Tag: Reception

Delivering your wedding vows is one of the most beautiful and intimate moments of your life. You’re stood up there with the love of your life, telling all your family and friends just how special they are to you — what could be more magical?

Writing your own wedding vows adds an extra level of meaning and personalisation to this already magical moment. It’s a chance to share your special memories, inside jokes, and the promises you intend to keep as a married couple. 

If you’re here, you’re probably wondering how to write marriage vows and craft a truly memorable moment. Let us guide you through how to write personalised wedding vows and how to avoid common pitfalls, and get inspired by our examples of great wedding vows. 

What are wedding vows?

Wedding vows are the promises and commitments made to your partner during your wedding ceremony. They are read aloud and usually last between 2 and 3 minutes per reader, totaling a maximum of 6 minutes. 

The groom traditionally reads his vows first, followed by the bride. However, you can read the vows in whatever order you’d like. Try mixing it up for a same-gender, gender-neutral, or other non-traditional wedding service. 

How do I write wedding vows?

Writing your wedding vows can be nerve-wracking. We get it — it’s a big moment, and you want to get it right. They are the promises that will shape your marriage, and understandably, you want them to be heartfelt, meaningful, and reflective of the commitment you’re making to your partner. 

With all this in mind, the most important thing is that you speak from the heart. Don’t be afraid to share a special story, a personal moment, or a quirky detail that showcases your love. Let’s delve a little deeper into the steps you should take when writing your wedding vows. 

Step 1 – Brainstorm your ideas

The first step is to brainstorm. Grab a cup of tea, sit down together, and let the nostalgia flow. Try making a spider diagram of your favourite memories, inside jokes, and quirks that define your relationship. Think about the moments that made you laugh uncontrollably or the challenges you conquered side by side. These will make the perfect base for your wedding vows. 

Step 2 – Draw on inspirations

If you’re feeling stuck or want your vows to be more traditional, consider drawing on inspiration from classic films, your favourite books or, if you’re religious, from the Bible. Quotes from these sources can give you a good jumping-off point and set the tone for your wedding vows. For example, For something poetic and beautiful, look to quotes from your favourite novel. If you’re aiming for heartwarming and timeless, try turning to your favourite romantic film. For something traditional, try a Bible verse.  

Step 3 – Consider the structure

The next step is to consider the structure of your vows. Like any good story, your vows should have a beginning, a middle, and an end. Having these three distinct sections to your vows will enhance the structure and help you feel more confident. 

The beginning of your vows should consist of special memories and anecdotes from your relationship, or even a reflection on the day so far. The middle should then consist of the traits that make your relationships so special, and the end should include the promises you are making to your new spouse. 

Step 4 – Write your vows

Once you’ve planned and prepped what you want to say, it’s time to put pen to paper and actually write your vows. Writing your vows can be difficult. However, bear in mind this is only the first draft, and the most important part of a first draft is that it exists. It doesn’t need to be poetic or magical — this comes with the edits. Instead, write down all the thoughts, feelings, and promises that come to mind. You can refine it at a later stage.

Take regular breaks, keep coming back to your inspirations, and don’t be too hard on yourself.  

Step 5 – Edit and refine

Once written, take a break from your vows. Spend a few days (or even a week!) not thinking about them. This will help you come back to them with a fresh mind and a new perspective.

Once this time has passed, you can start editing. Cut any superfluous words and refine your ideas. This is your chance to polish your words and make them resonate even more profoundly. 

You may need to edit your vows a few times before you’re happy with them. This doesn’t mean they’re bad — it just means you’re committed to making them the absolute best reflection of your feelings. Editing is a natural part of the creative process, and your vows deserve the time and attention to make them the best that they can be. 

Step 6 – Practise makes perfect

Once you’re happy with the structure and content of your vows, it’s time to practise, practise, practise. Read your vows to a trusted friend, in the mirror, and even record yourself speaking them for review later. 

Take any feedback you’re given. Feedback can help you refine your delivery and ensure that your words land as you intended. 

Suggested wedding vow structure

Every good love story should have a beginning, a middle, and an eventual end. We recommend this is the structure you use with your wedding vows.

The beginning

The beginning should highlight any special memories or anecdotes you share with your partner. Why not start at the very beginning with the story of how you met? Was it love at first sight, friends to lovers, or something different? Take your guests on the journey of the special moment you met and describe how you felt after your first date. Your guests will love it, as will your partner. 

The middle

The body of your vows should include what makes your relationship so special. For example, the traits you value in your partner, what makes them unique, and how much you appreciate them. Don’t be afraid to lay it on thick — that’s what vows are for, after all!

The end

The end of your vows should include the specific promises you are making to your new spouse. Traditional vows promise to love, honour, and obey in sickness and in health. However, this may not feel appropriate for you. 

Instead, you could promise to grow in faith with one another, or to support them through life’s twists and turns. You could promise to love them in spite of their bed-head, through heck and high water, or to be their unwavering partner in crime. 

The beauty of hand-written vows is they can be as unique as your relationship. Feel free to take creative liberties and make promises that will speak to you and your partner. 

Common challenges for writing your own wedding vows

We know writing your wedding vows can be tricky. Check out our handy solutions to a few common problems. 

How to start wedding vows

There are a few ways you can start your wedding vows. We recommend:

• Your partner’s name. Starting with your partner’s name or ‘My love” is a simple but effective start. 
• A short quote. Using a short quote from a shared favourite song, poem, or book is another great way to open your vows. It will set the tone for the vows and connect your promises to something meaningful that you both love.
• A declaration. Starting with a declaration like “This is the best day of my life”, or “I feel like the luckiest person in the world to be stood up here with you” will capture the significance of the moment and set the tone for the vows that follow. 

When to write wedding vows

We recommend starting your wedding vows around two weeks before the big day. This way, you leave long enough for writing, revisions, and practising without feeling rushed or stressed. 

How to write personal vows

If your vows are feeling a little generic or lacking a personal touch, try using the following techniques:

• Use inside jokes. All couples have special inside jokes. Sometimes, all it takes is a word or a glance to have you both in hysterics. Try using that word or turn of phrase in your vows. It will create a moment of intimacy between you and your partner which everyone will be able to see. 
• Use song lyrics. If you have a special song or lyrics that hold sentimental value to you both, consider incorporating those into your vows. If the song is especially meaningful, for example, it’s going to be your first dance, you could use these lyrics as inspiration for the body of the vows. 
• Make it about your partner. If you’re really stuck, focusing the vows on your partner is always a winner. Explain how special they are to you, how grateful you are that they’re in your life, and the adventures you’ve shared together. 

Inspiration for writing your own wedding vows

If you’re feeling stuck, check out our articles on inspiring quotes, poems, or Bible verses.

100+ inspiring love quotes

You can find love quotes in film, TV, literature, music, and more. You’re sure to find something that fits the bill with our list of over 100 inspiring love quotes. 

15 romantic love poems

If you’re struggling to write your own wedding vows, consider using a love poem to express how you feel. Check out our article featuring 15 romantic and inspiring love poems for some guidance!

25 Bible verses for a religious ceremony 

Using Bible verses in your wedding vows is a great way to inject traditional values and timeless love into your ceremony. You’re sure to find something that resonates in our list of 25 best Bible readings for your wedding ceremony. 

Top examples of great wedding vows

1. Beginning with your unique love story: “From the moment I first laid eyes on you, I knew my life was about to change in the most incredible way. Our story began with a glance, turned into laughter, and unfolded into a beautiful journey of love. Today, in front of our loved ones, I promise to cherish every chapter of our tale, knowing that with you, each page is more enchanting than the last.”

2. Embracing quirks and imperfections: “To my partner in crime, my fellow adventurer, and the one who loves me even on my ‘bed-head’ days, I stand before you with all my quirks and imperfections. I promise to cherish the laughter in our kitchen dance parties and to be the instigator of countless more. Through every twist and turn, I vow to love you, not just for richer or poorer, but for the unique, wonderful soul that you are.”

3. Drawing inspiration from a shared song: “As we stand here today, I am reminded of the melody that became the soundtrack of our love. Just as our favourite song plays on, I promise to dance through life with you, finding joy in every note. Together, we’ll create a symphony of love that echoes through the years, always in tune, always harmonious.”

4. Incorporating your shared experiences: “In the tapestry of our journey, there are threads woven with shared experiences, challenges conquered side by side, and moments that defined ‘us.’ I promise to honour our unique connection, to appreciate the traits that make you extraordinary, and to celebrate the love that has grown stronger with every step we’ve taken together.”

5. Weaving in humour and inside jokes: “My love, if life is a grand comedy, then you are my favourite punchline. In the laughter we’ve shared and the inside jokes that only we understand, I find the heartbeat of our relationship. Today, I vow to keep the humour alive, to find joy in the simple moments, and to be the reason behind that twinkle in your eye.”

6. Focusing on shared faith: “In the journey of life, I promise to walk hand in hand with you, growing in faith and love. Through every sunrise and sunset, I commit to being your unwavering partner, finding strength in our shared beliefs, and embracing the divine love that brought us together.”

7. Expressing gratitude and appreciation: “You are my greatest gift, my partner in adventure, and the one who has turned ordinary moments into extraordinary memories. Today, I express my gratitude for the love you’ve poured into my life. I promise to be your constant supporter, your confidant, and your biggest fan in all the adventures yet to come.”

8. Reflecting your journey together: “From the first date that set our hearts racing to the challenges that made us stronger, our journey together has been nothing short of magical. Today, I stand before you, grateful for every step we’ve taken. I promise to continue growing with you, facing life’s twists and turns, and savouring the beauty of a love that has stood the test of time.”

9. Making specific, personal promises: “I promise to be the one who makes your morning tea, a cup filled not just with warmth but with love. I vow to be your partner in our kitchen dance parties, initiating joy with every beat. Through every sunrise and sunset, through sickness and health, I pledge to be the constant in your life, your anchor in the storms, and your unwavering source of love.”

10. Ending with a declaration of love: “In this moment, surrounded by the ones we hold dear, I declare that this is the best day of my life. I feel like the luckiest person in the world to stand here with you. Today, I promise to cherish, to adore, and to love you through all the days of our lives, for you are my heart, my love, and my forever.”

Top tips for writing your own wedding vows

Check out our top tips for how to write marriage vows. 

Start early

Writing your own wedding vows can be tricky. It’s important you leave enough time for writing, editing, and practising. We recommend allowing at least two weeks. However, if you’re a bit of a perfectionist or you struggle with your words, you may want to leave even longer. 

Make your vows personal to you

The most important thing about your wedding vows is that they speak to your unique love story. Even the most beautifully written vows don’t mean anything if they aren’t personal to you and your partner. 

Consider what makes your relationship special. Reflect on the inside jokes, shared experiences, and challenges you’ve shared over the years. Weaving these moments throughout your vows will add a personal touch and show your partner how much they mean to you. 

Be specific

There’s nothing worse than a woolly vow. Be specific in your promises. If you promise to make your new spouse a cup of tea every morning — say that. If you’re promising to be the instigator of every Friday night kitchen dance party —say that. If you’re promising to love them even when they’re old and grey, or even the classic for richer or for poorer — say that. The specificity will add depth to your vows and make you sound confident in your decision to marry your partner. 

Practise makes perfect

As with wedding speeches, practise always makes perfect. Practise reading your vows in the mirror or to a trusted friend. Take any feedback on board to help you refine your delivery and boost your confidence. 

The bottom line on writing your own wedding vows

Writing your own wedding vows can be a challenge, especially if you’re not sure where to begin or how to put your feelings into words. However, it’s a challenge worth facing. 

Reciting your wedding vows is one of the most memorable moments of your life. Our top tips are to be specific about your promises, leave plenty of time for revisions and practise, and focus on including inside jokes and special memories. This will help keep your guests engaged and show your partner exactly how much they mean to you on your big day. 

Once you’ve nailed your wedding vows, it’s time to move on to writing your wedding speech. Check out our post on wedding speech examples to help you craft the perfect wedding speech. 

FAQs on writing personalised wedding vows

Can you say your own vows in a Catholic wedding?

Catholic wedding ceremonies usually ask that the bride and groom stick to traditional wedding vows. However, depending on how liberal your priest is, you may be able to change the wording of a few lines. Hey, there’s no harm in asking, right?

Can you say your own vows in a church wedding?

Yes, you can say your own vows in a church wedding. It’s a good idea to run them past your celebrant or priest first to make sure they’re in line with the traditions and guidelines of the church.

What are the 3 promises of marriage?

For grooms, the 3 promises of marriage are to “love, cherish, and worship” their wife in traditional wedding ceremonies.  Brides must promise to  “love, cherish, and obey” their husbands.

You Might Also Like…

• Introduction: Writing Personalised Wedding Vows
• How Long Should Wedding Vows Be?
• 15 Romantic and Inspiring Love Poems for Your Wedding Ceremony
• 100+ Inspiring Love Quotes for Your Wedding Day

Happy Planning!

Getting married is a long process, but it’s also fun and incredibly rewarding. From the moment you get engaged, you’ll think about venues, food, attire, entertainers, music, cakes, vows, transport… the list goes on.

But how does it all work? With so much to figure out, where’s the right place to start? Who do you speak to first? And how do you keep on top of everything so nothing gets forgotten and your wedding goes ahead exactly as you dreamed it would? It’s also important to remember that, as well as being a great gesture is love, getting married is also a legal process – which means there are critical steps to follow if you want to make sure everything is by the book.

But, organising your wedding doesn’t need to be a complicated process, so long as you know what you have to do and how you should go about doing it. That’s where we come in! So, in this guide, we’ll tell you all about how to get married and provide you with the steps to follow so nothing gets left behind. We’ll cover the whats, whens, whys, wheres and hows, so all you need to worry about is making those all-important decisions.

What are the main wedding legalities?

We’ve got a whole post dedicated to which wedding legalities each ceremony requires, whether civil or religious, in terms of both the legal documents required and the religious proceedings. Whatever venue you’re getting married in, whether registry office, place of worship, restaurant or outdoor space, there are certain non-negotiables: giving notice, hiring a registrar, saying your vows, and enlisting two people to witness the all-important signing of the register. 

What are the stages to getting married?

When it comes to just getting married in the legal sense, there are only a few simple steps to be taken, which we’ve summarised below. The process is the same for both heterosexual and same-sex weddings, and regardless of whether it’s your first or fiftieth marriage or anything in between! 

• Choose your wedding date and venue
• Give notice to marry
• Book your registrar
• Choose your vows
• Choose two people to be witnesses
• Finalise your plans and payments
• Attend your wedding ceremony

We’ve set out those steps in the handy quick reference infographic above. 

However, for most couples, the journey from getting engaged to saying ‘I do’ is a little more complex, and will involve planning a fabulous wedding celebration alongside sorting out the essential legalities. Follow our comprehensive step-by-step guide so you don’t miss a thing, and can get married with peace of mind. 

1. Start with the perfect proposal

Of course, every marriage starts with a proposal. How you do that is entirely up to you. Will you make a huge romantic gesture, like getting down on one knee at midnight for the perfect New Year’s Eve proposal as fireworks explode, or go for something a little more intimate, like at your favourite woodland spot or as you finish a romantic meal?

However you choose to propose, just make sure it’s true to you and your relationship, paying close attention to what you think your partner will appreciate.

For some inspiration, read our article featuring 15 romantic proposal ideas.

2. Check your eligibility to marry

From the moment you get engaged, it’s easy to get excited and rush straight into planning your wedding. But, unless you’re especially keen to get married on a specific date, try not to go too hard too fast. Enjoy your new-found status as an engaged couple and ease into wedding planning gently. Why not take a trip to celebrate your amazing news? Or, throw an engagement party so you can celebrate while surrounded by your loved ones.

For more information on what to do after you bag yourself a fiance, read our step-by-step guide featuring 20 things to do after you get engaged.

Once you’ve thoroughly celebrated your engagement, you’ll need to check your eligibility to get married, as there are legal rules around this in the UK. You can get married or form a civil partnership in England and Wales if you are:

• Aged 18 or over (anyone under this age will require parental permission).
• Not already married or in a civil partnership
• Not closely related to each other 
• A UK citizen or have indefinite leave to remain in the UK (if you or your partner are from outside the UK or Ireland, you might need to apply for a visa to get married in the UK)

3. Work out your budget

Every couple who gets married has to work out their budget. Whether you have a small budget, a modest budget, or a money’s-no-object budget, you still need to know exactly how much you have to spend. After all, there’s a huge difference between the cost of a registry office wedding and a 200-guest, castle-hosted wedding extravaganza.

It’s not the most glorious part of the wedding-planning process, but it’s one of the most important. Look at your current finances, along with the money you think you can save between now and your ideal wedding date. Only when you’ve got an accurate idea of the money you have to spend can you start properly looking at venues and other vendors. To help you work things out, use our handy wedding budget calculator.

For more information, read our ultimate wedding budget breakdown.

4. Talk to your parents about money

Our 2023 UK Wedding Report found that two-thirds of couples ask family for help paying for their wedding – so there’s absolutely nothing wrong with it. But, if you do plan on speaking to family and asking them to pay for the venue or a couple of vendors, it’s important to do so early. That way, you’ll know what they can commit to and won’t have to make any assumptions or guesses, which can complicate things if they don’t turn out how you’d hoped.

For tips on how to broach the subject, read our guide on how to ask your parents for help paying for your wedding.

5. Think about your wedding ceremony

You should decide early on what type of wedding ceremony you’d like to have. If you have religious beliefs, you might prefer to have a Catholic wedding ceremony or Hindu wedding ceremony. If not, you could have a non-denominational wedding ceremony or traditional wedding ceremony.

If you have a strict budget or you’re not interested in having a big wedding, you may choose to have a registry office wedding ceremony instead.

The type of ceremony you go for depends entirely on your beliefs, preferences and budget. Remember, there’s no right or wrong answer – only what’s right for you.

To find out more about the different types of wedding ceremonies, read our ultimate wedding ceremony guide and ultimate wedding ceremony order guide.

6. Think about your wedding breakfast and evening reception

With your budget more or less set, you’ll also be in a great position to decide whether you’d like to have a wedding breakfast, including a three- or four-course meal, or head straight into the evening reception. Or, you may choose to have neither – or both. Again, it all depends on your budget and what your perfect wedding day looks like.

Once you know what you’d like out of your big day, you can start thinking about planning it!

7. Choose your wedding date

There are a thousand different reasons why you might choose to have your wedding on a particular date. Perhaps you’d like to choose a date for symbolic reasons, like the date you first met. Or, maybe it’s for religious or spiritual reasons. Or, maybe it’s even for budgeting reasons – for example, Tuesday is the cheapest day of the week to get married.

Once you have a date in mind, you can start looking at venues. But, if you find the perfect venue and it’s within your budget, just be prepared to negotiate or have a little wiggle room. If it’s a popular wedding venue, there’s every chance other couples will have got there first and your chosen date might not be available.

For more information, read our article on how to pick your wedding date.

8. Decide whether you want to hire a wedding planner

 Before you book your venue or throw down a deposit on a single vendor, make sure you and your partner have decided whether or not you’d like to hire a wedding planner.

Wedding planners can be rather pricey – around 10% of your overall wedding budget. But, the cost is often more than worth it, thanks to their ability to spend time searching and negotiating, as well as the relationships they’ve already established thanks to years of working with popular venues and vendors within the industry.

Half the fun of getting married is planning your wedding, but if you don’t have the time, patience or inclination, a wedding planner can make it a heck of a lot easier. Just make sure you decide early on if it’s the right choice for you, because you’ll only see their true value if you haven’t already booked everything beforehand.

9. Think about your theme and colour scheme

As part of the vision you have for your wedding, before making any kind of bookings you’ll need to have a clear idea of your theme and colour scheme. That could be something rustic and natural, sleek and modern, floral and elegant… you might even have something super unique and massively personal to you, like a book theme or subtly nerdy fantasy theme. The theme and colours you decide on can then have a huge influence over the venue, decor, stationery, food and more.

10. Put your wedding checklist together

Only you (or your wedding planner if you have one) will know exactly what you want from your wedding, from vendors to colour schemes and everything in between. But even then, with so many things to keep on top of, there’s every chance that one or two things will get left behind, or – worst case scenario – forgotten about completely.

That’s why it’s important to put together a wedding checklist early, which you can add to and check off as you go. To make things easier, we have a wedding planning checklist tool that you can access for free and make changes to whenever you need. And for some inspiration for what you might want to include on your checklist and when you might want to aim for checking it off, read our ultimate wedding planning checklist guide.

11. Be open and honest with each other

A big part of getting married is always being open and honest with your partner. Agree to talk to each other about everything and anything, no matter how big or small they might be. Like with a marriage, wedding planning is also about communication, so make sure you do plenty of it. It’s a fun process, but it’s also long and might get a little tricky at times – most of the time, though, it’s nothing that can’t be overcome with a few frank chats about what’s really on your mind.

12. Find your perfect venue

Once you know what you want from your wedding and how much money you have to help make that happen, you can start making reservations, signing agreements and throwing down money on deposits.

The biggest single cost of your entire wedding day will be your venue. And without it, the rest of your wedding day can’t happen, so make it your priority to find and secure your dream venue as soon as possible. Whether it’s a hotel, registry office, place of worship, stately home, castle, restaurant, golf club, garden or anything else you might think of, get your name down for your chosen date and secure it for yourselves. The more popular the venue is, the more likely it is that it’ll be snapped up quickly – sometimes, you might need to book it up to two years in advance.

