A wedding ceremony should be as unique as each couple that is getting married. Here is a basic outline of a wedding ceremony that you can tailor to your own tastes.

Every religion has their own customs, rules, rituals, and traditions for wedding ceremonies. Also, your officiant may also have specific procedures to be followed when they officiate a wedding ceremony. To be sure to include all of these things, when planning your ceremony, be sure to consult with your officiant every step of the way.

Here is a general outline of how most ceremonies go:

1. The processional
The order of the processional varies from one faith to another, consult your officiant for more information.
2.The welcome, introduction, or call to worship
The officiant will welcome guests and will usually offer a few words about marriage.
3. Questions of Intent
These are the usual questions asked by the officiant. “Do you take this woman to be your wedded wife” and so on.
4. Declaration of Consent
This is primarily a Protestant ritual, wherein the Bride’s parents “give” her to the groom, and state this publicly, before guests and family.
5. Readings or Music
Readings are a great way for the couple to personalize their ceremony. Be sure to check with your officiant first however, because some churches and places of worship allow only certain things.
6. Vows
Most people are familiar with traditional protestant vows. Some couples choose to write their own vows, or recite some alternative to the traditional vows.
7. Exchange of the Rings
8. Pronouncement of Marriage
9. Special Acts of Celebration
This is when a Unity candle would be lit, flower giving to the parents, or gifts for step children.
10. Benediction, prayers, and blessings
11. Presentation of the new couple
12. Recessional

Of course most of these things can be custom tailored by you, to fit your needs and wants. Just check with your clergyman or officiant if you plan on changing anything within your wedding ceremony.