CEREMONIES

This is the Fun Part…
Where the Magic (and the Marriage) Begin
Let’s Explore The Ceremony Style That’s Right for You
If You Don’t See It, Just Ask!

While we completely understand the desire to see sample ceremony scripts, we do not offer pre-written templates or scripts to preview because your ceremony is thoughtfully crafted and written just for you.

You will have the opportunity to explore several options to help you determine a ceremony style that feels comfortable and true to you. Your ceremony will be created based on the unique qualities of your relationship, values, and preferences.

Whether you’re envisioning a spiritual, religious, or secular ceremony – the choice is entirely yours. The vibe of your ceremony can be formal and poetic, romantic and heartfelt, light and joyful—or a beautiful blend that stirs all the right emotions. Together, we will determine the style that feels most authentic to you.

Regarding Ceremony Fees…
We know this is often the first question on every couple’s mind, so a range has been provided.

Several factors can affect your final ceremony fee, such as location, level of customization, duration and complexity of your ceremony, travel, and additional services. We’ll collaborate to create the option that best fits your personalities, your celebration, and your budget.

ROMANTIC FUN FACT: 💋 The first on-screen kiss in film history happened in 1896, and it caused quite a scandal. Weddings by Bonnie expects your kiss to be equally iconic (but with much less controversy – unless of course, that’s what you’re going for)!

SAY ‘I DO’ & SIGN!
That’s Right…Your Love, Signed & Sealed
Legal Signing – Paperwork Only
(From $125)

A simple ‘no fuss’ get together to complete the marriage license may be the perfect option for those couples who prefer simple, quick, and make it legal! We promise, it will be a much more romantic experience than a quick courthouse wedding.

  • This ceremony option offers traditional vows and a ring exchange.

  • Couples should arrive with their marriage license and two (2) witnesses at a location discussed in advance.

  • Your witnesses do not require ID and are welcome to take photos.

  • If witnesses are not available, let us know in advance. We will provide witnesses for $40 per witness and they will be happy to take photos as you share your “I Do’s” and seal those vows!

  • Looking for a quiet, peaceful location? We have a lovely location to recommend with a gazebo for your ‘Say I Do’  & Sign Legal Signing.

CUSTOMIZED
ROMANTIC ELOPEMENT ~ MICRO-WEDDING ~
(FROM $400)

This ceremony is all about your love—free from the fuss – focused on the feeling. We will craft a 20 ceremony that reflects your story, your promises, and your intentions.

You can expect a deeply personal, meaningful, and romantic ceremony—one that’s unforgettable and perfectly honors the importance of your union.

You will have several poetry readings, promissory vows and unity traditions to consider.

Even if your wedding is an intimate affair with only witnesses, your ceremony will be just as meaningful, personal, and thoughtfully crafted—never rushed or shortened just because it’s the two (or a few) of you!”.

CLASSIC (No Frills)
TRADITIONAL CEREMONIES
(From $425)

A timeless ceremony, thoughtfully designed with a modern touch—romantic, authentic, and uniquely yours. This option focuses on the heart of the celebration, with all the essential elements that make a ceremony meaningful, elegant, and full of love.

While simpler in structure, your ceremony will still be professionally written and beautifully delivered, with a script that is very personal, and reflects your relationship and values.

This ceremony is ideal for couples who prefer a more traditional format, but look forward to a simple, heartfelt experience without the personalized add-ons. Your love remains the true focus—warm, sincere, and no fluff – just the good stuff!

BESPOKE CEREMONIES
FULLY CUSTOMIZED ~ ALL-INCLUSIVE
TRADITIONALLY – UNTRADITIONAL!

Your Love Story Unfolds at the Altar
Designed With Intention, Celebrated With Love
($650)

Celebrate your love by honoring timeless traditions while embracing meaningful, contemporary elements that reflect your unique journey, the bonds of family, and unity.