If you’re choosing to get married in a place of worship, it’s unlikely that you’ll also be able to host the wedding breakfast and/or reception there, too. So, if you’re having multiple venues, you’ll need to make sure they’re all available on the same date.

For help making one of the trickiest decisions you’ll come across when getting married, read our article featuring our top 10 tips for choosing your wedding venue.

13. Put your guest list together

With your venue secured, you’ll know how many guests it can accommodate, so you can start thinking about your guest list. If you’ve gone with a smaller venue, this might mean making a few tough calls on those distant cousins you only see every few years, or restricting the number of plus ones you dish out.

For help and advice on this tricky topic, read our introduction to your wedding guest list.

14. Hire the rest of your vendors

It’s time to start researching, meeting with and booking the rest of your wedding day vendors, who’ll all come together to create the overall vision you have for your big day. These include:

• Photographer
• Videographer
• Caterers
• Cake makers
• Entertainers
• Musicians
• Florists
• Decor
• Hair and beauty
• Attire
• Stationery
• Celebrants
• Transport
• Marquee hire

And that’s not even all of them. Make sure you leave yourself with plenty of time, because you’re going to be browsing a lot of wedding supplier profiles, sending a lot of messages, and meeting with a lot of people.

15. Choose your wedding attire

Many couples choose to get married in traditional wedding attire, whether it be a suit, bridal gown or something specific to their culture or background. But, you might choose something else that’s in keeping with where you’re getting married and the theme. For example, if you’re getting married in the middle of a forest, a bridal gown with a long train might not be the best choice – just think of all the leaves and twigs!

16. Give notice to marry 

When there’s less than a year to go until your wedding, another critical stage must be met, which is when you and your partner give notice that you intend to get married. To do this, you must speak to your local register office and sign a statement, which is done at least 28 days before your wedding day, but no more than 365 days ahead of your big day.

Make sure both you and your partner go to the register office in person, and take with you a valid form of ID and proof of address. You’ll also need information related to the date, time and location of your wedding. If you’ve been married before, you’ll also need to provide evidence of your divorce or your former partner’s death certificate.

There is a small fee for giving notice, which can differ between different local authorities, but is generally around £35 per person.

17. Book your registrar

In the UK, religious weddings aren’t legally recognised unless a registrar is present. If there isn’t one, then your marriage won’t be bound by law. Many places of worship have a registrar to make sure your marriage follows the correct legal processes, but some may not, and if this is the case then you’ll need to book the registrar as well.

Many religious wedding ceremonies follow a set structure or contain cultural or religious rituals and traditions, so it might not be possible for you to have a registrar there on the day. If you’re not sure if this applies to your ceremony, speak to the head of your place of worship or the religious leader who’ll be officiating the ceremony. It may be that you’ll have to visit a registry office around a week or so before the religious ceremony (along with two witnesses) to have a small, private civil ceremony to ensure your marriage is legally binding. Some couples also choose to do this after the religious ceremony.

18. Choose your vows

As well as being a promise to your partner and a hugely symbolic gesture, a wedding ceremony is also a legal process. That means, like with any legal process, there are certain steps that must be followed – if they’re not, your marriage won’t be valid.

There are two crucial parts to the words you say at your wedding: the declaratory words and the contracting words.

The declaratory words tell the registrar, witnesses and guests that you don’t know of any reason why you can’t legally get married. The contracting words are the words you speak or agree to that finalise your marriage – a popular response to the contracting words are I do.

But, if the type of ceremony you’ve chosen allows for personalisation, you may choose to write your own vows. Writing your own vows can be tough, but the only person who can express how you truly feel is… well, you. If you feel confident enough, this may be something you choose to do, but if it’s not, that’s fine too. There’s no right or wrong option.

19. Choose two people to be witnesses

We’ve already touched on this, but as part of the legal process, you need to have two adult witnesses at your wedding who are happy to sign the marriage register to say they were there to witness the two of you get married.

It’s a symbolic gesture and super easy to do, but it’s not something you’ll want to spring on someone the morning of the wedding, so make sure you ask them in plenty of time. The only prerequisites are that they must be capable of understanding what’s taking place, which also means they have to have a solid understanding of English.

20. Book your dream honeymoon

Whether it’s immediately after the wedding or a few months down the line, a honeymoon is a non-negotiable for the majority of couples. If it’s something you plan to do a couple of days after the wedding and your budget allows for it, make sure you don’t book it too late. Yes, it’s another cost, but you’ll avoid possible disappointment if you get it booked sooner rather than later.

21. Finalise your wedding plans and payments

Use your wedding planning checklist tool to track invoices and payments so you don’t miss any deadlines. The last thing you want during the last few remaining weeks and days before your wedding is for a vendor to cancel your booking because you forgot to pay your final invoice.

Just like Santa Claus, you’ll want to check your list twice (or even three or four times), so nothing gets forgotten or overlooked.

22. Enjoy the build-up to your marriage

Planning your wedding is a lot of work, and with so many things to keep on top of, you might feel a little stressed or under pressure at times. But, it’s important to savour the moment and enjoy yourself. You’re probably never going to throw a party of quite the same magnitude again, so make sure you take a little time for yourself, and lap up the love and attention you’ll get from your family and friends.

23. Attend your wedding ceremony

By the day of the wedding, there should be nothing else left to organise, and the professionals you’ve hired to help make your day special will know exactly what to do.

The most important part of the day is the ceremony itself, specifically the declaratory and contracting words. Don’t be tempted to say ‘no’ as a joke – it’s a legal declaration so you have to follow the instructions given to you by the registrar if you want everything to go ahead and be valid.

Then, once you’ve signed your marriage certificate (along with the registrar and witnesses), everything is done and you’ve suddenly bagged yourself a spouse!

That’s all there is to it, really. Your wedding day will go by as quick as a flash, so take plenty of mental (and actual!) pictures and have fun.

24. Make your marriage known 

Once you’re married, it’s time to enjoy your life as a newly married person! All the legal stuff is over and done with, but if you changed your surname you’ll want to let businesses and authorities know about it, like your bank, insurance providers, DVLA and others. HMRC and other authorities will also need to know about your marriage as this can have an impact on the tax and benefits you pay and receive – so don’t delay and get yourself in hot water, because you might end up with an unexpected tax bill later down the line.

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Browse other similar articles…

• The Ultimate Wedding Planning Checklist
• The Ultimate Wedding Ceremony Guide
• The Ultimate Wedding Ceremony Order
• The Ultimate Wedding Budget Breakdown

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Religious wedding ceremonies aren’t to everyone’s taste, and that’s perfectly fine! The most important thing about your wedding day is that it reflects your unique love story. If religion hasn’t played a part in that, you can easily substitute Bible readings and hymns with non-traditional wedding ceremony readings. These can include excerpts from your favourite books, films, music — and more.  

This guide includes our 15 favourite readings from books and literature, from films and TV, and from songs and musicals. Plus, we share some handy tips on what makes a good non-religious wedding reading and how you can seamlessly weave them into your wedding day.  

What is a non-religious wedding reading?

Non-religious wedding readings include handwritten speeches, paragraphs from popular books, quotes from films and TV, and lyrics from songs and musicals. They can work particularly well when incorporated into a non-denominational wedding ceremony (a ceremony that doesn’t specifically fit into its own category).

The beauty of non-religious or non-traditional wedding ceremony readings is that they can be customised to reflect your unique love story. For example, you could change the names of literary characters to yours and your partner’s. Alternatively, you could include lyrics from ‘your song’ or change the lyrics of a song to better fit your special day. The options are endless with non-religious wedding readings. 

What makes a good non-religious wedding reading?

A good non-denominational wedding reading is one that means something to you and your partner. If you’re not sure whether something will hit the mark, try asking yourself:

• Does this represent me and my partner?
• Is it appropriate for my guests to hear?
• If isn’t, can I change it to make it appropriate?
• Does it tie into the promises I’m making to my partner on our wedding day?

If the answer to all or most of these questions is yes, then you’ve picked a good non-religious wedding reading! If there’s just something about the reading that doesn’t feel right, don’t be afraid to modify it to fit your needs. You can change sentences, names, places, and more until it feels like a perfect reflection of your love story. 

When should I make a non-religious wedding reading?

You can make a non-denominational wedding reading at any point during your ceremony or reception. For maximum impact, we recommend one or more of the following:

As a ceremony introduction

Making a non-religious reading as a ceremony introduction will set the tone for your wedding and engage your guests right from the beginning. Make sure your celebrant knows that you intend to give an opening speech, as this may affect the overall flow and structure of the ceremony. 

Before the vows

If your non-religious wedding reading is quite short, consider making it before you read your vows to one another. This will give your guests a glimpse into your relationship and is your chance to squeeze in a few extra promises. Plus, it will set the tone for your vows and create a beautiful transition into that deeply intimate moment.

Instead of a speech

If you aren’t too confident in your speech-making abilities, you could use a non-religious wedding reading instead. Your reading will need to last between 3-5 minutes to ensure you meet a traditional wedding speech length. This is perfect if you intend to use a quote from literature!

After the desserts

A non-religious wedding reading is the perfect way to round off a beautiful day before your guests get to partying. You can round off the ceremony on a heartfelt note, leaving your guests with warm sentiments as you transition into the reception. It’s best to keep these words short as your guests will be eager to get to the party, so stick to song lyrics, short poems, or quotes from film or TV. 

5 marriage ceremony readings from books and literature
 

1. Jane Eyre by Charlotte Brontë

I have for the first time found what I can truly love — I have found you. You are my sympathy — my better self — my good angel — I am bound to you with a strong attachment. I think you good, gifted, lovely; a fervent, a solemn passion is conceived in my heart; it leans to you, draws you to my centre and spring of life, wrap my existence about you — and, kindling in pure, powerful flame, fuses you and me in one.

2. The Amber Spyglass by Philip Pullman

I will love you forever; whatever happens. Till I die and after I die, and when I find my way out of the land of the dead, I’ll drift about forever, all my atoms, till I find you again… I’ll be looking for you, every moment, every single moment. And when we do find each other again, we’ll cling together so tight that nothing and no one’ll ever tear us apart. Every atom of me and every atom of you… we’ll live in birds and flowers and dragonflies and pine trees and in clouds and in those little specks of light you see floating in sunbeams… and when they use our atoms to make new lives, they won’t just be able to take one, they’ll have to take two, one of you and one of me, we’ll be joined so tight…

3. Everything I Know About Love by Dolly Alderton

I know that love can be loud and jubilant… It can be dancing in the swampy mud and the pouring rain at a festival and shouting “YOU ARE AMAZING” over the band. It’s introducing them to your colleagues at a work event and basking in pride as they make people laugh and make you look lovable just by dint of being loved by them.

It’s laughing until you wheeze.

It’s waking up in a country neither of you have been in before.

It’s skinny-dipping at dawn.

It’s walking along the street together on a Saturday night and feeling an entire city is yours.

It’s a big, beautiful, ebullient force of nature.

I also know that love is a pretty quiet thing.

It’s lying on the sofa together drinking coffee, talking about where you’re going to go that morning to drink more coffee.

It’s folding down pages of books you think they’d find interesting.

It’s hanging up their laundry when they leave the house having moronically forgotten to take it out of the washing machine.

It’s saying ‘You’re safer here than in a car’ as they hyperventilate on an EasyJet flight to Dublin. It’s the texts: ‘Hope your day goes well’, ‘How did today go?’, ‘Thinking of you today’ and ‘Picked up loo roll’. I know that love happens under the splendour of moon and stars and fireworks and sunsets but it also happens when you’re lying on blow-up airbeds in a childhood bedroom, sitting in A&E or in the queue for a passport, or in a traffic jam.

Love is a quiet, reassuring, relaxing, pottering, pedantic, harmonious hum of a thing; something you can easily forget is there, even though its palms are outstretched beneath you in case you fall.”

4. The Chaos Of Stars by Kiersten White

I didn’t fall in love with you. I walked into love with you, with my eyes wide open, choosing to take every step along the way. I do believe in fate and destiny, but I also believe we are only fated to do the things that we’d choose anyway. And I’d choose you; in a hundred lifetimes, in a hundred worlds, in any version of reality, I’d find you and I’d choose you.

5. The Bridge Across Forever by Richard Bach

A soulmate is someone who has locks that fit our keys, and keys to fit our locks. When we feel safe enough to open the locks, our truest selves step out and we can be completely and honestly who we are; we can be loved for who we are and not for who we’re pretending to be. Each unveils the best part of the other. No matter what else goes wrong around us, with that one person we’re safe in our own paradise. Our soulmate is someone who shares our deepest longings, our sense of direction. When we’re two balloons, and together our direction is up, chances are we’ve found the right person. Our soulmate is the one who makes life come to life.

5 marriage ceremony readings from films and TV

1. Captain Corelli’s Mandolin by Louis de Bernières

Love is a temporary madness, it erupts like volcanoes and then subsides. And when it subsides, you have to make a decision. You have to work out whether your roots have so entwined together that it is inconceivable that you should ever part. Because this is what love is. Love is not breathlessness, it is not excitement, it is not the promulgation of promises of eternal passion, it is not the desire to mate every second minute of the day, it is not lying awake at night imagining that he is kissing every cranny of your body. No, don’t blush, I am telling you some truths. That is just being ‘in love’, which any fool can do. Love itself is what is left over when being in love has burned away, and this is both an art and a fortunate accident. 

2. Carrie Bradshaw in Sex and the City

His hello was the end of her endings. Her laugh was their first step down the aisle. His hand would be hers to hold forever. His forever was as simple as her smile. He said she was what was missing. She said instantly she knew. She was a question to be answered. And his answer was ‘I do.’

3. Harry Burns in When Harry Met Sally 

I love that you get cold when it’s 71 degrees out. I love that it takes you an hour and a half to order a sandwich. I love that you get a little crinkle above your nose when you’re looking at me like I’m nuts. I love that after I spend the day with you, I can still smell your perfume on my clothes. And I love that you are the last person I want to talk to before I go to sleep at night. And it’s not because I’m lonely, and it’s not because it’s New Year’s Eve. I came here tonight because when you realise you want to spend the rest of your life with somebody, you want the rest of your life to start as soon as possible.

4. The Priest in Fleabag 

It turns out it’s quite hard to come up with something original about love, but I’ve had a go. Love is awful. It’s awful. It’s painful. It’s frightening. It makes you doubt yourself, judge yourself, distance yourself from the other people in your life. It makes you selfish. It makes you creepy, makes you obsessed with your hair, makes you cruel, makes you say and do things you never thought you would do. It’s all any of us want, and it’s hell when we get there. So no wonder it’s something we don’t want to do on our own. I was taught if we’re born with love then life is about choosing the right place to put it. People talk about that a lot, feeling right, when it feels right, it’s easy. But I’m not sure that’s true. It takes strength to know what’s right. And love isn’t something that weak people do. Being a romantic takes a hell of a lot of hope. I think what they mean is, when you find somebody that you love, it feels like hope.

5. David Rose in Schitt’s Creek

I have never liked a smile as much as I like yours. I’ve never felt as safe as I feel when I’m with you. I’ve never known love like I do when we’re together. It’s not been an easy road for me but knowing that you will be there for me at the end makes everything okay. Patrick Brewer, you are my happy ending.

5 marriage ceremony readings from songs and musicals

1. Les Misérables by Victor Hugo

You can give without loving, but you can never love without giving. The great acts of love are done by those who are habitually performing small acts of kindness. We pardon to the extent that we love. Love is knowing that even when you are alone, you will never be lonely again. And the great happiness of life is the conviction that we are loved. Loved for ourselves. And even loved in spite of ourselves.

2. She’s Not Perfect by Bob Marley

She’s not perfect — you aren’t either, and the two of you may never be perfect together — but if she can make you laugh, cause you to think twice, and admit to being human and making mistakes, hold onto her and give her the most you can. She may not be thinking about you every second of the day, but she will give you a part of her that she knows you can break — her heart. So don’t hurt her, don’t change her, don’t analyse and don’t expect more than she can give. Smile when she makes you happy, let her know when she makes you mad, and miss her when she’s not there. 

3. If I Should Fall Behind by Bruce Springsteen

We said we’d walk together, baby, come what may

That come the twilight should we lose our way

If as we’re walking a hand should slip free

I’ll wait for you, should I fall behind, wait for me.

We swore we’d travel, darlin’, side by side

We’d help each other stay in stride

But each lover’s steps fall so differently

But I’ll wait for you, and if I should fall behind, wait for me.

Now everyone dreams of love lasting and true

Oh but you and I know what this world can do

So let’s make our steps clear that the other may see

And I’ll wait for you, and if I should fall behind, wait for me.

Now there’s a beautiful river in the valley ahead

There ‘neath the oak’s bough soon we will be wed

Should we lose each other in the shadow of the evening trees

I’ll wait for you, should I fall behind, wait for me

Darlin’ I’ll wait for you, and should I fall behind, wait for me

4 . Your Song by Elton John

It’s a little bit funny this feeling inside

I’m not one of those who can easily hide

I don’t have much money but boy if I did

I’d buy a big house where we both could live

If I was a sculptor, but then again no

Or a man who makes potions in a travelling show

Oh I know it’s not much but it’s the best I can do

My gift is my song

And this one’s for you

And you can tell everybody this is your song

It may be quite simple but now that it’s done

I hope you don’t mind

I hope you don’t mind

That I put down in words

How wonderful life is while you’re in the world

5. Thinking Out loud by Ed Sheeran

When your legs don’t work like they used to before
And I can’t sweep you off of your feet
Will your mouth still remember the taste of my love
Will your eyes still smile from your cheeks

And darling I will be loving you ‘til we’re 70
And baby my heart could still fall as hard at 23
And I’m thinking ‘bout how people fall in love in mysterious ways
Maybe just the touch of a hand
Oh me I fall in love with you every single day
And I just wanna tell you I am

So honey now, take me into your loving arms
Kiss me under the light of a thousand stars
Place your head on my beating heart
I’m thinking out loud
Maybe we found love right where we are

The bottom line on non-religious wedding readings

Overall, non-denominational wedding readings are the perfect way to open up your wedding ceremony, set the tone of your reception, or even serve in place of traditional speeches. They’re a great way to incorporate your favourite books, TV shows, or songs into your special day and connect your love story with the hearts of your guests. Plus, you can customise the readings to reflect your personalities, values, and the special journey that brought you both to this moment, making the quotes you choose even more unique. 

So, if you were looking for a non-religious wedding reading for your big day, take inspiration from this comprehensive guide. If, however, you want something shorter to pepper through your wedding speeches, see our post on 100+ Inspiring Love Quotes to inject some romance and whimsy into your wedding readings.

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Happy Planning!

If you want to honour traditions from different types of cultural or religious wedding ceremonies, or you and your partner have different beliefs (or even no beliefs at all), then you may be considering a non-denominational ceremony for your wedding.

Non-denominational weddings fit in their own category, in that they can be whatever you want them to be. In some respects, they’re not too dissimilar from a traditional wedding ceremony, but may include rituals or traditions from other types too, like Jewish or Hindu ceremonies.

Because there’s the option for so much personalisation, how do you know if this kind of wedding ceremony is right for you? What type of couples usually choose a non-denominational wedding? What traditions can you include? And what order should you follow?

There are a lot of questions about non-denominational ceremonies. We’re here to answer as many of them as possible, to give you all the information you might need to decide whether it’s the right choice for you.

So, read on to discover all about non-denominational weddings. For more information about the different types of wedding ceremonies around the UK and beyond, read our ultimate wedding ceremony guide.

What is a non-denominational wedding ceremony?

A non-denominational ceremony is a type of wedding ceremony that doesn’t specifically fit into its own category. It isn’t linked to a certain religion, but can include references to God and religion, as well as different traditions or rituals.

This means there are plenty of opportunities for personalisation, so you can really make your wedding unique and specific to you.

What date should you have a non-denominational wedding ceremony?

Because non-denominational weddings aren’t associated with a specific religion, you have total flexibility over the date you choose. You might want to have yours on a Saturday, which is the most popular day to get married, and means your guests are more likely to be free, or a Tuesday, which is generally the cheapest day to have a wedding.

That being said, if you’re spiritual in some way, you may want to pay attention to the date you choose. For example, consulting astrology or your birth chart can tell you your most auspicious date for getting married – something Hindu couples will ask their priest about. 

What time does a non-denominational wedding ceremony take place?

A non-denominational wedding ceremony can start at any time. If you’re getting married at a venue such as a hotel, restaurant or outside space, you have free rein over your wedding. If you choose to get married at a registry office, ceremonies usually start on the hour, with several options available each day.

If you’re spiritual, you may want the ceremony to start at a specific time. Or, you may consider a twilight wedding, when the ceremony itself is much later in the day to take advantage of the natural beauty of the setting sun.

How popular are non-denominational wedding ceremonies?

It’s hard to determine how popular non-denominational weddings are because they don’t fall into a specific category like Catholic ceremonies or Muslim weddings.

But, thanks to how much personalisation they offer, they’re rising in popularity. They’re reminiscent of traditional wedding ceremonies, but far more specific to you.

What type of couples usually choose a non-denominational wedding ceremony?

Because they offer so many ways to make it your own, many different types of couples choose to have a non-denominational ceremony. It may be couples who have no religious beliefs but want to include certain traditions or rituals, religious couples who want more choice over what’s included in the ceremony, LGBTQ+ couples, or mixed-faith couples who want to honour both religions.

