ and ______’s relationship will become stronger, better, and deeper.

Today, _____ and _____ demonstrate their devotion to each other by dedicating themselves to a life together and they show their respect for each other.  By setting forth to honor the vows they have created today, their lives, which began on separate paths, will be joined as one.

ACKNOWLEDGMENT OF FAMILY & FRIENDS

Today represents not only the joining of ______ and ______ but also the joining of their families and friends.

_______ and ______ would like to recognize their parents on this occasion.  They offer their profound gratitude for all the love and care their parents showed in raising them.  The unconditional gifts of love and support that you have continually offered have inspired them to become who they are today.  Without you, this day would not be possible.

_____ have also asked that we take a moment to honor those loved ones who are not with us today

[Names of those acknowledged here]

MARRIAGE ADDRESS

Deep abiding affection, the magical and compelling shared impulse that makes us seek each others’ company, is among the greatest gifts of the human experience.

Any of us who has been fortunate enough to find and express the kind of loving devotion that we are celebrating here today knows that it is an awesome and beautiful thing.

At this time, I would like to share 3 suggestions with the both of you:

My first suggestion is this:

Be constantly grateful for this precious person who has chosen to make a life with you.

My second suggestion is this:

Be generous with compliments.  Be attentive and helpful. The world can be a tough place

and any of us can be subject to rough handling.  Each of you can, by your tenderness toward each other,

kind words and thoughtful actions, make your marriage and your home an uplifting refuge.

Last, but perhaps most importantly:

Make truth the unfailing bedrock of your lives together. A happy, loving marriage is built on trust and respect. That trust and respect can only be sustained if you are both deeply committed to always being open and truthful in every exchange no matter how small.

My hope for you is this:

That you have many long years to delight in each other’s company, to feel gratitude for your great fortune in having found each other.

To a make home together that is at once sheltering and welcoming, to each do meaningful, productive work at home and in the world and to love and be loved by the friends and family who have come here today to support you

MARRIAGE STATEMENT OF INTENT/CONSENT

_______ and ______, do you, present yourselves willingly and of your own accord to be joined in marriage? 

Then please turn to each other and share your vows.

Today I promise you/that though the world may change/

and though we may change with it/

I will always love you/always treasure you/and will share all that I am with you/

I am proud, from this day forward/to be called your wife/husband

RING EXCHANGE

For thousands of years, men and women have exchanged rings as a token of their vows.

Let these rings be a sign that your love has a past, a present, and a future.

______, take _____’s ring and place it on her finger and repeat after me:

I give you this ring/as a sign that I choose you/

To be my wife/my partner/and my best friend/to the end of my days.

The love already shared by your hearts has been strengthened by the vows you have taken and the rings you have now exchanged.

PRONOUNCEMENT

______ and ______, we have heard your promise to share your lives in marriage.   In the honesty and sincerity of what you have said and done here today, a nd in accordance with the laws of the state of __________i t is my honor and delight to declare you henceforth t o be husband and wife.

You may seal your vows with a kiss.

6. A Christian Wedding Ceremony – Scriptural  

From a Wedding Ceremony to Remember

WELCOME AND INTRODUCTION

We welcome all of you here today as we have gathered together in the presence of God and these witnesses to join _____ and ______ in holy matrimony.

Marriage is a gift from God, given to us so that we might experience the joys of unconditional love with a lifelong partner. God designed marriage to be an intimate relationship between a man and a woman.

______ and ______, because your deep love for each other comes from God above, this is a sacred moment, and it is with great reverence that I now ask you to declare your intent.

______, do you take _____ to be your wedded wife, to live together  after God’s ordinance in the holy estate of matrimony?   Do you promise to love her, comfort her, honor and keep her, in sickness and in health, and forsaking all others, remain faithful to her as long as you both shall live?

And ______, do you take _____ to be your wedded husband, to live  together after God’s ordinance in the holy estate of matrimony?

Do you promise to love him, comfort him, honor and keep him, in sickness and in health, and forsaking all others, remain faithful to him as long as you both shall live?

Who gives _____ to be married to ______?

(The Escort shall say): Her Mother and I or I do or We do or Her family or other.

Today is the beginning of a new life together for you. It marks the commencement of new relationships to your families, your friends, and certainly to each other. You have invited these special guests to share in one of life’s greatest moments as they give recognition to the worth and beauty of your love and add their best wishes to the words that shall unite you today as husband and wife.

God knew your needs when He brought you together. He knew exactly what you needed to make you complete. And now, He wants you to commit yourselves to each other as the one He has chosen to complete you.

Through the ages, man has tried to define “love.” Poems, songs, and books all have been written trying to describe this little four letter word. But the best description I have found comes from God Himself, since He is the Author of love. In His Word in First Corinthians, Chapter 13.  It describes the kind of love that must characterize your lives if you are to live in joy and harmony and honor with each other, and also before God and your fellow man.

Listen to what it says:

CORINTHIANS CHAPTER 13 INSERTED HERE

______, I believe you are saying to all of us today that you are committing yourself to this  woman only, moving toward her in a more open and intimate way, giving yourself to care for her, and promising to love her as she needs to be loved.

And ______, I believe you are saying to us that you are committing yourself to this man only, moving toward him with increasing openness, tenderness, and respect, giving yourself to him, and trusting him as the head of your home, and, through him, listening to God’s plan for your life together.

And so, (Groom) , if you will love (Bride) as Christ loves the church, and

(Bride), if you will respond to (Groom) as unto the Lord,

your companionship as husband and wife will blossom into a physical, emotional, and spiritual closeness beyond which nothing can compare.

I, ______, take thee, ______, / to be my wedded wife, / to have

and to hold / from this day forward, / for better, for worse, / for richer, for poorer, / in sickness and in

health, / to love and to cherish, / till death do us part. / This is my solemn vow.

I, ______, take thee, _____, / to be my wedded husband, / to have and to hold / from this day forward, / for better, for worse, / for richer, for poorer, / in sickness and in health, / to love and to cherish, / till death do us part. / This is my solemn vow.

EXCHANGE OF THE RINGS

The wedding ring serves as a symbol of the promises you have just spoken. It is the outward and visible sign of an inward and invisible love that binds your two hearts together. The wedding ring also is a symbol of what God is. He is without beginning and without end—He is eternal.

As you can see, the ring is without beginning and without end. So I believe this exchange of rings not only reminds us of the unending love you have for each other, but also reflects the eternal love God has for each of you.

May I have the token of Groom’s love for ______?

This ring I give in token and pledge / as a sign of my love and devotion. / With this ring, I thee wed.

May I have the token of Bride’s love for ______?

WEDDING PRAYER/BLESSING

Our Heavenly Father, we ask Your blessing upon these two lives and the home they are establishing today. May the love they have for each other grow deeper and stronger because of their love for You.

Lord, You guided them to each other, now guide them in this new journey as husband and wife. As they walk down this path, light their way so they may keep their eyes focused on Your will, their hands holding fast to Your truth, their feet firmly planted in Your Word, and their hearts bound together by Your love. This we pray in Your name. Amen.

_____ and _____, since you have consented together in holy  matrimony, and have pledged yourselves to each other by your solemn vows and by the giving of rings, and have declared your commitment of love before God and these witnesses, I now pronounce you husband and wife in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Those whom God hath joined together, let no man separate.

_____, you may kiss your Bride.

Ladies and Gentlemen, it is my privilege to introduce to you for the very first time, Mr. and Mrs. __________.

7. Playful Civil Ceremony

Brought to you by Miss Fancy Pants

Welcome! _____ and _____ have brought us together here for an occasion of great joy and a cause for great celebration. Having found each other, they have built the kind of relationship that will serve them well as the foundation for their marriage. They have chosen each one of you to be here with them to witness their wedding vows as they join together as husband and wife.

Marriage is a bold step into an unknown future. It is risking who we are for the sake of who we can be. In marriage, two lives are intimately shared; and the blending of the two must not diminish either one. Rather, it should enhance the individuality of each partner.

Each of us knows that a marriage is not created by a law or a ceremony; rather it occurs in the hearts of two human beings. It grows out of loving, caring, and sharing ourselves with another. This ceremony is not magic, it will not create a relationship that does not already exist and has not already been celebrated in all the commitments _____ and _____ have made to each other, both large and small, in the days since they first met and recognized their connection to one another.

So, in witnessing this ceremony today, we are observing only an outward sign of an inward union that already exists between _____ and _____. This ceremony is a symbol of how far they have come together and a symbol of the promise that they will make to each other to continue to live their lives together and to love each other solely and above all others.

There are only two official witnesses at a wedding but each and every person here today will witness the words that they will speak to one another and the vows that they will make. You should take good care to remember these words; for a marriage needs the help of a community, of friends and family who will be there when needed and will do all that they can during hard times to stand by _____ and _____ and offer their support to them and the new family that they create today. May you always do all within your power to support the union that will be made here today and to nurture the bond between these two people whom you love.

If the old fairy-tale ending “and they lived happily ever after….” is taken to mean “They felt for the next fifty years exactly as they felt the day before they were married,” then it says what probably never was nor ever would be true, and would be highly undesirable if it were. Who could bear to live in that excitement for even five years? What would become of your work, your appetite, your sleep, and your friendships? But, of course, ceasing to be “in love” need not mean ceasing to love.

Love in this second sense-love as distinct from “being in love” and it is not merely a feeling. Love is a deep unity, maintained by the will and deliberately strengthened by habit; reinforced by the grace which both partners receive from God. They can have this love for each other even at those moments when they do not like each other; as you love yourself even when you do not like yourself. They can retain this love even when each could easily allow themselves to be “in love” with someone else. “Being in love” first moved them to promise fidelity but this quieter love enables them to keep the promise. It is on this love that the engine of marriage is run: being in love was the explosion that started it.

