What to Include in Your Wedding Ceremony Program

The following is a basic guideline of what to include in your wedding program:

The Details

Your Names

Wedding Date

Ceremony Location

Wedding Participants

Parents of the Bride

Parents of the Groom

Grandparents of the Bride

Grandparents of the Groom

Maid of Honor

Best Man

Bridesmaids

Groomsmen

Flower Girls/Ring Bearers

Officiant

Order of the Ceremony

You would typically get this timeline from your officiant, as each ceremony is a little bit different. Here is an example:

Prelude (list music if you wish - see pre-ceremony playlist)

Seating of Mothers

Processional (list music if you wish – see wedding processional song ideas)

Opening Words

Readings

Wedding Vows

Exchange of Rings

Pronouncement

Blessing

Recessional (list music if you wish - see wedding recessional songs)

You may also want to include the following:

Note of Thanks from the Bride and Groom.

Typically only a few sentences, this is a note of thanks written to your guests, usually thanking them for coming and celebrating with you.

Explanation of Any Religious Ceremonies. 

If you’re having any religious ceremonies, or other special ceremonies at your ceremony, you might want to explain what they mean, or the purpose of them. This is an option, but certainly not necessary if you’re limited on space.

Dedications.

It’s always nice to list dedications to any special people who have since passed on, or those loved ones that could not be with you on your special day.  Simply listing their names and a message such as “We would also like to acknowledge [insert name], who could not be here to share in our special day, but remains in our hearts and thoughts”.

Relationship Information.

Another fun addition to include – if you have a lot of space to take up on the program – is how long you have known each person in your bridal party. You can also list how you met each member, if you have the space. 

Types of Wedding Ceremony Programs

There are many different types of wedding programs available. Traditionally, wedding programs were a folded sheet of paper, perhaps with a ribbon along the spine of the fold. These days, brides are opting for more unique options. Below are four popular choices:

1. The Traditional Fold

2. The Fan

3. The Flat Program

4. The Accordion Fold

Wedding ceremony programs can add a unique and personal touch to your celebration, creating a treasured keepsake for you and your guests. Have fun with them! For more wedding invitation advice, learn how to define your wedding invite style and discover the ins and outs of wedding invitations.

Photos courtesy of Zenadia Design