Reading a wedding ceremony script can be both an honor and a scary task. Whether you’ve already officiated one hundred weddings or you’re just a nervous friend taking on the role, here are some tips to help you read a wedding ceremony script like a pro.
Prepare the Script
First things first, it’s important to make sure you have a well-written and coherent wedding ceremony script. Even the best officiant will have trouble delivering a good speech if the writing isn’t good. If writing isn’t your strong point, consider getting input from family and friends. Once you’ve written and edited your script. Read through the script multiple times to become comfortable with the message. Take out phrases that sound awkward and forced. Pay attention to how you use pauses and emotional stories for dramatic effect.
Master Pronunciation
Pronouncing all names and locations correctly is very important. Look up any unfamiliar words or phrases to understand their meanings and pronunciations. Make sure you speak clearly and enunciate each word. Having a good posture to project your voice is a great way to make sure you are heard and understood.
Using different tones and cadences is a great way to convey emotions and emphasize important moments. If you take a couple deep breaths and do a calming meditation practice before the ceremony, it may help you maintain a natural pace, and staying calm and in control.
Eye Contact and Emotion
It’s important to have a command over the room but at the same time keeping the couple the center of attention. This means connecting with the couple throughout the ceremony. As you read the script, glance and smile at the couple. Look out over the audience as well and try to bring everyone together for this special moment.
Let the present moment bring out your genuine emotions. If you feel like crying, let the tears flow. If you feel like laughing, don’t be afraid to bring the audience along. The more genuine you allow yourself to be, the more comfortable the couple and audience will feel.
Handle Unexpected Situations
Like any event in life, not everything is predictable and there very well could be interruptions or unexpected issues. Forgetting your lines or technical difficulties like your microphone turning off are all possible scenarios. If this should be the case, the most important thing is that you stay calm and composed. It’s your role as the officiant to address problems with patience and professionalism.
Enjoy the Moment
Enjoy yourself! After all, weddings are all about celebrating love and joy – go with the flow. You’ve already put in the hard work and practice, so just let your intuition take over. The more relaxed and loose you feel, the better the ceremony will be.
By following these tips, you can deliver a memorable and heartfelt wedding ceremony that will be cherished by the couple and their guests for years to come.
-Bernard Paul