Not sure where to start with your wedding?
I will help you to create a ceremony that you and your family will cherish forever. I welcome your creativity in making your ceremony the memorable experience that it should be and I will provide options for you to review if you are unsure of where to begin.
Choosing a Minister
The minister you choose will play a large part in shaping the overall dynamics of your ceremony. I realize the importance of choosing a minister who will customize the service according to your needs and who will conduct your ceremony competently.
Location?
Whether your ceremony takes place at a formal location, park or private home, I am happy to travel anywhere within the greater Madison area.
Budget Concerns?
I can offer services of value that will fit your needs and your budget. I have been a pastor for over 20 years and it really is not about the money, but without the money I will not be able to keep doing what I do.
Free Phone Consultation
Please contact me by email gcarlson@kw.com or call 608.558.7561 and let’s discuss your needs and desires. I would be honored to walk you through these important life events.
Additional Services?
Whether it is a time of remembering or a time of celebrating I would be honored to take part in your ceremony. I feel confident that my professionalism and compassion will enhance the quality of your ceremony.
Wedding Ceremony
Wedding ceremonies can vary greatly and many couples opt to create their own distinct wedding. I will guide you in creating your own ceremony.
Most wedding ceremonies contain the following elements.
Wedding processional
This generally begins the ceremony. Typically a song is chosen for the entrance of the parents and grandparents, then a different song is chosen for the entrance of the wedding party, and then finally the bride is introduced to a different song. There are more common songs such as Canon in D and the Bridal Chorus, however; the bride and groom should choose music that is meaningful to them.
Readings
Some couples take quotes from the bible, others have a favorite poem, or something that they have written themselves. If you don’t have something, don’t worry we have readings for every type of wedding. In some wedding ceremonies couples will read a poem to each other as another way to express their love.
Wedding Vows
Couples can either write their own vows or repeat after the officiate words that express their vow to love one another forever.
Exchange of the Rings
This takes place when the couple exchanges wedding rings as a symbol of their love and commitment to one another.
Unity Candle Ceremony
Wedding ceremonies often consist of the unity candle ceremony. This is when the couples light their own individual candle, and then they light one candle together.
Pronouncement of Marriage and Recessional
The couple is introduced as husband and wife and they exit the ceremony. The wedding party follows them and the guests exit as well.It is important that a wedding ceremony reflects who you are as a couple and to help you create a wedding ceremony that accommodates your values, faith and beliefs as a couple or a new family. We welcome your creativity in creating a ceremony that you will cherish forever.
Wedding Planner
There are so many things to think about when planning a wedding that it can be very overwhelming. Here are some suggestions to help with the details for the wedding ceremony and the wedding reception that occur in the weeks preceding the big day!
Two weeks out
§ Final wedding dress fitting
§ Start to work on seating plan and place cards
§ Address announcements
§ Find a pet sitter and house sitter if need be
§ Notify caterer of estimated head count
§ Write toasts
§ Coordinate delivery of welcome baskets to out-of-town guests
One week out (wedding checklist)
§ Finalize the seating plan
§ Pick up dress or have it delivered after final alterations
§ Pack for the honeymoon
§ Confirm final head count with the caterer
§ Confirm honeymoon arrangements and provide itinerary to family or friends in case of emergency
§ Assign duties to honorary attendants such as passing out wedding programs for the wedding ceremonies, dispersing bouquets, boutonnieres, etc. One day before (wedding checklist)
§ Manicure and pedicure
§ Ceremony rehearsal with wedding officiate and rehearsal dinner
§ Give gifts to wedding party, parents, grand parents, children, etc.
§ Prepare money envelopes for tips and final payments to vendors
§ Confirm transportation to and from ceremony, reception, and airport.
§ Give wedding thank you cards to someone for mailing after the wedding
Wedding Day
Relax and enjoy yourself!
email patwerk@verizon.net
