Wedding phrases in English: the ceremony

 

Here are some phrases to describe what happens at a traditional American wedding ceremony. Of course, there are people from all different backgrounds living in the U.S., so this doesn't describe all weddings. But this is a very common wedding style that you often see on TV and movies.

• The ceremony is held in a church, a garden, in an outdoor pavillion (like a big tent), in someone's home, etc.
• Ushers show the guests to their seats.
• Guests sit either on the bride's side (usually the left) or the groom's side.
• The groom waits at the altar.
• The couple's bridesmaids and groomsmen stand nearby. The maid of honor and best man stand closest to the bride and groom.
• The bride walks down the aisle.
• She wears a wedding dress and a veil.
• The father of the bride gives her away.
• The minister or wedding officiant says:

  Dearly beloved, we are gathered here today to witness the union of Merlin William Shepard and Annabel Elizabeth Lee in marriage.

  If anyone feels that this couple should not be united in Holy Matrimony, speak now or forever hold your peace.

  Do you, Kim, take this man, Noah, to have and to hold from this day forward, for better and for worse, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish, 'till death do you part?

• The bride and groom answer:

  I do.

• The couple exchanges rings. They often say:

  With this ring, I thee wed.

• Then the minister or officiant says:

  By the power vested in me by the state of New York, I now pronounce you husband and wife.

  You may kiss the bride.