Don't Forget Your Marriage Ceremony!

Marriage ceremonies are frequently celebrated around the world. Marriage ceremonies will vary in practice, depending on the religion and culture of the couple. However, the basic principles remain consistent. Marriage ceremonies are celebrations meant to recognize the uniting of two people in the marriage contract. Guests are invited in order to witness the recognition of the union, and to offer their support to the couple. In some cultures, a marriage ceremony may be only a few minutes long and in others, it can last for days. There are marriage ceremonies that involve a religious element, and others that do not. In any case, the ceremony is a celebration of the couples relationship and it is often very individualized for each specific couple.

The process undertaken for most marriage ceremonies, is generally very similar. First, the couple sends out invitations to guests that they would like to attend the ceremony. At the marriage ceremony, guests watch as the bride and groom exchange vows. In some cases, they prepare their own vows and in other cases, the individual officiating over the marriage ceremony simply asks them to agree with the vows as he or she reads allowed. During some ceremonies, guests may be chosen to read passages from a bible, sing a song or read poetry and quotes that apply to the couple. However, a marriage ceremony is very focused on he bride and groom and good hopes for their future together. Friends and family members will stand up on behalf of the couple, by being a part of the wedding party. The wedding party stands on either side of the couple as the ceremony takes place. In fact the best man and maid or matron of honor, are generally the people closet to the bride and groom both during the marriage ceremony and in life. Generally, they are responsible for helping the couple prepare the ceremony and to help ensure that it runs smoothly. In fact, they general hold the wedding rings until they are utilized in the ceremony. Couples and the bridal party, generally wear special articles of clothing for the occasion. The bride usually wears a white dress for the marriage ceremony and the reception and her bridesmaids wear dresses that are similar in nature. The groom and groomsmen generally wear tuxedos. After the ceremony, there is a reception. This extended celebration usually involves gifts and toasts to the new couple.

Each marriage ceremony will be different depending on the wishes of the couple. For religious marriage ceremonies, there is a general outline of accepted and expected practices that take place during the ceremony. However, couples can choose to add dimensions to the ceremony, such as adding speeches by family members. In a non religious ceremony, couples are able to decide on all aspects of their marriage ceremony. Regardless of specifics, wedding ceremonies are all utilized to offer recognition to the couple's new status as a married couple.