Are non-denominational weddings expensive?

Our 2023 Wedding Report revealed that the average cost of a wedding in the UK is £19,184, which includes non-denominational weddings. However, because there are no specific expectations with a non-denominational wedding, it’s possible that there could be a much wider variation in budgets used by couples. So, whether you have a small or modest budget, or money’s no object, you can still plan a fabulous non-denominational ceremony.

For ideas and inspiration on ways to cut costs for your big day, read our guide on how to save money on your wedding.

Who officiates a non-denominational wedding ceremony?

Usually, to ensure the marriage is legally binding, you would hire a registrar to officiate your wedding. However, personalisation is key when it comes to non-denominational weddings, so many couples choose to hire a celebrant. If you want your ceremony to include different references to religion or comedy, be uplifting and motivating, or absolutely anything else, hiring a celebrant can help make that happen. But remember, to make sure everything’s legally binding you still need to hire a registrar too!

Is a non-denominational wedding legally binding?

Yes, if officiated by a registrar, a non-denominational wedding is legally binding in the UK.

Where are non-denominational wedding ceremonies held?

Like traditional wedding ceremonies, non-denominational ceremonies can be held practically anywhere. Our 2023 Wedding Report revealed that the most popular venues in the UK are:

1. Hotel
2. Barn
3. Country house
4. Event venue
5. Stately home
6. Outdoors
7. Castle

The only limitations on this will be places of worship, which can generally only be used as a wedding ceremony venue if you’re a member of that specific religion or congregation. So, let your imagination run wild when it comes to planning your dream ceremony!

How long are non-denominational wedding ceremonies?

While non-denominational ceremonies do allow for all kinds of personalisations, they’re not too dissimilar from traditional ceremonies, so often last between 30 and 45 minutes. It all depends on the number of traditions and rituals you choose to include, which always means they could be a little shorter or longer.

To find out more about the lengths of different ceremonies around the UK and beyond, read our guide to how long wedding ceremonies take.

What is a unity ceremony at a non-denominational wedding?

A unity ceremony is a lovely and elegant ritual that represents two people coming together as one. It’s a symbolic ceremony that involves the couple doing something together, which could be something small, like tying their hands together, or larger, like planting a tree. It’s something many couples like to include, and not seen only at non-denominational weddings.

What type of unity ceremony could you do at a non-denominational wedding?

Some examples of unity ceremonies include:

• Lighting a unity candle, , which is when the couple each lights a candle, which are then used to light a single third candle.
• Sand pouring, when the couple pour different coloured sand into a vase or jar to create a lovely blended pattern.
• Handfasting, where the officiant binds the couple’s hands using a ribbon.
• Tree planting, where the couple plants a sapling so they can watch it grow into a strong tree, which reflects their ever-growing relationship.
• Releasing a single lantern into the night’s sky, which symbolises the couple’s shared dreams and aspirations taking flight.

These are just a handful of the many possible unity ceremonies you could  include in your own celebration. As with most aspects of a non-denominational wedding, you can choose something totally personal to you.

What words are exchanged at a non-denominational wedding ceremony?

The vows that are exchanged at a non-denominational wedding also offer a huge amount of flexibility. You may choose to be fed words by the officiant which you can repeat, or you might like to write your own vows which you can either memorise or read. Unlike with a registry office ceremony, you can include as many references to God and religion as you wish.

Remember, as well as being a romantic and personal celebration, a marriage is also a legal process. So, while you can write your own vows, you’ll also need to say the declaratory and contracting words, which are along these lines:

Declaratory words

“I do solemnly declare that I know not of any lawful reason why I [YOUR FULL NAME] may not be joined in matrimony to [YOUR PARTNER’S FULL NAME].”

Contracting words

“I call upon these persons here present to witness that I, [YOUR FULL NAME], do take thee [YOUR PARTNER’S FULL NAME] to be my lawful wedded [WIFE/HUSBAND/SPOUSE/PARTNER IN MARRIAGE].”

What traditions are there at a non-denominational wedding ceremony?

A non-denominational ceremony is a lot like a traditional wedding ceremony, so there’s quite a lot of crossover when it comes to traditions. Plus, because they’re so customisable, you may want to introduce different or new traditions. But, to get you started with what you might want to include in your own ceremony, here are just a few common non-denominational wedding ceremony traditions:

• The processional and recessional, when the couple walks down the aisle accompanied by the rest of the wedding party.
• Personalised vows, which the couple can write themselves.
• The exchanging of rings (or similar if the couple have chosen not to wear rings).
• A unity/unifying ceremony, which symbolises the couple coming together as one.
• Readings, poems or songs, with readings being performed by the officiant, celebrant or a loved one.
• Wedding music that holds sentimental value.

What do you wear at a non-denominational wedding?

You can wear whatever you like at a non-denominational wedding, whether it’s a white bridal dress, a flowery summer-style dress, a suit, or your swimwear (that is, if it’s on a beach, rather than a golf club – but you do you!).

What is the order at a non-denominational wedding ceremony?

The order of a non-denominational ceremony is fairly close to that of a traditional wedding ceremony, only with the addition of certain songs, traditions or rituals that you may want to include. Because of this, every non-denominational ceremony is different, but will often have an order that looks something similar to the below:

1. The processional

The ceremony begins with the wedding party entering the venue and walking down the aisle in a similar order to that of a traditional wedding (and with a lot of flexibility):

• The officiant (anyone who has been ordained)
• The groom
• Best man
• Groomsmen
• Bridesmaids
• Maid of honour
• Ring bearer
• Flower girl
• The bride (with one or both parents)

For LGBTQ+ couples, you may want to have an order similar to this, or many couples choose to walk down the aisle together – whatever works for you.

2. The welcome

The officiant welcomes everyone to the ceremony and explains the significance of marriage. If you’ve hired a celebrant, this is when they’ll go into your background and the two of you as a couple.

3. The readings

If you’ve chosen to include readings or songs, the first will often come after the welcome. This could be a love poem, inspiring quotes, song lyrics, or a meaningful extract – anything you like that fits the theme and style of your ceremony. Unlike with a registry office ceremony, anything you include can make references to God or religion.

4. The unity candle

To symbolise the two of you coming together, you can each light a candle which is then used to light a third candle, representing you coming together as one.

5. The unifying ritual

Many couples have a unifying ritual in addition to (or instead of) a unity candle. This could be anything from handfasting to circling a ceremonial fire.

6. The exchanging of vows

This is when you’ll recite either the vows you’ve chosen to write or repeat the vows fed to you by the officiant. Many couples still love to honour the wedding tradition of saying, I do.

7. The exchanging of rings

If you’ve chosen to exchange rings, this will happen after the vows. Some couples may also choose to exchange a different item.

8. The declaration of marriage and first kiss

The officiant will excitedly declare the two of you as officially married, and invite you to share your first kiss as a wedded couple. It’s at this moment that your guests will erupt into cheers and joyous tears.

9. The recessional

As a married couple, the two of you leave the venue followed by the wedding party in reverse order to how they entered. Then, it’s time to head out and party (after a few photos for the wedding album, of course).

How do you book a non-denominational wedding ceremony?

To book a non-denominational ceremony, you first need to decide the kind of ceremony you want and where you want it to be hosted. Once you know the kind of ceremony you’d like, speak to registrars and celebrants to see who can match the vision you have.

Browse our diverse range of fabulous venues and celebrants to make a start on planning your perfect wedding.

Who plans a non-denominational wedding ceremony?

You no doubt have a few thoughts about what you want from your wedding ceremony, so might be excited to plan it yourself. Many couples love planning their own wedding, and it’s a huge part of the overall experience.

You may also choose to hire a wedding planner. These experience professionals can take a lot of the time-consuming and challenging parts of wedding planning off your plate, leaving you with the fun stuff.

What comes after a non-denominational wedding ceremony?

Once the ceremony is over, you can do whatever you like – whether it’s an epic party or formal three-course wedding breakfast, or you’d rather just jet right off on your honeymoon . Just like the rest of your wedding, you can do whatever suits your tastes, preferences and budget.

Plan your wedding ceremony with Bridebook

Looking to plan your perfect non-denominational wedding? Sign up to Bridebook today to access all the tools, tips and information you might need. 

Browse other similar articles…

• The Ultimate Wedding Ceremony Guide
• The Ultimate Wedding Ceremony Order
• The Best Wedding Day Timeline
• How Long is a Wedding Ceremony?

Happy Planning!

There are few wedding ceremonies out there quite as vibrant, exciting and fun as a Hindu ceremony. They’re absolutely filled to the brim with traditions and rituals, with a heavy focus on celebrating the coming together of two people in love.

Many of the traditions are based on ancient scriptures so have been included in Hindu wedding ceremonies for hundreds of years. Every part of the ceremony has a symbolic meaning that is an important and must-have inclusion for every Hindu couple that gets married.

But, with so much incredible history, you no doubt have a lot of questions about what goes into a Hindu wedding ceremony. For example, how long is a Hindu ceremony? Is there a certain day or date you should get married on if you’re Hindu? Where can you hold your ceremony? What are some of the most popular traditions?

With so many different elements included in a Hindu ceremony, it’s only natural that you might have a few questions. That’s where we come in. In this guide, we’re going to dive into everything to do with Hindu wedding ceremonies, from the cost of the wedding to the order on the big day. That way, you’ll be as prepared as possible when planning your own ceremony.

For more information about the different types of wedding ceremonies, read our ultimate wedding ceremony guide.

What is a Hindu wedding ceremony?

A Hindu wedding ceremony is a joyous occasion when two people come together to get married, joined by their friends and family. Also known as a Vivaha or Kalyanam, a Hindu wedding ceremony can last up to three hours, but the celebrations begin several days early and can continue long after it’s done. Some Hindu weddings can last as long as five days (though usually last around three).

Hindu ceremonies are as long as they are because of the wonderful rituals and traditions that have deep and rich cultural meanings. Ceremonies can differ based on region, culture and other traditions, but every Hindu wedding you go to will generally have most of the same elements to them. The actual ceremony itself usually takes place on the final day of the celebrations.

What date should you have a Hindu wedding ceremony?

When choosing the perfect date for a Hindu wedding, you’ll probably want to turn astrological charts to find out the most auspicious dates for your big day. For example, a popular time for a wedding ceremony is after the new moon because it’s considered lucky. Similarly, you might want to look at your birth chart, as this can offer valuable insight into lucky dates.

However, you might also want to pay close attention to the day of the week. Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday are auspicious days, whereas Tuesday isn’t. And because Saturday is a day for relaxing, you’ll most likely not want to get married on this day, despite it being more likely that your guests will have a day off from work.

Certain dates should also be avoided, such as Amas which comes monthly, and a day in which Hindu marriages are forbidden. Marriages also can’t take place during the 15 days of Shradh, which takes place every September, or 8 days before Holi, which is in March.

What time does a Hindu wedding ceremony take place?

There is no set time a Hindu wedding should take place, so it’s whatever works for you. That being said, Hindu wedding ceremonies can take up to three hours, so it’s recommended that they don’t start too late in the day, especially during the winter months.

Speak to your chosen priest who may offer you some guidance, such as by consulting astrology to determine the most auspicious time.

How popular are Hindu wedding ceremonies?

As you’d probably expect, Hindu wedding ceremonies are popular among the Hindu community. If neither you nor your fiance are Hindu, then you can’t have a Hindu wedding.

However, if you’re part of a mixed-faith couple, then you’re more than welcome to have a Hindu wedding ceremony.

What type of couples usually choose a Hindu wedding ceremony?

Generally, Hindu couples will choose to have a Hindu wedding ceremony. But, if just one of you is a Hindu and the other isn’t, you can still choose to have a Hindu wedding.

Are Hindu weddings expensive?

As detailed in our 2023 Wedding Report, the average cost of a wedding in the UK is £19,184. However, this figure includes everything from the ceremony to the reception, which  takes place on a single day for the majority of weddings.

Because Hindu wedding celebrations can last as many as five days, they’re often more expensive than traditional wedding ceremonies. But, this all depends on the budget you have to dedicate to your big day. If you have a budget smaller than the average cost, you can still have a beautiful, romantic and memorable wedding filled with joy and celebration. It might only last two days instead of three or five – but there’s absolutely nothing wrong with that.

If you’re planning a Hindu wedding and are keen to keep costs as low as possible, read our guide on how to save money on your wedding for plenty of cost-cutting strategies and tips that you can apply to any type of wedding.

Who officiates a Hindu wedding ceremony?

A Hindu wedding ceremony is officiated by a Brahmin priest, who is usually male. Before the ceremony begins, the couple meets with the priest so he can explain what will happen, why it happens and how it’s significant. He’ll also ask the couple if they have any questions and help them feel at ease.

Is a Hindu wedding legally binding?

In the UK, a Hindu wedding ceremony isn’t legally binding. To ensure it is, you’ll need to have a small, legal ceremony at a registry office which is officiated by a registrar, and in the presence of two witnesses. It’s recommended that you do this a week or so before the date of your Hindu wedding ceremony so everything’s in place ahead of your big day.

Why is the Mangal Sutra considered a sacred symbol in Hindu weddings?

Mangal Sutra is a key moment in a Hindu wedding ceremony, in which the groom ties a necklace around his bride’s neck. As part of the overall wedding ceremony, this ceremony is called Mangalya Dharanam.

The Mangal Sutra symbolises the lifelong promise the bride and groom make to each other. Traditionally, the bride will wear it every day until her husband dies, though due to the huge sentimental value, she may not want to. It helps to protect the couple and ward off bad spirits.

Often, the Mangal Sutra is tied using three knots, which symbolise loyalty, devotion and dedication. Some couples like to have the groom tie the first knot, followed by the groom’s sisters tying the second two knots.

Where are Hindu wedding ceremonies held?

Traditionally, a Hindu wedding ceremony will take place in the bride’s hometown, in a hotel, hall or event space that’s big enough to accommodate a large number of guests. There will usually be blessings at the local temple as well.

How long are Hindu wedding ceremonies?

A Hindu wedding ceremony will generally last between 90 minutes and 3 hours, which makes it one of the longest wedding ceremonies in the world. This is because of the huge amount of traditions and rituals which are included.

However, the overall wedding celebrations will usually last much longer – often between three and five days.

Read our guide to how long wedding ceremonies take to learn more about how long different types of wedding ceremonies last.

What happens during the days before a Hindu wedding ceremony?

A Hindu wedding ceremony usually happens on the final day of the wedding celebrations, which is followed by an evening of celebrating with family and friends.

The days before the ceremony are filled with celebrations and events, such as Ganesh Puja (also known as Pithi or Mandap Muhuray), Grah Shanti (or Mameru) and Mehndi.

What words are exchanged at a Hindu wedding ceremony?

Hindu wedding ceremonies include many vows that are exchanged by the couple – seven, in fact. But, they’re not too dissimilar to vows exchanged at other types of wedding ceremonies.

They represent love, respect, honour and faith, and are spoken in Sanskrit.

What are the seven vows of a Hindu marriage?

1. The First Phera – Nourishment

Teerathavartodan Yagyakaram Maya Sahayee Priyavai Kurya

Wamangamayami Teada kadheyvav Brwati Sentenam first Kumari

The first vow is a promise the bride and groom make to each other to go on a shared journey together. It expresses their appreciation to the Holy Spirit and offers thanks for the food and nourishment.

2. The Second Phera – Strength

Pujayu as Swao Pahrao Mamam Fletcher Nijkaram Kurya,

Vaamangamayami Tadrayuddhi Brwati Kanya Vachanam II

The second vow is a sign of respect to the bride and groom’s parents, as well as a prayer for strength and peace.

3. The Third Phera – Prosperity

Living in the law of life,

Varmangayamy Turda Dwivedi Bratiti Kanya Vrutti Tharthiya

The groom promises the bride he will follow her through life, and says a prayer to God asking for wealth and prosperity.

4. The Fourth Phera – Family

If you want to comply with Family Counseling Function

Vaamangamayami tadrayuddhi bratiti karni vadhan fourtha

This is the promise that the couple will uphold the responsibilities of family, which was something they weren’t burdened with before.

5. The Fifth Phera – Togetherness

Personal Career Practices, Mammapi Mantrytha,

Wamangamayami Teada Kadheyeye Bruete Wachch: Panchamatra Kanya

The bride asks the groom to share his time with her and help take care of the home and ask the Holy Spirit to bless them with healthy children.

6. The Sixth Phera – Health

Do not waste your money in a simple way,

Wamamgamayami Taddaa Brwati Kanya Vyasam Saturday, September

The bride asks her groom for respect, which is important as they stand in front of loved ones at the ceremony.

7. The Seventh Phera – Wisdom

Ancestors, mothers, always respected, always cherished,

Warmangaiyami Turda Dudhaye Bruete Wachch: Satyendra Kanya

The couples make a promise to each other to be loyal and cherish one another

What traditions are there at a Hindu wedding ceremony?

A Hindu wedding ceremony will generally include many different traditions, which couples often choose to include for cultural and symbolic reasons. Just some of these traditions include:

• The bride may wear a red sari or lengha
• Painting the bride’s hands and feet with beautiful and intricate henna patterns, which may include the groom’s name hidden someone within
• Prayers to the God Ganesha
• The baraat, which is a celebration as the groom arrives at the start of the ceremony
• Traditions dictate that the groom can’t take his bride until her father gives her away
• A fire at the centre of the mandap, which often plays a key role in the ceremony
• The bride and groom throw a rice mixture at each other
• The exchanging of floral garlands known as jai mala

What do you wear at a Hindu wedding?

The bride traditionally wears a sari or long lehenga, which may be red but adorned with fabulous designs and additional colours. She may also wear a dupatta draped over her shoulders or head.

The groom traditionally wears a sherwani, a long-sleeved outfit that is gold or brown.

Guests will often wear a sari, lehenga or suit, taking care to be modest.

What is the order at a Hindu wedding ceremony?

With so many traditions and rituals to include, a Hindu wedding ceremony often follows a similar and recognisable order. There aren’t many opportunities for personalisations, but there can be some variations from one ceremony to another. 

Because a Hindu wedding ceremony isn’t legally binding in the UK, a week or so before the ceremony you and your partner, together with two witnesses, must have a legal ceremony at a registry office. After that, you’re free to have your Hindu ceremony officiated by a priest.

Below is an order you’re likely to see at a Hindu wedding ceremony.

1. The baraat

The groom’s arrival is known as the baraat. Traditionally, the groom arrives at the ceremony on the back of a white horse adorned with incredible colours. However, many modern grooms choose a different form of transport, such as a sports car, convertible or classic car.

2. The milni

Before the bride enters, the groom meets with her parents, along with friends and loved ones. He’s often given a small gift called a shagun, which is a symbol of good luck.

3. The bride enters

Side-by-side with male family members (traditionally brothers or uncles), the bride enters and walks down the aisle. In modern weddings, a bride may also want to be escorted by her father or even her mother. Once at the front, the bride joins the groom, the parents and the priest.

4. Kanyadaan

Kanyadaan is the ritual whereby the bride’s father gives away his daughter, which he does by taking her right hand and placing it in the left hand of the groom. As he does, he asks the groom to treat his daughter as his equal.

5. The jaimala exchange

Jaimala are garlands made from beautiful fresh flowers, which the bride and groom exchange to represent acceptance. As this happens, the priest recites a prayer in Sanskrit.

6. Havan

The deity Agni is summoned with the lightning of a fire, which is to get rid of dark spirits and bring eternal light and knowledge. 

7. Mangal Fera

With the fire lit, the couple circles it four times, with the groom traditionally leading three times and the bride once. Every passing represents one of four life goals:

1. Dharma (morality)
2. Artha (prosperity)
3. Kama (positive energy)
4. Moksha (liberation)

As this happens, the priest chants holy mantras. Traditionally, after Mangal Fera, the bride and groom are encouraged to race to take their seats. It’s said that whoever wins the race will be the head of the new household!

8. Saptapadi

Seven steps are taken to symbolise friendship and commitment, which may also be taken around the holy fire. With every step, a vow is made, so there are seven in total. After the seventh vow, the couple is officially declared married.

9. Sindhoor and Mangal Sutra

The groom puts orange or red powder in his bride’s hair, which is known as sindhoor. The groom then gives the bride a gold necklace, which he ties around her neck with three knots. Traditionally, the bride would only remove it in the event her husband died, though many modern brides may choose not to wear it daily due to its huge sentimental value.

10. The final blessings

The priest and elders recite prayers and readings to mark the end of the ceremony. The guests offer their blessings and congratulations to the couple. Traditionally, married women whisper well-wishes into the bride’s right ear.

11. Talambralu

The bride and groom throw rice, turmeric and saffron over each other, known as talambralu. This ritual symbolises a long life filled with wealth and prosperity.

12. Ashirwad

The bride and groom bow to guests as they leave, with guests offering blessings while throwing rice and flowers.

How do you book a Hindu wedding ceremony?

Once you’re engaged and would like to book a Hindu wedding ceremony, speak to local Hindu priests who are familiar with local laws and understand the vision you have for your ceremony.

If you’re inviting guests who only speak English, you’ll want to make sure your chosen priest also knows English.

Speak to the priest about the ideal date for your wedding, so they can consult astrology and your birth chart to find the most auspicious date for your big day.

Who plans a Hindu wedding ceremony?