This 30-minute ceremony includes attendance at your rehearsal and features a carefully crafted blend of classic structure and bespoke touches—such as: a custom written reflection of your love story; thoughtful ways to honor parents and lost loved ones; an optional “ice breaker” to ease your nerves and touch the hearts of your guests; heartfelt poetry readings, personalized vows, plus tips on writing your own; symbolic unity rituals (i.e. handfasting, sand ceremony, wine and love letter box, unity cross, and more).

Your ceremony will be truly one-of-a-kind. Your guests will be deeply moved by the genuine, profound meaning behind every moment, perfectly capturing the unconditional love you share.

VOW RENEWAL CEREMONIES
Honoring The Journey, Renewing The Promise
(From $400)

A Customized Vow Renewal Ceremony is a beautiful way to celebrate the love that has grown over time—and the family that has grown along with it.

Whether you’re marking a milestone anniversary or simply reaffirming your commitment, this ceremony honors your shared journey while embracing the people who’ve been part of it.

Together, we’ll create a personalized celebration that may include updated vows, meaningful readings, new (or symbolic) ring exchange, and special moments that involve your children, grandchildren, or close loved ones.

This ceremony also includes a decorative certificate to memorialize your Vow Renewal celebration.

It’s more than just a renewal—it’s a tribute to the life, love, and legacy you’ve built together. Because your “forever” deserves to be celebrated again!

What to Expect When Working With Your
Raleigh Wedding Officiant


Initial Consultation – We will begin with a consultation—via phone, FaceTime, WhatsApp, or in person (as schedules allow), so we can get to know each other. We look forward to hearing your love story and learning about your wedding plans. We will guide you through the ceremony process step by step, so you’ll feel confident, prepared, and very excited for what lies ahead.

  • Crafting a Ceremony That Feels Like You – Together, we will discuss the many ways to make your ceremony feel truly inclusive and meaningful. Our approach centers around family and connection—ensuring your guests feel appreciated and celebrated. After all, their presence is one of the greatest gifts on your special day.

  • Marriage License Made Simple – You will receive clear, step-by-step guidance on how to obtain your marriage license. Your Raleigh Wedding Officiant will complete the legal documentation with you on your wedding day and take care of filing it afterward. Two weeks after the ceremony, you will receive helpful tips for the bride on how to legally change her last name, should she choose to.

  • Ceremony Questionnaire – You will receive a ceremony preference questionnaire (your homework!), to complete together. Your responses will help us determine the best design in order to create a ceremony that is authentic to your relationship and values.

  • Vows, Readings & Unity Traditions – You will receive sample promissory vows, tips for writing your personal vows, poetry readings, and unique unity tradition ideas to consider (or not!). These are entirely optional—just suggestions to inspire and guide you.

  • Detailed Ceremony Outline – Upon receiving your completed questionnaire, your Raleigh-Durham Wedding Officiant will provide a detailed ceremony outline, offering couples a clear understanding of the structure, flow, and duration of their ceremony (but the script will be a surprise).

  • Ceremony Duration – Ceremonies typically last between 15 and 30 minutes, depending on your preferences and the elements you choose to include.

  • Travel Included – Travel to your venue within Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill, is included in the fee. An additional charge may apply for locations outside the Research Triangle area.

  • Arrival at Your Venue – Your professionally dressed Officiant will arrive at your wedding venue 45 minutes prior to the ceremony start time if a rehearsal was attended. Otherwise, your Raleigh Wedding Officiant will arrive one hour before the ceremony to ensure everything is in place and ready to go.

ADDITIONAL FEES/OPTIONS

  • To facilitate or attend your one-hour rehearsal – $100 – $150

  • Portable, battery-powered sound system with microphone: $40

  • An additional fee may be applied for mileage/travel time outside regular service area; or if customary service time is exceeded (i.e. yacht, water taxi, or helicopter travel).

