What Words Must Legally Be Said at a Wedding: Key Phrases Explained
When planning your wedding, you might wonder about the specific words that need to be said to make your marriage official. Wedding ceremonies can be deeply personal and unique, but there are still a few legal requirements that must be met during the ceremony.
The most important part is the Declaration of Intent, where you and your partner verbally express your desire to marry each other. Beyond that, the officiant will also need to make a Pronouncement to declare you officially married. These elements ensure that your ceremony is both meaningful and legally binding.
‘I take you to be my lawfully wedded spouse’
When you say “I take you to be my lawfully wedded spouse,” you’re making your union official.
These words are a timeless part of many wedding ceremonies, from traditional Christian vows to Viking wedding vows.
By declaring this, you are legally committing to each other. This phrase shows your promise to love and support one another through life’s ups and downs.
2) “To have and to hold from this day forward”
When you say “to have and to hold from this day forward,” you’re promising more than just physical closeness.
It means you’ll stand by each other, sharing life’s ups and downs. This phrase highlights commitment and sharing a future together.
Understanding the depth of these words can bring you closer, making your wedding vows truly meaningful.
3) ‘For better, for worse, for richer, for poorer’
When you say “for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer,” you are making a powerful promise. These words mean you’ll be there for your partner no matter what happens.
You’ll stand by each other during life’s ups and downs. Whether you face financial difficulties or enjoy good times, your commitment stays strong.
4) ‘In sickness and in health’
“In sickness and in health” is a key part of traditional wedding vows.
This phrase shows your promise to stand by your spouse, no matter what happens.
It means you are there for each other during good times and tough times alike.
By saying these words, you affirm that love is steadfast and unwavering.
It signifies the true depth of your commitment and dedication.
Learn more about traditional vows here.
5) ‘To love and to cherish’
The phrase “to love and to cherish” is a key part of many wedding vows. It highlights the commitment to affection and care between the couple.
In traditional ceremonies, these words are often recited by both partners. They symbolize the promise to support one another through all of life’s ups and downs.
Including “to love and to cherish” in your vows adds a timeless and meaningful touch to your wedding ceremony.
6) ‘Until death do us part’
The phrase “until death do us part” means that the marriage is intended to last for the lifetime of both partners. This promise highlights the commitment being made, emphasizing that the bond will not be broken except by death.
In its earliest form, the phrase was written as “till death us depart,” meaning “separate.” Over time, it evolved into the version we use today. This phrase is often a powerful moment in the ceremony, reminding everyone of the seriousness of the vows being exchanged. It is a pledge of everlasting fidelity and partnership.
7) ‘By the power vested in me’
The phrase “by the power vested in me” is a traditional part of many wedding ceremonies. It is often used by the officiant when pronouncing the couple as officially married.
This phrase is not a legal requirement. The important part is that the officiant makes the pronouncement declaring the couple married.
Many officiants choose to use this phrase to add a sense of formality and tradition to the ceremony.
8) ‘I now pronounce you husband and wife’
When the officiant says, “I now pronounce you husband and wife,” it signifies the legal union of the couple.
This phrase marks the moment when the couple is officially and legally married. Often, it’s followed by “You may kiss the bride,” which many people recognize from movies and wedding ceremonies.
While this line is widely known, some couples may choose to customize it to better fit their personal style or cultural traditions. The exact wording can vary, but the pronouncement is a key part of the celebration.
9) ‘You may kiss the bride’
The phrase ‘You may kiss the bride’ traditionally wraps up a wedding ceremony.
This line invites the couple to share their first kiss as a married pair.
Today, some couples choose alternatives like ‘You may now kiss each other’ or ‘You may seal your union with a kiss.’
Feel free to select wording that best matches your style and relationship.
10) ‘With this ring, I thee wed’
‘With this ring, I thee wed’ is a popular phrase in many wedding ceremonies. It signifies the moment when the bride and groom exchange rings.
These words highlight the importance of the rings and their role in the marriage. They symbolize commitment and love.
Many couples choose this phrase for its timeless and elegant nature. You can find more about its history on Marriage vows – Wikipedia.
Importance of Legal Wedding Vows
Legal wedding vows are essential as they ensure the marriage is officially recognized. The vows must meet certain requirements to be valid and may vary based on location.
Understanding Legal Requirements
Legal vows are not just about expressing love; they hold legal weight. Typically, the ceremony needs an officiant, a valid marriage license, and vows or promises exchanged between partners. The officiant pronounces the couple married, completing the legal process.
Even if many couples choose personal vows, the legal declaration must still be clear and include the intent to marry. Both partners should explicitly agree to marry, ensuring no ambiguity in their commitment.
How Legal Vows Vary by Jurisdiction
Different places have different legal requirements for wedding vows. For instance, in some areas, a couple may need to state specific phrases like “I take you as my lawful wedded husband/wife.” In other regions, the language can be more flexible as long as the partners declare their intent to marry.
Some jurisdictions might allow self-solemnizing marriages where an authorized officiant is not required. Knowing the particular rules of your location can prevent any legal issues with your marriage.
This variability underscores the importance of checking local laws or consulting with your officiant. Moreover, make sure your vows meet the necessary legal standards to avoid complications later.
Core Elements of Wedding Vows
A legally binding wedding ceremony must include specific elements. These include a declaration of intent, an exchange of promises, and a pronouncement by the officiant. Understanding these parts ensures your wedding day meets legal requirements.
Declaration of Intent
The declaration of intent is one of the most important parts of the ceremony. This is when you and your partner openly state your wish to marry each other. Words like “I do” or “I will” are commonly used. This declaration shows your genuine desire and willingness to enter into marriage.
It’s a formal way to confirm your commitment. Every wedding must include this element to be valid. It’s a moment when you publicly agree to the marriage in front of witnesses, making it a significant part of the ceremony.
Exchange of Promises
The exchange of promises or vows is another key part. Here, you and your partner share your personal commitments to each other. These promises can be traditional or customized to reflect your relationship. Traditional vows often include phrases such as “to love and to cherish” or “for better, for worse.”
Custom vows might mention special, personal promises unique to your relationship. The important thing is that you both make and state promises. This exchange legally symbolizes the mutual agreement to support and stand by each other.
Pronouncement by the Officiant
The officiant’s pronouncement is the final core element. After you’ve exchanged vows, the officiant declares you married. They might say, “I now pronounce you husband and wife.”
This announcement marks the official legal union of the couple. An authorized officiant, recognized by the state, must make this pronouncement for it to be valid. This moment is both the legal culmination of the ceremony and a joyous declaration of your new status as a married couple.
Make sure your officiant knows their role and understands the importance of this pronouncement. This will ensure the legality of your wedding and make the ceremony complete.