Traditionally, the bride’s parents would be the ones to plan a Hindu wedding. However, many couples are excited to plan their own wedding, but will also share the excitement with both sets of parents if they want to get involved.

Some couples choose to hire a wedding planner who can make the process a lot easier, especially if your wedding spans several days and there’s a lot to organise. 

What comes after a Hindu wedding ceremony?

After the ceremony, it’s time to party, of course! At the reception, you’ll potentially have a lot of guests, which means finding a venue, caterer and other vendors who can accommodate so many people. There’ll be eating, drinking, dancing, laughing and many other celebrations throughout the night. Let your hair down – you’ll have earned it!

Plan your wedding ceremony with Bridebook

Looking to plan your own Hindu wedding ceremony? Sign up to Bridebook and get access to everything you might need all in one place. 

Browse other similar articles…

• The Ultimate Wedding Ceremony Guide
• The Ultimate Wedding Ceremony Order
• The Best Wedding Day Timeline
• How Long is a Wedding Ceremony?

Happy Planning!

Muslim wedding ceremonies are intimate and romantic, and also filled with  incredible rituals and traditions that make them wonderful and joyous occasions.

If you’re planning your own ceremony, you might not be sure where to start. Who do you ask to arrange one? Does a ceremony contain a religious service? What’s the order of a Muslim wedding ceremony? What traditions do you want to include and which might you want to adapt?

And, did you know that Muslim wedding traditions vary depending on region? 

There are so many questions that if you’re planning your own wedding ceremony it can be complicated and confusing. However, the good news is that it doesn’t have to be. We’re here to answer all of the common questions and make your wedding planning a breeze.

So, in this post, we’re going to go into detail about everything to do with Muslim wedding ceremonies, from how long they last to what happens before, during and after.

For more information about different wedding ceremonies around the UK and beyond, read our ultimate wedding ceremony guide.

What is a Muslim wedding ceremony?

A Muslim wedding ceremony, also known as a nikah, is when a Muslim couple comes together to get married. The ceremony is filled with traditions and rituals, including readings from the Qur’an.

Traditionally, the bride doesn’t need to be present at the nikah so long as she has previously given her express consent and permission. However, in many modern ceremonies, the bride often chooses to be there to share in the celebrations and spend time with her new husband.

What date should you have a Muslim wedding ceremony?

A Muslim wedding ceremony can take place on any day except for the two days of Eid, known as Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha.

What time does a Muslim wedding ceremony take place?

There are no specific times for when a nikah should take place. However, it’s common for a nikah to begin around lunchtime, to ensure there’s still plenty of time for the Walima, which is a celebratory feast that usually takes place afterwards.

Is it common for Muslim weddings to include a religious service?

Yes, during the nikah there are many religious rituals and a sermon, which includes readings from the Qur’an.

How popular are Muslim wedding ceremonies?

As you might assume, Muslim wedding ceremonies are popular within the Muslim community. You can only get married in a nikah if both the bride and groom are Muslim.

What type of couples usually choose a Muslim wedding ceremony?

Because a nikah is so closely tied to Islam, only couples who are Muslim will choose to have a Muslim wedding ceremony.

Are Muslim weddings expensive?

In the UK, the average cost of a wedding is £19,184, which is relatively in line with the average cost of a Muslim wedding. However, a wedding only needs to be as expensive as your budget allows. It’s more than possible to have a fabulous Muslim wedding for around £4,000 or less. At the same time, for a truly extravagant wedding, you might spend £35,000 or more.

If you’re planning a Muslim wedding but looking to keep costs down, read our guide on how to save money on your wedding for plenty of cost-cutting tips.

How do Muslim wedding ceremonies vary across the world?

Islam is the second-largest religion in the world and spans different cultures and continents. This means, much like other religions, there are variations depending on which region you’re in.

For example, in Middle Eastern Muslim weddings, the bride is presented to the groom, while in South Asian Muslim weddings, the groom is presented to the bride. Similarly, in the Middle East, the Walima is the main post-ceremony celebration, while in South Asia there are two: the Shaadi and the Walima.

Who officiates a Muslim wedding ceremony?

A nikah is usually officiated by an Imam, who is a Muslim cleric, or sometimes a Qazi, an Islamic judge.

Is a Muslim wedding legally binding?

In the UK, a couple who get married in a nikah are married in Islamic law, but aren’t married under UK law. To have a legally recognised marriage, the couple must also have a legal ceremony at a registry office.

Where are Muslim wedding ceremonies held?

Couples have a wide range of options when it comes to where their nikah might take place. The traditional choice of venue is a mosque, the Muslim place of worship, before moving on to a separate venue in the afternoon and evening for the Walima.

Other couples may choose to get married in different venues, such as a home, hotel or venue space.

How long are Muslim wedding ceremonies?

The nikah will usually last between 30 and 45 minutes, though this can vary depending on the Imam and the number of traditions the couple chooses to incorporate into the ceremony.

Read our guide to how long wedding ceremonies take for more information about the length of different wedding ceremonies.

What words are exchanged at a Muslim wedding ceremony?

Traditionally, at the nikah, there aren’t many words exchanged between the bride and groom, including vows. Some couples may choose to include vows in their ceremony, but the main word spoken by the couple is the repetition of the word qubool, which means I accept.

If the couple has chosen to exchange vows, there are no legal declaratory or consenting words, so they’re free to be as personal as they like.

Do men and women sit apart at a Muslim wedding ceremony?

Traditionally, men and women will sit apart at a nikah. In some ceremonies, the men and women may even sit in separate rooms.

However, this all depends on your beliefs, culture and preferences. Many modern nikah take place with no gender segregation.

What traditions are there at a Muslim wedding ceremony?

As we’ve already highlighted, there’s a wide range of traditions that take place during Muslim wedding ceremonies. These traditions also differ depending on where in the world you’re from. Below are just some of the most popular nikah traditions from different regions.

South Asian nikah traditions

• Mehndi. A pre-ceremony event that brings the bride together with female guests who will design henna patterns on the bride’s hands.
• Reading from the Qur’an. The first chapter of the Qur’an is read, called Surah Al-Fatihah.
• Arsi Mushaf. A mirror is held between the bride and groom so the groom can see his bride’s face.
• Baraat. Traditionally, the groom enters the ceremony on the back of a white horse. However, many modern-day grooms choose a car or carriage.
• Joota Chupai. A fun tradition that involves guests hiding the groom’s shoes and holding them until the groom pays a fee.

Middle Eastern nikah traditions

• Tolbe. Before the ceremony, the groom asks the bride for her hand in marriage, which is known as the Tolbe.
• Maher. The Maher is a gift given by the groom to his bride as a gesture of respect and to mark her independence.

What do you wear at a Muslim wedding?

Traditionally, a Muslim groom would wear an embroidered kurta, a collarless tunic, with pyjamas or churidars. At modern Muslim ceremonies, the groom may choose a sherwani, a long-sleeved coat.

Muslim brides will traditionally wear a salwar kameez, a beautiful combination dress, with a dupatta to cover her head. Other brides may choose to wear a saree or scarf to cover their head.

Guests are expected to dress modestly and avoid bare arms. If the nikah takes place at a mosque, guests will also be asked to remove their shoes as a sign of respect.

What is the order at a Muslim wedding ceremony?

A nikah usually sticks to a relatively set order, so you’re likely to find that any Muslim wedding you attend will follow the same sort of structure. They do allow for some personalisations, but not as many as other types of wedding ceremonies.

Nikah will follow an order that resembles the following:

1. The tolbe

Ahead of the ceremony itself, the tolbe takes place. This is a short meeting between the groom and the bride’s parents when he asks them for permission to marry their daughter. After receiving permission, everyone joins in saying a prayer called Surah Fatiha.

2. The mehr

A little bit like a traditional dowry, the mehr is a gift given to the bride by her groom. Many brides consider an engagement ring to be the mehr, but if not, she’ll be presented with a gift or money before the ceremony.

3. The consent

The bride and groom are asked three times about whether they consent to the marriage. Each time, they must say qubool hai, which means I accept.

4. The Nikah-Namah

The Muslim marriage contract is called the Nikah-Namah, which the bride and groom both sign. It’s then read aloud by the officiant so all the guests can hear the promise they’re making to each other.

5. The readings

The officiant will read verses from the Qur’an in a short sermon. This is the point when the bride and groom are declared married.

6. Savaqah

The final part of nikah is Savaqah, when gifts are given. This includes throwing money at the bride.

For more information about orders at different types of wedding ceremonies, read our guide to wedding ceremony orders.

How do you book a Muslim wedding ceremony?

Once you’re engaged and looking to plan your nikah, speak to the imam at your local mosque. They can work with you to decide on a date that’s available so you can begin to plan everything else around it, such as a venue for the Walima, transport, decor, flowers and more.

Who plans a Muslim wedding ceremony?

Traditionally, the parents play a heavy role in planning a nikah. However, many modern Muslim couples like to plan their own wedding, but still welcome input and suggestions from both sets of parents.

Alternatively, you may want to hire a wedding planner, who can take a lot of the work from you. See our post showcasing our Muslim wedding specialists to discover venues and suppliers who specialise in Muslim weddings.  

What comes after a Muslim wedding ceremony?

Traditionally, after the nikah, the bride and groom will join their guests at the Walima, which is a celebration in the same vein as a reception at other types of weddings. However, a Walima often lasts a lot longer than other wedding celebrations, with some lasting up to two days.

Often, the Walima will happen immediately after the nikah, on the same day. Sometimes, though, depending on your preferences and circumstances, it could take place a day or two later.

Plan your wedding ceremony with Bridebook

Looking to plan your own nikah? Sign up to Bridebook and get access to everything you need to plan your dream celebration. 

Browse other similar articles…

• The Ultimate Wedding Ceremony Guide
• The Ultimate Wedding Ceremony Order
• The Best Wedding Day Timeline
• How Long is a Wedding Ceremony?

Happy Planning!

If you or your partner are Catholic and you’re planning your wedding, you’ve probably considered having a Catholic wedding ceremony. Catholic ceremonies are steeped in tradition and rituals, so they often follow a very similar structure. They’re also elegant, beautiful and romantic, and focus not only on the promise you’re making to each other, but your promise to God as well.

But, what exactly happens at a Catholic wedding ceremony and how do you know if it’s the right choice for you?

In this post, we’re going to answer some of the most common questions about Catholic weddings, including what they are, what happens at one and how much they cost. That way, you’ll have all the information you need to help you decide if it’s the right choice for you and your partner.

For more information about some of the most common types of ceremony, read our ultimate wedding ceremony guide.

What is a Catholic wedding ceremony?

A Catholic wedding ceremony is a wedding ceremony that takes place in a church and follows a set structure. It may or may not include a nuptial mass, which is similar to a regular mass, only it takes place alongside the wedding. If you don’t want a nuptial mass at your ceremony, speak to the priest about this and discuss your hopes and expectations with them.

The ceremony will of course focus on your love and marriage, but there’ll also be a strong link to Christianity. That means there’ll be many references to God and Jesus, which may be in the words spoken by the officiant, and in the readings, hymns, blessings and prayers.

How soon can you have a Catholic wedding ceremony?

The Catholic Church asks that you give at least six months’ notice if you intend to get married in a Roman Catholic wedding ceremony.

What happens before a Catholic wedding ceremony?

Many of the same traditions happen before a Catholic wedding ceremony as they do with other types of ceremony, for example a stag or hen party and the bride and groom not seeing each other. However, one major difference with Catholic weddings is that there are programs that help prepare couples for married life.

The preparation program, known as Pre-Cana, is a mandatory program that lasts six months. This is the reason why you must give at least six months’ notice if you want to get married in a Catholic church.

In Pre-Cana, couples are taught about how to adapt to marriage. It focuses on your relationship with God and the Church, healthy values, managing money, responsibility, parenting, intimacy and more. If you can’t attend in-person sessions, there are online courses available. You can discuss with your priest as to whether they’re happy for you to choose this route.

How popular are Catholic wedding ceremonies?

Thanks to Bridebook’s 2023 Wedding Report, we know that 3% of weddings last year were in a place of worship. However, as well as churches, this also includes other places of worship, such as a synagogue or mosque. 

2023 data released by the Office for National Statistics found that there were 3,916 Catholic weddings in 2019, which is approximately 1% of all ceremonies that took place in the UK.

What type of couples usually choose a Catholic wedding ceremony?

As you might expect, only Catholics get married in a Catholic wedding ceremony. However, both halves of the couple don’t need to be Catholic – to have a Catholic wedding ceremony, just one needs to be a member of the church. If you’re part of a mixed-faith relationship, it’s your choice whether you have a Catholic ceremony or you opt for something else.

Whether or not you choose to have a Catholic ceremony depends on your beliefs, preferences and budget.

Are Catholic weddings expensive?

The average cost of a church wedding in the UK is £5,480. However, this figure is the average cost of weddings that take place in any type of Christian church.

In actuality, we know exactly how much it costs to get married in a Catholic church: nothing. Because the Church believes that marriage is a gift from God, it doesn’t cost a penny to have the ceremony itself. But, the Church will ask for a voluntary donation of £150 to help with the upkeep of the church and its grounds. Believe it or not, it costs up to £100,000 annually to maintain a church, so if you are keen on having a Catholic wedding, it’s recommended that you contribute towards that upkeep with a donation.

It’s also worth noting that there’s also an additional fee for any ‘extras’ you might like to have included at your ceremony. These, and their approximate costs, include:

• Organist – £50
• Bell ringer – £40
• Verger – £40
• Extra heating – £65

You’ll also need to factor in the cost of external vendors you might choose to hire, such as florists, decor, a photographer and videographer. One non-negotiable vendor you’ll need to hire is a registrar to ensure your marriage is legal. Some churches will have a registrar while others don’t, so this is something else to check with your priest.

If you plan on celebrating after the ceremony with a wedding breakfast and reception, this will of course come at a cost, as you can’t host this at the church.

Who officiates a Catholic wedding ceremony?

A Catholic wedding is usually officiated by a priest, or in some cases a bishop.

Is a Catholic wedding ceremony legally binding?

Yes, a Catholic wedding ceremony is legally binding so long as a registrar is also present at the ceremony. Some churches have their own registrar, but if not you’ll have to hire one for the date of your wedding.

Where are Catholic wedding ceremonies held?

Catholic weddings are always held at a Catholic church. If you’re looking for greater flexibility and would like to get married elsewhere, you’ll have to consider having a different type of wedding ceremony.

How long are Catholic wedding ceremonies?

When you speak to your priest about your wedding, you should be given a choice about whether or not you’d like to include a mass at the same time as your ceremony. If you include a communion and mass, your wedding ceremony will take around an hour. If you don’t have a mass, your ceremony will take between 30 and 45 minutes.

Catholic weddings often last longer than traditional weddings due to the references to God and religion, with the addition of hymns, readings, blessings and prayers.

For more information, read our guide to how long wedding ceremonies take.

When does a Catholic wedding ceremony take place?

Read our post on the best wedding day timeline for more information about what happens on a wedding day and when.

What words are exchanged at a Catholic wedding ceremony?

Many Roman Catholic wedding ceremonies follow a set structure, so the words spoken will often be reminiscent of other Catholic ceremonies you may have been to. Most of the words are spoken by the officiant, but you and your partner will also speak to exchange vows and consent to the marriage. These include

1. The address and statement of intention

The priest will ask whether you’ve come together to enter into marriage freely and without coercion, to which you’ll both respond by saying, ‘I have’.

The priest will then ask whether you’re both prepared to follow the path of marriage, to love and honour each other for as long as you both shall live. You’ll then respond by saying, ‘I am.’

2. Exchange of consent

The priest will then ask you to repeat the exchange of consent, which is as follows:

“I, [YOUR FULL NAME], take you, [YOUR PARTNER’S FULL NAME], to be my [WIFE/HUSBAND/PARTNER]. I promise to be faithful to you in good times and in bad, in sickness and in health, to love you and to honour you all the days of my life.”

3. Exchanging of the rings

As you exchange rings, you’ll also say the following words:

“[YOUR PARTNER’S FULL NAME], receive this ring as a sign of my love and fidelity. In the name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit.”

Unfortunately, because Catholic ceremonies follow a program template, it’s unlikely that the priest will allow you to write or speak personal vows. If you would like a much greater amount of personalisation at your wedding, you may have to plan a different type of ceremony.

What traditions are there at a Catholic wedding ceremony?

Because Catholic wedding ceremonies stick to a relatively strict structure, there are plenty of traditions that take place. Which traditions you choose to include in your own ceremony depends on your preferences and the flexibility of that structure. If there are any traditions you want to change, you can speak to the priest ahead of the ceremony. Some of the most popular Catholic wedding ceremony traditions include:

• The processional, which is a staple at many different ceremonies. However, unlike traditional ceremonies, the groom enters first but from the side, not down the aisle.
• The opening greeting and hymn, where the priest issues a greeting and invites your guests to sing a hymn, which is often Gloria.
• Nuptial mass, which many couples choose to include. 
• Recitation of the Lord’s Prayer, shared as a unifying, sacred expression.
• Holy Communion, which symbolises the spiritual unity of the couple and their journey together.

What do you wear at a Catholic wedding?

Catholic wedding ceremonies are semi-formal, so you don’t have to wear a tuxedo or dig out a hat. But, grooms will probably want to wear a suit, and brides a dress that’s relatively modest. The Church is becoming more open to sleeveless shirts and dresses, but aren’t quite as happy about plunging necklines or deep backs. Traditionally, the bride wears a veil, but this is also something the modern Church is more relaxed about.

What is the order at a Catholic wedding ceremony?

As we’ve already highlighted, Catholic weddings usually follow a set structure that will happen in a certain order. However, there will be a slight variation to this if you haven’t chosen to include a nuptial mass to take place alongside your wedding ceremony. Below is an example of what your Catholic wedding mass program might look like:

1. The processional

The processional begins with the priest entering from the side, followed by the groom and his best man. They stand at the altar, as the rest of the wedding party enter and walk down the aisle towards the altar in the following order:

• Bridesmaids
• Groomsmen
• Maid of honour
• Ring bearer or page boy
• Flower girl
• The bride and her father

2. The entrance rites

Once everyone has taken their seats, the priest begins by welcoming everyone to the ceremony and invites everyone to sing a hymn, usually Gloria, before reading a prayer. Because at least half of the couple has to be Catholic, it’s assumed that at least half of the guests will also be Catholic and therefore take part.

3. The readings

You can invite some of your guests to read Bible verses, which will usually include one from the New Testament and one from the Old Testament. The theme of the readings will be love, marriage or commitment. Your guests will repeat the Responsorial Psalm. There are seven to choose from, which you and your partner should consider during the lead-up to the ceremony.

4. The gospel

The priest will ask your guests to stand and they’ll read a passage from Matthew, Mark, Luke or John which will centre around love or marriage. Popular passages include Matthew 5:13-16, Mark 10: 6-9 and John 2:1-11.

5. The homily

The priest will perform a sermon, also known as the homily. This explains the meaning behind the gospel and how it applies to your marriage.

6. The vows

You will now be asked to say your vows, which are known as the rite of marriage. You can choose to recite them or read them, or the priest may read the vows so you can say I do. These are sacred and special words, which means you can’t write your own vows to use in a Catholic ceremony.

7. The ring ceremony

The priest will ask the best man for the rings, which they’ll first bless with holy water and by saying a prayer. You’ll then be asked to say a few more words as you place the ring on your partner’s finger.

8. The offertory

Some of your guests will now offer gifts, which they’ll do by bringing them to the altar. You’ll ask your guests to do this ahead of the ceremony, so it shouldn’t come as a surprise. For your other guests, a collection plate will be passed around the church so they can give a monetary donation. 

At the same time, the priest will bless bread and wine, which is known as the Liturgy of the Eucharist.

9. The Lord’s Prayer

The congregation will recite The Lord’s Prayer in unison.

10. The sign of peace

The priest will ask everyone in attendance to greet each other with a warm welcome and handshake. This is a gesture of neighbourly love.

11. Holy Communion

Your guests will line up at the altar for the priest to offer them bread and wine, something that symbolises the body and blood of Jesus Christ. 

12. The first kiss

The priest will invite the two of you to share your first kiss as a married couple. If the bride chooses to wear a veil, this is when the groom will lift it to see his wife’s face.

13. The nuptial blessing

The priest will say a final prayer which will end with the words, go in peace. Your guests will respond by saying, thanks be to God.

14. The recessional

The wedding party will leave the church in the opposite order to how they entered. Outside, you’ll take part in a photoshoot, including the wedding staple, the confetti shot.

For more information on the different orders at various ceremonies, read our guide to wedding ceremony orders.

How do you book a Catholic wedding ceremony?

Once you’re engaged and have decided you’d like to have a Catholic wedding ceremony, the first thing to do is speak to the priest at your local Catholic church. The priest will then explain everything that needs to be done ahead of the wedding, such as the preparation program and paperwork. They should also be able to suggest a number of dates so you can begin planning the rest of your wedding.

Who plans a Catholic wedding ceremony?

You can plan a Catholic wedding ceremony with the help of your priest. They should be able to advise you about what you want to include at the ceremony, including hymns, readings and any extras, such as an organist or bell ringer.

What comes after a Catholic wedding ceremony?

If you’ve chosen to have a Catholic wedding ceremony, there aren’t many options when it comes to personalisation. So, if you’re excited to create a theme and style, what you do after the ceremony is where you can really let your personalities shine through and go crazy with creativity.

