Same-Day Weddings in the Bay Area: Say “I Do” Today

A happy couple during their same-day wedding in the Bay Area

Plan Your Same-Day Wedding in the Bay Area | MySFWedding

How to Plan a Same-Day Wedding in the Bay Area

Planning a same-day wedding in the Bay Area may sound spontaneous, but it can be incredibly meaningful, beautiful, and stress-free — especially when you have expert help. Whether you woke up today feeling ready, or you’ve been considering eloping for weeks, saying “I do” today is entirely possible.

A same-day wedding can be one of the most exhilarating experiences of your life, giving you the chance to create a spontaneous and unique celebration. Imagine waking up in the morning with your partner and deciding to marry that very day, embracing the spontaneity of life and love.

At MySFWedding.com, we specialize in helping couples plan heartfelt, same-day weddings all across the San Francisco Bay Area — from romantic Golden Gate backdrops to quiet garden hideaways in Marin.

Understanding the different types of marriage licenses is crucial for anyone planning a same-day wedding. The licensing process varies by county, so it’s important to do your research. For instance, if you choose a public marriage license, be aware that it requires one witness. This could be a friend or even a friendly passerby if you’re eloping in a public space. On the other hand, a confidential marriage license allows you to skip the witness requirement and offers more privacy, which is ideal for couples looking for a more intimate setting.

Public vs. Confidential Marriage License in California

To ensure a smooth experience, it’s essential to plan ahead, even for a last-minute wedding. Make a checklist of the key elements you’ll need: a marriage license, an officiant, and a venue.

If you want to get married the same day, choosing the right marriage license is key:

💍 Public Marriage License

Requires one witness
Becomes public record
Can be purchased in any California county and used statewide

🤫 Confidential Marriage License

No witness required
Not part of public record
Must be used in the county where it’s issued

For many same-day weddings in the Bay Area, the confidential license is the faster, more private option — and it’s perfect for elopements.

What Makes a Same-Day Wedding So Special?

It may be worth noting that different counties in the Bay Area have varying policies regarding marriage licenses, which can affect your planning. For instance, some counties might require an appointment for same-day licenses, while others offer walk-in services.

A same-day wedding isn’t just about speed — it’s about connection. There’s something powerful about following your instincts and committing to each other now. Many couples say they feel even more present and authentic without the stress of planning for months.

Whether you’re celebrating:

A meaningful date
A spontaneous decision
Or a moment of clarity and love

— this type of wedding honors the now.

🗺️ Where Can I Get a Same-Day Marriage License?

Same-Day Wedding Services with MySFWedding.com

San Francisco: Appointments available (check for same-day cancellations)

Alameda / San Mateo Counties: Limited walk-in availability

Here’s what we offer to make your same-day wedding in the Bay Area seamless:

Help choosing the best type of marriage license
Warm hearted wedding officiant
Ceremony planning and location ideas
Optional bouquet, photographer, or witness
All services available with just a few hours’ notice

Is a Same-Day Wedding Right for You?

If you’re someone who values privacy, spontaneity, or simplicity — this could be your dream wedding. Many of our couples say they’ve never felt more “them” than during a peaceful, intimate ceremony without all the pressure.

Final Thoughts

Choosing a same-day wedding in the Bay Area doesn’t mean sacrificing meaning — it means focusing on what matters most: each other. Whether it’s San Francisco, Sausalito, or a hidden garden, your love story deserves to start just the way you want it to.

For more information and to explore our services, visit MySFWedding.com. We’re here to help you create your dream same-day wedding, complete with personalized touches. Don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions — we’re ready when you are. Call or text 415-302-0444. Click here to book today.

Q: Can I get married the same day in San Francisco?
A: Yes! With the right license and officiant, same-day weddings are legal and beautiful in the Bay Area. Embrace the spontaneity of love and make your day unforgettable!

💌 Let’s Make Your Same-Day Wedding Happen

We’re here to make your spur-of-the-moment wedding stress-free and unforgettable. Whether you want a confidential elopement or a public ceremony with friends, MySFWedding.com makes it happen today.

