Sample Ceremony
This sample ceremony provided by the Province of Alberta. It is simply a starting point for couples. Some people use it word for word while others make changes. What I actually say in the wedding is a bit different than what is written here. Prior to your wedding we will meet and go through the ceremony. We discuss the flow of the ceremony and add your personal touches. I encourage you to make the ceremony your own by writing vows to one another, asking a friend or relative to do a reading or perform a song. This is what makes your wedding unique!
Introduction
We are gathered here today to celebrate and participate in Person A’s and Person B’s wedding ceremony. You are to be married according to the orders, customs, and the authority granted by the government of the Province of Alberta.
Matrimony is a state enriched by a long and honourable tradition of devotion. According to the law each participant is equal and supports the common rights of one another to the marriage.
Marriage is not just a ceremony here today. It is a commitment for life. There is a desire for lifelong companionship. Couples support and comfort each other, thought the changing experiences of life. May you laugh together in joy, grieve together in sorrow, and grow together in love.
Marriage means caring as much about the welfare and happiness of your marriage partner as about your own well-being. Marriage also means working together to create and sustain a home in which the marriage may flourish. With this understanding (Person A) and (Person B) wish to be joined in marriage. Therefore I now call upon you both in the presence of these witnesses, to repeat after me:
Person A: I do solemnly declare that I do not know of any lawful impediment why I, Person A may not be joined in matrimony to Person B.
Person B: I do solemnly declare that I do not know of any lawful impediment why I, Person B, may not be joined in matrimony to Person A.
Do you, Person A, promise to give Person B your love, the comfort of your companionship, and the patience of your understanding? Do you promise to give him/her your honour, your devotion and your love? Person A: I do.
Do you, Person B, promise to give Person A your love, the comfort of your companionship, and the patience of your understanding? Do you promise to give him/her your honour, your devotion and your love? Person B: I do.
THE MARRIAGE VOWS
Please join hands and repeat after me:
Person A: I call upon those persons present to witness that I, Person A, do take you, Person B, to be my lawful wedded spouse, to have and to hold, from this day forward, in whatever circumstances or experiences life may hold for us.
Person B: I call upon those persons present to witness that I, Person B, do take you, Person A, to be my lawful wedded spouse, to have and to hold, from this day forward, in whatever circumstances or experiences life may hold for us.
THE RING EXCHANGE
(Note: There is no requirement to exchange rings)
Person A: I give you this ring that you may wear it as a lasting reminder of our marriage vows and as a symbol of my love and commitment to you.
Person B: I accept this ring as a symbol of your love and commitment.
Person B: I give you this ring that you may wear it as a lasting reminder of our marriage vows and as a symbol of my love and commitment to you.
Person A: I accept this ring as a symbol of your love and commitment.
THE DECLARATION
Person A and Person B, as you begin your marriage, let your home be a haven of peace in the midst of a busy and changing world; let your relationship be one of complete truth, love and understanding between you. Marriage will yield what you give to it. May you enjoy a long life, fulfil your hopes, feel content as you live day by day, and keep your promises to one another.
Person A and Person B, you have consented in marriage and declared your solemn intention in this company, before these witnesses and in my presence. You have exchanged this ring(s) as the pledge of your love to each other; you have joined your hands to accept one another.
Now upon the authority vested in me by the Province of Alberta, I pronounce you married.
Big kiss (only if you want to!).