5 Simple Ways to Create an Unforgettable Wedding Ceremony
— By Brieonie Jenkins

With all the planning to do and decisions to make, take comfort in the knowledge that creating a memorable wedding service is actually very easy. Check out these 5 simple tips for creating a special ceremony no one will forget.

1/ The vows are the centrepiece of your wedding

They deserve a little time spent on making them special. Start with a quick Google search to get a feel for the many options out there, and then talk to your celebrant who will be able to guide you through the rest of the process.

You don’t have to write them yourself but it is always nice to include something personal like, "I promise to always give you plenty of warning the next time I invite my mates around for tea.” Vows don’t have to be funny but humour is a wonderful way of taking some tension out of the service. In my experience, it's best not to try and memorise your vows as that puts far too much unnecessary pressure on both the bride and groom - rather let your celebrant spoon feed you.

Image by Evermore Photography

2/ Include young family members at your wedding!

Your little ones have an important place in your life and your relationship. Including them in your wedding is a sweet way to show them how special they are to you.

It’s great to get them involved, but important to manage their involvement. Arrange for someone to take care of very young children; a one adult per child ratio is best. This will take some of the worry away from Mum who, no doubt, has a lot on her mind! Older kids can take more active roles in the service like delivering the rings, reading a poem or maybe helping Mum down the aisle. This is a lovely way of including them in the day and something they will remember forever.

Image by Samantha Donaldson Photography

3/ Make sure you choose the right celebrant

There are thousands of options, but no two are the same. It’s important to do your research.

The best way of doing this is to check their Facebook page, website or profile (here!). The most important thing to look for is feedback from previous couples as this will give you the flavour of the service you can expect. You should feel comfortable and at ease with your celebrant, someone whose personality works well with yours is a good choice.

Image by Soul Sisters Photography

4/ The venue for your ceremony is important

I have married people in parks, forests, backyards, barns, churches and on the beach. The venue can make a huge difference in terms of atmosphere and ambience. In many cases, the location you chose for the wedding will supply the service site, but if you want to marry in Grandma’s house you can still do that. Look for a place that will cater for the numbers at your wedding and if the ceremony is in the open try to get a PA system so everyone can hear what you say. 

Image by XOX Waiheke

5/ Try to capture the service on video or audio

Remember, the ceremony is the centrepiece of your wedding. Often couples are so emotional they miss the special moments. If you can get someone close to you or your videographer to record the event, do it. In this day and age even someone with a smart phone could do a very good job. You won’t regret it. Have a lovely wedding!