12:55 pm By Ema Leave a Comment

How to Plan a San Francisco City Hall Wedding: Rentals, Packages & Insider Tips

San Francisco City Hall weddings are stunning, elegant, and surprisingly affordable. Whether you’re eloping, celebrating with a small group, or planning a grand event, you can create a beautiful experience with or without renting a venue inside this iconic building. A San Francisco City Hall wedding offers unique opportunities for beautiful photography and a memorable ceremony.

At MySFWedding.com, we offer officiant services, curated packages, and planning support for weddings of all sizes. This guide walks you through everything—from intimate ceremonies for 8 to weekend rentals of the entire building.

When considering a San Francisco City Hall wedding, it’s important to explore all available options to make your day perfect.

As you think about your San Francisco City Hall wedding, remember that the planning process can be both fun and stress-free.

For your San Francisco City Hall wedding, we provide detailed guidance to ensure every aspect meets your expectations.

💐 Ceremony Options Package for Intimate SF City Hall Weddings

Our Ceremony Options Package is designed for weekday weddings with 8 or fewer people (the couple plus 6 guests). This option does not require a venue rental, making it perfect for couples who have booked a marriage license appointment through the San Francisco County Clerk.

✅ What’s Included:

Professional wedding officiant with ceremony options
Ceremony planning support and timing coordination
Optional upgrades that can include photography and flowers
As well as local vendor referrals for flowers, hair/makeup, photographers

This package is ideal for destination weddings, elopements, vow renewals, or couples who want a polished yet simple ceremony in San Francisco’s most iconic building.

🔗 View Ceremony Options Package →

This package is ideal for couples planning a San Francisco City Hall wedding focused on simplicity and elegance.

🗓 Tip: Civil ceremonies open for booking 90 days in advance via the San Francisco County Clerk’s office. At My SF Wedding we also offer last minute services, just select what you would like.

🏛 SF City Hall Rental Locations: Weekday & Weekend Options

Many couples choose a San Francisco City Hall wedding due to its iconic backdrop and affordability.

Choosing the right location for your San Francisco City Hall wedding is crucial for creating lasting memories.

Understanding the capacity for your San Francisco City Hall wedding will help you plan accordingly.

For couples hosting more guests or looking for a private space, City Hall offers stunning rentable locations throughout the building.

1. Mayor’s Balcony (Weekday Rental)

💒 Capacity: Up to 40 guests
💰 Approx. Cost: $1,000
📍 Overlooks the Grand Staircase (2nd floor)
✨ Perfect for elegant, semi-private ceremonies

2. Fourth Floor Galleries (North or South)

💒 Capacity: Up to 60 guests
💰 Approx. Cost: $1,000
📍 Located on the 4th floor with sweeping views and soft lighting
📸 Incredible photography opportunities

3. Weekend & Evening Rentals

💒 Capacity: 100–300+ guests
💰 Starting at $5,000+
🗓 Available after-hours or on weekends
🥂 Great for full weddings with ceremony and reception
📋 Requires contract with the City and approved vendors

When booking for a San Francisco City Hall wedding, consider the aesthetics and logistics of each space.

✨ What We Offer for City Hall Rentals

If you’ve booked a Mayor’s Balcony, Fourth Floor, or weekend rental, we offer officiant services to complete your celebration.

Weekend San Francisco City Hall weddings can be particularly enchanting under the evening sky.

Services Include:

Professional officiant (civil, spiritual, or custom ceremony)
Ceremony coordination and timeline management
Rehearsal-style walkthrough and guest seating guidance
Vendor coordination and planning guidance

📸 Need a photographer? We’ll refer you to trusted local pros who know City Hall inside and out.

✅ Tips for a Smooth SF City Hall Wedding

Arrive early to get through security and check-in
Dress for the setting—City Hall is elegant and deserves it
No confetti, candles, or tossing items—decor is limited by City Hall
Hire a photographer—lighting and architecture deserve to be captured
Coordinate timing—especially if you’re working around appointment slots
Marriage License Copies-appointments can now be made to get your copies at time of application.

We specialize in making your San Francisco City Hall wedding a seamless and joyful experience.