DECLARATION OF INTENT

A successful marriage is not something that just happens. It takes work, it takes patience, and it takes time. It takes a commitment from both of you… a commitment to do whatever it takes to make your relationship thrive and not just simply survive.

_____, will you take _____to be your lawfully wedded wife and travel the rest of life’s road with her? Will you love her, laugh with her, comfort her, honor and protect her, and forsaking all others, be faithful to her as long as you both shall live?

_____, will you take _____ to be your lawfully wedded Husband and travel the rest of life’s road with him? Will you love him, laugh with him, comfort him, honor and protect him, and forsaking all others, be faithful to him as long as you both shall live?

EXCHANGE OF VOWS

_____ and _____, the symbolic vows that you are about to make are a way of saying to one another, “You know all those things we’ve promised and hoped and dreamed- well, I meant it all, every word.” Before this moment you have been many things to one another- acquaintance, friend, companion, lover, and even teacher, for you have learned much from one another in these last few years. Now you shall say a few words and things will never quite be the same between you. For after these vows, you shall say to the world, this – is my husband, this – is my wife.

I, _____, choose you, _____ In the presence of our friends and families, To be my wife/husband and partner From this day forward; To love you, To be a comfort and safe haven in your life, To hold you close, To listen deeply when you speak, To uphold you with my strength, To weigh the effects of the words I speak And the things I do, To never take you for granted, And to always give thanks For your presence in my life.

This is the point in the ceremony when people talk about the wedding bands being a perfect circle, having no beginning and no end. But we all know that these rings have a beginning. Rock is dug up from the earth. Metals are liquefied in a furnace at a thousand degrees. The hot metal is forged, cooled, and then painstakingly polished. Something beautiful made from raw elements.

Love is like that. It comes from humble beginnings, made by imperfect beings. It is the process of making something beautiful where there was once nothing at all.

The promises which you have spoken to each other today are inscribed forever in your minds, in your hearts. But words are fleeting so let these rings serve as a reminder of the feelings you have in your hearts at this very moment. 

Now, Repeat after me:

Groom (and then Bride), with this ring I am giving you my promise/to always love you/ cherish you/honor you and comfort you. I promise that I will love you/and keep my heart open to you/all the days of my life.

_____ and _____, n o one but you can declare yourselves married. You have begun it here today in speaking your vows before your family and friends and you will do it again in the days and years to come, standing by each other, sharing all that is sweet and bitter in life. Each tender act, each loving word will be the declaration of what was made here today.

Therefore, it is my joyful responsibility to officially acknowledge your union as “Husband and Wife”. You may now seal your marriage with a kiss.

Ladies and Gentlemen, it is my privilege to present to you for the very first time as husband and wife, ____________.

All of the above wedding ceremonies have been tried and tested in the real world at some of the most beautiful weddings ever witnessed. 

Now all you need is to choose a wedding minister that can deliver the script masterfully.  So get your officiant ordained with Wanderlust . 🙂  

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7 Amazing Officiant Speeches That Will Seriously Inspire You

We've rounded up the most emotional, inspiring and hilarious wedding officiant speeches to help you plan yours.

Your wedding ceremony is a moment you will remember for the rest of your lives, and choosing the right wedding officiant to run your ceremony and your wedding vows it is a crucial part of the planning process. Your wedding officiant is the person who leads your ceremony script and, ultimately, marries you! They can be your childhood priest or rabbi, your sibling or a professional celebrant like The Vow Whisperer .

Not only do you want to find someone engaging and entertaining, but you also want a wedding officiant who will be able to showcase who you are as a couple and why your love story is special and unique to you. And don't forget, your wedding officiant must be legally recognized in the state in which your wedding takes place in order for the marriage to be legal, so if you choose to go with a loved one, make sure they get their certification with plenty of time before the wedding.

And if you're reading this article because you've been asked to officiate a wedding, you'll want to make sure you come up with a wedding ceremony script that makes the couple happy and wows their guests. Read on for examples of a great sample officiant speech!

Below we've rounded up 8 of the most inspiring wedding officiant speeches from our huge library of real wedding videos . We hope these videos will help you with your own wedding ceremony and wedding vows.

When deciding who you want to officiate your wedding, don’t let traditions keep you from creating the experience you want to have on your big day. Shalyn + Evan asked Shalyn's grandmother—the owner of the lavender farm where they had their ceremony—to be their officiant! She writes “here, where we gather today, is the heart of our land." Watch this proud, eloquent grandmother at the altar as she leads the ceremony.

Watch Shalyn + Evan’s wedding video here .

It's easy for couples to fall head over heels for each other while sharing extraordinary moments together. Melissa and Matt 's wedding officiant has the best advice for keeping love alive long past those exciting first few dates. "Love the ordinary." His officiant speech continues, "love making dinner, love going shopping, taking a walk together. Ironically, if you love the ordinary, you can make some of your days extraordinary. Do you not want to send this to your wedding officiant right now??"

Watch Melissa + Matt's wedding video here .

Molly and Mike 's wedding officiant gives a beautiful speech telling the story of how the couple met. It's important to make sure your wedding officiant knows your backstory so you can have moments like this in your ceremony that make it feel more personal and more YOU.

Watch Molly and Mike’s wedding video here .

Matt and Justin 's wedding officiant begins the ceremony with a powerful message that directly addresses LGBTQ couples. "If I can be a representative of the Episcopal Church, I think we owe you, the LGBTQ community, an apology. Because it's too late, it's been too slow, and I think that you have taught us how to be a better church." The wedding officiant's honesty and humility is inspiring—moving is an understatement.

Watch Matt and Justin's wedding video here .

Elopement weddings call for a wedding officiant that is able to make the couple feel super comfortable—it's only the three of you up at the altar, after all! May and Mitch searched high and low for an officiant in Kauai to find the perfect person to deliver their wedding vows. It wasn't until they saw a bunch of wedding videos with Kelvin Ho happily cracking coconuts throughout his speech that they knew they found their guy. His happy, easy-going personality totally sold them. Watching Kelvin perform his seashell hand-washing ritual on top of a Hawaiian cliff for major ceremony inspiration.

Watch May and Mitch's wedding video here .

One way to think about your wedding officiant speech is like ten minutes of amazing life advice. Kaylee and Jason 's wedding officiant gave a speech that could basically be pinned to every quote board on Pinterest. "There's a time in your life when you begin to measure time in terms of decades. When you look back upon them, you realize that your time upon this earth is really short, and so each moment that you are given on this earth is a time to celebrate." Well said.

Watch Kaylee and Jason's wedding video here .

Find your inner stand-up comedian and work the room with various LOLs. Thinking the wedding officiant's romantic remarks were coming to a close, Heath tries to skip the rest of the wedding vows and kiss Erika—and totally gets called out. While his eagerness is beyond adorable, the way Erika and Heath 's wedding officiant playfully teases the couple will have you in tears.

Watch Erika and Heath's wedding video here .

We hope you found these wedding officiants inspiring and you've gotten some great ideas for your own ceremony script and wedding vows. Don't forget to check out our vendor directory to find a professional wedding officiant, speech writer, or vow coach near you who can help you with your big day.

8 Sample Wedding Ceremony Scripts to Borrow in 2023

Explore diverse wedding ceremony script samples for a meaningful and memorable event. From traditional to modern, find inspiration for your special day.

In the midst of the organized chaos of wedding planning, the wedding ceremony is often left until the last minute. But the ceremony is quite significant—after all, it’s the part where you and your future spouse actually become joined in marriage!

We all know about the “I do’s” of a wedding ceremony, but the rest of your ceremony is just as important. While you want to create a wedding ceremony script that’s meaningful and personal to you and your future spouse, figuring out how to do this can leave some couples scratching their heads. If you’re wondering where to begin with writing your wedding ceremony script, our tips and examples below are here to help!

[ Jump menu ] Christian Wedding Ceremony Script Catholic Wedding Ceremony Script Jewish Wedding Ceremony Script Protestant Wedding Ceremony Scripts Inclusive Wedding Ceremony Script Simple Wedding Ceremony Script Modern Wedding Ceremony Script Humorous Wedding Ceremony Script Tips on Writing Your Wedding Script FAQs About Wedding Ceremony Script

Dive into our sample wedding ceremony scripts below!

Christian Wedding Ceremony Script

This script has been reviewed by the ordained ministers at Universal Life Church Monastery .

Processional

The processional is simply the beginning of the wedding ceremony when guests are seated followed by the entrance of the bridal party.

Officiant to reception: "Welcome, loved ones. We are gathered here today in the sight of God and these witnesses to join together [ PARTNER A ] and [ PARTNER B ] in holy matrimony.”

Declaration of Intent

The declaration of intent is a crucial element of any wedding ceremony, and is legally required to show consent among both parties to be married.

Officiant to the couple: " [ PARTNER A ] and [ PARTNER B ] , you have come together this day so that the Lord may seal and strengthen your love in the presence of this minister of his word and this community of family and friends and so, in the presence of this gathering, I ask you to state your intentions:

Have you both come here freely and without reservation to give yourselves to each other in marriage? If so, answer by saying 'I have.'"

[ Couple responds in unison with ‘I have.’ ]

A reading from the Bible is a common component in many Christian wedding ceremonies. Choosing a passage from Corinthians isn’t required, but it’s a popular choice for many.

Officiant to reception: “A reading from the Apostle Paul, 1 Corinthians 13:4-7:

‘Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.’

