Interview of Christopher Rollings, Director of Creative Wedding Ceremonies
New Jersey Bride Magazine, March 2007
Clergy & Ceremonial Section, "In Your Own Words"
By April Kabbash
You've thought about every last detail of the reception, from food to favors, putting your own personal stamp on the day. But what about the ceremony?
“Brides already personalize everything about the reception,” says Christopher Rollings, director of Creative Wedding Ceremonies in Bound Brook. “The vows are really the last frontier.”
But when it comes to personalizing these most special words, where do you start? “Say what you know and feel comfortable with—above all, be yourself,” says Rollings.
Try focusing on things you've learned together or ways you have grown as a couple. This helps give your guests a small glimpse into your relationship.
“Everyone is drawn in to the meaningfulness of the words,” says Cara Krafchick of Ceremonies by Cara in Ridgefield Park. “It can add a whole new dimension to the ceremony.” And, whether you use traditional vows or create your own, “make sure you are truly present as you say the words. They should have real meaning for both of you,” says Krafchick.
Not a budding Shakespeare or Browning? Why not borrow? Incorporating a favorite poem into the ceremony, either as part of your vows or as a separate reading, can make the ceremony much more personal. Also keep in mind that even within a traditional ceremony, there are options. Most officiants can provide variations on the traditional vows, or you can tweak them to suit your tastes.
One final tip from Rollings: “Always make sure you have something written down. You can't underestimate the power of nerves to make you forget what you were planning to say when there are 500 eyes watching you.”
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