💌 Let’s Make Your Wedding Day Effortless

Plan ahead for your San Francisco City Hall wedding to ensure everything runs smoothly on your special day.

Whether you’re saying “I do” in front of 6 guests or 60, we’re here to guide you through it.

📅 Ready to book your ceremony package or officiant services?
Visit MySFWedding.com to view our packages, pricing, and availability. Let’s create a stress-free, beautiful City Hall wedding—your way. Call or text Ema at 415-302-0444.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How many guests can I bring to SF City Hall?

A: The standard non Rotunda ceremonies allow 6 guests. Our Ceremony Options Package is perfect for groups of 8 or fewer. This number includes vendors such as photographers.

Q: Can I personalize my wedding ceremony at SF City Hall?

A: Yes! While SF City Hall offers standard civil ceremonies, you can personalize your vows or add your own officiant through a private rental. If you choose the Ceremony Options Package, you can work with your officiant to create a more tailored experience.

Remember that your San Francisco City Hall wedding deserves beautiful photography to capture the moment.

Q: Do I need a wedding planner for my City Hall wedding?

A: A wedding planner is not required, but many couples opt to hire one for a smoother experience, especially if they want to incorporate personalized touches. With our Ceremony Options Package, we provide planning support, a timeline, and other essential services, so you can relax and enjoy your special day.

Q: How far in advance should I book my SF City Hall wedding?

A: It’s recommended to book your ceremony at least 2–3 months in advance, especially if you’re looking for a weekend or holiday date. Weekday ceremonies can sometimes be booked on shorter notice, but popular dates fill up quickly, so securing your spot early is a good idea!

Q: Can we do a small wedding at SF City Hall at the last minute?

A: Yes, at My SF Wedding we assist couples with this all year long. Just reach out to us.

We have answers to all your questions about planning a San Francisco City Hall wedding.

Having a clear understanding of your guest limit is vital for a San Francisco City Hall wedding.

Make your San Francisco City Hall wedding personal by adding unique touches to your ceremony.

Booking your San Francisco City Hall wedding well in advance helps you secure your ideal date.

Even last-minute, a San Francisco City Hall wedding can be beautifully executed with the right support.

1:05 pm By Ema Leave a Comment

✨ A Moment Bigger Than a Church: Welcoming a New Light

A Moment Bigger Than a Church: Welcoming a New Light

At My SF Wedding, we celebrate love in all its forms. Today, I’m sharing a reflection on a historic moment of hope and renewal — the same spirit that inspires every celebration of life and love.

We believe every love story is a new beginning — and this reflection honors a moment of hope, unity, and renewal, the very spirit we celebrate in every wedding, every baptism and every celebration of life.

A New Light ~ In the ONE, we are one

Today, history quietly turns a page — not only for the Catholic Church, but for humanity itself. We have witnessed the rise of the first American Pope, Leo XIV, at a time when so much feels uncertain, broken, exhausted.

But this is not a time of endings.
It is a time of purification, not annihilation.
It is a time to burn away what is false,
and to shine even brighter with what is true.

Pope Leo XIV stands not just for one faith or one tradition, but for a deeper, older hope we all carry:
That even when the night is longest,
even when the stones crack and the old ways crumble,
the Light is never truly extinguished.

This moment invites all of us — whatever our path, whatever our beliefs —
to soften our hearts, to listen, to dream again.
To believe that healing is possible.
That what is ancient can be renewed.
That what is broken can still blossom into something sacred.

We stand on holy ground —
not because it is easy,
but because it is real.

And so, we lift our eyes.
We breathe deeply.
We hold hands across all divisions.
And we walk together into the New Dawn.

🌿 A Blessing for This Moment

May the fire of truth burn away all that is false.
May the light of love heal all that is wounded.
May we walk with courage into the unknown,
holding one another with fierce and gentle hope.

May this new dawn find us ready —
to forgive,
to rebuild,
to dream again.

Ema Drouillard, Obl O.S.B.

Heart of the Dawn

In the stillness before the bells,
where the first light bends low to the earth,
a heart awakens — not for the first time,
but as one who remembers being called by name.

