What are the 5 parts of the wedding ceremony in order?

The processional is when the wedding party and the couple enter, often with music. The welcome and introduction follows, where the registrar or officiant greets guests and explains the purpose of the ceremony. Then come the readings and vows, which may include poems, songs or personal promises, depending on the type of ceremony. After that, the ring exchange and pronouncement happens, where rings are given and the couple is declared married. The recessional is the final part, when the newly married couple and their party walk back up the aisle to music.

For a civil ceremony in England or Wales, the registrar must include the legal declaration and contracting words, and they will guide you on the exact order. Religious ceremonies may include hymns, prayers or a sermon, so the order can vary. In Scotland, the celebrant has more flexibility, and in Northern Ireland, humanist ceremonies are legal, so the structure can be tailored. Always check with your venue, registrar or place of worship for their required order.