How Weddings Work: The Charge

Many couples are confused when I mention The Charge. It stems from a traditional American ceremony. Historically, the wording goes, “Let me charge you both to remember that a happy marriage is found in mutual support...” and then goes on to mention several actions, emotions, and beliefs that aid in a long and happy relationship. …

How Weddings Work: The I Do’s/Intent

Curious as to when that magical moment happens and you actually become married? That would be when you respond to the question, “Will you have this person to be your spouse?” In other words, the I Do’s, sometimes called The Intent. According to most state laws, responding positively to this question fulfills the legal requirement …

How Weddings Work: Vows

The most romantic and anticipated part of a wedding ceremony are the Vows. If you think of the I Do’s as a contract, the Vows are the covenant above the contract. You’ve agreed to marry your partner, now what do you promise beyond that simple action? To love and cherish? To remain faithful through good …

How Weddings Work: Ring Exchange

The exchange of rings is the sealing of all the promises you’ve made up to this point of the ceremony. There are actually two parts to the Exchange of Rings – the Introduction or Blessing, and the physical placing of rings on each other. Depending on your beliefs, you might want to have your rings …

How Weddings Work: Closing Words/Prayer

You’ve made it through the hardest parts of your wedding ceremony - the parts where you speak. Now it’s time to wrap things up. This would be an ideal time to have a closing prayer. The Lord’s Prayer (“Our Father, Who art in Heaven…”) is very popular, because most of your guests will know it …