Nine Reasons to Have a Wedding Blessing

If you chose to elope for an intimate and spontaneous wedding experience, you might now want to celebrate your commitment in front of your family and friends. A wedding blessing offers a beautiful opportunity to share your vows and joy with your loved ones in a relaxed, meaningful setting.

Perhaps you tied the knot abroad with a small, select group of guests. A wedding blessing provides a wonderful chance to reaffirm your commitment and celebrate your union with everyone who couldn’t join you on your special day.

If you married quickly due to specific circumstances—such as an impending military deployment or urgent legal requirements—you may now want to plan a more elaborate celebration. A wedding blessing allows you the time to create the ceremony of your dreams, surrounded by loved ones.

For couples of mixed faiths, a wedding blessing can be a beautiful compromise. You might marry in one religious tradition and then have a blessing in the other, allowing both partners’ beliefs to be respected and honoured.

Certain religious practices may prevent you from having a formal ceremony in a particular church—such as Catholics who have been previously married. A wedding blessing offers an alternative way to receive a spiritual affirmation of your marriage within your faith.

Many couples appreciate the freedom that a civil ceremony provides but still want to incorporate a religious element. A wedding blessing can be a powerful addition, providing the spiritual aspect that may be missing from a strictly civil ceremony.

Not everyone identifies with a particular religion, but many still desire a spiritually meaningful ceremony. A humanist celebrant or non-denominational blessing can provide the perfect solution for atheist or agnostic couples looking for something that resonates with their beliefs.

If your dream ceremony takes place outdoors or at a location that isn’t officially registered for weddings, a wedding blessing offers you the flexibility to say your vows in a picturesque or sentimental setting. Simply have the legal ceremony at a registry office and save the blessing for your preferred venue.

Perhaps you prefer a civil ceremony, but your parents or loved ones have their hearts set on a church wedding. Opting for a blessing in a church after your civil ceremony can be a satisfying compromise that keeps everyone happy.

Unlike formal weddings, a blessing is not legally binding, which gives you the freedom to make it as personal and informal as you wish. This flexibility allows you to tailor the ceremony to reflect your unique love story. Some blessings take place on the same day as the civil ceremony, while others are held days or even weeks later, allowing you to celebrate in a more relaxed, informal manner.

You should discuss the format of your blessing with your chosen celebrant well in advance of the ceremony. They can help you create a structure that feels authentic to you and your partner, whether that means including religious readings, personal vows, or special rituals.

When planning a wedding blessing, your invitations and order of service can serve as important communication tools. They should inform your guests of what to expect on the day—especially if the blessing differs from a traditional wedding ceremony. Whether you choose formal or playful wording, make sure it reflects the style and spirit of your special day.

Looking for guidance on creating the perfect invitations for your wedding blessing? We can help you craft wording that beautifully conveys the meaning and significance of your celebration.

A wedding blessing can be as unique and personal as your love story. Whether you want to reaffirm your vows, celebrate with loved ones, or incorporate elements of faith, a blessing provides the perfect opportunity to do so.