Let us pray for this couple as they make their marriage vows.

Father, as [ PARTNER A ] and [ PARTNER B ] pledge themselves to each other, help them and bless them that their love may be pure, and their vows may be true. Through Jesus Christ our Lord, amen."

Vows Exchange

Today’s wedding vows are often personalized according to whatever feels right to the couple. However, a traditional statement of vows is also common in Christian wedding ceremonies.

Couple to each other: “I, [ NAME ] , take thee, [ NAME ] , to be my wedded (husband, wife), to have and to hold from this day forward, for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish, till death do us part. This is my solemn vow.”

Ring Exchange

Officiant to Partner A: " [ PARTNER A ] , please take the ring you have selected for [ PARTNER B ] . As you place it on his/her finger, repeat after me:

‘With this ring, I thee wed.’"

[ Partner A repeats the phrase as they place the ring on Partner B’s finger ]

Officiant to Partner B: " [ PARTNER B ] , please take the ring you have selected for [ PARTNER A ] . As you place it on his/her finger, repeat after me:

[ Partner B repeats the phrase as they place the ring on Partner A’s finger ]

One distinction of a Christian wedding ceremony is including a prayer of blessing over the union.

Officiant to the couple: "May Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior, always be at the center of the new lives you are now starting to build together, that you may know the ways of true love and kindness. May the Lord bless you both all the days of your lives and fill you with His joy. Amen."

Pronouncement

Officiant to reception: “By the power vested in me by the state of [ STATE ] , I now pronounce you [ husband and wife, husband and husband, wife and wife ] ! You may kiss the bride!”

Closing/Invitation to Reception

Officiant to all: “Thank you all for joining in this joyous occasion for [ PARTNER A ] and [ PARTNER B ] ! They now invite you to join them for a reception at [ LOCATION ] . Thank you all!”

Catholic Wedding Ceremony Script

Entrance Rite

As the entrance song is played, the assembly stands while the priest, ministers, and servers take their places, followed by the wedding party. The rest of this part of the processional can take two forms.

In the first form, the vested priests and servers greet the bridal party at the door of the church, then all enter as is customary for Mass. In the second form, the priest and servers wait in the area of the sanctuary prepared for the couple to greet them when they arrive. In both forms, the priest always leads the procession.

Once everyone is in place and the music has ended, the priest leads the sign of the cross, or the traditional beginning of Christian prayer, before greeting the assembly.

Priest: “In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the holy spirit.”

All respond: “Amen.”

Priest: “Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.”

Collect (Opening Prayer)

The priest invites the assembly to pray. After he prays over the couple, the assembly is seated for the Liturgy of the Word.

Priest: “Be attentive to our prayers, O Lord, and in your kindness uphold what you have established for the increase of the human race, so that the union you have created may be kept safe by your assistance. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever.”

Liturgy of the Word

The liturgy of the word outside of mass usually includes three readings proclaimed by the priest, one from the Old Testament, one from the New Testament aside from the Gospel, and one from the Gospel. At the conclusion of each reading, the lector will say, "The Word of the Lord," and the assembly will respond, "Thanks be to God."

Priest: “A reading from the book of Genesis 1:26-28:

Then God said: ‘Let us make man in our image, after our likeness. Let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, the birds of the air, and the cattle, and over all the wild animals and all the creatures that crawl on the ground.” God created man in his image; in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them. God blessed them, saying: “Be fertile and multiply; fill the earth and subdue it. Have dominion over the fish of the sea, the birds of the air, and all the living things that move on the earth.” God looked at everything he had made, and he found it very good. The word of the Lord.’

[ Assembly responds: “Thanks be to God.” ]

Priest: “A reading from the New Testament, 1 John 4:7-12:

Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God. Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love. This is how God showed his love among us: He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through him. This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins. Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another. No one has ever seen God; but if we love one another, God lives in us and his love is made complete in us.

The word of the Lord.”

[ All respond: “Thanks be to God.” ]

Priest: “A reading from the Gospel, Matthew 5:13-16:

You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot. You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”

[ All respond: “Praise to you, Lord Jesus Christ.” Assembly is seated. ]

The assembly is seated while the priest (or deacon) offers a homily taken from the Scripture readings. The priest uses this text to discuss the sacredness of Christian marriage, the dignity of conjugal love, the grace of the sacrament, and the responsibilities of married people.

Priest: "John 3:30 says ‘He must increase, but I must decrease.’

Those simple, direct words of St. John the Baptist, whose feast we celebrate today, summarize the life of the Christian disciple. In all things, we want Jesus to increase and our own will, our own desires, our own attachments, to decrease. In my heart, in my prayer, in my family, in my parish, in my work, in my study, in my leisure, in my entertainment - may the Lord Jesus increase!"

Celebration of Matrimony

All stand, and the couple comes to the altar flanked by their witnesses. The priest will address the couple with a celebration of matrimony:

“Dearly beloved, you have come together into the house of the church so that in the presence of the church’s minister and the community, your intention to enter into marriage may be strengthened by the Lord with a sacred seal.”

If both parties are Christian: “Christ abundantly blesses the love that binds you. Through a special sacrament, he enriches and strengthens those he has already consecrated by holy baptism, that you may be enriched with his blessing, so that you may have the strength to be faithful to each other forever, and assume all the responsibilities of married life. And so, in the presence of the church, I ask you to state your intentions.”

Address and Statement of Intentions

All stand, including the couple and witnesses, while the priest asks the couple some questions to state their intentions about their freedom of choice, fidelity to each other, and the acceptance and upbringing of children (if necessary).

Priest to couple: “ [ PARTNER A ] and [ PARTNER B ] , have you come here to enter into marriage without coercion, freely and wholeheartedly?”

Couple in unison: “I have.”

Priest to couple: “Are you prepared, as you follow the path of marriage, to love and honor each other for as long as you both shall live?”

Couple in unison: “I am.”

Exchange of Consent

The couple will declare their consent to be married by stating their vows. If you’re writing your own vows, they must be prepared with the wedding script beforehand.

Partner A: “I, [ NAME ] , take you, [ NAME ] , to be my [ wife, husband ] . I promise to be faithful to you, in good times and in bad, in sickness and in health, to love you and to honor you all the days of my life.”

Partner B: “I, [ NAME ] , take you, [ NAME ] , to be my [ husband, wife ] . I promise to be faithful to you, in good times and in bad, in sickness and in health, to love you and to honor you all the days of my life.”

Blessing and Giving of Rings

Priest: “Bless, O Lord, these rings which we bless in your name. so that those who wear them may remain entirely faithful to each other, abide in peace and in your will, and live always in mutual charity. Through Christ our Lord.”

Assembly responds: “Amen.”

The priest now sprinkles the wedding rings with holy water before handing them to each partner.

Partner A: “ [ NAME ] , receive this ring as a sign of my love and fidelity. In the name of the father, and the son, and the holy spirit.”

[ Partner A places the ring on Partner B’s finger ]

Partner B: “ [ NAME ] , receive this ring as a sign of my love and fidelity. In the name of the father, and the son, and the holy spirit.”

[ Partner B places the ring on Partner A’s finger ]

The priest and the assembly sing or pray the Lord’s Prayer in unison.

Nuptial Blessing

The couple kneels at the altar where the priest faces them and prays over them.

Priest: “Now let us humbly invoke God’s blessing upon this bride and groom, that in his kindness he may favor with his help those on whom he has bestowed the Sacrament of Matrimony.”

The priest performs communion and distributes the body and blood of Christ to Catholics in the assembly, starting with the newly married couple. An appropriate song is usually sung as the assembly proceeds to the altar for communion.

Priest to reception: “By the power vested in me by the state of [ STATE ] , I now pronounce you [ husband and wife, husband and husband, wife and wife ] ! You may now kiss!”

Priest to assembly: “Go in peace to glorify the Lord with your life.”

Assembly responds: “Thanks be to God.”

Recessional

At the closing of the ceremony, the couple, bridal party, ministers, and the priest will proceed out of the church, often accompanied by music.

Jewish Wedding Ceremony Script

Signing of the Ketubah

The Ketubah is an ancient document and marriage contract documenting the commitment between the couple. Typically, the groom signs the contract with the rabbi and two male Jewish witnesses present, along with the bride, in private before the main ceremony begins.

Officiant: “Please gather around for this ‘ceremony before the ceremony’, the signing of the Ketubah. Bride and groom, in this quiet moment before your public wedding ceremony begins, those closest to you are here to witness the signing of the important documents that make this day a remarkable moment for you both. As you become legally husband and wife, we delight in your happiness, and we wish you only good things to come as you face life together. This beautiful Ketubah has these words for you today, and I ask the groom’s witness [ NAME ] to read the words.”

[ Groom’s witness reads the Ketubah. ]

Officiant: “I ask you both to sign the Ketubah as the first ceremonial act of your wedding day celebration.”

[ Couple signs the Ketubah. ]

Officiant: “Now I ask your parents to sign the Ketubah.”

[ Couple’s parents sign the Ketubah. ]

Officiant: “And now I sign it as well.”

[ Officiant signs the Ketubah. ]

The ceremony begins once guests are seated.

Opening Words/Welcome

Officiant to reception: “This is the day that [ PARTNER A ] and [ PARTNER B ] marry the person they love the most in the world…the one they will laugh with, live for, and love for the rest of their lives. So it is only fitting that those closest to them are here to witness this special day. Your presence at this wedding celebration is a reminder to [ PARTNER A ] and [ PARTNER B ] of how lucky they are to have you in support of their union.”

