A Ceremony by Design

Here is a design template for your wedding – too easy!The average civil ceremony will take just under half an hour – including a couple of readings and the signing of documents. It will print out on about two A4 pages. You will note there are only two sections which by law must be included – verbatim! The rest … is up to you, so enjoy putting together your ‘ceremony by design’. Introduction

About 200 words containing a welcome and words on marriage

Optional Reading

Something that resonates with you about your relationship

The Marriage Act ( compulsory)

My name is Susan Artup, a Civil Celebrant duly authorised by law to solemnise marriages according to law. Before you are joined in marriage in my presence and in the presence of these witnesses, I am to remind you of the solemn and binding nature of the relationship into which you are about to enter. Marriage, according to law in Australia, is the union of two people to the exclusion of all others, voluntarily entered into for life.

Optional Reading

About the meaning of marriage/love/commitment in society

Giving Away (optional)Asking ( optional)Optional Reading

A personal love poem

Your own vows (optional)The legal vows ( compulsory)

I, ( full name), call upon the persons here present to witness that I take you ( full name), as my lawful wife/husband/spouse.

Exchange of rings ( optional)Optional Reading

About the symbolism of the rings, the pact that has just been made

Proclamation of MarriageSigning of the documentsOptional Reading

A blessing

Presentation as a married couple.