This is our Pre-Written Classic Secular Wedding Ceremony #2. Words in italics are spoken by the Bride and Groom. Words in
{ } are spoken by the Justice of the Peace to the guests, and generally explain what is happening or about to happen in the ceremony. All other words are spoken by the JP directly addressing the Bride and Groom, and/or the guests.
Processional
Opening Words
Welcome everyone to the marriage of Groom's Full Name and Bride's Full Name. We are gathered here to unite Bride and Groom in marriage, which is held in honor among all people. As they pledge their constant and abiding love to each other, let us remember that anyone who enters into this special relationship must learn to share a mutual love and concern for one another. Love is one of the greatest of life's experiences. It brings meaning and happiness to our lives. To freely accept from and give to each other as lovers and friends is a joy. The daily companionship, the pleasure of doing things together or in doing separate things, is a continuous and central part of what two people who love each other can share.
The marriage into which the two of you are about to enter is one which you promise to fulfill, not for a limited time, but for the rest of your lives. The success of your marriage depends on the love and consideration that you foster and nourish in the years ahead. This marriage can only be created by loving purpose, be maintained by abiding will, and be bonded together by your love for one another.
Expression of Intent
{At this time, Bride and Groom will make public their intention to marry...}
Groom & Bride, please join hands.
Groom, will you have this woman to be your wife, in all love and honor, in all faith and tenderness, to live with her and cherish her in this bond of marriage? If so, please answer I will.
Groom: I will.
Bride, will you have this man to be your husband, in all love and honor, in all faith and tenderness, to live with him and cherish him in this bond of marriage? If so, please answer I will.
Bride: I will.
Word About The Rings
Rings are an ancient symbol, beautiful and simple. Circles - for love that is given comes back around. Round like the sun, like a perfect pearl, like arms that embrace. Therefore, may these symbols remind you that your love, like the sun, illuminates; that your love, like the pearl, grows in luster; and that your love, like arms that embrace, is a grace upon this world. May you wear them in peace and deepening love.
Vows and Exchange of the Rings
{And now, Bride and Groom will say their vows and will exchange their wedding rings...}
Groom, please repeat after me:
I, Groom, choose you Bride, to be my wife. From this day forward, I promise to love you, to honor you, to respect you, and to support you, as long as we both shall live. With this ring, I take you as my wife.
Bride, please repeat after me:
I, Bride, choose you Groom, to be my husband. From this day forward, I promise to love you, to honor you, to respect you, and to support you, as long as we both shall live. With this ring, I take you as my husband.
Consecration
Bride and Groom, our best wishes go forward from this day with you. We wish for you a fulfilling life, rich in caring and in happiness. We wish for you a gentle and peaceful life that nurtures and comforts you. We wish for you a noble life, which reflects your honesty, kindness, and integrity. We wish for you an adventuresome life, exploring the fullness of your own and each other’s true selves.
Pronouncement of Marriage
{At this time we come to the Pronouncement of Marriage. The Pronouncement is my public, and legal, proclamation that Bride and Groom are married. It is the exact moment of Marriage...}
And now, having witnessed your vows for marriage with all who are assembled here, and by the authority vested in me by the State of New Hampshire, I announce with great joy that from this time on, you are husband and wife.
Permission to Kiss
Congratulations, you may seal your love and your vows with a kiss!
Presentation of the New Couple
Ladies and gentlemen, it is my pleasure to present to you, for the first time as husband and wife...
Mr. & Mrs.___________________
Recessional
Please
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