Photo (above): Videographer: Bruidbeeld
Plan your entrance
A ceremony starts when the bride and groom make their entrance. The most common way of the entrance is the traditional way in which the groom is brought to the altar by his mother. This is followed by the members of the suite including the witnesses, parents, siblings and grandparents. At the end, the bride and her father make their entrance together. In the American way, all those present, including the suite, are already seated when the bride and her father make their appearance. The groom waits for them at the altar. Of course, you can also just walk into the ceremony together, and let the suite form a hedge of honour where you walk through. Your master of ceremonies will be happy to help you plan your entrance the way you want it.
Choose your ceremony speaker
Depending on your religious beliefs, a specific ceremony speaker will guide your ceremony . In church, this is usually a priest or deacon. Couples who envisage a non-religious ceremony can use a ceremony speaker. Look for the appropriate author of your unique story, someone who can perfectly put the love between you two into words and who you feel comfortable with.
Involve your loved ones
Naturally, you want to involve the most important people in your life in the most important moment of your life. Your friends and family know your story like the best. They were there when it all started and have watched you grow into the power couple you are today. Give these people a starring role during your ceremony by having them read a personal text, for example.
A moment for those who cannot be there
Are there loved ones who unfortunately cannot be there on your wedding day? If so, schedule a moment during your celebration to honour them. For example, you can place a photo frame at the altar or on an empty chair, release a wishing balloon, play his or her favourite song, light some symbolic candles or say something about the deceased in your ceremony.
Kids allowed
Do you already have children? Give them a nice role during your wedding, so they are also in the spotlight. For example, let them carry the rings, say a word or involve them in your wedding ritual.
Your personal ritual
More and more couples are opting for a customised ritual to highlight their love. A classic example at a church wedding is the lighting of the wedding candle, and after a Jewish wedding, a glass is broken by the groom. Do you also wish to incorporate your own wedding ritual into your ceremony? For example, have all your guests light a candle and make a wedding wish, or raise a mini glass together to your health. Or tie ribbons around your hands, literally ‘to tie the knot’, as a symbol of your connection. Whatever ritual you choose, make sure above all that it suits you.
Let live music carry your celebration
Music can enhance the atmosphere of your ceremony , sometimes providing the perfect interlude between the lyrics of your ceremony. Consider live music to make the emotions of your love story and moving texts more intense. For example, go for a guitarist or pianist, possibly combined with a violinist or singer(s).
Rice, flower petals or confetti?
Traditionally, guests sprinkle rice at the newlyweds to wish them prosperity, wealth and fertility. Scattering flower petals or confetti is also very nice, or you can have your guests blow bubbles. You can also release two white doves, as a symbol of your love and fidelity.
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