After the ceremony, many couples choose to have a wedding breakfast, which includes a three- or four-course meal, some drinks, and speeches. This is then followed by an evening reception with buffet food, dancing and, of course, more drinks. Or, you could jump straight into the evening reception if you wish. What you do is up to you, your preferences and your budget. Just make it your own!

Plan your wedding ceremony with Bridebook

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• The Ultimate Wedding Ceremony Guide
• The Ultimate Wedding Ceremony Order
• The Best Wedding Day Timeline
• How Long is a Wedding Ceremony?
• 25 Best Bible Readings for a Wedding Ceremony

Happy Planning!

If you’re looking to get married on a budget, keep your wedding short and sweet, or you’re simply not interested in having a large or lavish wedding, a registry office wedding ceremony is a fantastic alternative to a traditional wedding ceremony.

But, what exactly happens at a registry office wedding ceremony? How much do they cost, how long are they and how do you organise one? There are a lot of questions about them and how they compare to other more traditional or religious ceremonies. You might not be sure whether they’re right for you.

If you’re looking to plan your own registry office wedding or figure out if one fits the vision you have for your big day, then this guide is for you. We’ll cover everything you need to know so you can plan a fabulous registry office ceremony. For more information, read our ultimate wedding ceremony guide for a detailed look at different types of wedding ceremonies.

What is a registry office wedding ceremony?

A registry office wedding is, as the name suggests, a wedding that takes place in a registry office. A registry office is a government building where every birth, death, adoption, civil partnership and marriage is registered in England, Wales and Northern Ireland.

Despite being a working office where many employees spend their days, there are rooms and spaces within the building that are specifically designed and decorated with weddings in mind. It may be an office by name, but registry office ceremonies take place in lovely surroundings. Many councils have registry offices located on their own premises, with dedicated grounds and gardens that are perfect for hosting a wedding. So, don’t be put off by hearing the words ‘office’ and ‘government building’. If you’re getting married on a budget or don’t want a large wedding, it’s worth visiting your local registry office to view the space and get a feel for what your ceremony could look like.

Registry office wedding ceremonies may be short and non-religious, but that doesn’t mean they’re not memorable or lack the magic and romance of other types of ceremonies. Most ceremonies will follow a similar structure, but you can still personalise them and make them your own.

How popular are registry office wedding ceremonies?

Our 2023 Wedding Report revealed that 2% of wedding ceremonies that took place in the UK last year were at a registry office. That means, with almost 400,000 weddings taking place a year in the UK, as many as 6,000 couples tied the knot at a registry office.

What type of couples usually choose a registry office wedding ceremony?

Because registry office wedding ceremonies can’t contain any references to God or religion, including hymns, readings or references in vows, they’re a common choice for couples with no religious beliefs or couples with mixed beliefs. If you have religious beliefs and would like there to be references to them in your wedding ceremony, you unfortunately can’t get married at a registry office. However, if you do have religious beliefs and you’re happy for there not to be religious elements to your ceremony, you’re of course more than welcome to get married at a registry office.

Because registry office weddings are short and inexpensive, they’re a popular choice for couples who have smaller budgets or don’t want the fuss associated with larger weddings.

Are registry office weddings expensive?

Our 2023 Wedding Report found that the average cost of a registry office wedding in the UK is £1,342, which makes it one of the most affordable ways to get married – especially when you consider the average overall cost of a wedding in the UK is a whopping £19,184. That means, if you’re excited to get married but only have a small budget, you can still have a beautiful and memorable ceremony.

Don’t forget, there are plenty of ways you can personalise a registry office wedding ceremony, which means this figure can go up or down. For example, the basic ceremony rate for a registry office wedding is around £57, or you may choose to get married in a ceremony room, which is a little bigger to allow for more guests, which will cost around £200. It can also be slightly more expensive to get married on a Saturday or Sunday than it can during the week.

Of course, it also depends on whether you choose to have a reception or breakfast after the wedding. The more you plan, the more expensive it’s going to be.

If you love the idea of a registry office wedding but are keen to keep costs low, read our guide on how to save money on a registry office wedding.

Who officiates a registry office wedding ceremony?

A registry office wedding ceremony is usually officiated by a registrar who works at the registry office. Two registrars will attend the ceremony, with one taking the reins to officiate.

To make your ceremony more personalised, you may wish to hire a celebrant to officiate your wedding. However, this isn’t common. While a celebrant is a fantastic addition to a wedding, the additional personalisation means the ceremony will last much longer, which means it’ll cost more – plus the cost of the celebrant themselves. If you’d like a celebrant to officiate your wedding, a traditional wedding ceremony may suit your vision a little more closely.

Where are registry office wedding ceremonies held?

As you might expect, a registry office wedding is held in specific ceremony rooms within government registry office buildings. There’s often a choice of rooms that can suit different budgets and accommodate different numbers of guests.

How long are registry office wedding ceremonies?

Wedding ceremonies that take place at a registry office are among the shortest ceremonies there are, with most taking just 10 or 15 minutes. They may take a little longer if you choose to have a loved one perform a reading, but because there can’t be references to religion, they’re usually much shorter than other types of wedding ceremonies.

As well as being a momentous and romantic moment in your lives, a wedding is also a legal process. Registry office weddings mostly focus on the legal aspect of getting married, which is why they’re so much shorter than other weddings. For example, a traditional wedding ceremony or Catholic wedding ceremony may last an hour or so, and a Hindu wedding ceremony might last around 90 minutes or longer.

Read our dedicated blog post on for more information on the length of different types of ceremonies.

Do you need to give notice before a registry office wedding?

Before you can legally marry at a registry office, you must give notice at your local office, which costs around £35 each. To give notice, you must have lived within the local area for a minimum of seven days. To register, you must both visit the registry office in person with a valid ID. This must be done a minimum of 29 days before the date of your wedding and a maximum of 12 months before your wedding.

Giving notice doesn’t legally start the marriage process, or count as any kind of legal contract. It simply tells the registrar that you are who you say you are, and that you intend to get married to your partner.

When does a registry office wedding ceremony take place?

A registry office can host several weddings a day, and what time these are available depends on the local registry office and how many rooms and registrars there are. Sometimes, ceremonies will take place around lunchtime, but it’s more common for them to start in the early afternoon. Most registry office ceremonies will start on the hour.

You should also have your choice of days, with the majority of registry offices offering ceremonies seven days a week. However, with weekends being the most popular choice for couples, it can be more difficult to secure a weekend date, which is something to bear in mind if you’re looking to get married in the not-too-distant future.

For more information, our article on the best wedding day timeline outlines what happens and when on your wedding day.

Can you include a reading or hymn at a registry office wedding ceremony?

You can include readings or songs at your registry office ceremony, but they must not include any religious content. Many couples choose to ask a loved one to perform a reading, which might be a poem, extract or song lyrics. However, because most hymns sung at weddings are religious, it’s not common for there to be hymns at a registry office wedding. 

Can you have a photographer at a registry office wedding?

Yes, you absolutely can have a photographer at a registry office wedding. Because the ceremony is short, you should be able to secure decent rates for a professional photographer and pay way less than you might for a traditional wedding.

The only thing to note is that the photographer won’t be allowed to take photographs as you sign the register, but you can pose for photographs with the register afterward. If you plan on having the famous wedding confetti shot, make sure you check with the registrar first as there can be restrictions surrounding this.

What words are exchanged at a registry office wedding ceremony?

The words you speak at your wedding are hugely personal because it’s a promise and commitment to your partner about how you’re going to spend the rest of your life with them. This is why it’s important to think carefully about what you’d like to say at your wedding.

Thankfully, there’s a fair amount of flexibility offered when it comes to the words you can say at your wedding. You may wish to say the words fed to you by the officiant, but you can write your own vows if you’d like them to be more personal. However, it’s important to note that you’re unable to reference religion and the vows must be reviewed by the registrar before the ceremony.

As we’ve already highlighted, a registry office wedding is a short and legal process, so the majority of the words spoken by you (unless you choose otherwise) mainly cover this. This includes the declaratory and contracting words, which are the non-negotiable parts of what you’ll say. These words are usually as follows:

Declaratory words

“I do solemnly declare that I know not of any lawful reason why I [YOUR FULL NAME] may not be joined in matrimony to [YOUR PARTNER’S FULL NAME].”

Contracting words

“I call upon these persons here present to witness that I, [YOUR FULL NAME], do take thee [YOUR PARTNER’S FULL NAME] to be my lawful wedded [WIFE/HUSBAND/SPOUSE/PARTNER IN MARRIAGE].”

What traditions are there at a registry office wedding ceremony?

Because registry office weddings are usually on the shorter side, there aren’t as many traditions as there are at traditional or religious ceremonies. That being said, there are still some traditions, which are usually similar to that of a traditional ceremony. These include:

• The processional, when you walk down the aisle. However, because registry office weddings are much smaller than other wedding types, the processional is also much smaller.
• Wedding attire, such as the customary white dress or suit.
• The exchanging of the rings, which are traditionally held for safekeeping by the best man.
• Something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue.
• The confetti shot, which you will need to check with the registrar beforehand.

Which traditions you choose to uphold are down to you – it’s your wedding, after all. Only the parts of the ceremony that are legal have to be followed, so there’s usually a lot of wiggle room when it comes to everything else.

What do you wear at a registry office wedding?

The great thing about a registry office wedding is that there aren’t as many expectations as there can be with traditional weddings. So, you’re free to wear whatever you like, whether it’s a white bridal dress, suit, formalwear, or something a lot more casual. Just remember to communicate with each other and let your guests know your plans.

What is the order at a registry office wedding ceremony?

Because a registry office wedding is so short, there’s a lot to include in such a small amount of time. So, the order usually only includes the most ‘important’ and legal parts of a traditional wedding.

A registry office wedding ceremony will generally follow an order similar to the following (which doesn’t include the notice that must take place at least 29 days beforehand):

1. Pre-ceremony meeting

Before the ceremony can begin, you and your partner will meet with the registrar to make sure all the details are correct and you’re happy for the wedding to take place. You must both meet with the registrar, which can either be done separately or together.

2. The processional

Registry office ceremonies are often intimate, so the processional will be relatively short. That being said, you can include as many participants as you like, so if you’d like bridesmaids, groomsmen and even a page boy or flower girl, you absolutely can. The processional begins with the music of your choice playing (which can’t be religious in any way).

3. The welcome

Once you’re both at the front and your loved ones have taken their seats, the officiant will welcome everyone to the ceremony and say a few words about marriage and commitment.

4. The legal declaration and contracting vows

This is the legal part of the process, when you’ll repeat lines fed to you by the registrar.

5. The readings

Registry office ceremonies are short, but you’re still welcome to include a non-religious reading if you wish, which can be performed by the guest of your choosing (just make sure you ask them ahead of time).

6. The exchanging of the rings

The registrar will ask you (or your best man) for the rings. You’ll then exchange a few more words which the registrar can feed you, or you could read vows you’ve written yourself, as you give each other the rings.

7. The declaration of marriage and first kiss

Finally, the moment you’ve been waiting so long for – the registrar declares you married! You’ll also be invited to share your first kiss as your family and friends applaud (and shed a tear or two).

8. The signing of the register

You’ll be asked to sign the register to make your marriage legal and official, in the company of the two witnesses you’ll have asked ahead of the wedding. While this happens, music plays to entertain your guests (who will be all too happy to wait).

9. The photographs

The two of you are encouraged to pose for photographs with the marriage certificate, which can be official photographs if you’ve hired a photographer or your loved ones with their own cameras.

10. The recessional

The registrar will announce that the ceremony’s over and invite your guests to join you for the breakfast or reception (if you’ve chosen to have one at all). You’ll then leave the venue as music plays, and head outside for more photographs.

For more information on different orders, check out our guide to wedding ceremony orders.

How do you book a registry office wedding ceremony?

Booking a registry office wedding office is a relatively easy and straightforward process. First, you’ll need to call your local registry office and ask for an appointment to give notice. You must give notice at least 29 days before and within 12 months of the date you want to get married.

Once you’ve spoken to the registrar and given notice, you’re free to get married. Speak to the team at the registry office and book the date and time that suits you.

Who plans a registry office wedding ceremony?

Because registry office weddings are often small in scale and more affordable than other types of weddings, it’s common for most couples to plan their ceremony themselves. You can hire a wedding planner if you wish, but the costs involved mean you’re not likely to experience much benefit. Plus, there are certain legal steps you have to do yourself, which means you’ll have to be fairly hands-on with the planning process.

What comes after a registry office wedding ceremony?

Once your registry office ceremony is over and you and your partner are legally married, what you do next is entirely up to you. If you have the budget and inclination, you might want to celebrate your marriage with a meal or party, or have a traditional wedding breakfast. It all depends on your personal preferences and budget.

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Browse other similar articles…

• The Ultimate Wedding Ceremony Guide
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Your wedding ceremony is the heart and soul of your wedding day. It’s the moment you and the love of your life come together as one to exchange vows and make a commitment to spend the rest of your lives as one.

Traditional wedding ceremonies are filled with customs and traditions that make them some of the most quintessential ceremonies around. And they can be super customisable, which means you can make them as personal to you as you like.

But, with so much choice available, when it comes to planning your traditional wedding ceremony, where do you even begin? Where are they held, at what time, and how long are they? There are so many questions and options to choose from, it can be a challenge knowing what to think about first.

That’s why, in this guide, we’re going to take a deep dive into everything to do with traditional wedding ceremonies. Then, once you have all your questions answered, you can start planning your very own dream wedding ceremony. For more information, read our ultimate wedding ceremony guide, which goes into even more detail.

What is a traditional wedding ceremony?

A traditional wedding ceremony is likely one of the images that materialise in your head when asked to think of a picturesque wedding. A beautiful venue, like a place of worship, a hotel or even a castle, decked out in stunning lights, decor and flowers. A happy couple stands at the front as their friends and family watch on (with a tear or two in their eyes). An officiant leads the ceremony, guiding the couple as they exchange vows and rings, and make a promise to love and cherish one another forever. Then, after sharing their first kiss as a married couple and signing their licence, the couple walks out hand in hand as guests shower them with confetti and a photographer snaps incredible pictures.

Not all traditional weddings are the same, but they usually follow a certain structure that’s recognisable to many people in the UK, US and beyond.

How popular are traditional wedding ceremonies?

Across the UK, a wide variety of wonderful wedding ceremonies happen every single day, including Catholic ceremonies, Jewish ceremonies, Muslim ceremonies and Hindu ceremonies. One of the most popular types of ceremony in the UK is the traditional ceremony, with Bridebook’s 2023 Wedding Report finding that 85% of UK ceremonies took place in venues such as a hotel, barn, country house, or golf club, which suggests they hosted traditional ceremonies.

What type of couples usually choose a traditional wedding ceremony?

Traditional wedding ceremonies are suitable for all couples, regardless of background, culture or beliefs. However, they’re often favoured by couples with no strong religious beliefs or those who might have mixed religious beliefs. That being said, unless your religion states that you must get married in a place of worship or follow a certain structure (for example, Catholics must get married in a church) you’re free to have a traditional wedding ceremony at any venue if you wish.

Who officiates a traditional wedding ceremony?

A traditional wedding ceremony is officiated by a wedding officiant, celebrant, registrar or religious leader, depending on the type of ceremony you choose to have and your own preferences and beliefs.

A celebrant is a wonderful way to personalise your wedding ceremony by making it all about you. A celebrant takes the time to learn about you and your relationship to create an order and words that are extra special. However, a celebrant can’t legally marry you, so you’ll still need a registrar to make sure everything is by the book.

Where are traditional wedding ceremonies usually held?

The great thing about wedding ceremonies is the amount of personalisation available to you. If you’d like to get married in a place of worship, you can. Outside in a beautifully landscaped garden? Absolutely. At a medieval castle decorated with fairy lights and torches? Of course!

Our 2023 Wedding Report revealed that the most popular wedding venue chosen by couples last year was a hotel, with almost a quarter (24%) of all weddings taking place in one. This was followed by barns, country houses and event spaces. However, with UK wedding laws having been relaxed in 2020, couples can now choose to host a traditional wedding ceremony wherever they like – so let your imagination run wild.

How long are traditional wedding ceremonies?

Traditional wedding ceremonies usually last around 45 to 60 minutes. However, this all depends on the amount of personalisation you choose to include – the more you include, the longer it’ll be. A ceremony with readings, hymns and a celebrant will usually be far longer than one without, so if you’re keen to have a shorter ceremony this is something to bear in mind.

For more information, read our blog post on the length of wedding ceremonies to find out how long different types of ceremonies are.

When does a traditional wedding ceremony take place?

Typically, a traditional wedding ceremony will take place around lunchtime, often between 11am and 2pm. Any later than this and a wedding begins to stray into twilight wedding territory.

Our article on the best wedding day timeline goes into detail about what happens and when on your big day.

What words are exchanged at a traditional wedding ceremony?

The words spoken at your wedding carry so much weight that it’s important to choose exactly the right ones. You can have a lot of fun researching and writing your own words, or you can choose traditional vows fed to you by the officiant.

While you can write your own vows to exchange at a traditional wedding, the declaration and contracting words must follow a set structure, as this is the legal part of your wedding ceremony. These words will usually be along these lines:

Declaratory words

“I do solemnly declare that I know not of any lawful reason why I [YOUR FULL NAME] may not be joined in matrimony to [YOUR PARTNER’S FULL NAME].”

Contracting words

“I call upon these persons here present to witness that I, [YOUR FULL NAME], do take thee [YOUR PARTNER’S FULL NAME] to be my lawful wedded [WIFE/HUSBAND/SPOUSE/PARTNER IN MARRIAGE].”

Of course, there are also plenty of other words spoken at a wedding ceremony, either by the officiant or celebrant, or specially chosen guests. Depending on your preferences and beliefs, these could include:

• The welcome
• A speech from a celebrant
• Readings (either from a religious text or poetry/lyrics)
• Blessings
• Prayers
• The declaration of marriage

What traditions are there at a traditional wedding ceremony?

Many different weddings are steeped in traditions, which can take place before, during and after the day itself. As you might expect from the name, a traditional wedding ceremony also has heaps of traditions that have been around for hundreds of years. It’s up to you whether or not you include all of these in your own ceremony, you modernise them slightly, or remove them altogether.

Some of the most popular traditional wedding ceremony traditions include:

• The processional, which traditionally begins with the bride’s mum and ends with the bride and her father. However, there are plenty of ways to modernise this, with many brides walked down the aisle by their mum, both parents, brother, a friend or even on their own.
• The exchanging of rings, which are traditionally bands of precious metal. Many modern couples choose to forgo rings and pick from unique ring alternatives.
• Wedding attire, especially a white dress worn by the bride.
• Flower girls and page boys.
• Something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue.
• The bride wearing a veil, however, according to Dressarte Paris only 25% of modern brides wear a veil.
• The confetti shot is a staple of many wedding albums.

What is the order at a traditional wedding ceremony?

Every traditional wedding ceremony will generally follow the same kind of order, with slight variations based on beliefs and personal preferences. For more information, read our post on the ultimate wedding ceremony order, but the order will usually look a little bit like this:

1. The processional

The big moment – the start of your wedding ceremony! This is when everyone walks down the aisle as your family and friends sit on either side and watch (while trying not to well up). The traditional order of the processional is: 

• Bride’s mum
• Groom’s parents
• Bride’s grandparents
• Groom’s grandparents
• Groom
• Officiant
• Bridesmaids
• Maid of honour
• Best man
• Ring bearer or page boy
• Flower girl
• The bride and her father

Remember, the processional isn’t set in stone so you can make as many changes as you like. This is especially important if you’re an LGBTQ+ couple or simply aren’t interested in traditions.

2. The welcome

Once everyone has taken their seats and you and your partner are standing at the front, the officiant or celebrant will welcome everyone. If you have a celebrant, this is when they’ll begin their speech and talk about the two of you and your journey together up to this point.

3. A song or reading

Depending on your beliefs or preferences, the welcome may follow a hymn or reading. A hymn can be sung by everyone in attendance, a religious reading can be performed by the officiant, and a reading of poetry or lyrics can be done by a guest of your choosing.

4. Marriage ceremony

Finally, the most important part of your ceremony begins. This is when the two of you will exchange your vows and declaratory and contracting words. It’s at this stage when you’ll get to speak the two most memorable words of any wedding ceremony: I do!

5. Exchanging of the rings

Following the vows you’ll place your rings on each other’s fingers, which the best man traditionally holds on to for you. You’ll do this while the officiant prompts you to say a few more words about what the rings symbolise.

6. Declaration of marriage and first kiss

Here it is, you are now pronounced a married couple! All those months of planning were worth it to hear those wonderful words. The officiant will also invite you to share your first kiss as a married couple as your guests clap and cheer.

7. An optional song, reading or prayer

At this point, you might be keen to head off and celebrate, but you might also choose to include a second hymn or reading, or if it’s a religious ceremony, you may want a prayer.

8. The signing of the register

Next up is the legal bit, when you sign the marriage register in the company of two witnesses. Don’t worry, this doesn’t take long and your guests will be more than happy to wait.

9. The end of the ceremony 

The officiant will thank everyone for coming and invite them to celebrate with you at the breakfast or reception.

10. The recessional 

Music plays as you leave the venue as a happily married couple. Once outside, your photographer will work with everyone to create a fantastic confetti shot.