  • Admission fees into attractions, museums, parks, parking fees over $10, boat or water taxi, gondolas, air travel, etc., will be paid by the Couple.

  • Unity Tradition/Ritual elements: Couples will be responsible for providing all supplies relating to rituals performed within the ceremony (i.e. candles, sand containers, unity cross, handfasting cord, crowns, broom, ropes, sage, cords, etc).

Please Read The FAQ’s On The RESOURCES Tab
To Learn More About Working With Weddings By Bonnie.

UNITY TRADITIONS AND RITUALS

Unity traditions and rituals are meaningful elements that symbolize the joining of two lives, families, and futures. These special moments add depth and personal expression to your ceremony, reflecting your values, heritage, or shared journey. Regardless of the unity tradition you choose (or we create!), this will serve as a powerful visual representation of your commitment. Your unity ritual can also include children, parents, or other loved ones—making your ceremony even more inclusive and memorable.

Need ideas? Bonnie has created and performed countless heartfelt, fun, and delightfully “off-the-wall” unity rituals throughout her career.. From meaningful cultural traditions to playful, one-of-a-kind moments, she’s here to help you craft something that feels truly you. To Name Just a Few…

  • Hand Washing & Blessing

  • Handfasting
  • Rose Ceremony
  • Unity Candle
  • Unity Sand
  • Fisherman’s Knot
  • Wine Ceremony
  • Chuppah & Breaking of the Glass
  • Shotski
  • Surprise Ring Bearer(s)
  • Stefana Crowning
  • Tree Planting
  • Cord of Three Strands/God Knot
  • Dove Release
  • Viking Mead Horn Toast
  • Kick the Bucket
  • Tea Ceremony
  • Seven Circles Around Fire with the Saptapadi (Seven Sacred Vows)
  • Wine & Love Letter Box
  • Time Capsule/Anniversary Box
  • Unity Crystal
  • Sage Blessing
  • Veil, Lasso & Coin Blessing
  • Paint & Canvas
  • TableTop Love
  • Fireball Roulette
  • Ring Warming
  • Ceremonial Foot Washing
  • Jumping the Broom/Golf Club
  • Ring Blessing
  • Decadent Chocolate
  • Butterfly Release
  • Unity Puzzle
  • Floral Lei/Garland Exchange
  • Arras (13 Gold Coins Exchanged)

Officiant Coaching, Script Writing & Ceremony Preparation

Asked to Officiate a Wedding?

Weddings by Bonnie Can Help!

($350)

Being invited to officiate a loved one’s ceremony is an incredible honor. As exciting as it is, it can also feel a bit overwhelming when you are unsure of where to start. After all, this is a huge responsibility!

Weddings by Bonnie, your Raleigh based Wedding Officiant, offers guidance and support to help you feel confident, prepared, and fully “wedding-ready.” Together, we’ll ensure you are equipped to deliver a meaningful, heartfelt ceremony the couple (and their guests), will never forget.

What’s Included:

Custom Script Creation
A beautifully written, personalized ceremony script that reflects the couple’s love story and tone—typically 20 minutes in length.

One-on-One Coaching
Approximately four hours of instruction and support via phone and email.

Ceremony Structure & Flow
Learn the key elements of a well-paced ceremony, from opening announcements to the pronouncement and recessional.

Fact Gathering Guidance
Tips for gathering meaningful details from the couple to personalize the ceremony.

Presentation & Delivery Tips
Techniques for confident public speaking, pacing, and connecting with the couple and guests.

Wedding Day Logistics
Practical advice on rehearsals, timing, marriage license signing, communicating with fellow vendors, conducting yourself at the altar, most appropriate attire, and more.

Final Review & Read-Through
A final session to walk through the script, fine-tune your delivery, and ensure you’re comfortable for the honorable role as a Wedding Officiant.

The final result?
A beautifully written, heartfelt ceremony that you’ll feel confident and proud to present.

Let’s Get You Ready For The Altar!