Understanding the sequence of events for your wedding day can help ease the nerves of the bride and groom. It also can aid in the planning of the big day. From the processional to the vows to the recessional, the wedding ceremony is a beautiful day the guests and the wedding party will cherish.
The processional is the start of the wedding ceremony. This is the important part that involves the presentation of the bridal party and the bride, and is usually set to music. Once the wedding party is in position, it's time for the greeting. The greeting is done by the minister or officiant to welcome the guests to the ceremony.
It can also be a simple thank you to the guests or a reading of how the couple met. The statement of intention is when all who attend the wedding are told the bride and groom intend to be married. The minister may also choose to speak briefly about the commitment of marriage at this time.
The exchange of wedding vows is the emotionally binding part of the ceremony. This is when the bride and groom make promises to one another. The bride and groom may also choose to recite their own vows at this time. Following the vows, the couple will exchange wedding rings. The bride and groom take turns placing the ring on the finger of each other, with words said to official seal the marriage.