The Chuppah

The chuppah is a canopy structure symbolizing the home the couple will build together following their marriage. Modern couples use the chuppah as an opportunity to customize their wedding and use it as a reflection of their unique taste and style.

Officiant: “The chuppah under which [ PARTNER A ] and [ PARTNER B ] stand is the traditional structure used in a Jewish wedding ceremony. What you see in the setting for this ceremony tells you so much about the path that brings [ PARTNER A ] and [ PARTNER B ] to be married. Today, their families are joined together, and the combined richness of their two heritages will be the foundation for their life together.

As the open sides of a chuppah symbolize hospitality, the chuppah in this ceremony invites you all to feel welcome today, for this is the day of all days that [ PARTNER A ] and [ PARTNER B ] want to share with you.”

After the couple enters the chuppah, the bride/groom circles the bride/groom seven times, symbolizing building a wall of love around the relationship. It also represents the seven days of creation.

Declaration of Support

Officiant to the couple: “A marriage is a lifelong adventure. Today’s ceremony, while important, is only the beginning of that journey. Marriage is a challenge that will require [ PARTNER A ] and [ PARTNER B ] to have love and understanding. You must dedicate yourselves to each other, listen to each other, and be honest with each other. You will need laughter and forgiveness, tenderness and empathy.”

Sand Ceremony

Officiant to the couple: “We will now begin the sand ceremony. Through it, [ PARTNER A ] and [ PARTNER B ] will symbolize the permanence of the commitment of their marital relationship. They will each pour separate containers of sand into one vessel.

Each of these grains represents a unique aspect of themselves. Their experiences, outlooks, feelings, and the events that shaped them into the person that stands before you. As these grains of sand intermingle in one shared vessel, they symbolize the merging of two individual lives into an inseparable pair.

[ PARTNER A ] and [ PARTNER B ] , just as these grains of sand can never again be separated, so too will you be forever joined.”

Officiant to Partner A: "Do you, [ PARTNER A ] , take this [ woman, man ] to be your lawfully wedded [ wife, husband ] , to have and to hold, in sickness and in health, in good times and woe, for richer or poorer, keeping yourself unto [ her, him ] for as long as you both shall live? If so, answer 'I do.'"

Partner A: “I do.”

Officiant to Partner B: "Do you, [ PARTNER B ] , take this [ man, woman ] to be your lawfully wedded [ husband, wife ] , to have and to hold, in sickness and in health, in good times and woe, for richer or poorer, keeping yourself unto [ him, her ] for as long as you both shall live? If so, answer 'I do.'"

Partner B: “I do.”

Officiant to Partner A: " [ PARTNER A ] , as a token of your intentions, please place this ring upon [ PARTNER B ] ’s finger and repeat after me:

‘ [ PARTNER B ] , I give you this ring as a symbol of my love and faithfulness.’"

[ Partner A repeats the words while placing the ring on Partner B’s finger. ]

Officiant to Partner B: " [ PARTNER B ] , as a token of your intentions, please place this ring upon [ PARTNER A ] ’s finger and repeat after me:

‘ [ PARTNER A ] , I give you this ring as a symbol of my love and faithfulness.’"

[ Partner B repeats the words while placing the ring on Partner A’s finger. ]

Blessing of the Hands

Officiant to the couple: " [ PARTNER A ] and [ PARTNER B ] , please join hands. Look at these hands, for they are of your closest friend. They are strong and full of love. As you join hands today, you make the promise to love each other today, tomorrow, and forever.

Your future will be built by these hands. As the years pass, these hands will love you and cherish you. The slightest touch from these hands will give you comfort. These are the hands that will hold your children. These are the hands that will keep your family as one. When you have tears of sorrow or tears of joy, they will be wiped away by these hands."

The Seven Blessings

The Seven Blessings are now recited.

• Blessing over the wine as a symbol of joy
• Blessing praising God to whom all creation proclaims praise
• Blessing praising God as creator of humanity
• Blessing praising God who created humanity in the divine image
• Prayer of hope
• Prayer for the happiness of the couple
• Prayer for the individual hope for happiness for the couple combined with prayer for joy in the messianic future

Following the Seven Blessings, the couple shares a cup of wine.

Breaking the Glass

The ceremony is concluded by the tradition of the groom (or bride) stomping on glass and shattering it. This signals the audience to cheer, dance, and shout “Mazal tov!”

After the ceremony concludes, the final ritual takes place in the yichud or “tent of seclusion.” This is considered to be one of the most private and intimate parts of the wedding day, where the newlyweds can savor their first moments alone before the celebration continues.

Protestant Wedding Ceremony Script

There are many denominations within the Protestant faith, and the standard ceremony for each may vary. Those with a more liberal interpretation of the wedding ceremony might be open to including more nontraditional elements in the ceremony script. The script below is adapted from the Book of Common Prayer, and is just one of many possible variations of a Protestant wedding ceremony.

Introductory Prayer

The officiant, known as the celebrant, faces the couple and congregation and offers an introduction:

“Dearly beloved, we have come together in the presence of God to witness and bless the joining together of this couple in holy matrimony. The bond and covenant of marriage was established by God in creation, and our Lord Jesus Christ adorned this manner of life by His presence and first miracle at the wedding at Cana in Galilee. It signifies to us the mystery of the union between Christ and His church, and holy Scripture commends it to be honored among all people.

The union of marriage is intended by God for their mutual joy, for the help and comfort given each other in prosperity and adversity, and, when it is God’s will, for the procreation of children and their nurture in the knowledge and love of the Lord. Therefore, marriage is not to be entered into unadvisedly or lightly, but reverently, deliberately, and in accordance with the purposes for which it was instituted by God.”

The Interrogation

Celebrant to the congregation: “Into this union [ PARTNER A ] and [ PARTNER B ] now come to be joined. If any of you can show just cause why they may not be lawfully wed, speak now, or else forever hold your peace.”

Celebrant to the couple: “I charge you both, here in the presence of God and the witness of this company, that if either of you know any reason why you may not be married lawfully and in accordance with God's word, do now confess it.”

Celebrant to Partner A: “ [ PARTNER A ] , will you have this [ woman, man ] to be your [ wife, husband ] , to live together with [ her, him ] in the covenant of marriage? Will you love [ her, him ] , comfort [ her, him ] , honor and keep [ her, him ] , in sickness and in health, and, forsaking all others, be faithful unto [ her, him ] as long as you both shall live?”

Partner A responds: “I will.”

Celebrant to Partner B: “ [ PARTNER B ] , will you have this [ man, woman ] to be your [ husband, wife ] , to live together with [ him/her ] in the covenant of marriage? Will you love [ him/her ] , comfort [ him/her ] , honor and keep [ him/her ] , in sickness and in health, and, forsaking all others, be faithful unto [ him/her ] as long as you both shall live?”

Partner B responds: “I will.”

Celebrant to the congregation: “Will all of you witnessing these promises do all in your power to uphold these two persons in their marriage?”

Congregation responds: “We will.”

The Presentation

The presentation represents the traditional “giving away” of the bride, typically followed by a hymn. Modern Protestants may opt for a poem, romantic reading, or song of their choice in place of a hymn.

Celebrant: “Who gives [ PARTNER A ] to be married to [ PARTNER B ] ?”

Partner A or B’s father: “ [ He, she ] gives [ himself, herself ] , with the blessing of [ his, her ] mother and father.”

Some modern Protestants might choose to write their own wedding vows, but the traditional vows most often recited are as follows:

Partner A to Partner B: “In the name of God, I, [ NAME ] , take you, [ NAME ] , to be my [ wife, husband ] , to have and to hold from this day forward, for better or for worse, for richer and for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish, until death do we part. This is my solemn vow.”

Partner B to Partner A: “In the name of God, I, [ NAME ] , take you, [ NAME ] , to be my [ husband, wife ] , to have and to hold from this day forward, for better or for worse, for richer and for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish, until death do we part. This is my solemn vow.”

The Blessing and Exchange of Rings

The celebrant offers a blessing on the rings: “Bless, O Lord, these rings as a symbol of the vows by which this couple have bound themselves to each other, through Jesus Christ our Lord.”

Congregation responds: “Amen.”

Partner A and Partner B place the rings on each other’s fingers and say: “I give you this ring as a symbol of my love, and with all that I am, and all that I have, I honor you, in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.”

The celebrant joins the right hands of both partners and says: “Now that [ NAME ] and [ NAME ] have given themselves to each other by solemn vows, with the joining of hands and the giving and receiving of rings, I pronounce them [ husband and wife, husband and husband, wife and wife ] in the name of the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Those who God has joined together, let no man put asunder.”

Concluding Prayers

The celebrant asks the congregation to stand and repeat the Lord’s Prayer:

All: “Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil, for thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen.”

In traditional Protestant weddings, the celebrant will direct the couple to kneel while further blessings and songs are offered. The celebrant then addresses the kneeling couple and recites another blessing:

“May God bless you and keep you; may the Lord mercifully with his favor look upon you, filling you with all spiritual benediction and grace; that you may faithfully live together in this life, and in the age to come have life everlasting. Amen.”

Celebrant to the congregation: “The peace of the Lord be with you always.”

All respond: “And also with you.”

Finally, the couple stands to face each other while the celebrant offers a final line to end the ceremony:

“ [ NAME ] and [ NAME ] , having witnessed your vows of love to one another, it is my joy to present you to all gathered here as [ husband and wife, husband and husband, wife and wife ] . You may now kiss!”

Inclusive Wedding Ceremony Script

This script has been reviewed by Sheena Wheadon, licensed wedding officiant at Why Knot Weddings .

