get with the program...
Things are a little crazy this week at the {ritzy bee} hive...we hope you enjoy this post from our archives...
When it comes to a wedding ceremony, a wedding program is a nice way to help your guests follow along with the ceremony, understand cultural traditions and also become familiar with your bridal party! It's also a great opportunity for the couple to give dedication and thanks to guests and serve as a wonderful keepsake too.
Although a program can contain as much or as little detail as you wish, here is a general guideline of what can be included:
A Title page
"The Marriage Celebration of...."
Date
Ceremony location
Wedding Participants:
Officiant
Parents of the Bride
Parents of the Groom
Wedding Party
Readers
Musician...etc.
The Ceremony:
Prelude (songs - titles, composer listed)
Processional (songs)
Opening Words
Readings (mention titles)
Wedding Vows
Exchange of the Rings
Pronouncement
Blessing
Recessional (songs)
Optional Inserts:
Explanation of traditions (religious, cultural, family, etc.)
Thanks
Dedications
Tip: Include fun details & facts about each person in your bridal party - how long you have known them, where they live, etc.
Tip: If the two of you will be moving to a new home around the wedding, include your new address somewhere in the program
Tip: If you have a deceased family member or friend, you can include a dedication:
"We dedicate the flowers with us at the alter in
loving memory of....who are not here to celebrate our
special day with us"
"We dedicate our ceremony music (or a specific song)
in memory of...."
Tip: Fill space at the bottom/inside cover or back with favorite love or wedding appropriate quotes
Tip: Display the wedding programs in a unique & lovely way!
Tip: Be sure your program ties into your wedding style/theme/colors
Just remember to have your wedding program be an expression of the two of you!
Photo credits: 1+2+4+8+9 Brides, 3+5+6+7 Martha Stewart
Thank you for the tips! I am working on our programs now so this post is really helpful!
Posted by: Jenny | October 07, 2008 at 11:11 AM
Great post!
Posted by: Maggie | October 07, 2008 at 12:22 PM
I love some of the programs you have listed. What a great source and a way to get some great ideas.
Posted by: Does the Dress Fit | October 07, 2008 at 05:19 PM
Great Post! It was such a unknown when I was getting married - what goes in this thing... Very helpful Maria! Thanks.
Posted by: papercupp | October 09, 2008 at 07:42 AM
I can't tell you how helpful this is. I have been wondering exactly what to put in our program...now if I could just find exactly what goes into an invitation...hint hint nudge nudge :)
Posted by: Jeni from Kansas | October 10, 2008 at 11:41 PM