I believe even the shortest, sweetest, simplest ceremony should be personalized and memorable.  Including a reading that resonates with both of you is one way to do that and a very special touch.  Your officiant may read it or you may honor a loved one by inviting them to participate in your ceremony in a meaningful way.

Readings
​​There are an infinite number of possibilities!  Most of you have heard the more traditional readings like "Love is patient, love is kind...." and there is a reason you recognize it - it is beautiful and classic.  So if your wedding vibe is lovely, classic, traditional elegance, this is a good selection!  I love helping couples find readings slightly off the beaten path.  Once I meet you, hear your love story and learn more about your wedding day details, I am able to suggest readings that will weave into the ceremony beautifully and reflect your love.  If you already have a reading in mind, that's great!  Perhaps you want song lyrics from "your song", poetry, an excerpt from a book or an excerpt from one of your love letters to be included in the ceremony.  What a wonderful way to express the feelings you are feeling in the moments you are beginning marriage!  I believe a reading enhances the wedding ceremony.

Readers 
​So, you have chosen a reading and now need to figure out who will recite it.  Of course, your officiant can read it during the ceremony.  I recite lovely wedding readings on many occasions!  I am happy to do so.  I also LOVE when a couple chooses a loved one to recite the reading too!  Perhaps you have a beloved grandparent, aunt, friend, godparent, cousin, etc. that you wanted to honor during your wedding day but couldn't quite figure out how.  Inviting them to do a reading is a way to include them in your special day!  Some couples select two readings to accommodate  one reader from each of their families.  When inviting someone to read at your wedding, make sure they aren't going to feel anxious about standing in front of your guests to recite.  Most people are very happy to do the reading, but always consider their feelings about it - especially if they are prone to stage fright!  I love when a couple chooses a reader because it adds a layer and depth to the ceremony, breaking it up a bit and giving it texture.  Also, the reader elicits happy, happy emotion due to their relationship to you!

​Remember to be creative, use your officiant as a resource and select a reading that gives you goosebumps!  Your ceremony is YOUR ceremony and it should fit you well and honor your love!!
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I am enjoying my blog and sharing with all of you.  In the near future my blog will include details of ceremonies I have officiated so that you may be inspired.  Stay tuned....

Many a wedding guest has seen the bride cry tears of joy during her wedding ceremony.  And as an officiant, I admit I hold a few back myself.  There is nothing more beautiful than being caught up in moments of love and expressions of life-long commitment.  I look out towards the guests and see family and friends dabbing their eyes and wiping away tears as well.

​The groom, on the other hand, isn't usually expecting tears to come.  Until the moment the ceremony begins, most grooms have followed the bride's lead during planning as they haven't dreamt of every detail since age five!  Although they may have participated in a DIY wedding project or learned the difference between lace and tulle during the months leading to the ceremony;  the grooms aren't always prepared for the emotion that hits them as they see their bride begin to walk down the aisle.

​And when the processional music begins and the groom and bride lock eyes, I always look towards the groom.  In his face you see everything.  Suddenly, the bride's composure and confidence approaching her husband to be stands in stark contrast to his unexpected display of emotion.  That's when the groom springs a tear or two.  It's my favorite moment officiating.

I never forget what an honor it is to be invited to officiate a wedding ceremony.  I get to guide and witness the first lovely moments of a marriage.  I have a front row seat to the tears of joy!

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