How to write an order of service for a wedding
A wedding order of service guides your guests through the ceremony and gives them the hymns to sing. It is also a small keepsake of the day, and the part of the stationery people actually read.
What goes in it
- A cover with both your names, the church, the date and the time.
- The order of the ceremony, including the music you have chosen.
- The words of the hymns.
- Thanks to the people who helped, and the names of the wedding party.
A typical order
This is the usual shape of a Church of England wedding. Your minister will confirm the details with you.
Entrance of the brideall stand
Welcomethe minister
Hymnall stand
The Declarations
Readinga friend or relative
Addressthe minister
The Vows and the Rings
Prayers
Registration of the Marriage
Hymnall stand
Recessionalall stand
Wording for the cover
The Marriage of Eleanor Grace Hartley and Thomas James Okafor
The Celebration of the Marriage of
A service of blessing for
Hymns often chosen
Love divine, all loves excellingBlaenwern
Praise, my soul, the King of heavenPraise, my soul
Be thou my visionSlane
All things bright and beautifulRoyal Oak