While traditional gender roles often make up the bulk of how many wedding ceremony scripts are written, this doesn’t have to be the case for a more inclusive ceremony. The following example script does away with gendered language and puts the focus on the love shared between the couple and what that means for them.

The officiant will begin by welcoming the reception. This is also when the officiant can make any specific announcements, like requesting guests to silence their phones.

“Welcome friends, family, and loved ones! We’re gathered here today in celebration of (Partner A) and (Partner B) and to bear witness as they join their lives in marriage. On behalf of (Partner A) and (Partner B), it’s a true pleasure to have you here to celebrate this incredible moment.

Love is one of the greatest gifts life has to offer. Love offers hope, joy, comfort, and security, in good times and bad. Love is what spurs our personal growth and allows us to face life and all its challenges, with the unending support of the person we’ve chosen to commit our lives to. (Partner A) and (Partner B) stand before you today to share the love and happiness in their hearts as they take their relationship to a deeper level of commitment by making a passage into marriage.”

While totally optional, couples can choose to include a reading of their choice in their ceremony. This can be anything from a particular poem or section from a book to a special movie quote or personal story about the couple’s relationship. Couples might have the officiant perform the reading, or have a loved one come up to share instead.

Officiant: “(Partner A) and (Partner B) have selected a reading from [ SOURCE ] that represents their unique journey and the commitment they’re making today.”

[ Reading proceeds. ]

Couples who have chosen to write their own wedding vows will recite them here. These could be in question-and-answer format or long-form vows written beforehand (or a combination of both). Couples can also ask their officiant to step to the side during the vow readings—it helps make the moment more intimate!

Here’s an example of wedding vows for you to work from:

Officiant to couple: “Marriage is a lifelong commitment to love and care for each other to the best of your ability. Are you both ready to take this step together?”

Couple responds: “Yes!”

Officiant to couple: “Do you promise to care for each other, treat each other with respect and compassion, and to always move toward love in your efforts to support one another?”

Couple responds: “We do.”

Officiant to couple: “Do you promise to meet each challenge and triumph with integrity, gratitude, and patience, and to strive to learn and grow together for all of your days?”

Affirmation of Family and Friends

Officiant to reception: “Do you, the family and friends of (Partner A) and (Partner B), give your full support today and wish them a lifetime of happiness together?”

Reception responds: “We do.”

Expression of Intent

Officiant: “In the presence and witness of the loved ones you have gathered here today, I now ask you to state your intentions.

(Partner A) and (Partner B), have you come here freely and without reservation to give yourselves to each other in the commitment of marriage?”

Couple responds: “Yes.”

Officiant: “Once more, will you love, honor, and cherish one another as partners for the rest of your lives?”

Couple responds: “We will.”

Officiant to reception: “(Partner A) and (Partner B), please repeat after me:

‘I give you this ring as a symbol of the vows we’ve made today. I pledge to you my love, respect, and commitment. With everything that I am, I honor you.’”

[ Couple repeats to each other. ]

Finally, the officiant will pronounce the couple as legally wed:

“Now that you, (Partner A) and (Partner B), have promised to give yourselves fully to each other, to love each other through the vows you have made, and through the giving and receiving of these rings, it is my great pleasure by the power vested in me to now pronounce you married! You may now kiss!”

Officiant to all: “Thank you all for joining in this joyous occasion for (Partner A) and (Partner B)! They now invite you to join them for a reception at [ LOCATION ] . Thank you all!”

Simple Wedding Ceremony Script

This script has been reviewed by Rev. Lisann G. Valentin, ordained minister at Universal Life Church .

For a nonreligious wedding ceremony, there’s no standard script you need to adhere to. The script below can serve as a helpful starting point for a simple wedding ceremony that you can build upon and personalize however you like.

The ceremony will begin with the officiant addressing the reception:

“Welcome friends, family, and loved ones. We’re gathered here today to celebrate [ PARTNER A ] and [ PARTNER B ] in their lifelong commitment of love to each other. Finding your life partner is a true joy, and the commitment to share in life’s ups and downs as one is no small feat. While marriage will bring its own challenges and triumphs, let this day be a reminder of what your love has already accomplished, as well as the possibilities for your partnership as you grow together for years to come.”

While a simple wedding ceremony might omit this part altogether, some couples might like to personalize their ceremony with a chosen reading or song in celebration of their union. Readings might be performed by a close friend or family member, the officiant, or the couple themselves. An example might be the officiant calling upon a chosen friend or family member to perform an original poem or share a story about the couple’s relationship.

Officiant: “As our reading today, [ PARTNER A/B ] has asked [ his, her ] to recite an original poem in honor of their union.”

Vows and Ring Exchange

Couples may choose to write their own vows, or omit reciting vows altogether.

Officiant to reception: “ [ PARTNER A ] and [ PARTNER B ] will now exchange rings as a symbol of their love and lifelong commitment.”

At this point, couples may exchange their vows (if desired) before placing their rings on each other's fingers. Below is an example of vows that might be exchanged:

Partner A to Partner B: “With this ring, I promise to support you, care for you, laugh with you, share in your burdens, be honest with you, and be faithful to you in all that we may face in the years ahead. I promise to love you with everything I have, from this day forward and beyond.”

Partner B to Partner A: “With this ring, I promise to love you and commit myself to you for the rest of my life. I promise to stand by your side, be there for you always, and to find laughter and joy even in tough times. I promise to love and accept you just as you are, and grow with you for every year to come.”

Officiant to Partner A: “Do you, [ PARTNER A ] , take [ PARTNER B ] to be your lawfully wedded [ husband, wife, partner ] ? Will you honor and cherish them, continue to deepen your understanding of them, and treat them with love and compassion in joy and pain, sickness and health, and whatever life might throw your way?”

Partner A: “I will” or “I do.”

Officiant to Partner B: “Do you, [ PARTNER B ] , take [ PARTNER A ] to be your lawfully wedded [ wife, husband, partner ] ? Will you honor and cherish them, continue to deepen your understanding of them, and treat them with love and compassion in joy and pain, sickness and health, and whatever life might throw your way?”

Partner B: “I will” or “I do.”

Finally, the officiant will pronounce the couple as married. To capture the perfect moment, couples might also request that the officiant steps to the side for the kiss.

Officiant to all: “By the authority vested in me, and with the trust of you all here today, I now declare you joined in love. You may now kiss!"

Officiant to all: “Thank you all for joining in this momentous occasion for [ PARTNER A ] and [ PARTNER B ] ! They now invite you to join them for a reception at [ LOCATION ] . Thank you all!”

Modern Wedding Ceremony Script

Any wedding ceremony can take a modern spin. Any number of personal touches can be added to your ceremony to make it more modern—whether you want to include your pets, switch up how your wedding party is presented, or simply add some modern flair to your wedding vows and readings.

The officiant will begin by welcoming the reception:

“Good afternoon and welcome! We’d like to thank everyone on this beautiful day for coming to support [ PARTNER A ] and [ PARTNER B ] in this exciting endeavor and union. Your friendship and support has helped to strengthen them as they’ve made their way to this moment, and they thank you for being here.”

Couples may choose to include a reading in their ceremony. This can be anything you wish, whether it’s a special poem, reading from a book, quote from a movie, or a story about the couple’s relationship shared by a close friend or family member.

Many modern couples opt to write their own wedding vows, or omit them altogether. It’s up to you! Below is an example of modern wedding vows:

Officiant to couple: “ [ PARTNER A ] and [ PARTNER B ] , please exchange your vows.”

Partner A to Partner B: “ [ NAME ] , you’re my best friend. I’m in awe of your lightness, your kindness, and the purity of what it looks like to be loved by someone like you. It’s a love with no expectations, no strings attached, only a desire to support me and see me fulfilled. To know and be known by you is a gift and a privilege. I know we were made for each other. So here’s what I promise:

I vow to always strive to be the best version of myself so that I can show up for you every single day. I vow to seek joy and hope even in dark times and be there for you when you need me. I vow to trust you and love you unconditionally. I vow to continue to learn from the examples of patience and selflessness that you have always embodied.”

Partner B to Partner A: “ [ NAME ] , I love you with my whole heart. You’ve loved me with a loyalty that I’d never experienced before, and didn’t even know existed. You have seen every part of me, and even at my lowest you have stood by my side. You’ve never given up on me, and I have no doubt that you are the person I’m meant to spend my life with. I vow to keep a soft heart when challenges come, and to be aware of my words and actions and how they affect you. I vow to support you in all things, to love you well, and to create a life we’re proud of. Life is fleeting, and I want to cherish every minute of it with you.”

Officiant to couple: “ [ PARTNER A ] and [ PARTNER B ] , do you take one another as partners from this day forward?”

Couple in unison: “We do.”

Officiant: “Will you love, honor, and cherish one another as partners for the rest of your lives?”

Officiant to reception: “ [ PARTNER A ] and [ PARTNER B ] have chosen these rings as a symbol of their unbreakable love. Please place these rings on each other’s fingers and repeat after me:

‘I give you this ring as a reminder of our love that unites, inspires, and celebrates what we have.’”

Officiant to all: “By the authority vested in me, it is with joy that I pronounce you married. Now kiss and go celebrate!”

Officiant to all: “Thank you all for joining in this beautiful occasion for [ PARTNER A ] and [ PARTNER B ] ! They now invite you to join them for a reception at [ LOCATION ] . Thank you all!”

Humorous Wedding Ceremony Script

There’s no rule that says your wedding ceremony has to be serious from start to finish. Some couples prefer to add a bit of humor to their ceremony for a more lighthearted affair. The following wedding script has all the required legal elements of becoming legally married, with a humorous touch to keep your guests on their toes.

