Unique Wedding Blessing - The Official Breakdown

Your wedding doesn't have to be exactly traditional to still be a traditional wedding. Our couples are opting to have a family member or friend lead their ceremony and officiate for them as it feels deeply authentic and personal. In some cases, you might choose to, or have no choice but to get legally married before your big day. No matter the reason, having a separate legal marriage date is more common than you think.

So what happens on the big day? Typically, couples choose to have a symbolic or "blessing" ceremony - something that looks and feels like a wedding, but without the legal paperwork. This is where your chosen family member or friend steps in to "officiate" in a way that's heartfelt and meaningful. Here's how to do it smoothly, and legally.

Why Legally Get Married First?

There are several practical reasons why couples tie the legal knot ahead of the wedding day:

• Travel or visa constraints

• Waiting lists at the registry office

• Destination wedding logistics

• Desire for a close friend or family member to officiate (who isn't legally allowed to)

Doing the legal part separately frees up your actual wedding day to be all about you, your people, and your story - with less stress about paperwork.

So, What's The Ceremony Then?

If you’ve already signed the marriage license, the wedding ceremony becomes more of a symbolic celebration—often called a “wedding blessing,” “commitment ceremony,” or “celebration of marriage.” It’s emotionally and visually identical to a wedding, but you're not actually signing any legal documents on the day.

Can a Friend or Family Member Officiate?

Yes—if it’s a symbolic ceremony. In most countries (like the UK, for example), legal weddings must be conducted by a licensed officiant in a licensed venue. But if you're already legally married, the rules change: your chosen officiant doesn't need a license, because it's not a legal ceremony.

Tips For Your Loved Ones Officiating The Ceremony

1. Know Your Role -This isn’t a legal duty—it’s about setting the tone, sharing your story, and leading the ceremony in a way that reflects the couple. Think storyteller, not registrar.

2. Work With the Couple - Collaborate on the script. Some couples like traditional vows, others want something totally custom. Ask:

   • How formal or informal should it be?

   • Religious or secular?

   • Are there readings or rituals to include?

3. Practice Makes Perfect - Run through the ceremony a few times—preferably on-site. Check sound equipment, timing, and transitions. The smoother you are, the more relaxed everyone will feel.

4. Include Key Wedding Moments - Even without legal vows, you can still include:

   • Personal vows

   • Ring exchange

   • Declaration of commitment

   • Pronouncement (e.g., “You may now kiss…”)

   • A closing statement to celebrate the couple

5. Keep It Personal - Share anecdotes, celebrate their journey, and speak from the heart. This is the magic moment—make it memorable.

Personal Recommendation

For all of our couples that are having blessings on their big day that are not celebrant run, we always send the couple a questionnaire with prompts to help with the anecdotes, this means that the couple will also have some surprises throughout the ceremony with memories and special moments their partner has shared.

Secondly, if the couple would like a 'signing the register' moment, we recommend getting your coordinator to collate your vows and put them in the front of your guestbook as 'your promise' and then you can sign these.

Final Thoughts

Getting legally married before your wedding day doesn’t make the celebration any less special—in fact, it often lets you fully enjoy the moment with less stress and more intention. With the right planning (and the right person leading the ceremony), it can be even more meaningful.

Let love lead, and the rest will follow.