Ideas for "Ceremonies within Ceremonies"

A wedding ceremony, whether traditional or contempory, contains similar elements.  The welcome, the "I Do's", the vows, the ring exchange are all familiar and expected.  One way to personalize YOUR ceremony is to include a ceremony within the ceremony.  These are the special moments that put your touch into your day.

Many weddings have included a candle lighting or sand ceremony.  These are beautiful and classic touches.  For those seeking something more unexpected a handfasting moment is lovely.  The couple's hands are intertwined and then wrapped lovingly with a decorative ribbon signifying the binding union.  For couples who have children, reciting vows to them as parents is both reassuring for them and recognizes that a new family is being united.  Another unique and nostalgic moment is for a couple to include the same vows their parents or grandparents took.

There is no such thing as a one-size-fits-all spouse.  That's why I believe your wedding should be reflective of the one-of-a-kind personality of your relationship.  Almost any family tradition or momento can be woven into a wedding ceremony to create a ceremony within the ceremony.  

As a wedding officiant, I love when a couple wants to add that signature touch into the day!