Once, a whisper shaped you,
fashioned your vow from the breath of Love;
once, you placed your hands upon the altar,
and your life poured out like oil from a broken jar.

Today, the heavens tilt —
a new voice rises upon Peter’s Chair,
and you, beloved, rise again inside:
you, too, are called to begin.

Not to undo the journey,
nor to retreat from what has been,
but to step again into the living stream
where promises are still alive.

O Heart, you are not old —
you are the green shoot breaking from winter soil,
the candle relit from an ancient flame.

Living from the heart, from Divine Love,
you move with the tide of eternity,
your steps both new and known.

Sing now, out of the abundance,
out of the fullness that only years can give:
Sing with the sure mouth of wisdom,
and the soft tongue of peace.

You are child of the Heart—
of the silence that speaks,
of the Love that overflows,
of the dawn that has no end.

Mega Five — Pope St. John Paul II, St. Mother Theresa, Pope Leo XIII, St. Augustine & St. Benedict

12:29 pm By Ema Leave a Comment

What Is the Best Place for a Small Wedding in San Francisco? (And Why You Need a Local Pro)

San Francisco offers some of the most breathtaking locations for a small wedding — from serene gardens to historic palaces and waterfront views. But choosing the perfect spot for an intimate ceremony isn’t as simple as picking your favorite park or palace — it takes insider knowledge to navigate the permits, rules, and restrictions each site has. That’s why having a local professional by your side matters more than ever.

What Is a Small Wedding in San Francisco?

In San Francisco, a “small wedding” typically means a gathering of 2 to 12 people, including the couple, officiant, photographer, and guests. Keeping your guest list within this range is the most cost-affordable way to have a wedding at San Francisco’s top locations. Once your group exceeds about 12 people, many venues require formal event permits, insurance, additional fees, and sometimes professional event management.

Staying within the “small wedding” size not only keeps your day simple and stress-free but also allows you access to some of the city’s most beautiful and protected sites without breaking the bank.

Best Types of Places for a Small Wedding in San Francisco

✨ Gardens

Examples: Shakespeare Garden, Japanese Tea Garden

Gardens offer a storybook backdrop for an intimate ceremony. However, many gardens in San Francisco require advance permits, strict adherence to guest counts, and often necessitate a local professional to coordinate timing, logistics, and ensure compliance with site rules.

🏩 Palaces and Historic Sites

Examples: Palace of Fine Arts, Legion of Honor

Palaces and historic venues deliver grandeur on a small scale. While many couples dream of saying “I do” against these stunning backdrops, they come with very specific rules — including permit requirements, photography restrictions, and rental fees that escalate with group size. A professional ensures you meet all the regulations without surprises.

🌊 Waterfront Locations

Examples: Crissy Field, Baker Beach, Marina Green

San Francisco’s waterfront spots provide iconic views of the Golden Gate Bridge and sweeping ocean vistas. Coastal locations often involve layered permissions to protect the environment, and may have usage time restrictions. With a local planner, you can secure the perfect timing and setting.

🌳 Secret Spots

Examples: Lover’s Lane, hidden meadows in the Presidio

Some of the city’s most romantic locations are hidden in plain sight. Secret spots like Lover’s Lane or private meadows allow for uniquely intimate ceremonies, but they often require insider knowledge to reserve legally and respectfully.

Why You Need a Local Professional for a Small Wedding

Attempting to plan a small San Francisco wedding on your own may seem easy — but without a local expert, couples can face unexpected hurdles. Here’s why working with a professional like MySFWedding.com is essential:

Permit rules change seasonally and vary by location.
Certain sites require professional event planners for approval.
Protecting fragile public spaces ensures future access for other couples.
Local insight means better photo opportunities and fewer logistical headaches.
Avoid costly mistakes like denied access, last-minute relocations, or fines.

Choosing a trusted local professional ensures your small wedding is beautiful, legal, and stress-free — while also safeguarding San Francisco’s treasured locations for generations to come.

Plan Your Perfect Small Wedding in San Francisco

If you dream of a small, unforgettable wedding in San Francisco, we’re here to make it effortless. From finding the perfect hidden garden to securing the right permits, MySFWedding.com has you covered every step of the way.

