Weddings today are all about the intimate details -- from the decorations and the hors d'oeuvres to the groomsmen's sock color and the no-play DJ song list. It's easy to get lost in the wonderment of wedding themes that overtake every detail of today's modern wedding. Among all of this, we see faith peppered in here and there -- think "love is patient, love is kind"-- but have we lost sight of the religious significance of wedding ceremonies and celebrations?
While you may not want to inundate your guests with your religious beliefs, it's still important to capture the faith that has helped guide you towards one of the most important decisions of your life. In fact, we know that the majority of Americans prefer to marry someone of the same faith according to a recent report by ChristianMingle and JDate.
So for all you wedding-planning brides out there, take a step back from discussing the seating chart with your future mother-in-law and consider these fun, trendy ideas on how to incorporate your faith into the modern wedding of your dreams.
Decorate and display your favorite Bible verses and religious symbols throughout the wedding in both a dynamic and subtle way. Have your florist create flower arrangements in the shape of abstract crosses and use them as centerpieces throughout your reception. For a more modest touch, embroider your favorite Bible verse on the ribbons that will hold your bouquet together. You can also embroider the same Bible verse on the back of a groom's tie.
Incorporate the Bible into your wedding and have guests share their favorite Bible verses with you. Place a Bible and highlighter next to your regular guest book and ask your loved ones to highlight and sign the Bible verse that is most dear to their heart. This in addition to a regular guest book will allow you to connect with your guests on a religious level without making others feel uncomfortable for not contributing. You can also switch out the pillow of the ring bearer for a Bible that belongs to a beloved family member.
Choose Bible verses and excerpts that reflect both love and religion. It's important to find the right balance between your faith and the essence of love on your wedding day. Religious quotes decorated on signs, banners, invitations and wedding programs are handsome ways to display your faith on your special day. "Love never fails" 1 Corinthians 13:8 and "But the greatest of these is love" 1 Corinthians 13:13 are examples of profound biblical excerpts that represent both the commitment of love as well as your faith.
Incorporate your favorite hymns and worship songs in the ceremony as background music while guests are being seated or when you and the bridal party are walking down the aisle. Include the lyrics on your wedding program so guests who don't know the words can experience it as well. You can also add an intimate touch to any worship song during the reception by having your band (or a musically talented family member or friend) perform an acoustic version.
Photograph your faith in pictures throughout the day. With proper guidance or expertise, your photographer can take some amazing shots in front of your childhood church or with the dramatic church cross in the background of your photo. The photographer can also capture the bridal party praying together and photograph the detail shots of your rings, flowers, and more in the company of a Bible that's near and dear to your heart.
Keep it personal. The most beautiful and important way to show your religious devotion on your wedding day is to share it with the one you're standing with at the altar. Choose a Bible excerpt or verse that reminds you of the love and relationship you share with your loved one and read it aloud to him at the end of your individual vows. Want this special exchange to be a private exchange between the two of you? Write a love letter for your fiancé to open right before you two walk down the aisle. Write that special verse or excerpt on the back of the letter and keep it a surprise until your special day. This is a sure fire way to eliminate your nerves, remember why you are so in love, and maybe shed a few happy tears along the way.
Who says you can't combine the originality of a modern-day nuptial with the traditions behind a religious wedding? These tips will help you incorporate your faith into the best day of your life.