Then, you’ll take part in the customary photo session (so long as you chose to hire a photographer) and then make your way to the venue for your breakfast and/or evening reception – after all, you’ve got a lot of celebrating to do!

How do you plan a traditional wedding ceremony?

Planning a traditional wedding ceremony is something that comes with so many choices and variables that there’s plenty to consider. From the theme to the music and what to wear and who to include, you need to think about everything.

So, when planning your perfect wedding ceremony, consider the following things so nothing gets forgotten. For more information, read our guide on how to plan a wedding ceremony:

• Think about the overall vision you want for your wedding ceremony, including themes and traditions you might want to uphold.
• Once you know what you want from your ceremony, research to discover the types of venues, celebrants and officiants, florists and more that are out there and could help you achieve that vision. Visit, meet and speak with them before making any kind of booking.
• Create your ideal wedding ceremony order and discuss this with your chosen officiant. Talk to them about what you’d like to include.
• Think about your vows and whether you’d like to go with traditional vows or write your own. There’s no right choice, just whatever you’d prefer to go with.
• Coordinate your attire to make sure you and your wedding party complement each other.
• Discuss with chosen family and friends how you’d like to involve them in the ceremony, whether it’s being a bridesmaid, best man or performing a reading.
• Make sure everything you’ve chosen will be legally binding – you don’t want any unwelcome surprises as the big day approaches.
• Talk to each other every step of the way to make sure you’re both on the same page and have everything you want to be included.

Who plans a traditional wedding ceremony?

Usually, the couple will plan their own wedding ceremony. However, it’s common for many couples to ask for help and advice from friends and family along the way, especially if you’re looking for recommendations.

It’s also common for couples to hire a wedding planner, who can do either a full or part planning service. It takes some of the time-consuming, challenging and stressful jobs off your plate, so you can just get on with enjoying the wedding planning process. Just be aware that the average cost of a wedding planner is £1,891. That being said, they can also save you a lot of money by securing discounts along the way, so can sometimes pay for themselves in the long term.

What comes after a traditional wedding ceremony?

What happens after a traditional wedding ceremony is down to you. So, whether you want to head off for a three-course wedding breakfast with your guests, start partying with an evening reception, or simply whisk straight off on your honeymoon, you can.

Plan your wedding ceremony with Bridebook

Ready to plan your own traditional wedding ceremony? Sign up to Bridebook to get access to everything you need to plan your perfect wedding ceremony.

Browse other similar articles…

• The Ultimate Wedding Ceremony Guide
• The Ultimate Wedding Ceremony Order
• The Best Wedding Day Timeline
• How Long is a Wedding Ceremony?

Happy Planning!

Your wedding ceremony is the culmination of months of planning, where your friends and loved ones gather to celebrate the love between you and your partner. It’s a beautiful and romantic time when you start a new chapter of your life with your soulmate.

Did you know that the length of a wedding ceremony can vary depending on a number of factors? Everything from your religion to your personal preferences can have a huge effect on how long your wedding ceremony will be.

In this post, we’re going to take a look at how long wedding ceremonies are, including the different reasons for longer and shorter ceremonies, and the length of different types of ceremonies across the UK. 

What’s the average length of a wedding ceremony?

Because there are so many different types of wedding ceremonies in the UK with so many different variables, it’s hard to put an exact figure on how long a wedding ceremony lasts. Some religious ceremonies can last an hour or more, while non-religious ceremonies, like registry office weddings, might only last 10 minutes.

What factors can impact the length of a wedding ceremony?

The length of a wedding ceremony is determined by many factors, from the number of traditions you want to include to your budget. Every wedding has to follow some of the same steps to ensure the marriage is legal, and unless you’re having a religious ceremony that follows a set structure, you’re free to personalise it however you like.

Below are some of the factors that can impact the length of a wedding ceremony:

• Your religion and beliefs – Because there can be several traditions and rituals in religious wedding ceremonies that have to be included, they can sometimes be among the longest.
• Your culture – Many cultures have traditions that are important, for example, there are many black wedding traditions that couples like to include to honour their heritage.
• Your officiant or celebrant – Some officiants will want to engage your guests more than others, especially at a religious ceremony. Similarly, if you’ve hired a celebrant, their job is to add personalisation to your ceremony, which also means it’ll be on the longer side.
• Your budget – If you’re working with a smaller budget, you’re more likely to have a shorter ceremony as it means fewer personalisations.
• Your venue – Sometimes your chosen venue might have restrictions or limitations that mean you can’t include all of the personalisations you might like, or some aspects have to be shortened. This is especially true if you’re getting married outside and the weather isn’t on your side.
• Your preferences – At the end of the day, your wedding ceremony is all about you, so include (or remove) whatever you like to make sure it’s perfect.
• Your guests – The more guests you have, the longer your ceremony might take, especially if you have a large wedding party.
• The type of wedding – Some ceremonies are naturally longer than others, for example, a traditional wedding ceremony is around three or four times longer than a registry office wedding.

For more information, read our ultimate wedding ceremony guide.

Why are wedding ceremonies relatively short?

Your wedding ceremony will be one of the most memorable times of your life. And yet it’ll be over in what feels like a flash! So why are wedding ceremonies often so short? Here are just a few reasons:

• They’re a legal process – Some legal processes can be drawn out and laborious… but thankfully, getting married isn’t one of them. There are surprisingly few legal steps to take, which are mainly making declaratory and contracting vows and signing the register. Religious ceremonies take a little longer as you’re not only making a promise to each other (and your loved ones), but also to God.
• They’re emotionally charged – Weddings are super emotional, with parents, grandparents and others crying lots of happy tears. Now just imagine how draining it would be if the ceremony went on for a long time!
• They follow traditions – Throughout history, wedding ceremonies haven’t really changed all that much, and still include many of the same traditions and structures as they have for hundreds of years. Though you probably didn’t see as many photographers around at medieval weddings, so a few things might have changed a tad.
• They suit your guests – Sitting still for a long time can be tough, especially for younger guests. Shorter ceremonies mean there’s little risk of some guests getting fidgety. Plus, the shorter a ceremony is, the quicker you can get to celebrating with your loved ones!

How long are different types of wedding ceremonies?

From traditional wedding ceremonies to Hindu wedding ceremonies, no two are ever exactly alike. Some might last a few minutes, while others could go on for well over an hour. Below, we’ll take a look at a variety of different wedding ceremonies and let you know approximately how long they last.

How long is a traditional wedding ceremony?

A traditional wedding ceremony is usually between 45 and 60 minutes, but this can vary slightly depending on your personal preferences. For example, if you choose to include readings or hymns, it will push your ceremony closer to 60 minutes.

Traditional ceremonies are among the most popular types of ceremonies in the UK. They can take place in a wide variety of venues, are highly customisable and couples of many faiths can have one. They include a lot of the most recognisable parts of a UK wedding ceremony, including the processional, the declaration, the first kiss and the signing of the register.

How long is a registry office wedding ceremony?

A registry office wedding is one of the shortest ceremonies you can have, with most taking around 10 to 15 minutes. They don’t include any references to religion and quickly get to the legal process without a lot of the pageantry that comes with traditional ceremonies.

Usually, after the officiant welcomes you and your guests, you’ll go straight to the vows. If you’ve chosen to have one, this may follow a reading before the rings are exchanged and you go on to sign the register. 

How long is a Catholic wedding ceremony?

When you have a Catholic wedding, which always takes place in a church and is officiated by a priest, it often includes a communion and full mass. When it does, a ceremony will take around an hour, but if it doesn’t it’ll take around 45 minutes.

A Catholic wedding not only focuses on your commitment to each other, but also on the commitment you’re making to God, which is why it’s often longer than a traditional wedding ceremony.

How long is a Jewish wedding ceremony?

A Jewish wedding ceremony will often last around 30 to 45 minutes. The ceremony usually includes a lot of Jewish wedding ceremony traditions, such as the breaking of the glass and the circling of the fire.

How long is a Muslim wedding ceremony?

A Muslim wedding ceremony, known as a Nikah, typically lasts between 30 and 45 minutes. However, this doesn’t include the toble, which takes place before the ceremony itself. There are several traditions, such as the Nikah-Namah and Savaqah, which are included in most Muslim wedding traditions.

How long is a Hindu wedding ceremony?

A Hindu wedding ceremony, much like the overall celebrations, is one the longest around. Because there are so many traditions, a ceremony will usually take around 90 minutes. Some of the traditions include the milni, kanyadaan and jaimala exchange.

Following the ceremony, the celebrations and festivities can go on for days – sometimes for as long as five!

How long is a non-denominational wedding ceremony?

Most non-denominational weddings last between 30 and 45 minutes, but they can be longer or shorter. The great thing about a non-denominational wedding is that it’s super personalised, so can be as long or short as you want it to be.

Plan your perfect wedding with Bridebook

Now that you know how long many of the UK’s most popular wedding ceremonies last, you can start planning your own big day and make it as personal to you as you like. Sign up to Bridebook for all the handy tools, information and resources you need to plan the wedding of your dreams.

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Happy Planning!

Your wedding ceremony is the biggest and most important moment of your entire wedding day. It’s the culmination of months or even years of planning, and you’ll be running on excitement and adrenaline as you tie the knot with the love of your life, as your family and friends gather to watch.

But what exactly happens at a wedding ceremony? Are they all the same? How do you know what to say and when, and how can you make sure it goes ahead perfectly?

Thankfully, throughout the ceremony, there are professionals to guide you through the process. That doesn’t mean you can’t find out how your ceremony might go down even before you’ve secured a date. So, in this post, we’re going to take a deep dive into different wedding ceremony orders, including those from various cultures, beliefs and religions commonly found across the UK.

Are all wedding ceremony orders the same?

No, not all wedding ceremonies follow the same order. Many ceremonies will contain a lot of the same elements, but they might be in a different order, be longer or shorter, or have different references to religions and traditions.

One of the only things that have to follow the same basic rules at every wedding ceremony in the UK are the declaratory words and contracting words – but even then, there may be some small differences.

Some of the things that can influence a wedding ceremony’s order of events include:

• Cultural and religious traditions – For example, ceremonies at a place of worship will likely include references to God and have hymns, prayers and readings from religious texts.
• The type of wedding – The type of wedding will play a huge part. For example, a traditional wedding will almost always have a longer order than a registry office wedding.
• The celebrant – A celebrant brings a huge amount of personalisation to a wedding ceremony, telling stories to engage you and your guests. This means a ceremony with a celebrant tends to be longer than one without.
• Your budget – If you have a smaller budget, you can opt for a shorter ceremony which means you’re likely to pay less than if you had a longer ceremony.
• The venue – Certain venues may have limitations, or if you’re getting married outside it could influence the order – especially if it threatens to rain.
• Personal preferences – Apart from the legal bit, you have complete control over what you include in your ceremony (especially if it’s a non-religious ceremony). So, if you’d like readings, songs and poetry, you can. Or, if you’d like a short ceremony, this is absolutely fine too.
• The size of your wedding party – If you’re having a small and more intimate wedding, you may not want to include certain aspects of a traditional wedding, such as the processional or confetti shot.

Fore more information, read our ultimate wedding ceremony guide.

How long is a wedding ceremony?

The length of a wedding ceremony can differ massively. A traditional wedding ceremony will last around 45 minutes, while a religious ceremony will be around an hour or more. However, a registry office wedding ceremony is comparatively much shorter, and will usually last around 10 or 15 minutes.

For more information about the length of different types of ceremonies, read our post on how long a wedding ceremony takes.

What is the order at a wedding ceremony?

The order at a wedding ceremony is the sequence in which everything happens, from the moment it begins to the moment it ends and you’re legally declared a married couple. As we’ve already highlighted, the order of service at a wedding differs depending on a lot of different factors, from religious beliefs to personal preferences. Below, we’ll take a look at different wedding ceremony orders across a variety of religions and cultures found throughout the UK.

What is a traditional wedding ceremony order?

A traditional wedding ceremony is one of the most popular ways for couples to tie the knot in the UK. A traditional ceremony will last around 45 to 60 minutes, depending on your personal preferences and what you’d like to be included, such as readings.

Here’s the order of events at a traditional wedding ceremony in the UK:

1. The processional

This is the moment when your excitement will be at its highest and your wedding ceremony begins. After your guests are seated and settled, the music you’ve chosen will play and the processional will start. The traditional order is:

1. Bride’s mum
2. Groom’s parents
3. Bride’s grandparents
4. Groom’s grandparents
5. Groom
6. Officiant
7. Bridesmaids
8. Maid of honour
9. Best man
10. Ring bearer or page boy
11. Flower girl
12. The bride and her father

Of course, this all depends on the size of your wedding and your own circumstances and preferences. This might be the traditional order, but even at a traditional wedding, you don’t need to stick to it. If you’re an LGBTQ+ couple, you may even choose to walk down the aisle together. Do whatever feels right and what makes the two of you happy on your big day.

2. The welcome

At the end of the procession, your family and friends will take their seats as you and your bridesmaids and groomsmen join you at the front (or altar if you’re having a church wedding ceremony). The officiant will then welcome everyone and thank them for being there on your special day. If you’ve hired a celebrant, they’ll introduce you using stories and humour and add an extra level of personalisation that draws everyone in.

3. A song or reading

Before the marriage ceremony commences, you may have chosen to have a song or reading. These are very common at religious ceremonies, but also something you can include in a non-religious or multi-faith ceremony. You could include your favourite hymn, or ask a loved one to do a reading that means something to you, such as a poem, song lyrics or an extract from a book or play.

4. Marriage ceremony

Next, the part you’ve been waiting for. The officiant will address you to tell you about the commitment you’re making to each other and how important the vows you’re about to exchange are. They’ll ask your guests whether anyone knows of any reason why you may not be married… and you’ll probably hold your breath, even though you know you don’t have anything to worry about!

Then it’s time for the two of you to exchange vows. Many couples choose to repeat short sentences fed to them by the officiant, but you may also want to write your own vows. There’s no right answer or choice here – it’s up to you and what you feel comfortable and happy with.

After the vows, you’ll get to say I do as you and your partner lock eyes. It’s at this stage when your loved ones will be well and truly crying with happiness.

5. Exchanging of the rings

It’s time for the two of you to exchange rings (or another symbolic exchange if you’ve chosen ring alternatives). If you have a best man, they may have been holding on to these for you, which they’ll hand to the officiant. You’ll then exchange some more words, this time about how the rings symbolise your love, as you slip them on each other’s fingers.

6. Declaration of marriage and first kiss

Next, the officiant will say the words you’ve been waiting for so long to hear: By the power vested in me, I now pronounce you husband and wife (or a variation of this for LGBTQ+ couples). They’ll also invite you to share your first kiss, and you’ll happily oblige as your friends and family celebrate and your photographer snaps some fantastic photos.

7. An optional song, reading or prayer

With a religious ceremony, there may be another song, reading or prayer here. This is something you may also want to include in a non-religious ceremony, and is a great way to involve another family member or friend in your ceremony.

8. The signing of the register

For your marriage to be legal, you and your new spouse will have to sign a marriage register in the company of two witnesses. This should only take around 10 minutes and music will play as your guests happily wait for you.

9. The end of the ceremony

Once you’ve signed the register, the officiant will thank your guests for attending and announce that you’d like them to join you at the breakfast or reception to celebrate.

10. The recessional

Music will play as the two of you leave the venue hand in hand, as a newly married couple. Outside, your guests will have lined up (under instruction from your photographer) so they can throw confetti over you as your photographer takes some wonderful pictures for your wedding album.

11. The photographs

Before heading on to the breakfast, your photographer will take a series of photographs with your family and friends, as well as plenty with just the two of you. These will be in and around the venue, and maybe elsewhere if you’ve asked for something specific.

12. On to the breakfast or reception

After the photographs, you and your new spouse will then make your way to the venue for your wedding breakfast or reception and an evening of celebrating with your loved ones.

What is a registry office wedding ceremony order?

A registry office wedding is far more affordable than a traditional wedding, and is also a lot shorter – many last just 10 minutes. It’s a brilliant way to show your commitment to your partner if you don’t have a large budget or you don’t want the fuss of a big wedding.

Because the ceremony is so much shorter and can’t contain religious elements, there are far fewer elements than there are in a traditional ceremony. An example registry office wedding ceremony will follow an order similar to this:

1. Pre-ceremony meeting

Before the ceremony officially begins, you’ll meet with the registrar (either separately or together) just to check that all the details are correct. Once confirmed, the ceremony can begin.

2. The processional

Because registry office weddings are more intimate, the wedding party will be smaller than at a traditional wedding. However, you can still have bridesmaids, groomsmen, a page boy and flower girl if you like.

You can also choose the music you’d like to play, but it can’t be a hymn or religious piece of music.

3. The welcome

Once you’re both at the front and your guests are seated, the registrar welcomes everyone to the ceremony.

4. The legal declaration and contracting vows

The registrar will run through the words each of you has to repeat as part of the declaration and vows, which you can choose ahead of the ceremony.

5. The readings

If you choose to include readings, such as a poem or lyrics from a song, they’ll usually come after the vows. Like the music, they also can’t have any religious elements.

6. The exchanging of the rings

The registrar will then ask for the rings (which your best man may be holding on to) and you’ll give them to one another while saying personal vows. These can be fed to you by the registrar or you can write your own non-religious vows.

7. The declaration of marriage and first kiss

Now, the registrar will declare you married and invite you to share your first kiss as a married couple.

8. The signing of the register

The two of you, as well as your witnesses, will sign the register so your marriage is legally binding. You can also choose the music to play while your guests wait.

9. The photographs

The two of you can pose for photographs with your certificate, which may be family or friends or an official photographer if you choose to hire one.

10. The recessional

The registrar will end the ceremony and announce that you’d like your guests to join you if you’re moving on to a venue for a breakfast or reception. As you exit, you can have another piece of music of your choosing playing.

11. More photographs and the confetti shot

If you’ve hired a photographer, they’ll work with your guests to set up the perfect confetti shot. We recommend you speak to the venue ahead of time to make sure they’re happy with you using confetti (as there can sometimes be restrictions on this).

The photographer will then direct you and your guests so you can have photos taken for your wedding album.

12. On to the breakfast or reception

If you’ve chosen to have a breakfast or reception after the ceremony, you’ll make your way to the event to spend time celebrating your marriage with your loved ones.

What is a Catholic wedding ceremony order?

A Catholic wedding ceremony is a highly religious ceremony, because the Church believes that marriage is not only a promise between a couple, but also to God. As a result, all Catholic wedding ceremonies take place in a church.

The order is similar to that of a traditional wedding ceremony, but with several noticeable differences. Below is what you might see as part of a Catholic wedding ceremony order, which doesn’t allow for as many personalisations as a traditional ceremony.

1. The processional

The processional begins with the priest first walking down the aisle to the altar, followed by the wedding party which follows the same order as a traditional ceremony, which is:

1. Bride’s mum
2. Groom’s parents
3. Bride’s grandparents
4. Groom’s grandparents
5. Groom
6. Officiant
7. Bridesmaids
8. Maid of honour
9. Best man
10. Ring bearer or page boy
11. Flower girl
12. The bride and her father

2. The entrance rites

The priest will welcome guests and begin with a prayer and rites. Because at least one side of the family has to be Catholic in order for the church to allow the ceremony to take place within the church, guests are expected to take part. A Catholic wedding isn’t always celebrated with a Mass, but they often are, especially if both families are Catholic.

3. The readings

Ahead of the ceremony, some of your guests will be asked to read passages from the Bible; one from the Old Testament and another from the New Testament. One of these readings will be about marriage, and your guests will repeat the Responsorial Psalm. 

4. The gospel

Your guests will stand and the priest will read a passage from either Matthew, Mark, Luke or John, which will most likely be linked to love or marriage. 

5. The homily

The priest will give a speech or sermon known as a homily, which explains the meaning behind the gospel and how it relates to the commitment you’re about to make to each other.

6. The vows

Next, you will recite or read your vows, otherwise known as a rite of marriage. These are set vows and you can’t add any personalisations. However, instead, you may ask the priest to read the vows so you can respond with I do.

7. The ring ceremony

The priest will ask the best man (or whoever else is holding them) for the rings, which they will bless with a prayer and holy water. The priest will then ask you to recite some words as each of you place the rings on each other’s fingers.

8. The offertory

Ahead of the ceremony, you will have asked several guests to offer gifts during the ceremony, which they will do now. Meanwhile, your other guests will be given the opportunity to offer a monetary donation. The priest brings forward and blesses the bread and wine, known as the Liturgy of the Eucharist.

9. The Lord’s Prayer

The congregation will recite the Lord’s Prayer.

10. The sign of peace

The priest will encourage all guests to greet each other with a handshake as a way to symbolise neighbourly love.

11. Holy Communion

Like at Mass, guests will gather at the altar to be offered bread and wine, which signifies the body and blood of Jesus. It symbolises a new covenant that God gives to His followers.

12. The first kiss

The priest will encourage you to share your first kiss as a married couple. If the bride is wearing a veil, the groom will lift it first.

13. The nuptial blessing

The priest will bless your guests with a prayer, which will end with the line go in peace, which guests will respond to by saying thanks be to God.

14. The recessional

The wedding party will walk back down the aisle in reverse order and leave the church for the confetti shot and photographs. Then, everyone will make their way to the next venue for the wedding breakfast and reception.

What is a Jewish wedding ceremony order?

