Gay couple exchanging vows at the alter.
  • 2285 views
  • ~12 minute ceremony

Experienced wedding officiants always consider the unique context and the specific couple they're working with. When crafting a script for a gay wedding ceremony, your top priority should be understanding what the couple wishes the ceremony to look like.

Creating a gay wedding ceremony script will involve incorporating the traditional elements found in any wedding – such as the declaration of intent and pronouncement – while also blending in other personal touches that align with the couple’s beliefs and identities.

Whether that means including certain rituals, omitting others, or setting a specific tone, the officiant's role is to collaborate closely with the couple to craft a ceremony that resonates with them and reflects their authenticity.

Below, you’ll find a sample gay wedding ceremony script that can give you an idea of where to start.

Introduction

Officiant (to guests):

Welcome, friends and family. Today, we gather in the spirit of love to witness and celebrate the union of _________ and _________. This ceremony not only marks the beginning of their marriage journey together but also a tribute to the love, laughter, and shared dreams that continue to unite them. Love is a universal language spoken by all, transcending barriers and embodying the connection we share here today. So, let us proceed with open hearts as we affirm this union.

-

Reading

Officiant:

At this time, we will have a reading that captures the essence of love and partnership. Love is not merely a feeling; it is an action – a daily commitment to support, understand, and grow with each other. It is the foundation upon which enduring partnerships are built. Let this reading remind us all of the strength and beauty found in loving – and being loved.

"A good marriage must be created."

"In the art of marriage the little things are the big things –-"

"It is never being too old to hold hands."

"It is remembering to say ‘I love you’ at least once each day."

"It is never going to sleep angry."

"It is having a mutual sense of values and common objectives."

"It is standing together facing the world."

"It is forming a circle of love that gathers in the whole family."

"It is speaking words of appreciation and demonstrating gratitude in thoughtful ways."

"It is having the capacity to forgive and forget."

"It is giving each other an atmosphere in which each can grow."

"It is finding room for the things of the spirit."

"It is a common search for the good and the beautiful."

"It is not only marrying the right partner –-"

"It is being the right partner."

- The Art of Marriage by Wilferd Arlan Peterson

Vow Exchange

Officiant:

_________ and _________, you have chosen to write and share your vows today, a personal expression of your love and commitment to each other.

Officiant (to Partner 1):

_________, please share your vows with _________.

Partner 1 [Shares vows]:

Officiant:

Thank you, _________.

Officiant(to Partner 2):

_________, it is now your turn to share your vows with _________.

Partner 2 [Shares vows]:

Officiant:

Your vows serve as a heartfelt promise, a commitment to face the future together, cherishing each step of the journey.

Declaration of Intent

Officiant(to Partner 1):

Love is a choice, a decision to share life’s highest peaks and lowest valleys. _________, do you take _________ to be your lawfully wedded spouse, to live together in the covenant of marriage? Do you promise to love them, comfort them, honor and keep them, in sickness and in health, and forsaking all others, be faithful to them as long as you both shall live?

Partner 1:

I do.

Officiant (to Partner 2):

_________, do you take _________ to be your lawfully wedded spouse, to live together in the covenant of marriage? Do you promise to love them, comfort them, honor and keep them, in sickness and in health, and forsaking all others, be faithful to them as long as you both shall live?

Partner 2:

I do.

Pronouncement

Officiant

By the power vested in me, and by the witness of your vows and the strength of your commitment, I now pronounce you married. You have pledged your love to each other in the company of your family and friends, and by the authority given to me, I declare that you are legally joined in matrimony. You may now seal your vows with a kiss.

Partner 1 and Partner 2: [Exchange a kiss]

Officiant

Ladies and gentlemen, it is my honor to present to you for the first time as a married couple, _________ and _________! Let us celebrate their love and the journey that lies ahead.