[Plan Your Small San Francisco Wedding →] Contact Us

Q1: How many people can you have at a small wedding in San Francisco?
A: A small wedding in San Francisco typically includes 2 to 12 people, including the couple, officiant, and guests. This keeps permit fees low and access to beautiful venues possible.

Q2: Can I have a small wedding in a San Francisco park without a permit?
A: Most San Francisco parks require a permit even for small weddings. A local professional ensures you get the right permits and follow the site’s specific rules.

Q3: What are the best places for a small wedding in San Francisco?
A: Top locations include Shakespeare Garden, Palace of Fine Arts, Crissy Field, and hidden spots in the Presidio — all perfect for intimate ceremonies with 2–12 guests.

Q4: Why should I hire a local planner for a small wedding?
A: A local planner navigates changing permit rules, protects fragile sites, avoids surprise fees, and ensures a smoother, more beautiful wedding day.

Q5: How much does it cost to have a small wedding in San Francisco?
A: Costs vary depending on the location and required permits. Keeping the group size under 12 guests helps avoid expensive site fees, and a local planner can help you stay within budget.

Ema;Drouillard;officiant,minister — Ema Drouillard, Minister/Officiant & Photographer

Quick Answer:
The best place for a small wedding in San Francisco depends on your style — from the romantic Shakespeare Garden to the iconic waterfront at Crissy Field. A local professional can help you choose the perfect spot and navigate the permit process smoothly.

1:42 pm By Ema

First Glance Revealed

First Glance

First Glance Revealed

It’s called the “Reveal” the first moment the bride and groom see each other before they become husband and wife. Emotion’s can be overwhelming for one or both the bride and the groom. It can be an intimate moment between just the two of you or a public moment when you are being witnessed. It can also be a photo opportunity or not. It’s up to you.

Private~Before The Ceremony

The bride and groom share an intimate moment together before the ceremony. This can take place fifteen minutes or so before you are transported to your ceremony venue.

Before hand, find a suitable place for this to happen either at home or at the lodging. Have the groom face one direction and the bride enter’s from behind the groom. When you are ready have the groom turn around.

Outdoor Wedding Venue’s

The outdoor venue’s offered rarely offer an effective way to experience the first glance. There is no aisle per say, and often no way to orchestrate the timing effectively. The outdoor venue’s listed on this site are not conducive to the first glance and first glance is not offered at the outdoor venue’s. When using one these venue’s I recommend a private meeting before the ceremony.

Public~Walking Down The Aisle

The tradition of a public first glance during the ceremony began in a church. As the bride begins her walk down the aisle, the bride and groom see each other for the first time before coming husband and wife.

This tradition works perfectly in a traditional setting. All the chapel’s provide a perfect setting for walking down the aisle and having the “Reveal” happen at the foot of the aisle. It’s been done many times and works well. Other indoor venue’s also work well for an aisle “Reveal”.

Consider The Venue

Consider the different venue’s you will be using the day of your wedding and select the most effective and easy way to share your first glance. Make it simple and sweet to watch your memories unfold. The focus of the day is becoming husband and wife. Arrive your wonderful self and say; “I Do!” It really can be that simple.

7:49 pm By Ema

Outdoor Wedding Ceremony, Best Time?

The Best Time Of Day For An Outdoor Wedding Ceremony In The Bay Area

Outdoor Wedding Ceremony, Best Time Of Day?

Are you planning an outdoor wedding in the San Francisco Bay Area? Here are planning tips for an outdoor wedding ceremony, best time. Are you wondering what the best time of day is? Here are tips for planning your outdoor wedding ceremony, for the best time of day, the best time of year and the best months of the year.

We have offered outdoor ceremonies in the San Francisco Bay Area for over twenty years. San Francisco’s weather pattern is unique and well worth planning around for the best option. Couples enjoy outdoor wedding ceremonies year round in the Bay Area.

There are a few things to consider for your outdoor wedding ceremony; the weather patterns, the time of day, the time of year, the day of the week as well as traffic patterns.

