The order of service is a step-by-step account of what your guests can expect throughout the ceremony. Whether you're having a civil or religious ceremony, giving an order of service to your guests as they arrive will ensure everyone knows what to expect and doesn't sneak off at a crucial moment (ie - when you're exchanging your vows!) Some people like to include the complete breakdown of the service - including the words of the minister and response of the couple, whereas others use it only as a guide with the basic details of the service and perhaps printed words to the hymns or songs too.
Here's how to set out your order of service:
Front page
- Name of place of marriage
- The marriage of ....... (bride and groom's names)
- Date and time
Inside
- Entrance music for bride
- Hymn/song (words)
- The marriage
- Prayers (optional)
- Reading (optional)
- Blessing (optional)
- Hymn/song (words)
- Reading/blessing (optional)
- Signing of the register
- Exit music for bride and groom
