Officiant Tips for Any Wedding Ceremony

Your officiant sets the tone for one of the most meaningful moments of your wedding day—the ceremony. Whether you're a seasoned pro or officiating for the first time, delivering a ceremony that feels personal, seamless, and heartfelt is key. In this blog, we're sharing simple yet impactful tips to help any officiant feel confident, prepared, and fully present on the big day.

Before the Ceremony Begins

Unplugged Ceremony Announcement: (if wanted)
When you take your place at the altar before beginning the ceremony or at the start of the ceremony, it’s often nice to ask guests to silence their devices or turn them off for the duration of the ceremony.

Processional & Entrance

When Song Changes & Bride(s) is Approaching the Aisle: Prompt guests: “Please rise.”

Confirm any special wording or traditions for the “hand-off” at the altar. Will this be silent or spoken? (Example: “Who gives this woman to be wed?”)

After Couple Arrives at the Altar: Prompt guests: “Please be seated.”

Practice the bouquet hand-off and dress fluff, if needed.

These cues may feel simple, but they are so important!

Vows & I DOS

If the vows are being repeated after you, whisper the lines and ensure the bride/groom speak clearly into the microphone. Guests want to hear the couple’s voices as they recite their vows.

For personal vows, it’s often nice for the officiant to step to the side for a cleaner visual and a more intimate moment for the couple

And, again, for the I dos, make sure the couple speaks into the microphone so they can be heard!

The Rings

Clarify who will have the rings ahead of time. Ask this person directly: “Matt, may I please have the rings?”, and discuss your process for who will take them. I usually recommend this person had each one to the respective person.

Unity rituals

For any other unity rituals, like a hand-fasting cord or sand pouring ceremony, make sure to review the steps and practice any wording for these.

The Kiss & Recessional

Before the Kiss:

Mention any final instructions/reminders like a petal toss or bubble send-off - Example:
“As they walk down the aisle, please toss your petals over the newlyweds as they pass you to celebrate!”

For the Kiss:

Step off to the side to keep the couple centered for their kiss moment.

Closing Pronouncement:

Make sure to discuss the timing for the music to begin, usually either:

  1. Pronouncement, kiss (cheering!), music begins! *Recommended* OR>

  2. Kiss (cheering!), Pronouncement, then music begins!

Post-Ceremony Wrap-Up

After Recessional Announcement:

Very important for the flow of the event and into the next festivites! Please announce this after the wedding party exits. “This concludes our ceremony. Please join us for cocktail hour at _____. Thank you.”

Being asked to officiate a wedding is a true honor—and with the right preparation, it can be a beautiful experience for both you and the couple. Remember: speak from the heart, keep the couple at the center, and enjoy the moment. A thoughtful ceremony leaves a lasting impression, and your words will become a part of their love story forever.