San Francisco Season’s Of The Year

What season of the year are you considering for your wedding?

Outdoor Wedding Ceremony, Best Time Of Year

Couples marry outdoors all year-long in the Bay Area. Taking into account the weather patterns will make all the difference on your wedding day.

Each season brings its own weather pattern. Being a coastal city, San Francisco has a wind pattern all year. The early morning can be still and as the day precedes the winds increase.

Planning around the wind makes all the difference. The calmest time of the day is in the am. The winds begin near 10 am and increases as the day precede. The wind pattern is constant all year. Winds can easily be as high as 50 miles an hour near 5 pm.

Winter is the rainy season in California. Many couples opt to marry outdoor’s during the winter in San Francisco. During the winter you want to catch the warmth of the day, which is usually near 1 pm. Planning a backup location provides peace of mind. The only time of year that can be risky is the rainy season. The winter can provide a time of year with less wind but also less warmth for the bride.

Summer’s fog pattern is what makes San Francisco so magical. Some couples love to arrive at the Golden Gate Bridge half covered in fog. Some couples what to arrive after the fog as lifted. The fog usually rounds back before or near noon. Making the best time of day 1 pm, before the winds become stronger.

Spring and Fall include the wind pattern. To avoid the high winds the calmest time of day is between 10 am and 1 pm.

On the coast and in the bay area next to the water’s edge with the Golden Gate Bridge in the background has a stronger wind pattern all year. Sunset brings the strongest winds most of the time. So strong that the bride will most likely have to carry her veil in her hand rather than wear it. The point is, the winds need to be considered for the most comfortable option. The high winds can be very cold for a bride.

Outdoor Wedding Ceremony, Best Time Of Day

By planning around the wind, fog, and traffic in San Francisco you can experience the best this romantic city has to offer. In the summer months the fog rolls in and out of the bay. Planning around the fog makes the best time of day at 1:00 pm. Planning around the winds of the city makes 10 am to 1 pm the best option for a wedding ceremony. And in the winter to catch the warmth of the day 1 pm again takes the cake.

Outdoor Wedding Ceremony, Best Day Of The Week

Monday through Thursday provides the outdoor venues with fewer people about. A quieter relaxed environment. During the weekend’s the outdoor wedding locations are busy with people enjoying the sights. On Monday through Thursday couples usually, experience less congestion. It really feels sweet on the weekdays rather than a bustle of activity that takes place on the weekends.

Traffic Pattern’s To Consider

Do you want to sit in traffic on your wedding day? Or have your guest stuck in traffic? You can still plan around the traffic in the Bay Area.

Traffic patterns have become something to consider. On the weekend, the later in the day you wait the more people there are out and about. Parking is harder and traffic around the bridge can easily cause a 30-minute delay. During the week you most likely want to avoid the computer traffic patterns. Making the best time of day between 11 am and 1 pm.

The Best Of The Best

Any time of year near 1 pm Monday through Thursday offers the best option’s for a relaxed environment, best weather option and the less amount of traffic to deal with. Plan for an effortless day by using this information. Brides have often commented that they hear what I said regarding the winds, but did not get it. Unfortunately, it is too late on the day of the wedding to make changes. Plan ahead for the perfect options on your wedding day.

Extra Benefit

A mid-day wedding is also easier on the budget as a brunch can be planned rather than a dinner. It also offers the most budget-friendly option for your wedding day. It’s easier to get up a little early than to fight the crowds later in the day. Check out our wedding blog for more tips on Wedding Planning Made Easy.

11:25 am By Ema

Wedding Ceremony Personal Story

Sharing Your Personal Story

Sharing Your Personal Love Story

Sometimes couples what to share their history or unique love story as part of their wedding ceremony. Most often the minister will read their words for them and sometimes either the groom or the bride will do so. It’s really sweet to have them both be involved in some way, whether that is in the writing or the reading of their story.

Would you like to share your story? If you decide yes, the next decision is to decide whom will be reading it and then you can begin to draft your words.

Here are some idea’s to help you begin to write your personal story. It can be short and sweet or have some length to it. It’s your story, your way.

