• 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.

By Natalie Jones February 27, 2025
Here’s why you should have a small wedding in Pismo Beach Small weddings are the way to go these days! We aren’t just saying that because small weddings have been our thing since we started our business back in 2015. A small wedding can have the same parts of a large wedding - unforgettable moments, celebration with friends and family and the start of the rest of your life together. But, small wedding have a few more benefits like - less stress, less more, and more of the two of you and what you want for your wedding! We love the scenery of the Central Coast for small weddings. There are million dollar views - from your toes in the sand at one of the beach locations, to overlooking the ocean, to shaded eucalyptus trees, and jagged cliff sides. Small weddings are our favorite because the couple is free to focus on the most important things, like having their day, their way, spending the day with the people who truly matter, and having an amazing day packed with lasting memories. What Is Driving the Trend Toward Smaller Weddings? Several factors are behind the increasing trend of smaller weddings. Modern couples are redefining what it means to celebrate love, and in most cases, they focus on quality over quantity. Small weddings have become for popular and couples embrace fewer guests and find the beauty of intimate gatherings. Changing societal norms and the desire for unique, personalized experiences also make smaller weddings an attractive option. How Do Small Weddings Create More Meaningful Connections? Small weddings foster more meaningful connections by allowing couples to spend quality time with each guest, creating an intimate and personal atmosphere. With fewer attendees, conversations feel more genuine, and guests feel truly valued and appreciated. Some couples will have a few day long celebration for their wedding - starting a few days before the wedding with wine tasting or seeing the sites of the Central Coast, then relax on the beach the next day. After some fun in the sun, it's wedding day. The day will end with a group dinner or casual private reception. Then, the guests will leave and the couple has a few more days to celebrate their honeymoon in Pismo Beach or other beach location. This setting also encourages deeper interactions, making it easier to share special moments, heartfelt toasts, and personal stories. Without the hustle and chaos of a large event, couples and their loved ones can be fully present, strengthening bonds and making the celebration even more memorable. How Does a Smaller Guest List Reduce Wedding Stress? Planning a wedding can be quite challenging. It is easier for couples to plan their weddings with smaller guest lists, as this dramatically lowers their prospects of worrying. Incorporating fewer guests into a wedding means that there are fewer logistical elements to take care of, such as catering, seating arrangements, accommodations, and more people to please. This way, couples can spend more time and energy making their special day more unique instead of fretting over accommodating numerous people. A more personal gathering helps create a homely and calming vibe, giving the couple a chance to make the most of each interaction with their guests. Most importantly, a smaller guest number means that there would be fewer changes needed at the last minute, which translates to lower expenditure and costs. Hence, all attendees, coupled with the couple, can fully enjoy themselves without feeling the pressure of the wedding arrangements. What Are the Financial Benefits of Hosting a Small Wedding? Hosting a small wedding can be a cost-effective choice, offering couples the chance to allocate their budget more intentionally. With fewer guests, expenses for catering, venue size, and decor are reduced, freeing up funds for other priorities such as an unforgettable honeymoon or investing in a dream home. This financial flexibility allows couples to create a celebration that reflects their values and vision without overspending. Celebrate your love story with us! Small weddings are more than just a trend—they represent a shift in how couples approach one of the most important days of their lives. By focusing on intimacy, meaningful connections, and thoughtful planning, small weddings offer a unique and heartfelt way to celebrate love. For couples looking to create a stunning and intimate wedding experience, Coastal California Weddings is your simple and stress-free way to plan your wedding. We provide expert guidance and inspiration.
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