A Jewish wedding ceremony will usually take place in a synagogue, which is the name of a Jewish place of worship. The bride’s family will sit on the right-hand side, while the groom’s family sit on the left. A Jewish wedding ceremony will follow an order similar to the below:

1. The ketubah

Before the ceremony begins, the two of you will sign the marriage contract, known as the ketubah.

2. The bedeken

The bedeken is the name given to the ritual where the groom veils the bride before the ceremony, so he can see her face and know who he’s marrying.

3. The processional

The rabbi will begin a Jewish wedding ceremony by walking down the aisle followed by the rest of the wedding party in the following order:

1. Bride’s grandparents
2. Groom’s grandparents
3. Groomsmen
4. Best man
5. The groom and both parents
6. Bridesmaids
7. Maid of honour
8. Ring bearer
9. Flower girl
10. The bride and both parents

4. The vows

You will stand together under the chuppah, a canopy supported by four poles at the front, which symbolises the new home being created, and you’ll recite your vows.

5. The hakafot

Traditionally, the bride walks around the groom seven times, which is a gesture that symbolises protection. Many modern Jewish weddings will switch this up slightly, with the bride and groom each circling one another.

6. The exchanging of the rings

The ketubah which was signed before the ceremony is read aloud as the groom gives the bride her ring. There may also be a prayer which is traditionally in Hebrew, but in modern Jewish weddings, it may be recited in English.

7. The seven blessings

The seven blessings, also known as Sheva Brachot, are chanted by the rabbi or another guest of your choosing. This may also be in Hebrew or English. The bride then gives the groom his ring.

8. The breaking of the glass

A glass is placed on the floor beneath a cloth or napkin, and the groom stamps on it to break it. This symbolises the fragility of marriage, and how it has to be looked after so it doesn’t break. This is usually followed by a reading from Psalms.

9. Mazel tov

Guests are then invited to shout mazel tov! which is Hebrew for congratulations.

10. The recessional

The wedding party leaves the synagogue, as guests clap and cheer, in the following order:

1. The couple
2. Bride’s parents
3. Groom’s parents
4. Bride’s grandparents
5. Groom’s grandparents
6. Flower girl
7. Ring bearer
8. Best man
9. Maid of honour
10. Bridesmaids
11. Groomsmen
12. Rabbi

What is a Muslim wedding ceremony order?

A Muslim wedding ceremony, otherwise known as a Nikah, usually takes place in a mosque, a Muslim place of worship. Guests are asked to remove their shoes before entering the mosque, and men and women often sit separately during the ceremony. The mosque prayer leader, known as an Imam, will usually be the officiant.

The ceremony itself is usually fairly short, and will be completed within around 30 minutes. It will usually follow an order similar to the below:

1. The toble

Before the ceremony, the groom will speak to the bride’s parents to ask their permission to marry their daughter, which is known as the toble. Once the groom has permission, everyone will say a prayer called Surah Fatiha.

2. The mehr

The mehr is a gift, a little bit like a traditional dowry, given to the bride by the groom. The engagement ring may be considered the mehr, but it could also include other gifts or money.

3. The consent

Without seeing each other, the bride and groom need to give their consent. To do this, they must say qubool hai three times to the officiant.

4. The Nikah-Namah

The Nikah-Namah is the name of the Muslim marriage contract that the two of you will sign. Beforehand, it’s read aloud in Arabic by the officiant so everyone can hear.

5. The readings

The officiant will read verses from the Quran as part of a short sermon, at which point you will officially become married.

6. Savaqah

The final part of the ceremony is known as Savaqah, which is when gifts are given to those in need. In the case of a wedding ceremony, money is thrown at the bride.

Following the ceremony, you are joined by your guests to celebrate your marriage at the reception, which is usually at a different venue, such as a hotel. This begins with the zaffe, which is when the bride’s father walks her to the groom accompanied by music.

What is a Hindu wedding ceremony order?

Hindu wedding ceremonies are among the longest in the world, often lasting many days as you’re joined by your guests to mark the occasion. A Hindu wedding ceremony isn’t legally binding in the UK, so beforehand you need to marry at a registry office, and then have the religious ceremony and celebrations afterwards. The ceremony is usually officiated by a Brahmin priest.

Before the day of the ceremony will also be Mehndi, which is when the bride’s family organises for the couple to come together so they can paint delicate henna designs on their hands and feet. This is similar to Haldi, when older female members of the family make a paste from turmeric and paint it onto the bride and groom to symbolise cleansing.

The actual Hindu ceremony itself will last around 90 minutes, and the order will follow something similar to the below:

1. The baraat

The baraat is the name given to the groom’s arrival, which he will traditionally do while riding a white horse, but in many modern Hindu weddings, the groom may prefer to ride in a car, like a sports car or convertible.

2. The milni

The milni is a meeting between the groom and the bride’s parents and friends. He may be presented with a gift known as a shagun, which is supposed to bring him good luck.

3. The bride enters

The bride walks down the aisle being escorted by male family members. Traditionally it might be her brothers or uncles, but more brides are choosing to be accompanied by their fathers. The bride joins the groom, his parents, the bride’s mother and the priest at the front.

4. Kanyadaan

This is when the bride’s father gives away his daughter, which is a long-standing Hindu tradition. In kanyadaan, the bride’s father takes her right hand and places it in the groom’s right hand. He then asks him to treat her as his equal.

5. The jaimala exchange

The two of you exchange jaimala, which are garlands made from fresh flowers. It symbolises you accepting each other into your lives. The priest will then say a prayer in Sanskrit.

6. Havan

A sacred fire is lit to invite the deity Agni, the fire God, to rid you of darkness and bring you eternal light and knowledge. The bride gives an offering called homam, which can be rice and flowers.

7. Mangal Fera

Next, the groom leads the bride around the first three times, followed by the bride leading once. Each pass, known as a fera, represents one of life’s goals:

1. Dharma (morality)
2. Artha (prosperity)
3. Kama (positive energy)
4. Moksha (liberation)

As you complete the feras, the priest chants holy Mantras. Following this, you might race to take your seats, with tradition dictating that whoever sits first will be the head of the household. So you best make sure you wear some decent running shoes!

8. Saptapadi

To symbolise friendship, which is an important foundation for any Hindu marriage, you will take seven steps together, which may be around the holy fire. With each step you make a vow, and once all seven steps are complete you are officially married.

9. Sindhoor and Mangal Sutra

The groom puts sindhoor, an orange or red powder, in the bride’s hair.  The groom then gives the bride a gold necklace, which is a symbol of love and respect, which, traditionally, she would only remove if her husband were to die.

10. The final blessings

The ceremony comes to an end as elders recite prayers and readings, and your guests offer their congratulations. Traditionally this is married women, who whisper good wishes into the bride’s right ear.

11. Talambralu

Talambralu is the end of the ceremony and is a happiness ritual, when you both bless one another by throwing rice, turmeric and saffron, which symbolises wealth and prosperity for your life ahead.

12. Ashirwad

To thank your guests for coming, you bow your heads to them as they offer blessings and well-wishes to you. Guests will also throw rice and flowers at you in celebration.

Following the ceremony, there’s likely to be several days of celebrating and festivities, with food, drink, music and games.

What is a non-denominational wedding ceremony order?

A non-denominational wedding ceremony is generally a ceremony that doesn’t have a specific religious connection, and is relatively similar to a traditional wedding. It offers the couple the chance to have a personalised wedding and includes different traditions and rituals that aren’t tied to a specific religion.

Below is an example of what a non-denominational wedding ceremony order might look like:

1. The processional

The wedding party walks down the aisle, usually in the following order:

1. The officiant (anyone who has been ordained)
2. The groom
3. Best man
4. Groomsmen
5. Bridesmaids
6. Maid of honour
7. Ring bearer
8. Flower girl
9. The bride (with one or both parents)

Alternatively, the groom may want to stand at the altar before the processional starts, having entered from the side.

2. The welcome

The officiant welcomes everyone to the ceremony and will speak about you and the significance of marriage.

3. The readings

This is when a guest of your choosing will perform a reading, which might be a poem, song lyrics or a quote from a play or book. At a non-denominational wedding, readings can be from religious texts as well. 

4. The unity candle

To symbolise unity, the pair of you lights a candle as the officiant gives a short sermon about commitment.

5. The unifying ritual

At this point in a non-denominational wedding ceremony, you will take part in a ritual that symbolises the two of you uniting as one. Because non-denominational ceremonies are so customisable, this could be religious or not. Popular unifying rituals include:

• Releasing a lantern
• Handfasting
• Pouring sand
• Circling
• Jumping the broom
• Planting a tree
• Pouring tea or wine

6. The exchanging of vows

Next, you’ll exchange your vows, which you may have written yourselves (to either read or memorise) or have them fed to you by the officiant. You may also choose to say I do, one of the most exciting things to say over the whole wedding. Again, this is something you’re in control of, so do whatever makes you happy.

7. The exchanging of rings

You’ll then place wedding rings on each other’s fingers while reciting or repeating lines given to you by the officiant. If you’ve chosen not to wear rings, you may exchange another item of significance.

8. The declaration of marriage and first kiss

The officiant will declare you as married and invite you to share your first kiss in front of cheering family and friends.

9. The recessional

Finally, you walk back down the aisle, followed by the wedding party (in the opposite order to how everyone entered during the processional). Then it’s outside for the confetti shot and photographs before heading off to celebrate at your wedding breakfast and/or reception.

Plan your perfect wedding with Bridebook

Now that you know the order of many common wedding ceremonies in the UK, you can start planning your own big day. Sign up to Bridebook to discover all the tools, information and resources you need to make planning fun and simple.

• The Ultimate Wedding Ceremony Guide
• How to Plan a Wedding: Our Step-By-Step Wedding Planning Guide
• The Best Wedding Day Timeline
• How Long is a Wedding Ceremony?

Browse other similar articles…

• The Ultimate Wedding Ceremony Guide
• The Best Wedding Day Timeline
• How Long is a Wedding Ceremony?
• Everything You Need to Know about Page Boys
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Happy Planning!

When planning your perfect wedding day, you might not be sure where to start. You might know what your ideal ceremony, venue, food, cake and everything else looks like, but one of the biggest questions you may have is how exactly they all fit together.

Organising a wedding is a little bit like putting a jigsaw together, only you don’t have instructions so you have to do it the best you can. One of the key parts of this is creating a wedding day timeline so everyone knows where they have to be, what time they have to be there and what’s going to happen once they’re there.

In this post, we’re going to explore what the best wedding day timeline might look like, including what order everything happens throughout the typical wedding day, how long each part usually takes and the most popular time couples choose to have the ceremony.

Do all weddings follow the same timeline?

No, not all weddings follow the same timeline. However, every wedding you go to will generally follow a timeline that is at the very least reminiscent of every other wedding you might have been to. Whether you choose to have a traditional wedding, religious wedding, registry office wedding, destination wedding or something else entirely, there will always be some similarities – especially at the ceremony itself, which has to follow certain legal processes.

Some of the major factors that can influence a wedding day timeline include:

• Cultural and religious traditions – For example, many Indian weddings span over several days and there are a lot of black wedding traditions that also go beyond the big day.
• The type of wedding – A traditional wedding will often last from late morning through until late at night, while a destination wedding might only last a couple of hours.
• The time of the ceremony – Traditionally, couples get married around lunchtime, but twilight weddings are quickly becoming more popular and start much later in the day.
• The formality – Less formal weddings will usually have a more relaxed structure as they’re often far more intimate.
• The size of your guest list – The larger your guest list is, the more likely you’ll need to allow extra time for arrivals, transport, seating, photos and more.
• The time of year – Believe it or not, the season your wedding takes place in can also have an effect, especially during the winter when you might need to account for icy or snowy conditions.
• The location of your venues – The location of your venues (if your ceremony and breakfast/reception venue aren’t at the same place), specifically if they’re far apart from each other, can potentially slow things down.
• Personal preferences – Finally, your own personal preferences can dictate your wedding day timeline. At the end of the day, it’s your big day, so do whatever makes you happy.

What time does a wedding ceremony usually take place?

In the UK, the majority of wedding ceremonies start between 11am and 2pm. However, depending on the type of wedding you have, this can vary. For example, many religious wedding ceremonies start in the late morning, while ceremonies at registry offices tend to start in the afternoon. Of course, if you’ve chosen to have a twilight wedding, it will start much later in the day, often as it starts to get dark, which can be at different times depending on the season you’re getting married in.

For a detailed look at everything to do with wedding ceremonies, read our ultimate wedding ceremony guide.

What is the longest part of a wedding?

Generally, the longest part of your wedding day will be the evening reception, which will last around four or five hours (though this can be longer if you’ve invited a few party animals). This is usually a couple of hours longer than the next longest part of your big day, which is the wedding breakfast. The breakfast can last around two to three hours, including time for the speeches.

What is the shortest part of a wedding?

Believe it or not, despite months (or even years) of planning, the shortest part of a couple’s wedding day is often the ceremony itself. The ceremony takes approximately 45 minutes from the moment the procession starts, though it can sometimes be longer, such as with a religious ceremony where there might be hymns and readings.

A registry office wedding or civil ceremony can be as short as 10 minutes, but  longer if you want to include extras like readings, or if you’ve hired a celebrant.

How long do various parts of a wedding day take?

To give you an idea as to how long various parts of your wedding day will take, you can use the below times as an approximation when planning your big day.

Getting ready (including hair, makeup and getting dressed) – Approximately two hours. This may take longer if the artist you’ve hired is also doing the bridesmaids’ hair and makeup.

Pre-wedding photos (bridal party and groomsmen) – 30 to 45 minutes.

Ceremony – 45 to 60 minutes, but this can vary depending on whether it’s a religious ceremony or you have specific personal preferences. Registry office weddings can be as short and sweet as 10 minutes.

Photographs – Around one hour, but it can depend on the size of your wedding party and whether you have to travel to a specific location to take photos.

Reception drinks – Approximately an hour, which may start while you and your new spouse are having photos taken. It gives time for everyone to have a drink and unwind before the breakfast. You might want to add 10 or 15 minutes if you’re having a receiving line to welcome guests to the reception venue.

Wedding breakfast – Around two to two and a half hours, depending on the type of food you’re serving and the number of courses. This may be shorter if you have a great catering and serving team.

Speeches – This varies depending on who’s giving a speech, but there are usually at least three speeches; the father of the bride, the groom and the best man. Allow 10 minutes per speaker, so around 30 minutes in total, though this might be longer if others wish to say a few words as well.

Cutting of the cake – 5 to 10 minutes, but most of that is the time taken getting everyone together and allowing people to take photographs.

Evening reception – Once evening guests arrive, usually between 7pm and 8pm, the evening reception will go on for the rest of the night, which depends on you, your guests and the venue. The evening reception will usually last at least four hours and will often include food, such as a buffet, as well as drinks and music (and some dancing, of course).

What does a wedding timeline look like?

If you’re struggling to visualise what your wedding day timeline might look like when all of the elements come together, check out our handy quick reference infographic below. This provides a breakdown of the various parts of your wedding and their corresponding approximate times.

What is a typical wedding timeline?

Depending on the type of wedding you have, wedding timelines can have a few key differences. Below are some examples of how you might expect a wedding day to look based on some of the most popular types of weddings couples go for.

Example traditional wedding day timeline

As we highlighted above, traditional wedding ceremonies commonly start between 11am and 2pm. The below example of a traditional wedding day timeline is what your day might look like if your ceremony were to start at midday.

7am – Your alarm goes off and it’s time for a shower (speak to your hairstylist beforehand about whether or not you should wash your hair that morning or not).

7.30am – Breakfast. Don’t skip this step because you’ve got a long day ahead of you. You might want your bridesmaids/groomsmen to join you and start the celebrations early with a crafty Buck’s Fizz or mimosa.

8am – If you’ve hired a photographer, they’ll arrive to capture everyone getting ready. Your hair and makeup artist(s) will likely arrive around the same time.

8.15am – Hair and makeup starts on the bridal party (if they’re doing it for them).

9am – The flowers and bouquets are delivered and the vendors you’ve hired will arrive at the venue to start setting everything up.

9.30am – The bride’s hair and makeup start.

10.30am – The bride gets dressed. At the same time, the groom will head to the venue to begin greeting guests.

11am – Bridal party photos and the wedding transport arrives (if you need it).

11.30am – The bride sets off for the venue as your final guests arrive.

11.45am – Your guests are asked to take their seats.

11.55am – The bride arrives at the venue and everyone takes their place. The photographer will take some last-minute photos of the bride and whoever she is walking down the aisle with.

12pm – The ceremony starts.

12.45pm – The ceremony ends and the couple leaves the venue with the photographer for photographs, also joined by friends and family.

1pm – Guests head to the breakfast and reception venue (if elsewhere). Canapés and a welcome drink may be served.

1.30pm – The couple arrives at the venue.

1.45pm – Everyone takes a seat for the wedding breakfast.

2pm – The starters and main courses are served.

3.15pm – The wait staff start pouring flutes of fizz for the speeches.

3.30pm – The speeches start, usually with the father of the bride.

4pm – Dessert is served.

4.45pm – Guests leave the dining area so it can be turned around for the evening reception. The couple mingles with guests.

6.30pm – Evening guests start to arrive.

7pm – The cutting of the cake.

7.15pm – The couple may have ‘golden hour’ photographs if the location and weather are suitable.

7.30pm – The evening reception starts with a DJ and/or live music.

7.45pm – The first dance.

8pm – The evening buffet is opened.

9pm – You and your guests enjoy celebrating your wedding.

11.45pm – The couple leaves the venue.

12pm – The evening reception finishes and your guests leave the venue.

Example registry office wedding day timeline

Registry office weddings are the most affordable type of wedding, which means they don’t usually include as many individual steps. If you’re having a registry office wedding, it might follow something similar to the following timeline:

8am to 10.30am – A leisurely morning, ensuring you have a good breakfast. If you have a small budget, this is a great time to visit a hairstylist and make-up artist, as going to them rather than them coming to you keeps costs down.

11am – Get ready with family and friends close by.

12.30pm – Set off for the registry office.

12.50pm – Arrive at the registry office and your guests take their seats. If you’ve hired a photographer they will begin taking photos.

1pm – The ceremony begins.

1.15pm – The ceremony ends.

1.30pm – A short photography session outside the registry office with the couple and friends and family.

2.15pm – A meal at a local restaurant or hotel, including the speeches.

6pm – The wedding party moves on to a different local venue, such as a pub or hotel, to host a party for wider family and friends. This will include the cutting of the cake, the first dance and a buffet. However, this all depends on your budget and preferences.

Read our guide to saving money on a registry office wedding for lots of cost-cutting information.

Example twilight wedding timeline

A twilight wedding starts much later in the day, which means there’s not as much time as with a traditional wedding. However, many of the same things are still included, just condensed, which makes it great for getting married on a budget.

8am to 2pm – A leisurely morning and lunchtime spent with family and friends. You may take the time to relax (a morning spa session with the rest of the bridal party goes down a treat) or visit your local beauty stylist to save money on hair and makeup.

3pm – You start to get ready as vendors arrive at the venue to prepare. If you’ve hired a professional stylist and photographer, they’ll also arrive around this time.

4.30pm – The groom arrives at the venue to welcome guests.

5pm – The bride gets dressed.

5.30pm – The bride leaves for the venue.

5.45pm – Guests take their seats.

5.55pm – The bride arrives at the venue and everyone gets into position.

6pm – The ceremony begins.

6.45pm – The ceremony ends.

7pm – The couple and their guests take photographs to take advantage of the setting sun.

8pm – Depending on what you’ve decided to do, the wedding breakfast or evening reception and buffet will begin. This will also include the speeches, cutting of the cake and first dance.

11.45pm – The couple leaves the venue.

12pm – The reception finishes and your guests leave the venue.

Plan your perfect wedding with Bridebook

Now that you know some rough timelines that wedding days often follow, you can start planning your own big day exactly as you like it. Sign up to Bridebook to get access to all the tools, information and resources you need so you can plan your perfect wedding.

Browse other similar articles…

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Happy Planning!

Your wedding day will be filled with love, excitement and magic. Months or even years of planning will finally become reality as your family and friends gather to spend time with you as you and your partner come together as one. The entire day will be a whirlwind of emotions, but at no point will your emotions be quite as high as they are during your wedding ceremony – the moment when you and your partner exchange vows and tell the world about your commitment to one another.

With such an important moment not just on your wedding day, but potentially your entire life, you likely have a ton of questions bouncing around in your mind. What’s the traditional order? How do you give your loved ones a role in your wedding? How do you find the perfect venue, words to say, decorations, celebrant and more?

Yes, there’s a lot to think about when it comes to your wedding ceremony, but that doesn’t mean it has to be scary or overwhelming. All it takes is a little bit of research to make sure everything is checked off.

That’s where we come in. In this guide, we’re going to explore everything you need to know about a wedding ceremony, from the planning right up to the moment you’re stood at the altar and beyond. Then, to help with planning your very own wedding, sign up to Bridebook for all the resources and tools you could need to make it as simple as possible.

What’s the significance of a wedding ceremony?

The wedding ceremony is the heart and soul of your wedding day. It’s the big moment you’ve been waiting for since the day you got engaged and promised to spend your life loving and caring for your partner. The wedding ceremony is the culmination of a long and chaotic wedding planning journey and is the moment the two of you start your marriage both from a spiritual and legal point of view.

It’s often what many couples consider to be the most nerve-wracking part of a wedding. It’s the one part you want to go perfectly, as you stand in front of your family and friends and exchange vows with the love of your life. Thankfully, with a little preparation and by choosing the right professionals and vendors, your wedding ceremony can be exactly like it is inside your head.