The officiant will begin by welcoming the crowd and introducing the ceremony.

Officiant to all: “Hello and welcome! We’re here today because [ PARTNER A ] and [ PARTNER B ] have decided they love each other so much that they want to get the government involved! But in all seriousness, a huge thanks to all who have joined us. We promise we’ll get these two hitched quickly so you can make a beeline to the open bar!

I’d like to take this opportunity to ponder the meaning of marriage. Now I know I made a joke about these two loving each other so much they’ve decided to get the government involved, but we know that’s not all marriage is. It’s a tradition, yes, but it’s so much more. It might take a lot of work and compromise, but at the end of the day, this is about choosing your person until the end of this thing we call life. So no matter how many dishes they leave in the sink, no matter how horrible their cooking is, no matter how bad their mood might be on occasion—you’ve got someone who chooses to stick with you through it all. And that’s what marriage is about!”

Including readings in your ceremony is optional, but some couples opt to personalize their ceremony with a particular reading, quote, or story. Some humorous wedding ceremonies might involve a close friend or family member sharing a lighthearted account of the couple’s relationship, with some light humor to get a laugh out of the crowd.

Officiant: “As our reading today, [PARTNER A/B} has asked [ his, her ] to share a personal story of their relationship in honor of their marriage today.”

At this point, couples may exchange vows if they’ve chosen to write them. Here’s an example of wedding vows with a little humor:

Officiant to Partner A: “Now, it’s time to put a ring on it! [ PARTNER A ] , repeat after me: ‘I give you this ring as a symbol that I will love and cherish you, and that I’ll try to keep my mouth shut when it’s your turn to choose the movie we watch.’”

[ Partner A repeats. ]

Officiant to Partner B: “ [ PARTNER B ] , repeat after me: ‘I give you this ring as a symbol that I will love and cherish you, and that I’ll consider making you dinner every once in a while.’”

[ Partner B repeats. ]

Officiant to Partner A: “Do you, [ PARTNER A ] , take [ PARTNER B ] to be your lawfully wedded [ husband, wife, partner ] , to love and cherish them for better or for worse, in sickness and in health, and reap as many tax benefits as you can for as long as you both shall live?”

Officiant to Partner B: “Do you, [ PARTNER B ] , take [ PARTNER A ] to be your lawfully wedded [ wife, husband, partner ] , to love and cherish them for better or for worse, in sickness and in health, and reap as many tax benefits as you can for as long as you both shall live?”

Now the officiant will pronounce the couple as legally wed:

“What a romantic exchange. Now, I guess there’s only one thing left to do: By the power vested in me, I now pronounce you [ husband and wife, husband and husband, wife and wife ] ! Now kiss!”

Officiant to all: “That’s a wrap on the formal proceedings of today. [ PARTNER A ] and [ PARTNER B ] will greet you in [ LOCATION ] at [ TIME ] . We thank you for coming—now get out of here and go celebrate!”

Tips on Writing Your Wedding Ceremony Script

While writing your wedding ceremony script might feel daunting, these tips can help take the pressure off and provide some much-needed guidance on how to bring your ceremony vision to life—whatever that means to you.

Talk With Your Partner

Your wedding ceremony is the moment when you and your future spouse actually become married, and writing your script is an opportunity to reflect on the significance of your relationship before you enter into marriage. Talking with your partner about your ideas and desires for your wedding ceremony is an important first step—it helps you get aligned on a mutual vision and ensures the ceremony is a reflection of what matters most to you as a couple.

Work With Your Officiant

Your wedding officiant is a critical part of your ceremony since they’ll be the one leading the service from start to finish. Your officiant can provide practical advice on how to get started crafting your ceremony script, and some might even have an outline for you to work from. Since your officiant has most likely conducted their fair share of wedding ceremonies, they’re an excellent resource for any questions you might have.

Don’t Procrastinate

While you certainly don’t need to memorize your wedding ceremony script, don't put it off until the last minute—especially if you plan on writing your own vows . Procrastinating until the week of your wedding can add a ton of pressure to an already hectic time, so do yourself a favor and get started early!

Consider the Length of Your Script

While your wedding ceremony script should be whatever you want it to be, being mindful of time and length is something your guests will appreciate. Anything longer than 30 minutes might leave guests checking their watches! Once you’ve written a draft and have the chance to rehearse it, you’ll find that you can pack plenty of meaning and resonance in less than 15 minutes.

Now that you’ve read some ceremony script examples, you can get started writing your own with confidence! No matter what you decide to include, what matters most is that the words shared are from the heart and represent what your marriage means to you.

As you finish off your wedding planning, Zola is here to help every step of the way—whether it’s designing custom wedding invitations or putting the final touches on your wedding registry , we have all the Expert Advice you’ll need to make your wedding vision come to life.

Wedding ceremony scripts reviewed by: Sheena Wheadon, licensed wedding officiant at Why Knot Weddings

Rev. Lisann G. Valentin, ordained minister at Universal Life Church

Ordained ministers at Universal Life Church Monastery

FAQs About Wedding Ceremony Scripts

Find answers to any lingering wedding ceremony script questions below.

How Do I Personalize My Wedding Ceremony Script?

To personalize your wedding ceremony script, start by nailing down the overall format of your script, including the order of the ceremony and the role of the officiant. From there, you can find ways to weave in personal elements that are significant to you and your partner. That could mean incorporating a special unity ceremony, or including a reading from a book, movie, or song that holds meaning to you. Remember, there’s no rule that says you have to follow a traditional wedding ceremony script.

Your vows are probably the best opportunity to truly customize your wedding ceremony script—you may choose to write your own vows from scratch, giving you the freedom to make them uniquely “you.”

How Do I Start a Wedding Ceremony Script?

Most wedding ceremony outlines start with the wedding officiant welcoming guests and thanking them for joining in the wedding day. Religious ceremonies may start with a reading from the Bible or whatever is customary for different faiths. That said, your ceremony script can start however you like, whether that’s opening with a meaningful quote or poem or an endearing story about you and your partner.

Where Can I Find Wedding Ceremony Scripts?

The best place to find wedding ceremony scripts is online—you can find downloadable pre-written scripts by searching for a specific religious denomination or the mood you want your ceremony to take (eg. “modern wedding ceremony script”). For extra inspiration, search for wedding ceremony videos on YouTube to get a feel for what different scripts sound like during a real ceremony. There are more wedding ceremony script ideas out there than you’d think!

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Wedding Officiant Speech Ideas For A Friend’s Wedding + Templates

Written by  Shutterfly Community Last Updated: Jul 14, 2023

Short And Sweet Wedding Ceremony Template

Playful and humorous wedding ceremony template, how to prepare.

• Meet with the couple beforehand to get an idea of what they expect or wish to see at their ceremony. Be sure to discuss the length, tone and order of your speech. Whether they prefer a short ceremony, a secular officiant script or want to add their own creative spin, you’ll be prepared to provide that for them.
• Start writing your speech as early as possible and ask the couple for feedback. It’s always best to have a third party review your speech for any errors.
• Ask the couple for any rules they wish to implement during the ceremony. They may want to ask guests to silence their phones or refrain from taking too many photos.
• Establish the order of the ceremony with the couple. Some couples opt to sign legal documents at the ceremony in front of their friends and family, while others prefer to sign them in private, either before or after the ceremony. Make sure you know how they wish to proceed with this component of their wedding.
• Confirm that the marriage license is valid. States have different laws regarding the window of time a license is valid and can be signed.
• Be prepared for how and when to submit legal documents. Once the license has been verified, complete all relevant fields. On their wedding day, make sure all required parties have signed including yourself, the couple and witnesses.
• Be aware of any filing deadlines in your state and return the license to its issuance office appropriately. In many states, the couple can return the marriage license themselves.

From An Acquaintance

Dos and Don’ts

• Do include a short and sweet anecdote about their love story. If you know how they met or got engaged, weave it into the speech to make it unique to the couple.
• Don’t get off topic. Avoid going on a tangent by keeping your script short and to the point.
• Do practice your speech and the names of important family members. Depending on the style of the wedding, some speeches thank or mention parents and grandparents of the couple so you want to make sure you’ve got their names down.
• Don’t go heavy on the jokes. Humor is great but when in doubt, keep it light. If you don’t know the family very well, some jokes may fall flat or not go over well with certain family members.
• Do type up a nice copy of your speech for the couple to keep afterward.

INTRODUCTION

Declaration of vows and commitment.

EXCHANGE OF RINGS

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• Do include an endearing short story about the bride and/or groom. Use this story to add a little playfulness to your speech and pull at the heartstrings of friends and family.
• Don’t tell embarrassing stories about the bride or groom. Keep your stories light and focused on their love for one another.
• Do write a unique introduction. Since you know them personally, give yourself the freedom to stray from the traditional wedding ceremony introductions.
• Don’t go into too much detail. Although you know the couple well, they may have invited acquaintances and distant friends to the ceremony so keep your speech concise.
• Do type up a nice copy of your speech for the couple to keep afterward. A great wedding gift idea would be a framed print of their vows they can cherish for years to come.

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Ceremony Reading: Ordinary Morning by Joyce Grenfell

A beautifully sweet ditty that could be read or sung.

We're absolute suckers for cute little songs that bring a smile to our faces and we're sure that this pretty little ditty, Ordinary Morning sung by English singer, actress and writer, Joyce Grenfell will do the same for you and your guests. As a ceremony reading , the lyrics evoke that sense of how one regular day can turn into one of the most important days of your life - the day you meet the love of your life. It works perfectly well when read, but it's also beautiful when sung, so you could add it to your music line up if it tickles your fancy. Have a listen here .

