One of the questions I get asked a lot is how long the typical ceremony lasts. It can be as long or short as you want of course, but the “typical” ceremony that I perform is about 20 – 30 minutes in length.
Of course, I have seen ceremonies go for almost an hour (or even more if it is a religious ceremony), but I have also had very quick ceremonies without any of the extras take as little as 10 minutes!
Aiming for around 20-30 minutes gives enough time for me to share a beautifully crafted personalised story about how you met, some stories about your journey together and how and where the proposal was. This also gives enough time for personalised vows to each other, the ring exchange, the asking and the signing of the paperwork.
One thing I like to ask couples who might be leaning towards a longer ceremony is this –
“Have you ever been to a wedding?”
Typically they have.
I then ask “When you went to that wedding as a guest, were you saying that you hope the ceremony is going to be long and drawn out?”
Of course you didn’t!
As a guest, you want to see a heartfelt and meaningful ceremony, but you don’t want to have to sit there for a long time as the ceremony drags on. I always say a short and sweet ceremony is much more meaningful and heartfelt over a long ceremony any day.
So, when you are planning timing for your ceremony, allow up to 30 minutes from the processional (walking down the aisle) to the recessional (walking back up the aisle as a married couple). You will find this gives you plenty of time then for group photos afterwards with your friends and family as well as have the chance to grab a drink and some nibbles before you head off with your photographer for some private shots.
If you have any questions, I welcome you to contact me so I can help you with your ceremony to create something that is memorable for you and your guests.
