Parts of a Wedding Ceremony

"In order for a marriage to be legally binding, the wedding ceremony itself must include two key elements. The first is the Declaration of Intent — this is most commonly recognized as the 'Do you take... I do' exchange. The second is the Pronouncement, where you will pronounce the couple officially married. While most weddings will involve additional elements, these segments constitute the bare minimum for a legal ceremony." (Universal Life Church Monastery)

The following is based on the Universal Life Church's training materials.

Processional/Recessional - when the bride or couple approach the altar/exit the wedding venue, respectively; usually accompanied by the wedding party

Welcome Statement - short greeting from the officiant explaining the significance of the event

Family Blessing - AKA the "give away" in which the bridal companion "gives" her to the groom; though traditional, a somewhat sexist practice (for my wedding, both our families and our guests gave their blessing)

Speak Now - controversial element in which the officiant asks those assembled if they approve of the union

Wedding Sermon - potentially a more elaborate message from the officiant, in which she expounds on the virtues of marriage and married life

Consecration - short blessing of the ceremony, often containing a prayer or call to a higher power/force

Exchange of Vows - the couple exchanges their vows with one another; often the most emotional part of the wedding

Declaration of Intent - law requires a wedding ceremony include a Declaration of Intent to marry between the two individuals electing to join in the marriage contract

Optional Ritual - may include traditions such as candle lighting, hand fasting, a sand ceremony, jumping the broom, glass stomping, or tree planting

Exchange of Rings - custom of individuals getting married exchanging rings with one another

Pronouncement - minister officially declares the couple as having been legally wed

Kiss - couple often elects to exchange a kiss with one another after they've been declared married

Presentation - officiant presents the newlyweds to the guests before they exit

For your own free wedding ceremony script, check out the Wedding Ceremony Script Generator.