Notary ceremonies are 15 - 20 minutes in length, 
and include an Introduction, Pledges, Love Poem, Vows, 
Ring Exchange, Pronouncement, and a Unity Candle Ceremony (wind permitting), or a Unity Sand Ceremony. 

 

 

Ideas for the Ceremony

 

The Unity Candles

The Unity Candle Ceremony consists of the lighting of one candle from two separate candles held by the bride and groom. This ceremony symbolizes the union of two lives into one. Creative variations can be added to the ceremony, such as the mothers of the bride and groom, or any designated member of the wedding party, lighting the candles after they walk down the isle or during the ceremony. The couple may keep the candle (some re-light the candle each year on their anniversary).

The Rings 

The wedding ring is an outward symbol of an inward change .It represents the bond created through and by the love of the couple. The wedding ring tradition has existed for centuries and demonstrates a visible evidence of the institution of marriage. Much can be added in this portion of the ceremony usually involves the verbal participation of the Bride and Groom during the exchange. 
 

Breaking of the Glass 

Breaking the glass at the conclusion of the ceremony is generally reserved for the Jewish ceremony. However many couples celebrating an interfaith ceremony request it. The breaking of the glass reminds us of the frailty of a relationships and how careful one should be not to break it. It also demonstrated an irrevocable bond or covenant that is created via the institution of marriage. Symbolically as the glass is shattered we transfer that frailty to the glass and prevent it from entering the marriage.

 

Children Services 

Many couples are remarrying and want to include their children in the ceremony. There are numerous ways this may be done.

 

Hands Ceremony

This refers to gift of the hands of each to one another. The officiant makes mention of the Bride and Grooms hands as the hands that will comfort, nurture, care and hold the other person in time of need. This usually takes 2 to 3 minutes.

 

Honoring the Mothers 

A brief mention and reading usually reflecting the special part the mothers have in this relationship and throughout life. Usually a gift of a flower is presented to each. 

Silent Blessing and Moment of Remembrance 

A blessing which mentions or honors those who no longer are with us. Usually the names are mentioned in remembrance of their important significance to each of the families and how their memory is perpetuated be the establishment of this wedding bond. 

 

Rose Ceremony 

This gesture of giving a rose to one another demonstrates the beauty that can be found in each day and represents a gift that is created and is not man made. Many couples have enjoyed this exchange and it is becoming very popular. 

Blessing to the Four Directions

A long time ago, people believed the human soul shared characteristics with all things celestial. This prayer service designates the four points on a compass with human virtues.

 

Jumping The Broom

There are many different versions of this ritual which involves the couple jumping over the broom. Essentially, the jumping of the broom is a symbol of sweeping away of the old and welcoming the new, or a symbol of a new beginning.