Bruce Hoffman

Welcome, family and friends.

We are gathered here today not just to witness a ceremony, but to honor a love that has grown and brought Erin and Jared to this moment.

Their story began in an unexpected way—brought together through mutual friends at a bar, a simple introduction that turned into conversation, connection, and eventually something neither of them could have predicted. From that chance meeting, they began building something real, one moment at a time.

What we celebrate today is more than the joining of two hearts—it is the weaving together of two lives, two families, and two futures. It is the quiet understanding they’ve built, the laughter they’ve shared, and the strength they’ve found in one another. And in just a few moments, they will speak directly from the heart, sharing the vows they have written for one another—words that reflect their journey, their promises, and the love that has led them here today.

Marriage is not simply a promise made in a single day, but a commitment lived out over a lifetime. It is choosing each other again and again—in moments of joy and in moments of challenge. It is offering patience when it’s needed, kindness when it matters most, and love even when it feels difficult. In its truest form, it is both a refuge and an adventure—a place of comfort and a journey of growth.

Erin and Jared, today is not just the start of something new—it is a continuation of everything that has already brought you here. May you always remember what you see in each other in this moment: the love, the hope, and the certainty that you are stronger together than apart. And may that truth guide you through all the days to come.

(Vows)

Erin, do you take Jared to be your partner in life—to walk beside him through all of life’s journeys, to share in his dreams and support him in every challenge, to cherish him, comfort him, and love him deeply and unconditionally for all the days of your life?

(Wait for confirmation)

Jared, do you take Erin to be your partner in life—to walk beside her through all of life’s journeys, to share in her dreams and support her in every challenge, to cherish her, comfort her, and love her deeply and unconditionally for all the days of your life?

(Wait for confirmation)

(Ring Exchange)

Erin, as you place this ring on Jared’s finger, please repeat after me:

“I give you this ring as a symbol of my love and my devotion. With it, I promise to stand beside you, to support you, to honor you, and to choose you, today, tomorrow, and for all the days of my life.”

(Pause for repetition)

Jared, as you place this ring on Erin’s finger, please repeat after me:

“I give you this ring as a symbol of my love and my devotion. With it, I promise to stand beside you, to support you, to honor you, and to choose you, today, tomorrow, and for all the days of my life.”

(Pause for repetition)

By the authority vested in me by American Marriage Ministries and the State of South Carolina, it is my great honor to pronounce you married!

You may now share your first kiss as a married couple.