How to Write an Elopement Ceremony
From fundamentals, approach, literary techniques, structuring your script, and more, this blog will explain how to write an elopement ceremony! These are brief, basic steps you can take to either help you get started or even help revise an existing draft. Remember that you are free to create something original and unique that best represents your couple and their relationship. We’ve been a part of over 100 ceremonies, and this is what we have learned so far.
Fundamentals
As an officiant, you are leading the pinnacle of the day – the moment that not just promises are made, but eternal, deeply considered vows. You should strive to provide a foundation on which your couple can feel safe, comfortable, and open to being vulnerable enough to declare their vows to one another. Your words should essentially introduce and enhance theirs. Officiating is a vulnerable space too, and the more true and open you are, the more comfort you can provide. Consider that the ceremony can mean as much to you as it does to your couple. It certainly means different things to each, but your passion and effort is always welcome.
Approach
Moreover, a mindful approach is important in creating your best ceremony. Identify how you feel unity with the couple, reasons why they make such a swell pair, and then create a ceremony from that space. Feel free to mix in humor, stories that define their love, or anything that moves you. If it makes you feel, it’s likely to make others feel too.
Literary Techniques
Furthermore, there are many literary techniques that you can use throughout your ceremony to give it a cohesive feeling. Perhaps you start the beginning by posing a question and then answering it at the end of the ceremony. Maybe one phrase keeps coming to mind that completely sums up your couple or the spark between them that you repeat a few times throughout the ceremony like a mantra. Try connecting your introduction to your conclusion in some way. Alliteration, metaphors, rhyme, and motifs are all techniques that can enhance any idea or story.
Elopement Ceremony Script
Here are 5 parts to help you structure your elopement ceremony script:
- Introduction
- Allegory, Story, or Connection
- Vows
- Ring Exchange
- Conclusion & Kiss
How to Write an Elopement Ceremony
In summary, your introduction can begin by answering questions like where you are, what you’re doing, and what the ceremony is about. If applicable, introduce yourself.
The best way to help discover what direction you will go after your intro is to simply have a conversation with your couple. Ask them if they want any stories incorporated into the ceremony. Get their thoughts on what defines their relationship and why they want to marry each other. Ask any questions that may help you connect with them more deeply. This will allow you to identify a clear and meaningful theme for the ceremony. Share any other readings, quotes, or proverbs that you or the couple would like said.
During the ring exchange, you can include any other pre-written vows or declaration of intent if desired. It’s worth noting that we always share the full script ahead of time with our couples since it is their ceremony, and we don’t want them to feel surprised or distracted.
It always makes for more intimate photographs when the officiant steps out of the frame for the kiss. Don’t forget to exit stage left before their sweet smooch!
Hopefully, this information has helped show you how to write an elopement ceremony! Do you need elopement photographers and an elopement officiant? This is where two photographers are essential. Feel free to reach out and find out how we can help you plan the elopement ceremony of your dreams!
