When it comes to planning a wedding, there are many important elements to consider. From the processional to the recessional, the order of the ceremony is essential for a successful event. Couples may also choose to include a unifying ritual within the ceremony, such as a unity candle or a similar ritual. The DJ announces the wedding party at the reception and all pronouncements must be accurate.
The prelude to the wedding ceremony typically involves guests coming in and taking their seats first. After that, the wedding procession of the bridal party follows before the wedding ceremony can begin. This usually includes a reading before the exchange of vows, the exchange of rings and the declaration of marriage. The ceremony ends with a few closing words and a recession.
A mixed or international wedding may be particularly interesting as it allows couples to choose rituals from different cultures. While there is an officiant, vows will be exchanged in the presence of witnesses. An optional element in the structure of the wedding ceremony is the inclusion of a unifying ritual, such as lighting a candle, a box of wine, planting trees or a ceremony in the sand, as a symbol of the couple's unification in a new entity. It is also possible to include family members in the ceremony, such as parents or children, to demonstrate the bond between two families.
Ultimately, there are no real rules about who should participate in the ceremony and couples can choose whatever order they prefer for their special day.
