I get asked regularly about who should be the witness(es) for the marriage license, especially as most couples seem to assume that it should be their honor attendants (like the best man, maid of honor, best woman, man of honor, etc). And it absolutely can be, but it doesn't need to be, and hence this post.
I was asked to share my/our advice to newlyweds by Equally Wed, to be published on their website, I thought I'd share my thoughts here as well (with updated dates/numbers!). Enjoy!
Dear Newlyweds,
Congratulations on your recent nuptials and the start to this new chapter in your relationship! I’m excited for you!
I thought I’d share with you some of the things that we’ve figured out in our almost 13 years of marriage, as well as from observing the 900+ couples I’ve married over the past six years (yes, I’m an officiant, and have a ball celebrating all sorts of fantastic couples).
After you've thought about what kind of structure your vows might be, and how long they might be, what do you write? What should be in your vows?
Did you see my previous post on types of vows? Well, as they start to work through the process, many couples ask me about the typical length of vows.
I show my couples ideas that are a whole variety of lengths, intentionally, and this is what I usually recommend:
I get asked regularly about vows and how to make them truly your own. In almost every meeting with my couples, this is the part where real relief comes across their faces - no, you will not be alone in writing your vows, I promise, and will give you as much help and guidance and ideas as you need!
Here is one of the first pieces of advice I share, different ways that you can do your vows:
There are so many small (or big) ways to customize it, making it fit your unique relationship, while still giving the ceremony the respect and sacredness it deserves.
Custom vows, readings, inviting others to take part in the ceremony in some way, extra ceremonies, special colors or attire...
Or even just in the program.
