How does a wedding usually begin, middle and end.

[san diego bride]

I am wondering what is a standard generic outline for a wedding.

1- cermemony
and what is involved other than vows, and neat ideas
2- does the first dance happen here ,
3- then what .....what are some creative things, in-between all the dancing, is there just the money dance?

Thanks,
Heather

[Sarah]

Are you having a separate ceremony and reception? If yes, the dancing happens at the reception.

The ceremony may include many things: readings of religious texts or poetry, special music, a Unity Candle ceremony, an address or sermon by the officiant/pastor, Communion, or even the glass-breaking tradition common at Jewish weddings. This varies widely depending on whether it is a religious ceremony, what religion and denomination, where it is held, and you and your fiance's tastes and preferences. Talk with your officiant to get more specific help and suggestions.

The reception may include special dances like husband-wife's first dance, mother-son dance, father-daughter dance, etc. There is usually lots of eating (many different types of food can be served) and drinking (open bar, champagne toast only, or nonalcoholic beverages only, or a combination, depending on what you want). Depending on the formality of the event, you might even be led by your DJ or band leader in some games! You may decide to do the bouquet and garter tosses, and of course there is the cake cutting. The guests may shower you with rice, birdseed, rose petals, or bubbles, or they may do this as you leave the ceremony. This is also up to you, your fiance, and to some extent the site where you hold the reception(some have restrictions on things like rice).

Sounds like you are new to this whole thing, and I know how overwhelming that can be! Take yourself down to the library and check out some books on planning (no need to fork over big bucks for those expensive "bridal planners" or bridal magazines, which are mostly ads anyway). Sorry I couldn't give you more of a "standard generic" idea, but that's really the point...your wedding should be as creative and individual as you two are! Remember it only happens once, so go for what you want, and don't get overwhelmed. Good luck planning, and email me if you need a hand!