Here is a script for a beautiful non-religious ceremony, it includes language for a sand ceremony, & also includes language for couples that already have a child/children. I like this modern style script because while it goes into depth about the true meaning of marriage, its' still simple and to the point. This sort of script is perfect for a non-religious couple who still wants the a slight feel of tradition. Feel free to comment and let me know what you think about this script!
Invocation:
Ladies and Gentlemen, Family and Friends: Welcome!
There is a reason as to why all of you have been invited to witness this sacred union between __________, and __________ today. Does anyone know why? It is because today marks the day that __________ and __________ finally make their union official, and each and every one of you have been a special part of their lives, and they want all their friends and family to bear witness to their lovely union for all of you take with you those beautiful memories of the day these two become one, and to come together in celebration as this day produces good times and memories that will be cherished by __________ and __________ for years to come.
With bumps along the way because no one is perfect, you have learned what it means to love one another. Through good times and bad times, I have had the honor and privilege to witness how both of you have learned how to coexist as a couple, and to be loving parents to your child(ren) as well. Getting married today is only one small quick step towards the meaning of true marriage.
Marriage is not just putting on a beautiful dress, or a nice suit. It isn't about having a big party, celebrating with friends and family, or partying to the late hours of the night - although we definitely are going to do just that! All those things are what a wedding is about, but marriage... marriage is about the continued learning of not just living together as a couple of two separate lives, but living your lives as one complete life. It means continually moving forward as husband and wife, where you work towards the success of your family. Let nothing stand in the way of your marriage. The success of the longevity of your marriage really rests upon you. To honor your bride, to be a loving supporting father, to support your groom to influence his decisions on his future ambitions, and to be a nurturing, loving mother.
So __________ and __________ ...are you ready to do this?!
Friends and Family, are you all ready to witness this?!
LET'S DO THIS!
Declaration of Intent:
__________:
Do you take __________ to be your lawfully wedded wife? Do you promise to love, honor, cherish, and protect her, forsaking all others and holding only unto her in sickness and in health, for richer or for poorer for as long as you both shall live?
__________:
Do you take __________ to be your lawfully wedded husband? Do you promise to love, honor, cherish, and protect him, forsaking all others and holding only unto him in sickness and in health, for richer or for poorer for as long as you both shall live?
Sand Ceremony:
__________ and __________ are now going to partake in a Sand Ceremony. In this ceremony both __________ and __________ will each take their different colored sand, and pour them into this single glass. This keepsake will be kept with them so that every day they look upon this glass they will always be reminded of the union and promise that they make to each other today of living their lives together as one.
(During this time, Minister guides bride and groom to the table that holds three glasses. Ambient music is played until they have finished pouring the sand.)
Ring Exchange:
May I please have the rings?
Rings are a precious metal; they are also made precious by us wearing them. Your wedding rings are special they enhance who you are. They mark the beginning of your long journey together. Your wedding ring is a circle a symbol of love never ending. It is the seal of the vows you have just taken to love each other without end.
__________, please place the ring on __________'s left hand.
By placing this ring on her finger, you do this as a sign of your love that you have chosen her above all else.
__________, please place the ring on __________'s left hand.
By placing this ring on his finger, you do this as a sign of your love that you have chosen him above all else.
Pronouncement
To make your relationship work will take love. It will take trust, to know, that in your hearts, you truly want what is best for each other. It will take dedication, to stay open to one another - and to learn and grow together. It will take faith, to go forward together, without knowing exactly what the future brings. And it will take commitment, to hold true to the journey you both have pledged to today.
You both have stated your intent, you have declared commitment to one another, you performed the Unity Sand Ceremony, and have exchanged rings. There is now only one thing left to do...
By the power vested in me by the State of Michigan and the American Marriage Ministries, I now pronounce you officially husband and wife.
__________, you may now kiss your bride.
Ladies and Gentlemen. It is my honor and privilege to introduce to you for the first time, Mr. and Mrs. __________!