Wedding Ceremony Sequence of Events

Ceremony Sequence of Events Take note of the order and timing of the following events… 1. Seating of the Guests Pre-ceremonial music as the ushers seat the guests. Music usually begins 15 minutes before the ceremony. _2. Seating of Parents After the guests are present and seated, the groom’s parents are escorted to their seats. The bride’s mother is the last to be seated. The bride’s father is waiting with the bride. _3. Groom Takes His Place The officiant, ushers, best man and groom take their positions. _4. Attendants’ Procession The processional music for the bridesmaids, maid or matron of honor, flower girl & ring bearer, begins as they are ready to walk down the aisle. _5. Bridal Procession Following the attendants, the bride’s father offers the bride his right arm as they begin down the aisle. Music is played and the guests rise in honor of the bride. _6. The Exchange of Vows Traditional vows may be exchanged or you may write your own personal vows to recite. _7. Music With Ceremony Music is played during the candle-lighting or other non-verbal portion of the ceremony. _8. The Ring Exchange Be sure to know where your rings are before you go down the aisle! _9. The Kiss Have Fun! _10. The Introductions At the end of the ceremony, the officiant may introduce the newlyweds to the guests as the new Mr. & Mrs. _11. The Recessional The bride and groom lead the wedding party back down the aisle.