It's Not Just I Do
The Parts of a Wedding Ceremony
To begin, there are 4 major parts of a ceremony that each have their own music. They are: the prelude, the processional, the interlude and the recessional. The prelude requires music for while the guests are arriving to the ceremony area and waiting for the wedding party to enter. The processional is the time when the wedding party - the parents, the attendants and the groom, enter. The bride's processional comes next. Now, the bride slowly walks to an alter or arbor, typically arm in arm with her father or another significant person whoe will "give her away".
The essence of the ceremony occurs next, however, the pauses when no words are spoken, are called the interlude. This is the time for the officiant to address the assembled guests or give a sermon specific to marraige. The couple will then exchange their vows or read poetry. Religious or ethnic rites such as a unity ceremony (lighting of a central candle or combining colored sands) or exchange of leis (a hawaiian custom) may take place. There can also be other optional components like a family medallion ceremony which recognizes the importance of children coming into a blended or second marraige. The exchanging of rings and the wedding kiss generally end the interlude.
The final major part of the ceremony is the recessional. This is when the newly wedded couple leave the ceremony area to joyous music and applause from the assembled guests and attendants.
For the purpose of music, the postlude will be the time when the guests are leaving the ceremony area. When the guests finally meet up with the newly married couple, a toss of rice or release of doves can occur.
Read our articles on choosing the right music for your ceremony and also on the unity ceremony. Other Recommended articles may also interest you as you plan your wedding (see at right).
