A Covid-safe Wedding Ceremony Script with Flowers and Light

The COVID-Safe Script

THE PROCESSION

This is the beginning of the Wedding Ceremony. Guests are seated in their household groups or individual seats, followed by the entrance of the wedding party. The couple may choose to enter together, or one at a time. If a socially-distanced aisle is difficult to create with guests spread out, the couple may choose to maximize safety by starting the wedding already standing at the front, or entering from the side.

THE INVOCATION

The officiant welcomes the guests and introduces the couple, and explains the purpose of the gathering*. They'll share words on the significance of this era, and of the day's testament to the couple's love, having stayed committed to one another during the challenges of the pandemic. They may also speak about these challenges, changes in wedding plans, or other personal stories related to the time.

If some guests are attending virtually, the officiant can add a sentence or two welcoming them specifically to the event.

*This can be changed to reflect a commitment ceremony, engagement or betrothal celebration, or vow renewal ceremony. 

Officiant to the Reception

"Welcome everyone, to the wedding ceremony of [PARTNER A] and [PARTNER B].

Let's take a moment to feel the connection and warmth in this space -- a closeness that can't be obscured by any amount of distance or precaution.

We've come here today to celebrate the most intimate of bonds between two people, marriage, during one of the most unique moments in history.

You aren't just guests at a wedding, but the closest and dearest people to these two -- the friends and family that hold them up and help them face any challenge.

(Whether you're here in-person or joining us virtually,) We are so happy that you were able to make it here today, to witness and honor the love that [PARTNER A] and [PARTNER B] share."

BLESSINGS OR WISHES FOR JOY & HEALTH

The officiant talks about the staying-power and healing nature of love, gives the couple a blessing, or offers a few secular words on the importance of partnership and the hope for continued joy and health together. The officiant might talk about how the couple met, what their life together has been like, and what the meaning of partnership or marriage means to them.

VOWS & RING EXCHANGE

The officiant tells the guests that the couple have written personal vows (or poetry, or music … something instrumental to avoid indoor singing) to share as they exchange rings, and then motions to each partner in turn. Each partner will share what they've prepared. 

Officiant to the couple

"[PARTNER A] and [PARTNER A] you've chosen to write your own vows. It's with these words you express your promise to love, honor, and cherish one another as you exchange rings.

If you are ready to make these promises to each other, here in front of your closest friends and family, I ask you to face each other and declare your intentions."

partner a to partner b

• Turns and recites or reads their vows, prepared reading, or plays an instrument as an offbeat alternative. Then, they'll slip the ring onto their partner's finger.

partner b to partner a

• Turns and recites or reads their vows, prepared reading, or instrumental song. Then, they'll slip the ring onto their partner's finger.

BLESSINGS FROM THE GUESTS

Covid-safe: To maintain a safe distance and limit the passing of handheld mics, guests are asked to speak from where they are sitting. They can stand to address the couple. If an outdoor setting will make it hard to hear what's said, a standing mic can be placed in the center of the space. All speakers should keep their mask on while using any shared mics.

The officiant now gives the guests an opportunity to stand and share their own blessings for the couple. 

Officiant to the Reception

"We invite each of you to contribute to this beautiful union now! If you wish, please stand and say a few words to this beautiful, strong couple.

Let these small blessings, one by one, remind the couple of their place within this close community, of the support and love of the group they've created around themselves. For each new challenge, and each new joy, let them remember. Would anyone like to stand and speak?"

PRONOUNCEMENT

The officiant officially declares the couple to be married (or engaged, committed, bound). 

Officiant to the Couple and Reception

"And now [PARTNER A] and [PARTNER B] , in the glow of this close group's love and your devotion I pronounce you bound in love! (Married, united, etc.) You may kiss!"

RECESSION

1. The officiant announces that the ceremony is over.
2. They invite the guests to join in any activities following the ceremony, and wish them a day of merriment as they exit.

Covid-safe: Masks should be worn in most indoor spaces, and in crowded outdoor spaces whenever guests are close to one another. 

The officiant should provide sanitizing wipes if they'll be sharing a pen with the couple to sign the marriage license.

If shared public restrooms are used, all guests should keep masks on while in the restroom. Hand sanitizer can be set up at the entrance of every restroom for use before and after using the shared facilities.