Michael Ryan Johnson

Wedding Ceremony Script

(After Jameson hands Nate the rings and sits down)

Everyone, please stand

(Bride walks down the aisle)

(Once Kelly’s Mom sits down and the music stops)

Everyone can now be seated

Introduction

(Michael)

On behalf of Jake, Kelly, and their families, it is my honor to welcome you to this important and wonderful day. Today is a celebration — of love, of commitment, of friendship, and of family. There are many meaningful moments in life, but this one is so special that Jake and Kelly chose to share it with all of you — the people they love most.

(Natalie)

They believe that a marriage is supported not just by two individuals, but by the love, wisdom, and encouragement of the community around them. We are grateful for your presence here. We also take time to remember those who are unable to be here today. Though they may not be with us physically, their love for Jake and Kelly is ever-present.

(Michael)

Jake and Kelly, those gathered here today love and support you deeply. Some have known you since the day you were born, and all will continue to stand by you in the years to come. You have so much to be grateful for. And it is that spirit of gratitude — the simple joy of knowing “it’s good to have something good” — that you’ll carry forward into your shared life together. It doesn’t take long to see that it’s the simple things — and the time you spend together — that make your love remarkable.

[Couple’s Story] Natalie and Michael Share

(Natalie)

Now, the couple would like to invite Kelly’s godmother, Maria, to read a small passage.

(Maria-Will bring it up herself)

(Natalie)

We would now like to invite Jake’s godfather, his Uncle Paul, to say a few words.

(Paul-Will bring it up himself)

(Natalie)

Thank you to Jake and Kelly’s godparents, your love and support of the couple means more than you know.

Declaration of Intent

(Natalie)

Now for the part we have all been waiting for. Throughout their years in high school at IC, one tradition always brought out everyone’s competitive side: the annual rock, paper, scissors tournament. Sophomore year, out of their entire class, Jake and Kelly battled their way to the championship round. After a long and hard-fought showdown, Jake claimed the victory — a loss that Kelly still hasn’t quite gotten over to this day.

Over the years, Jake and Kelly have carried that tradition into their own relationship, settling everyday debates and household duties with games of rock, paper, scissors. So naturally, there was only one fair way to decide who would say “I Do” first.

Of course, it’s always best two out of three… so this could take a minute.

Let the battle begin.

(Get back serious)

(If Kelly wins, Michael talks to Jake)

Jake, do you take Kelly to be your wife —

to be your constant companion,

your partner in life, and your true love?

To love her without reservation or judgment,

to honor and respect her,

to protect her from harm,

to comfort her in times of distress,

and to grow with her in mind and spirit?

Jake: “I do.”

(Natalie)

Kelly, do you take Jake to be your husband —

to be your constant companion,

your partner in life, and your true love?

To love him without reservation or judgment,

to honor and respect him,

to protect him from harm,

to comfort him in times of distress,

and to grow with him in mind and spirit?

Kelly: “I do.”

Ring Exchange

(Natalie)

The couple will now exchange rings.

(Nate hands rings to Jake) (Jake gives the ring box to Natalie)

(Natalie)

May these wedding rings be a reminder of the commitment you are making today and be a testimony to all the world of your devotion in marriage.

(Michael)

Jake, please place the ring on Kelly’s finger and repeat after me:

“I give you this ring as a reminder that I will love, honor, and cherish you (Repeat)

in all times (Repeat), in all places (Repeat), and in all ways, forever (Repeat).”

(Natalie)

Kelly, please place the ring on Jake’s finger and repeat after me:

“I give you this ring as a reminder that I will love, honor, and cherish you (Repeat)

in all times (Repeat), in all places (Repeat), and in all ways, forever (Repeat).”

Pronouncement

(Natalie)

By the Power vested in me by the state of Michigan, I now pronounce you husband and wife.

Jake, you may now kiss the bride! (Make sure to get out of the camera shot for kiss)

(Applause)

(Michael)

Ladies and gentlemen, it is my honor to present to you for the first time:

JAKE AND KELLY LYTTON!!

Bruno Mars Outro Song🎶🎤🥁🎺

(After Bridal Party Exits)

(Natalie)

Thank you everyone for coming! Please continue to the patio and inside the dining room for cocktail hour. All immediate and extended family stay around for photos in 5 minutes.