Whether you've invited 30 guests or 300, you've invited them because they are special to you in some way--special enough for you to desire their presence as you make one of the most important transitions of your life. These people, be they family, friends, co-workers, neighbors, or parent's friends are there to witness your marriage and join you in celebrating.
Most frequently guests assume the role of an audience. They view the tableau of the wedding party at the altar, and listen to the prose and poetry of the ceremony. But some couples want to involve the friends and family in the ceremony and there are a number of ways to do this. You can invite them to be participants.
The wedding ceremony has two basic purposes--to give thanks and to receive blessings. Giving thanks can come in the form of giving small symbolic tokens of esteem. The sharing of food and/or drink during the ceremony is a great way to give thanks. This is more easily done with small groups where passing a braided bread to be shared, or handing out cups of tea or glasses of wine is an option. There was one notable ceremony in which the couple had written a five verse poem with a blessing chorus. Each guest received a copy and, as I read the poem, they contributed the chorus. Another couple, who held their ceremony outdoors in a clearing, had their guests as part of the processional parade, walking and dancing from the house to the clearing following the lively tunes of a bagpiper.
There are many ways to incorporate guests by receiving blessings. One couple placed pens and a basket containing small cards attached to ribbons near the guest book. They invited friends and family to write their good wishes on the cards and then hang them on the arch that sheltered the altar. Another couple had a small a wine ceremony in which each guest stated a blessing as they poured wine from a carafe into a glass from which the bride and groom would both drink.
There are also many cultural traditions that allow the guests to be active participants. Explore traditions, do variations on a theme, or create something entirely your own. It’s all up to you!
I Do adapts traditions and creates new options to help couples personalize their wedding ceremonies. by Sydney Barbara Metrick Buy The Book www.ChickenSoupCounseling.com
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