The content and style of every Commitment Ceremony will be different, and tailored to the wants and needs of each individual couple. The ceremony can be as traditional and formal as you like, or relaxed and unstructured.
Religious elements, favourite songs, poetry, traditions and rituals may be included if desired. The rules are—there are no rules. The ceremony can be held anywhere, anytime, any day. There are some delightful ceremony ideas that can be included, and if one is chosen, it will be included at the appropriate place in the ceremony. Generally speaking, a Commitment Ceremony will contain the following elements:
Welcome
The Celebrant greets the guests and couple. The Celebrant will also say a few words about commitment in general, and/or specifically about the couple’s relationship, how they met, what they mean to each other, and so on. Mention of any special people can be addressed in this section.
Readings/Music
Commitment Ceremonies often include music, poetry or readings about love. A couple can look to famous quotes or personal writings for inspiration. Perhaps read a love letter or poem from one partner to the other.
The Asking
The Celebrant asks each partner if they are willing to take each other as partners for life.
Vows
This is the declaration by the couple of their intent to be committed to each other for life. They will make promises and define what that commitment means to them. Vows may be the same for each partner, or individual.
Exchange of Rings
The couple may wish to exchange rings. Some words will be said about what the rings symbolise. There may be an exchange of some other jewellery, or the couple may choose to say or do something else at this point if rings are not being exchanged.
Signing of the Commitment Certificate – While the Celebrant, the couple and their witnesses sign the Commitment Certificate, often a favourite song is played.
Proclamation of Commitment – The Celebrant presents the couple with their Commitment Certificate, announces to the guests that the couple are now united as partners for life, and invites the couple to kiss.