What was the first thing you noticed about her/him?
How do you share fun?
What’s the most romantic moment, so far?
When did you realize you were in love?
What is the craziest experience you’ve shared?
When did you know you wanted to marry her/him?

The First Time

Your first kiss, your first glance, your first trip. Any of these are a great way to begin. You could also have a family member write a third-party point of view of your love story and have them read it during your wedding ceremony. I have seen a groom use the words to song, a bride use a poem and a few use humor and fun. What’s your way to share your story?

An Example

They come to this place with their own full and rewarding lives that include many joys, hardships and experiences. Bob brings his distinguished and successful career, his intelligence and his love for his two sons, family and a calming sense of humor and wit. Alice brings her successful career, leadership, elegance, panache and joy of life intertwined with her kindness, cleverness, humility and a spontaneous and contagious ability to laugh.

Today is a milestone for Bob & Alice who have found each other and made each other’s life fuller. There is a bit of magic here today when one thinks of what it took to bring them to this place, to this moment. Call it fate, sheer luck, the keystrokes of a computer, or just something divine.

A rare opportunity to experience that special spark that happens when two people realize that they have found the one person they wish to love and share themselves with for a lifetime.Like hitting that “hole in one.” This is why we are all here today, it is in this moment that we affirm and rejoice in the knowledge that two people can make this commitment to be each other. A relationship of reassurance and joy. There is a certain beauty in finding that one person.The grace of sharing life’s simple moments.

Rumi

The minute I heard my first love story

I started looking for you, not knowing

how blind that was.

Lovers don’t finally meet somewhere.

Did you share your personal love story in your wedding ceremony? How would you begin to tell you story? Share your comments below.

9:57 am By Ema

Renewing Marriage Vows On Wedding Anniversary

renewing,marriage,vows,wedding,anniversary

25 Years Of Marriage

Renewing Marriage Vows On Wedding Anniversary

Ric & Julie Renewed Their Marriage Vows

They brought their family and friends to San Francisco and renewed their vows of marriage on the beach with the Golden Gate Bridge as their backdrop.When the groom was asked to share his words, he selected the lyrics from Journey’s ‘After All These Years’. The words rang true to his feelings from the heart as tears streamed down his face.

“After All These Years”

A faded wedding photograph
You and me in our first dance
The lives of those
We lost in once sweet embrace
Since those days our world has changed
Our love remains the same
God knows we’ve had our share of saving graceAnd I’m proud of all the blessings
You have given me
The mountains we have climbed to get this far
You learn to take the laughter with the tears
After all these years

You make it feel brand new
After the fires that we walked thru
Against the odds we never lost our faithIn our hearts we’ve made our home
Where our children all have grown
Precious moments time can not eraseWe’ve been livin’ up and down the gypsy highway
Seasons that we’ve learned to share apart
Somehow in my heart I always keep you near me
After all these yearsAfter all these years
You stood by me
The days and nights that I was gone
After all these years
You sacrificed, believed in me
And you stood strong
‘Cause with our love there’s nothing left to fear
After all these yearsAfter all these years
You stood by me
The days and nights that I was gone
After all these years
You sacrificed, believed in me
And you stood strong
‘Cause with our love there’s nothing left to fear
After all these years

To stand with Ric & Julie in the solid foundation of their twenty five years together, while they celebrated their twenty fifth anniversary with a vow of marriage renewal was an honor and delight. Thank you for inviting me to be a part of your silver wedding anniversary, it was a delight to the heart.

5:39 pm By Ema

How To Write Wedding Ceremony Vows

Writing Your Vows

How To Write Wedding Ceremony Vows

Personal Wedding Vows

Before the wedding ceremony I always have a conversation with the bride and groom. During our conversation, I always ask them if they will be sharing personal wedding vows, with the emphasis that it’s not required and there is no pressure to do so.

After years of working with couples on the threshold of marriage, I understand that over seventy percent of people have a fear of speaking in public. The wedding ceremony is a very intimate time filled with unexpected feelings and emotions. The majority of time either the bride or the groom would rather not speak private words in public.