Ordinary Morning by Joyce Grenfell

It felt like an ordinary morning It began an ordinary way And then, without warning Ordinary morning became an extraordinary day.

Hadn’t the slightest sort of inkling No-one said love was on its way And then within a twinkling Without the smallest inkling It became an extraordinary day.

For there you were And the whole world stood still. There you were, I loved you then and I always will

At first, an ordinary morning, Began in an ordinary way, And then my heart was beating At this ordinary meeting And we both knew This was not an ordinary day.

Still looking for the perfect wedding ceremony reading? See our  Essential List of Ceremony Readings  broken down into handy categories. Be sure follow us on  Instagram  for more!

Image credits

Emma-jane lewis, via one fab day, see more in:.

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Prince William Honors His Late Mother, Princess Diana, in Touching Speech to Mark Anniversary

The Prince of Wales attended a ceremony celebrating the 25th anniversary of the Diana Award

The Diana Legacy Awards, held today at the Science Museum in London, honored young leaders from all over the world who guide and inspire their communities, just as Diana, who died in 1997, did. At the ceremony, the Prince of Wales met key staff and supporters of the Diana Award before getting up to say a few words and present Legacy Awards to this year’s winners.

“I’m thoroughly delighted to be here today to recognize the transformational achievements of 20 exceptional young people from across the world,” his speech began.

William touched on the importance of fueling young minds and recognizing work that can incite progress, as well as on the personal significance the awards have for him.

“This evening’s Legacy Award is particularly special, as it marks the 25th snniversary year of the Diana Award—a charity set up to reflect my mother’s belief that young people can change the world,” he said. “I know that she would have been honored to see a charity in her name doing such inspirational work to uplift young people from all corners of the globe. She taught me that everyone has the potential to give something back, that everyone in need deserves a supporting hand in life.”

He also mentioned wife Princess Kate , who has been recovering from abdominal surgery since January and has not attended a public event with him since December: “That legacy is something that both Catherine and I have sought to focus on through our work, as have the 50,000 young people who have received a Diana Award over the past 25 years.”

William said nothing else about his wife—neither about her condition nor about the Photoshop controversy that followed the release of her Mother’s Day photo on Sunday.

Once William wraps up his appearance at the ceremony today, brother Prince Harry will join the event virtually, to meet with the winners. A charity rep told Bazaar the Duke of Sussex “is scheduled to speak with the award recipients, virtually, on the evening of the awards to celebrate their accomplishments.” He and William will not cross paths.

Rosa Sanchez is the senior news editor at Harper's Bazaar, working on news as it relates to entertainment, fashion, and culture. Previously, she was a news editor at ABC News and, prior to that, a managing editor of celebrity news at American Media. She has also written features for Rolling Stone, Teen Vogue, Forbes, and The Hollywood Reporter, among other outlets. 

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• The Ultimate Best Man Checklist Tips for Delivering an Amazing Best Man Speech Best Man Mistakes You Should Never Make The Top Celebrity and Royal Best Men of All Time Memorable TV and Movie Best Man Wedding Speeches The Best Gifts for the Groom from the Best Man

The Most Memorable TV and Movie Best Man Wedding Speeches of All Time

These fictional toasts are some of the most unforgettable moments in entertainment history.

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As we all know, there are many commitments  a person is required to fulfill when asked to be the best man. However, these tasks—which include organizing the bachelor party , supporting the groom during the planning stage, and holding onto the wedding rings during the ceremony—are nothing compared to the main event and final responsibility: the best man speech.

Typically a three to five-minute toast meant to honor the couple, the best man speech is not only held in high regard, but is an age-old tradition many look forward to hearing at the rehearsal dinner or reception. These speeches are so popular, in fact, that countless TV shows and movies have immortalized this one special moment in a variety of ways.

From The Office to The Hangover Part II , some of our favorite fictional characters have delivered the most memorable (and hilarious) best man wedding speeches known to mankind. And for those currently preparing to give their own toasts, we've rounded up the top seven fictional moments to help inspire your own. Whether you find inspiration for a few jokes or learn what you should absolutely not do, read on for a few wedding day speeches we're sure you'll love.

The Five-Year Engagement

This hilarious romantic comedy follows the story of Tom Solomon (Jason Segel) and Violet Barnes (Emily Blunt), an engaged couple who struggle to make it down the aisle due to several unexpected misfortunes. But once they finally get to the alter and officially say "I do," Solomon's best man, Alex Eilhauer (Chris Pratt), decides to send them off with an epic, but inappropriate, best man speech that features a PowerPoint presentation and a toast sung to the tune of "We Didn’t Start The Fire" by Billy Joel. 

The Wedding Singer

In a scene from  The Wedding Singer,  actor Steve Buscemi plays a hilarious, but completely unhinged, best man. In his special toast during the reception , Buscemi's character delivers a drunken speech that includes topics like his stint in a rehab facility, family traumas, and exposed hidden secrets. While noteworthy and highly entertaining, this movie moment is a prime example of what not to do in the real world. 

Friends (The One With Ross's Wedding: Part 2)

During Ross Geller (David Schwimmer) and Emily Waltham's (Helen Baxendale) rehearsal dinner , best men Chandler Bing (Matthew Perry) and Joey Tribbiani (Matt LeBlanc) take center stage to deliver a best man speech everyone will love. Unfortunately, they both fail. Though Chandler tries to be funny, his humor and sarcasm get lost in the crowd, which ultimately leads to an embarrassing toast. As for Joey, while his toast seemingly starts off great, the quirky character ends up going on several tangents completely unrelated to the wedding, like his love for New York City and the United States.

Four Weddings and a Funeral

Fictional best man speeches are usually those that can be categorized as catastrophic, inappropriate, and downright bad. However, in  Four Weddings and a Funeral , best man Charles, played by Hugh Grant, delivers a lovely toast filled with humor, personal anecdotes, and a focus on the couple's love for each other—the perfect recipe for a best man speech.  

The Best Man

After almost completely sabotaging his best friends' wedding, Harper Stewart (Taye Diggs) redeems himself at the reception with a graceful and thoughtful best man speech. By focusing on the couple and highlighting the unbreakable bond between husband, Lance Sullivan (Morris Chestnut), and wife, Mia Morgan (Monica Calhoun), this toast is a heartfelt wedding moment that is remembered today as one of the best toasts in movie history.

The Office (Phyllis's Wedding)

Though this speech doesn't technically fall into the best man category, given the fact that Michael Scott (Steve Carell) completely ambushed Phyllis Lapin (Phyllis Smith) and Bob Vance's (Robert R. Shafer) reception, this speech is one of the most unforgettable wedding toasts in TV history. During Scott's impromptu moment, the Dunder Mifflin regional manager blurts out a bunch of random quotes, one-liners, and cheesy jokes. And while Steve Carrell's acting is utterly flawless in this scene, real-life best men should stay away from replicating Michael Scott's approach. 

The Hangover Part II

During The Hangover Part II , Alan (Zach Galifianakis) takes the mic to give one of the most embarrassing best man speeches we've ever seen. Addressing a table of family and friends, he begins by sharing several inappropriate "fun facts", before ultimately being prompted to quickly end his toast. Once at the end, though, he wraps up his speech with information a best man should never share, such as the groom's past relationship history and a mention of their indiscretions during a trip to Las Vegas , as documented in the first Hangover movie.

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Here's the Wedding Speech Order to Follow at Your Reception

• Jessica contributes wedding planning, wedding etiquette and relationship content to The Knot.
• She also covers lifestyle and wellness topics for print and digital publications such Refinery29, Bustle, Well + Good, Cosmopolitan, Byrdie, The Zoe Report, The Cut and more.
• Jessica has a journalism degree from Cal State University, Northridge and is certified as a life and success coach.

Mapping out your ideal wedding reception timeline is an art form. You want the wedding day to flow from beginning to end, with numerous memorable moments along the way, including the wedding speeches . Choosing the wedding speech order is a big part of finalizing your reception timeline, since it's important to get the wedding toasts and speeches checked off before the dancing and festivities begin. To help you nail it down, we've outlined the traditional order of speeches at a wedding, along with some options for more modern wedding speech orders and other important speech-related questions. But above all, the most important thing to remember is that this is just a guideline—you don't have to follow it exactly (or at all). Use this order of wedding reception speeches as a starting point, but feel free to adjust accordingly, too.

In this article:

Who Speaks First at Weddings?

The traditional wedding speech order, do you have to follow the traditional wedding speech order, how many speeches do you have at a wedding, are wedding speeches before or after the meal.

Typically, the father of the bride is first in the traditional wedding speech order. In the past, this was because the bride's parents were usually the ones hosting (read: paying for) the wedding, says Trista Croce , founder of luxury wedding planning and event company BTS Event Management based in Phoenix, Arizona. However, for many couples, this may or may not be the case. In today's world, it's not unheard of for the groom's parents to pitch in for wedding costs, or for the couple to be footing the bill themselves. So in these cases, it's really up to the couple to decide who should speak first. It can be whoever hosts the wedding, the best man, or one or both parents if they choose to stick to tradition.

Yes, there's a specific order for traditional wedding speeches, but if you don't know where to begin, let us guide you through it. Here's the rundown of who gives the welcome speech at a wedding, when the father of the bride should give a speech and more.

