There are various ceremonies you can hold that can make an impressionful statement about who you are or your history. Here are a few to get you thinking:
Civil ceremonie A civil ceremony is a legal wedding without religious elements, usually presided over by a registrar and held at any location licensed to host civil weddings.
Religious
If you and your partner are both religious, tying the knot in an interfaith ceremony could be ideal. Such ceremonies typically have some stringent requirements (such as both bride and groom being members of the same faith), with services taking place at churches, mosques, synagogues or any other places of worship.
If you prefer an intimate ceremony outside a place of worship, consider holding a minimony. Minimonies are intimate weddings involving up to 10 guests that can later be followed up by larger receptions. They’re ideal for couples looking for an alternative approach or who appreciate having more intimacy than large weddings offer.
Islamic weddings
Traditional Muslim marriage involves two ceremonies: kiddushin (where the man officially proposes) and ni’suin (exchange of rings and religious ceremony). Historically, both ceremonies would occur on separate dates months or even years apart, though increasingly couples opt to combine both events into a single event.
Christian Weddings
A Christian wedding varies depending on your denomination, but all adhere to a few general guidelines. This typically involves exchanging vows and reading a prayer before performing songs that mean something to both bride and groom – or adding their own personal touches with songs they find meaningful to add an individual touch to their ceremony.
Hindu Weddings
Hindu wedding ceremonies can be colorful and lively affairs, featuring music, singing, chanting and action. At the groom’s celebration his family will honor him by washing his feet and providing various offerings before smashing a clay pot to symbolize overcoming obstacles in marriage. At the conclusion of this ceremony a holy fire is lit which everyone participates in an enjoyable race back to their seats – each member playing an essential part.
Jewish Weddings
Jewish weddings are conducted under the direction of a Rabbi or qualified clergy person according to Jewish religious traditions. The groom traditionally gives his bride a ring before exchanging vows under a canopy known as a “chuppah”, symbolizing both their commitment to one another as well as to God.
Interfaith weddings
An interfaith wedding is a religious ceremony that celebrates both cultures of bride and groom while including elements from both religions. Typically conducted as both religious and civil services together by officiating clergy.