Nowadays the format of that beautiful cornerstone of every wedding, the ceremony, varies widely as couples place their personal mark on thewords and the music.
Whether it takes place in a church, registry office, beach, home or garden, it's a time for dignity and elegance mixed with anticipation, warmth and celebration.
In today's world those officiating at the ceremony are aware that the format and style should be meaningful and appropriate to the couple's beliefs and situation. Couples should ensure that they sit down and discuss all aspects of the ceremony, including music and soloists, with the person they have chosen to officiate. Some will wish to arrange pre-marriage courses (often run by churches) before the big day.
Ministers of many church denominations conduct services outside their churches, while independent or organisational marriage celebrants can conduct both religious and non-religious ceremonies. If it is to be a ceremony in a registry office the registrar can be contacted at the Justice Department to arrange a date and time. Registry offices provide a personal service which meets the needs of couples in the areas they serve.
Both churches and celebrants are in heavy demand at particular times of the year so once the date is set, make the bookings.
TIP: If couples are arranging compilations of their wedding music they can do this in segments so that no mistakes are made on the day. For example, if they wish to exit the ceremony to What A Wonderful World it should be listed under ``leaving the ceremony''.
