Friday, November 08, 2013

Four Ways To Personalize Your Wedding Ceremony

Disclosure: This is a compensated post.

I love weddings. I am one of "those" people, that whether I am attending a wedding in person, or watching one in a movie or on television, I get teary eyed.  I try to control it, but it happens every single time.  I am just a very emotional person, and weddings set me off.  

When my children were younger, they were asked to be in their cousin's wedding.  It was so overwhelming for me to see my beautiful kids, all dressed up and participating in such a wonderful moment.  That day, I cried more than I normally would over a wedding, because my heart was right there in these two little people who were clueless as to why mommy was a total mess.


My children in their cousin's wedding

Your big day is your one shot to have a wedding that is all about you and your spouse. There are no do-overs, so you want to make this day as memorable as possible. Most ceremonies follow a standard or traditional template. However, there are a few ways you can customize your day so your personalities and preferences are highlighted. However, there are a few ways you can customize your day from designing your own wedding ring with Shane Co loose diamonds to a unique festive entrance down the aisle.

1.       Write Your Own Vows

One of the best ways to add a personal touch to your wedding ceremony is to write your own vows. This does not mean you have to memorize them (though that is preferable). If you are nervous, you can always have the maid of honor or best man hold your vows so you can read them.

If you need tips for writing your vows, there are several online tools and templates that can get you started. However, the best way to do it is to speak from your heart and tell your betrothed how much they mean to you. It never hurts to include a favorite memory or small inside joke. You will have an audience, but your vows are largely just for the two of you. After the wedding, you can re-write and frame your vows in your home as a reminder of the promises you made.

2.       Creative Spin on Traditions

In most ceremonies, a couple exchanges wedding rings, vows and kisses. Consider adding a ring warming ceremony. In this tradition, place your rings in a small bag or bowl and passed around guests, who can offer a prayer or blessing for the couple. The rings are then brought back to the couple to be exchanged.

Not comfortable with your diamonds floating around a crowd? You might also consider a unity ceremony. Traditionally, this included lighting a unity candle. However, depending on your wedding, you may have other takes on this part. For a beach wedding, for example, you may consider a sand ceremony in which you each pour different colored sand into a decorative vase. Doing a nautical wedding? Think about literally tying the knot together, each taking an end of rope and pulling it tight.

3.       Play That Funky Music

For centuries, music has played an integral role in wedding ceremonies. From hymns to steel drums, there are so many options for couples to consider when picking their music. While most people reserve sentimental songs for the wedding reception, you can also utilize them in the wedding ceremony. This is a great option for a couple struggling to decide among several songs for their first dance. The songs that aren’t used can be played as guests are being seated at the ceremony.

4.       Make It a Party


One of the most fun ways to personalize your wedding is to involve the wedding party. Some people choose to have their party make a festive entrance down the aisle at the start of the ceremony. Or, the wedding party may dress to theme. Instead of holding flowers, bridesmaids can hold lanterns or handbags. If you want to do something unique with your wedding party but are stumped, consider asking them for their input. After all, you trust them to be in your ceremony; they may have some great ideas of their own to help make your wedding memorable.

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