For some people writing personal wedding vows is fun and easy. A meaningful way to enhance their wedding ceremony. For others it adds to the stress of the day and can be overly taxing. There are no rules about personal wedding vows. If only one of you wants to speak your words, that is okay too! Whatever works for the two of you.

What is the personal vow you are making?

Writing personal wedding vows requires focusing on the future of your relationship as husband and wife. The focus is your lifetime together. When things get rough and during the ups and downs of your life together, how do you vow to be in relationship to the other.

As you enter an unknown future together these crafted words can become your anchor in the way you show up for your partner.

As you explore idea’s for your personal wedding vows something will spark your heart and then you just need to refine it to your likely. Speak your personal wedding vows out loud to feel the flow. Try them on. Work on them until they feel just right.

On your wedding day have your words on a piece of paper, it’s a little more personal than an iPhone. If you focus on memorizing them, you may find your mind has gone completely blank. It is after all an altered state at the altar. While you are focusing on remembering your words you will also miss the rest of your wedding ceremony.

Much success with putting your feeling to words.

Example Personal Wedding Vows, To Inspire You

Example Of Personal Wedding Vows From Grace & Frankie 2015 Episode

I vow to always laugh with you and
to never go to bed angry.
to comfort you in times of sorrow,
to always listen to what you have to say,
even when we don’t see eye to eye, and
to remember love is saying ‘I feel differently’
instead of ‘you’re wrong’.
I promise to love you,
happy or sad, easy or difficult,
through the sunshine and through the rain
for the rest of our days.

Short & Sweet

All that I am and all that I have,
I offer to you, my love,
my friend in joy, in service, in sacred union.

A Little More

I love you for who you are and
who I am with you.
From this day forth,
I freely and joyfully join my life with yours.
Wherever you go, I will go.
Whatever you face, I will face.
I will care for you should you become ill.
I will comfort you should you feel sad.
I will bathe in your joy.
I am yours completely and forever.
I take you as my partner for life, and
I will give myself to no other.

Communicating your words is the number one most powerful thing you can do in relationship. In a loving relationship always frame your words in love and you will stay in love. 🙂

8:00 am By Ema

Poems For A Beautiful Wedding Ceremony

Gathered along the way…

A Sacred Flame

True love is a sacred flame
That burns eternally,
And none can dim its special glow
Or change its destiny.

True love speaks in tender tones
And hears with gentle ear,
True love gives with open heart
And true love conquers fear.

True love makes no harsh demands
It neither rules nor binds,
And true love holds with gentle hands
The hearts that it entwined.

Whispers of the Beloved by Rumi

I cannot sleep in your presence.
In your absence, tears prevent me.
You watch me My Beloved
On each sleepless night and
Only You see the difference
Looking at my life
I see that only Love
Has been my soul’s companion

From deep inside
My soul cries out:
Do not wait, surrender
For the sake of Love.

If you can’t smell the fragrance
Don’t come into the garden of Love.
If you’re unwilling to undress
Don’t enter into the stream of Truth.
Stay where you are.
Don’t come our way.

All year round the lover is mad,
Unkempt, lovesick and in disgrace.
Without love there is nothing but grief.
In love… what else matters?
Love is our Mother and
The way of our Prophet.
Yet it is in our nature
To fight with Love.
We can’t see you, mother,
Hidden behind dark veils
Woven by ourselves.

Do you want to enter paradise?
To walk the path of Truth
You need the grace of God.
We all face death in the end.
But on the way, be careful
Never to hurt a human heart!

Do you know what the music is saying?
“Come follow me and you will find the way.
Your mistakes can also lead you to the Truth.
When you ask, the answer will be given.”
The Master who’s full of sweetness
Is so drunk with love, he’s oblivious.

“Will you give me
some of your sweetness?”
“I have none,” he says,
unaware of his richness.
You know what love is?
It is all kindness, generosity.
Disharmony prevails when
You confuse lust with love, while
The distance between the two
Is endless.

This Love is a King
But his banner is hidden.
The Koran speaks the Truth
But its miracle is concealed.
Love has pierced with its arrow
The heart of every lover.
Blood flows but the wound is invisible.

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