What’s the traditional wedding ceremony order?

The morning of your wedding will be fast-paced and whizz past before you even realise it’s time to make your way to the venue. The excitement will build and you might feel jittery, but it’ll soon be time to start your wedding ceremony.

As you get ready and make your way to the venue, your guests will have slowly been arriving. Depending on what you’ve chosen, they might enjoy some welcome drinks and a few canapés while getting swept up in the excitement. Then, once it’s time, they’ll be shown to their seats by the ushers and the ceremony can start.

And it should look a little something like this:

1. The processional

The traditional order for walking into the venue and either taking their seats or standing at the altar is:

1. Bride’s mum
2. Groom’s parents
3. Bride’s grandparents
4. Groom’s grandparents
5. Groom
6. Officiant
7. Bridesmaids
8. Maid of honour
9. Best man
10. Ring bearer or page boy
11. Flower girl
12. The bride and her father

You’re likely to have music playing at the venue to welcome guests as they find their seats. This, of course, will change as the wedding is about to begin and the bride walks down the aisle. Depending on your preferences, the music might be prerecorded or played live by a musician. The music then fades out as the two of you meet.

With modern and same-sex weddings, new traditions are forming that are variations of the traditional processional in the UK. Both partners may choose to walk down the aisle together, or neither may want to do it like this. The best thing about your wedding is that it’s yours, so you’re free to arrive however you feel comfortable.

2. The welcome

Once the two of you are stood at the front, the officiant (or celebrant if you choose to have one) will welcome everyone to your big day. You may ask them to give a specific greeting, and they may use some humour if this is something you’re happy to include. If your wedding ceremony is religious, the welcome may have a set structure. This will introduce your guests to the day and help you feel at ease.

3. A song or reading

If you’re having a religious ceremony, following the welcome there would traditionally be a hymn. Even if you’re not religious, this is still something you can include, but it isn’t common. Instead, you might ask a friend or loved one to do a reading, which might be a poem, an extract from a story or play, or even lyrics from a song that’s personal to you and represents your journey as a couple.

4. The marriage ceremony

The officiant will remind the couple of their obligations to one another with the charge. This is when they explain what it means to be married and what the couple must do to ensure they’re upheld. This includes their responsibilities and the meaning of the vows they’re about to exchange.

Next, the officiant will ask a question that’s been the catalyst for many dramatic moments in rom-coms: Does anyone know of any reason in law why the couple should not be married? This, of course, is usually met with silence, much to the relief of the couple.

You and your partner will then exchange vows, which the officiant will run through with you slowly (so you don’t have to remember an entire Shakespearean soliloquy). If you’ve chosen to write your own vows, you will have given these to the officiant beforehand to make sure they comply with the relevant rules. Just remember there are specific words you have to say to make sure your marriage is legal.

It’s during this stage when the two of you will say another famous wedding ceremony staple, the I dos. Thankfully, this is one of the most exciting parts, as well as being one of the easiest to remember!

5. The exchanging of the rings

If the two of you have chosen to wear wedding rings, this is when you’ll exchange them. If you don’t want to exchange rings, you will have spoken to your officiant beforehand to discuss an alternative (for some inspiration, read our post on ring alternatives).

If you are exchanging rings, it’s usually the best man’s job to hold on to these, or they could be brought to you by a young ring bearer if someone in your family or friend circle would suit the role. When the officiant asks for them, the best man will hand them over. The two of you, under the direction of the officiant, will then place the rings on each other’s ring fingers while reciting a phrase also guided by the officiant.

6. The declaration of marriage and first kiss

Phew, the scary part is over! Now, the officiant will say the words that proclaim the two of you are bound by marriage, saying something such as: By the power vested in me, I now pronounce you husband and wife (or a variation of this for LGBTQ+ couples).

Then, the officiant will encourage the two of you to kiss and you’ll have your first embrace as a happily married couple as all your friends and family applaud and cheer. There might also be one or two tears, too.

7. An additional song, reading or prayer

If you’re having a religious ceremony, this is when there’s an opportunity for a reading from scripture, a hymn or a prayer. Even in non-religious ceremonies, you may ask another loved one to perform another reading.

8. The signing of the register

The officiant will then invite you and your new spouse to sign the marriage license, which will also need to be signed by two witnesses whom you will have asked ahead of the big day (make sure you don’t spring this surprise on anyone that morning).

This usually takes around ten minutes and music will play to entertain your guests as they wait for you to finish.

9. The end of your service

After the two of you and your witnesses are done signing the register, the officiant will thank everyone for attending and invite them, on your behalf, to celebrate at your chosen venue where the breakfast and reception will take place.

10. The recessional

The two of you will now leave the venue accompanied by music as you make your way out. As you step outside, your guests will be waiting to shower you with confetti as your photographer snaps some fantastic photographs.

11. The photographs

You’ll then be joined by loved ones as your wedding photographer guides you all through the official photography process. There will also be many photos taken of just the two of you in and around the venue.

12. On to the breakfast and/or reception

Depending on whether your breakfast and reception are happening elsewhere, you may hop into your wedding transport to be whisked off to your next venue. If your ceremony and reception are taking place in the same venue, you’ll then either move on to another room or step out while the venue staff make changes to get ready for your breakfast. Then, all you have to do is enjoy yourself!

Wedding ceremony traditional order cheat sheet

If all of the above was a lot to take in, don’t panic! We’ve created a handy quick reference sheet sheet to illustrate the traditional wedding ceremony order, which you can save or event print out to return to whenever you need. 

Do all weddings follow the same order?

While the traditional ceremony order is often followed for weddings in the UK, this can differ depending on the type of ceremony you have, your religious beliefs, the size of your wedding or simply your own preferences. For example, a Jewish wedding ceremony can be different from a Hindu ceremony or a non-denominational wedding ceremony. Every wedding, regardless of culture or background, will follow a recognisable structure to ensure the marriage is legal. But, the order might vary to some degree.

How do you plan the perfect wedding ceremony?

When planning your wedding, you’ll spend a lot of time and effort thinking about the venue, food, entertainment, favours and your cake, but it’s just as important to dedicate time to planning the ceremony itself, too.

So, here’s everything you should think about to make sure you plan your perfect wedding ceremony.

Understanding the budget for your wedding ceremony

Your wedding budget will likely include everything you need to have the wedding of your dreams. When putting your budget together, you should think beyond the breakfast and reception – which are the biggest expenses you’ll face – and ensure you also have enough to dedicate towards the ceremony itself. After all, it’s the main event!

You can use our wedding budget tool to work out exactly what you need so you can have the perfect venue, decorations, music, celebrant and more that will come together to become the wedding you’ve always dreamed about. Prioritise the must-haves and separate them from the nice-to-haves. With the average UK wedding costing £19,184, it’s important to be realistic when understanding your budget.

Choose the perfect venue for your wedding ceremony

When the time comes to choose your wedding venue, you’ll have a lot to think about. What type of venue suits your budget? Do you want a venue where you can have the ceremony, breakfast and reception all in one location? Do you want to get married in a church or place of worship?

When choosing the venue for your ceremony, there are plenty of options out there, so consider the following to ensure you have everything you need from your ceremony venue.

• Make sure you discuss what you want from your venue with your partner. The ceremony may just be an hour of your overall day, but it’s something that you’ll remember for the rest of your lives, so you want it to be something worth remembering.
• Don’t be tempted to go over budget, even if it’s a stunning venue. If you overspend on one thing, you’ll have to compromise on something else.
• Think about the space and whether it will comfortably fit all the guests you’d like to invite.
• Pay close attention to the lighting. This includes whether it allows a lot of natural light in, and if not, is there room for additional lighting?
• Try to visit your favourite venues more than once to make sure you get that feeling, so you know you’ve found the one.

For more help finding the right spot to say I do, read our top 10 tips for choosing your wedding venue. You can also browse our wide selection of venues to find the perfect place for you to host your ceremony.

Choose your decorations

Decorating your ceremony venue is more than just about the flowers. You might have a welcome sign, a seating plan, bunting, chair sashes, lighting, pew ends, aisle decor and more.

Make sure the decor you choose fits the overall theme of your wedding, but also ties into the natural aesthetic and beauty of your venue. If you’ve chosen a venue with a lot of natural beauty, such as a country house or place of worship, you might not need to enhance it by much. But if you’re getting married in a hotel or golf club, a little extra decor might just help bring your theme out a little bit more.

Choose your officiants and celebrants

If you’re having a religious ceremony, then it’s possible that your wedding will be officiated by a senior member of your local place of worship. If not, and you’re having a non-religious or multi-faith ceremony, then you may wish to choose your officiants and celebrants, as well as the registrar who will ensure your marriage is legal.

A celebrant is a great way to bring character and charm to your ceremony. You’ll meet with a celebrant a couple of times before the big day so they can create a highly personalised ceremony order and the words the two of you will share. We’d recommend speaking to a few celebrants to find one that fits with your exact vision.

Browse our range of wedding celebrants to find fantastic professionals close to you.

Choose everyone’s roles for the wedding

This is possibly something you’ve been thinking about forever, but now’s the time to set in stone how you’d like your friends and family to be involved in your wedding ceremony. This includes choosing a best man and maid of honour if you’re having one, as well as bridesmaids, ushers, page boy, ring bearer and flower girl.

Traditionally, the father of the bride gives his daughter away after walking her down the aisle, but in many modern weddings, couples might flip this, so that both parents walk the bride down the aisle, just the bride’s mum, or you and your partner might choose to walk down the aisle together.

Whoever you ask to play a role in your wedding, just make sure you’re understanding and accommodating, and show your appreciation to everyone involved.

Choose the perfect seating plan

Traditionally, the seating plan at the wedding ceremony is relatively straightforward: the groom’s family and friends sit on one side of the aisle and the bride’s family and friends sit on the other. However, this all depends on whether the two of you have a relatively equal number of guests each. If not, the seating plan at the ceremony can feel a little lopsided.

Much like the seating plan at the breakfast, you can seat your guests wherever you like, with maybe the exception of parents, grandparents, kids and other close relatives. Or, you can let them choose. Whatever works for you.

Choose your wedding vows

When it comes to your vows, you have two options: either use traditional vows (which might be determined by your faith if you have a religious wedding) or write your own. Writing your own might sound scary, but it’s something many couples opt for with modern weddings. It helps personalise your wedding and tell your partner – in front of your family and friends – exactly how you feel about them.

Discuss with your partner whether you’re brave enough to write your own vows, or if you’d prefer to go with something a little more traditional. It’s a super emotional thing to do, and some people can struggle to express how they feel using words.

For a little inspiration, read our post on how to write personalised wedding vows.

Hire your photographer and/or videographer

For many couples, hiring a photographer (and even a videographer) is a major non-negotiable. It’s the best way to capture your wedding so you can look back on it forever.

When you hire a photographer for your wedding, you can choose to hire them just for the ceremony, which also includes the family shots straight afterwards, or a package that includes the ceremony, the breakfast and the evening reception (and maybe even an engagement photoshoot as well). They’ll even capture the exciting build-up to the wedding as you get ready with your loved ones.

For help finding the right photographer, read our article on how to choose the perfect wedding photographer. Then, browse our selection of photographers to find fantastic professionals close to you.

Decide what wedding ceremony traditions you might like to uphold

When it comes to weddings, there are dozens, if not hundreds, of traditions. Some of them go back hundreds of years but are still included in weddings to this day.

For example, many brides like to include something old, something new, something borrowed and something blue as part of their wedding outfit. It’s also common for couples not to see each other on the morning of the wedding until their eyes meet as the wedding ceremony begins.

Think about what kind of wedding traditions you’d like to include in your wedding ceremony. For more information, read our posts on our 10 favourite wedding traditions and black wedding traditions to honour your heritage.

Decide your wedding ceremony music

When it comes to the music you have at your wedding ceremony, you actually have a wider choice available to you (depending on your budget) than you might realise. There’s a huge choice of music to suit a range of tastes, preferences, budgets, traditions and styles. When it comes to your music, think about the following:

• Do you want live music or pre-recorded?
• What kind of music do you want to play as your guests take their seats?
• What mood do you want to set?
• Do you want to be traditional or have something a little more modern?
• What music do you want during the procession?
• What music do you want as you walk down the aisle?
• What music do you want to play as your sign the register?
• What music would you like to walk out of the ceremony to?

See what we mean? Music plays a key role throughout your wedding day, from the moment you arrive at the ceremony to the moment you leave the reception at the end of the night. Take your time and think about the music you want at your ceremony, including the mood it sets and the meaning behind it.

Decide if you want any readings

Whether you have a religious ceremony or not, you may choose to have readings at your wedding. Readings are a great way to include loved ones in your ceremony who might otherwise not have a role, and help add a touch of personalisation and style. A reading can be anything, from a poem to your favourite song lyrics. They can also be a verse or two from a religious text. Whoever does them and whatever they read, just make sure they’re in keeping with the tone, theme and style of your wedding. For example, a funny reading might not work if you’re going for a more traditional vibe.

Have a plan B (especially if your wedding ceremony is taking place outside)

Since the law in the UK changed in 2022 to allow for weddings to take place outside, couples have seized the opportunity to get married in a wider variety of venues and locations. From gardens and parks to castles and manors, there are now a lot more places you and your love can exchange vows.

The only downside is, the weather in the UK doesn’t always behave itself. Yes, your wedding might be booked during July when there’s every chance we’re in the midst of a heatwave, but it’s never guaranteed. In the event the heavens open or there are 75mph winds, make sure you discuss a backup plan with your chosen venue just in case.

Decide if you want a rehearsal

Few would argue that the ceremony is the single biggest and most important aspect of your wedding day. If something doesn’t quite go to plan at the breakfast or reception, there’s so much going on that it doesn’t really matter if there’s a minor hiccup or two. However, at the ceremony, when all eyes are on you, you probably want everything to be perfect.

That’s why many couples choose to have a rehearsal. In the US, wedding rehearsals are fairly common, but in the UK, unless you’re having a religious ceremony, they’re far less so. But, if you have the budget available, a rehearsal is never a bad thing to have to ensure everyone knows exactly what they’re doing on the big day.

What do you need to remember for the morning of the wedding?

During your last few hours of single life, there will likely be a million and one thoughts whirling around your mind. Everything from worrying about your outfit fitting just right to whether or not the flowers will turn up on time will bounce around your head. Even tiny, insignificant things will feel huge as the excitement and nerves build. That’s why it can be easy to forget key things during the build-up to the ceremony. With that in mind, here are just a few things you should remember on the morning of the wedding:

• Remember to pack some wedding day essentials you might need throughout the ceremony, such as lip balm, tissues (definitely tissues), deodorant and your phone. You can keep these in your pocket, a clutch or leave them with someone you trust so you don’t have to worry about carting things around all day.
• Make sure you eat a decent breakfast. Your wedding day is a long one, and after getting ready, the ceremony, the photos and welcoming everyone to the breakfast, it’ll be two or three o’clock before you even know it – and your stomach will be growling. A good breakfast will keep you fuelled so you don’t need to keep thinking about what time you get to sit down for your first meal as a married couple.
• As well as getting ready for your big day, make sure you stick to some of your usual routines. Mainly, your skincare routine, because disrupting the status quo might upset your skin during a time when you might already be a little stressed. Don’t try something new at the last minute just in case your skin doesn’t like it.
• From the moment you step out of your home or hotel room before the ceremony, you’ll probably be wearing a dress, suit or other type of outfit that might be a little tight in places or dig in here or there. So, until that time comes, wear the comfiest, snuggliest thing you can get your hands on.
• Don’t leave anything to the last minute and give yourself plenty of time to get ready. Your guests and members of the wedding party will probably have a ton of questions for you about this and that, and allowing for enough time to get ready will prevent unnecessary stress.
• Try to establish a calm atmosphere in and around where you’re getting ready, so keep chilled-out people close by and listen to some of your favourite music.
• Your wedding ceremony will go by so fast that before you know it you’ll be sat eating the starter at your breakfast. Try to take everything in and enjoy every single moment.

What happens when the time comes to walk down the aisle?

As the moment arrives for your wedding ceremony to start, there’ll be so much excitement from your guests as they take their seats on either side of the aisle. There’ll also be a few nerves, mainly from yourself, but they’ll soon go when you see your partner and all feels right with the world. But what happens when the time comes to walk down the aisle and become a married couple?

Let’s say your ceremony begins at 12pm. One of the happy couple, usually the groom, will be at the venue to welcome guests who will have been filtering in for the last hour or so, and who will start to take their seats around 15 – 20 minutes before the ceremony starts. Your planner or someone at the venue will keep a lookout for the arrival of the bride to alert the rest of the team and guests that the ceremony is imminent.

Once everyone at the wedding is seated and the bridal party is ready in a room outside the ceremony room, everyone lines up. When it’s time for the processional to start, the music will change to the song you’ll have chosen ahead of time.

Depending on who is in the bridal party, the order will go a little like this:

• Officiant
• Bridesmaids
• Maid of honour and best man
• Ring bearer or page boy
• Flower girl
• The bride and her father or parents

As you meet your partner at the front, your loved ones watching on, the officiant will guide you and your guests through the ceremony. At a same-sex ceremony, it’s entirely up to you whether you follow a similar order to this, walk down the aisle together, or do something else entirely. It’s your wedding, so you’re free to do it however you like!

What are the traditional wedding ceremony words?

The vows you’ll have at your wedding will be determined both by your personal preferences and whether or not you’re having a religious ceremony. You may choose to write your own vows, but many couples still opt to use traditional vows.

Remember, a certain portion of your vows have to follow the legal process to ensure your marriage is binding, so while you’re free to personalise them, you do still need to follow the rules. The legal declaration and contracting words will usually be along these lines:

Declaratory words

“I do solemnly declare that I know not of any lawful impediment why I, [YOUR FULL NAME], may not be joined in matrimony to [YOUR PARTNER’S FULL NAME].”

Contracting words

“I call upon these persons here present to witness that I, [YOUR FULL NAME], do take thee, (YOUR PARTNER’S FULL NAME) to be my lawful wedded [WIFE/HUSBAND/SPOUSE/PARTNER IN MARRIAGE]. I promise to care for you, to give you my love and friendship, and to respect you and cherish you throughout the rest of our lives together.”

How to get the perfect wedding ceremony shots for your wedding album

If you’ve hired a professional wedding photographer, they’ll spend a lot of time before, during and after your ceremony making sure you have wonderful photographs that you can hold on to forever. During the run-up to and during the ceremony, your photographer should take a lot of candid, natural photographs, meaning you’re free to get ready and enjoy your ceremony. That means it’s one less thing to worry about, so don’t look out for your photographer, and if you see them try to resist striking a pose unless they ask.

There may be a few mini photo sessions, such as the bride with her parents before the ceremony, but the main photo shoot will follow the ceremony, when the two of you will take plenty of pictures, as well as those involving your family and friends. One of the big ones is the traditional confetti shot, which involves you walking between two rows of guests as they shower you with colourful confetti. A skilled photographer will know exactly what to do to make sure everyone’s in the right position to get the best possible shots.

It may not be in your nature to pose for photographs but try to embrace the moment and enjoy it. To help calm the nerves that may come with your wedding photos, consider a wedding photographer package that includes an engagement photoshoot, which can make you feel more comfortable in front of the camera.

What happens after the ceremony?

After the ceremony is over and you’ve signed the register, the two of you are declared as legally married. Phew! You can now enjoy the rest of your wedding day, starting with the obligatory photoshoot if you’ve hired a professional photographer.

Following the photos, what happens next depends on what you’ve chosen for the remainder of your big day. Traditionally, if your ceremony was around lunchtime, you and your guests will move on to the breakfast (which may or may not be at the same venue as the ceremony), which includes a meal and toasts. Then, during the afternoon and into the early evening, the venue may get ready for the evening reception, where there might be more food, drinks and dancing.

For more information, read our post featuring the best wedding day timeline.

What are some alternative wedding ceremony ideas?

Traditional wedding ceremonies can be beautiful, whether intimate or grand. However, if you’re not particularly fond of the idea of following tradition, you can choose to do something completely different. That way, your wedding ceremony can be in keeping with what you have in mind for the rest of your big day and fit perfectly with your personalities. So, here are five alternate wedding ceremony ideas you might want to think about.

1. Twilight wedding ceremony: A twilight wedding is a wedding that takes place during the latter part of the day, so you can take advantage of the magic and beauty that comes once it starts to get dark. With a twilight wedding there are tons of opportunities to get creative with lighting.
2. Destination ceremony: Just think about how blissful it would be to get married on a white sandy beach, surrounded by acres of woodland or on a rooftop overlooking New York City. With a destination wedding, the world is literally your oyster.
3. Themed ceremony: With some carefully sourced and made props and decorations, you can put together an immersive, themed ceremony that’s personalised and unique. Steampunk, vintage, Hollywood premiere, botanical… there are so many themed ceremony ideas to choose from.
4. Adventurous ceremony: If you love the great outdoors, why not swap your suits and dresses for hiking gear, a wet suit or snow shoes and have a wedding ceremony somewhere adventurous?
5. Surprise ceremony: Give your guests a surprise they’ll never forget by inviting them to what they think is just an ordinary party. Except, suddenly the doors open and they’re invited to take a seat to watch you get married. Imagine how excited everyone would be!

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Happy Planning!