Wedding programs have long been used to give guests an idea of what is going on during the ceremony. Not only does it give a sequence of events so people have an understanding of what is going on, but it helps in giving guests an idea of what will be happening. And, when all is said and done, it gives the guests a way to memorialize the day. It is suggested that all guests teens and older be handed a program as they come into the ceremony.
As an example of how to properly word a wedding program, see the following:
Introduction:
The Marriage Ceremony Uniting
Jeannie Renee Wilson
and
Edward Robinson Smith
on Saturday, June 18, 2006
at half past five o’clock in the evening
St. Michael’s Cathedral
Toronto, Ontario
Order of Ceremonies:
Prelude …………………….. “Here We Are”
Solo …………………………….”Love is All There Is”
Lighting of the Candles
Seating of the Mothers
Processional ……………….”Canon in D Minor”
Invocation
Wedding Message ………Rev. Jim Reeves
Solo ……………………………..”O Canada”
Exchange of vows
Exchange of rings
Announcement of marriage
Solo …………………………….”Frankie and Johnnie”
Presentation of the Bride and Groom
Recessional ……………….”Ode to Joy”
Wedding Party (in order):
– Parents of the Bride
– Parents of the Groom
– Grandparents of the Bride
– Grandmothers of the Groom
– Maid of Honor
– Matron of Honor
– Bridesmaids
– Junior Bridesmaid
– Honorary Bridesmaid
– Flower Girl
– Best Men
– Groomsmen
– Ring Bearer
– Officiant
– Pianist
– Soloist
While all parts aren’t necessary, these are the suggested guidelines in order to maintain proper etiquette and protocol. When it comes time to print or have these bulletins printed, this would be the proper sequence.
