• Introduction and greeting
    • Reading or poem 
    • Exchange of vows
    • Exchange of rings
    • Closing remarks
    • Pronouncement as married
    • The kiss
  • Recessional – walking down the aisle

Types of wedding ceremonies include:

  • Traditional –  traditional wedding basics of the vows and I do’s
  • Modern – a combination of traditional elements with non-traditional touches
  • Inter-faith – combination of two faiths into one ceremony – for example combining some Catholic prayers with Jewish traditions like the breaking of a glass

  • Write your own vows (see http://coastalcaliforniaweddings.com/tips-for-writing-your-own-wedding-vows/ for more ideas)
  • Involve family and friends by having them recite a poem or bible verse as a group
  • Have a shell unity ceremony
  • Write a prayer for your future and have the officiant read it on your wedding day
  • Let us know a cute story about how you met or answer our other questions so the guests can learn more about you as a couple
  • Write a letter to each other and then have the officiant read it
  •  Surprise your fiancé with a song on your wedding day if you sign, or write a poem if you are a writer, or draw a picture and present at the ceremony as a special gift – just do something that is personal to you

Google is full of wedding ceremonies.  You can take a little look at the ceremony, but trust that the officiant will create something meaningful for you!


Here are some questions couples have about their wedding ceremony.

Can we write our own vows?

Yes, you can! We invite couples to write their own vows or add a personal touch to the wedding with a reading or poem. Vows would be something like I take you for better, for worse.  They are read by the couple.  A love letter expressing your love is a little more common than vows.

How long is the ceremony?

The length of the ceremony depends on how long you want it. It can either be short and sweet or longer and more detailed.  For example, if you wish family members to do a reading, this would make the ceremony longer.  If you are having an elopement, the ceremony is normally shorter since it is just the two of you or not as many guests.

Do you have sample wording, ceremonies, and readings to show us?

No, each wedding is different so there is not a script that we follow.

Can we say something during the ceremony?

Yes, if you want to recite your vows or have some words prepared for your bride or groom, this is ok by us.  Just let us know ahead of time so we can make that part of the ceremony.

Can we add a unity ceremony?

Yes, you can add a shell unity ceremony. A sand ceremony doesn’t work too well and a candles are not permitted in the locations we use.  If there is another unity ceremony you are considering please let us know.

Can we involve our children or friends?

Yes, you can.  Involving children is a great way to include them in your special day.  Children and friends can  play a musical instrument, sing, read a poem with special meaning, or as a couple read a written letter to the children letting them know how important it is to have everyone be a part of the family.

What if we have different faiths or are not religious?

No problem. We are open to other religions and understand that some couples may not be spiritual.  We perform all kinds of ceremonies. The ceremony is unique and special to the two of you and is customized to reflect your relationship and life moving forward.

What does the officiant wear to perform the ceremony?

Our ministers normally wear a dress or nice pants and a shirt. We make sure our ministers are professionally dressed.  If there is a certain thing you want our ministers to wear, please let us know.

What if we have our own minister to perform the ceremony?

It is perfectly ok if you want to use your own minister to perform the ceremony. Just let us know ahead of time and we can change your wedding package.

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