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Unitarian Universalist Ceremony of Marriage
Index to poems and readings for the 15 other parts of Wedding Ceremonies
A service of union or a wedding is never solely about the two individuals who are joining their
lives, but includes everyone who has played a role in the journey which has led the couple to this point of
commitment. There are many ways in which couples may recognize parents, children, friends, and other
loved ones. This section offers several ways to do this.
Traditionally the "giving away" of the bride by her father, this part of the service now takes many forms.
Parents often accompany a bride down the aisle
now rather than "giving her away" as in the past, but this is still possible. Sometimes all the parents present both
the bride and groom. Sometimes the bride's father (or a relative or friend) escorts
the bride in but there is no formal "presentation." The presentation used is not affected by the way in which the bride is
escorted in, e.g., she may be escorted in by her father but all four parents do the presentation.
You may also wish to have words of
recognition for someone important who is unable to be present at the service. 5-A
Will the (father/parents) of the (bride/bride and groom) please stand.
(Names of those standing), the presentation of a bride is an ancient tradition to which we give new meaning. Your presence symbolizes the many generations that stand behind both this bride and this groom. Today we honor that heritage as a gift to and _____.
5-B
Will the parents of the bride and groom please stand? (Names of those standing), you have raised and nurtured this man and this woman. Will you now give your blessings to them as they enter into this new relationship and offer them your deepest love, understanding, and support in the years ahead?
Parents' response: We will.
5-C
Will you, the parents of and , grant them your blessings and pledge them your love and acceptance? Will you honor the covenant into which your children enter today, give them your loving support, and respect the threshold of their new home?
Parents' response: We will.
5-D
As and come before us to be married, they wish to acknowledge and thank (Names of parents*) for the love and support they have given them. The flowers they give to their parents represent feelings of gratitude in their hearts. This moment marks a major change in their lives, but the ties of love and friendship with their parents continues as an ongoing part of their lives.
The bride and groom present each parent with a rose or other flower.
*If there are deceased parents you may wish to add the following after the first sentence: As we celebrate this wedding today we honor the memory of , (mother/father) of the (bride/groom). (She/he) is with us today in our hearts. The love that (she/he) gave
, lives on in that love that (she/he) brings to (her/his) marriage.
5-E
Who presents this woman in marriage to this man?
Presenter's response: I do (or her mother/father and I do.)
5-F
Mr and Mrs _______, and Mr and Mrs _______, (or first names of parents), _______ and _______ come out of
your family circles. They are living expressions of your love; they have been nurtured in your affections and guided by your personal counsel.
It is now their desire to broaden their family circles, maintaining the heritage with which you have provided them. They will explore new directions, but keep also the tried and tested lessons of their earlier years.
As you have brought _______ and _______ thus far in life, they ask for your affectionate blessings upon them, for the future they have chosen. Do you give this blessing?
Reply: We do.
Parents' Presentation