1. The Father of the Bride or Parents of the Bride

The father of the bride speech is often one of the most special and tear-jerking moments of the day—and it's usually the first toast given when following the traditional order of speeches at the wedding. The father of the bride will typically start off by welcoming guests and thanking them for coming. The speech can also include a heartfelt anecdote about the bride and some words of wisdom for the happy couple. Depending on the situation, the mother of the bride can give a speech along with (or in place of) the father of the bride.

2. The Father of the Groom or Parents of the Groom

Next up in the traditional order of toasts at a wedding, according to Croce, is the groom's family. This could include the father of the groom's speech, mother of the groom speech or a few words from both parents. Some couples opt to have the father of the groom's speech take place during the rehearsal dinner instead, as old-school wedding etiquette stated that the groom's parents host the rehearsal dinner while the bride's parents host the wedding. But as always, who speaks at the reception and in what wedding speech order will depend on your relationship, your family situation and your personal preference.

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3. the maid of honor.

Following the parent speeches, Croce recommends having the maid of honor go next in the wedding toast order. However, some couples opt to flip the order and have the best man speak first followed by the maid of honor. The maid of honor speech typically includes an introduction and a short story explaining their relationship with the couple, personal anecdotes, funny stories, encouraging words and a closing remark with a toast.

4. The Best Man

The last speech on the agenda is the best man speech , which can follow the same format as the maid of honor speech. The best man can start by introducing himself, congratulating the couple, sharing a story about the groom and offering nice words about their new spouse. They can also mix in a tasteful joke or two and end with a wedding toast to the newlyweds and their future together.

5. The Master of Ceremonies

Although not considered part of the traditional wedding speech order, another "speaker" that can take the mic during a wedding reception is a master of ceremonies. In most cases, your wedding DJ or your wedding band leader will handle it. But for a modern wedding speech order alternative, you could choose to have someone you know or hire a different professional for the role. This, of course, is optional and there are pros and cons to consider, but it can be a fun way to add some structure (and humor!) to the reception.

Following the traditional order of wedding speeches is a good starting point, but you should always feel free to do what works best for your specific situation. Wedding traditions are just that—traditions. They're not rules couples must follow. "Family dynamics and friends are so different these days," Croce says. "This format is not going to suit everyone." Some people may also not feel comfortable with public speaking and choose not to give a speech. Our tip: use the traditional wedding speech order above as a guideline and decide on the wedding speech order that makes sense for you, your partner and your guests.

If you're weighing the pros and cons of a more modern wedding speech order, first consider the specific people who you'd want to speak at your wedding. You might skip the traditional parent speeches in favor of someone else, like the brother of the bride , sister of the groom or vice versa. And while it's not required, the newlyweds can give speeches too—whether individually or together—to give guests a warm welcome and express their appreciation to everyone who showed up to celebrate their big day. In that case, adding a bride's toast or groom's toast to the order of wedding speeches is another option. Lastly, you might have children (like the daughter of the bride ), stepchildren or other close loved ones who would be honored to speak at the reception.

In most cases, it's best to limit the number of wedding reception speeches to no more than four people. Whatever you decide, keep the total length of speeches in mind. If you decide to have more than four speeches during the reception, ensure each of them is brief. The last thing you want is for speeches to drag on and cut into the rest of the reception timeline, such as dinner and cutting of the cake. A good rule of thumb, Croce recommends, is keeping the entire speech portion of the reception to 20 minutes, maximum. From there, you can divide up those minutes between the different speakers.

If there are other important people in your lives who would also like to say a few words as well, such as wedding party members (bridesmaids, groomsmen), grandparents or close friends, you can ask them to give a speech at the rehearsal dinner instead. Rehearsal dinners are often more casual, intimate and less structured, which means there's more wiggle room for additional speakers that won't have the chance to speak during the wedding reception.

Wedding speeches typically take place during the meal at the wedding reception.The sweet spot, according to Croce, is starting the speeches about 3/4 of the way through dinner as guests are finishing up their meal and still seated. That way, once the speeches are wrapped up, guests will be done eating, tables will start being cleared and everyone will be ready to hit the dance floor and get the party started.

Timing is very important, especially with speeches, because you want to have your guests' undivided attention and keep them entertained and engaged all the way through. If speeches are done too early on during the meal, guests will still be finding their seats, chatting amongst each other and servers may be shuffling around, which can be noisy and distracting for guests. If the wedding speeches are done after the meal, guests may be feeling antsy to get up, move around and mingle.

Samantha Iacia contributed to the reporting of this article.

March 22, 2024

Postal Service Issues Celebration Blooms and Wedding Blooms

Stamps Feature Fanciful Flowers to Mark Special Occasions

ST. LOUIS — The U.S. Postal Service introduces Celebration Blooms and Wedding Blooms, a natural pair. The new stamps are well-suited for spreading good cheer — whether it’s news of a birth or a note to brighten someone’s day. A dedication ceremony for the stamps was held today in St. Louis.

The Celebration Blooms stamp can be used on the RSVP envelopes often enclosed with wedding invitations. It is also perfect for party invitations, thank-you notes, important announcements and general correspondence. Celebration Blooms is being issued as a Forever stamp, meaning it will always be equal in value to the current First-Class Mail® 1-ounce price.

“Two-ounce,” printed on the Wedding Blooms stamp, indicates it can accommodate the weight of heavy invitations for weddings, anniversaries, birthdays and other celebrations; oversized greeting cards for all occasions; and mailings such as small gifts that require extra postage. The Wedding Blooms stamp is issued in panes of 20. Like a Forever stamp, this stamp will always be valid for the rate printed on it.

These stamps each feature an arrangement of brilliantly colored flowers rendered in ink and gouache, which add luster to the vivid hues of red, yellow, purple, pink, green and blue.

Derry Noyes, an art director for USPS, designed both stamps using existing illustrations by artist Kim Parker.

The word “USA” appears in violet at the bottom left of the Celebration Blooms stamp, with “FOREVER” in magenta just to the right.

Postal Products

Customers may purchase stamps and other philatelic products through the Postal Store at usps.com/shopstamps , by calling 844-737-7826, by mail through USA Philatelic or at Post Office locations nationwide. For officially licensed stamp products, shop the USPS Officially Licensed Collection on Amazon .

The United States Postal Service is an independent federal establishment, mandated to be self-financing and to serve every American community through the affordable, reliable and secure delivery of mail and packages to 167 million addresses six and often seven days a week. Overseen by a bipartisan Board of Governors, the Postal Service is implementing a 10-year transformation plan, Delivering for America , to modernize the postal network, restore long-term financial sustainability, dramatically improve service across all mail and shipping categories, and maintain the organization as one of America’s most valued and trusted brands.

The Postal Service generally receives no tax dollars for operating expenses and relies on the sale of postage, products and services to fund its operations.

For USPS media resources, including broadcast-quality video and audio and photo stills, visit the USPS Newsroom . Follow us on Twitter , Instagram , Pinterest and LinkedIn . Subscribe to the USPS YouTube Channel and like us on Facebook . For more information about the Postal Service, visit usps.com and facts.usps.com .

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Joey King Calls Wedding to 'Best Friend' Steven Piet 'the Best Weekend of My Whole Life' (Exclusive)

The 'We Were the Lucky Ones' actress tied the knot with the director and producer in a civil ceremony in Los Angeles in August, followed by a big celebration in Spain

Joey King/Instagram

Joey King next stars in We Were the Lucky Ones — but off-screen, she considers herself the lucky one for finding love with Steven Piet .

King, 24, and Piet, 39, met on set of The Act , which she starred in and he directed and executive produced. The actress asked him out at the end of filming.

“I've never really been afraid to tell people how I feel about them,” she tells PEOPLE. “Not to say I wasn't painfully nervous when I asked my husband out, I was freaking out! I was so nervous, but I knew that he would never do it 'cause he was so respectful and so sweet. I truly had no idea if he was even interested in me or not. I knew that if I didn't, I would think about it forever. I just had to do it.”

Piet agreed to the date — and then, in February 2022, he proposed to King . Last year, the two said “I do” in a civil ceremony in Los Angeles in August. That was followed by a celebration with friends and family in Mallorca, Spain , the next month.

“We had so much fun, and it was just such a great day,” King says of the L.A. wedding at Same Day Marriage, which was followed by bowling. “My mom made my bouquet from the dollar store. She went there and got all these fake flowers and ribbon and tied it up. It was so cute.”

Predictably, she describes the Spain nuptials as an “incredibly different vibe.” “There's so many favorite moments,” King says of the Mallorca fête, which she calls “the best weekend of my whole life.”

Matt Winkelmeyer/WireImage

It rarely rains in Mallorca, so when it did the weekend before King and Piet’s wedding, the Emmy nominee and her now-husband decided, “let's just lean into it."

“We were fully prepared to just lean into this rain wedding, and it was going to be fabulous,” King says. “Guests arrive for the ceremony, the sun starts shining. I was like, ‘This is insane. Do I believe in God?’ I'm just kidding, but it was better than we ever could have dreamed.”

The former child star feels like she and Piet “had a pretty amazing turnout” for their destination wedding. “I'm so thankful our friends and family did that for us,” she continues, explaining, “We didn't tell our families too much about the venue because we wanted them to be blown away. My mom and my mother-in-law were like, ‘Why do you have to go so far away? Why can't you guys just get married at a botanical garden here or something?’ Then they arrived and they were like, ‘Holy s---! It was worth it.’ ”

While King says “life didn't really change” when she and Piet got married, she concedes that “it does feel different.”

“Everything just feels a little bit sweeter,” King says. “It's just fun to feel like you are truly hanging out with your best friend every day. It's a very special feeling.”

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We Were the Lucky Ones premieres Thursday, March 28, on Hulu.