A bride I recently worked with decided that she would like to explore the tradition of ‘the giving of the bride’. She desperately wanted to have the well known tradition as part of her ceremony, but she wasn’t happy with the traditional wording or the implication that she was something to be ‘given away’.
After much discussion and thought this is what we used.
The bride walks with her father to join her groom. He then leaves her and joins the other guests.
Celebrant: At this time, others might ask, who gives this bride in marriage, but, as a woman is not property to be given and taken, I ask simply if she comes of her own free will and if she has her family's blessing.
Celebrant: Danielle, is it true that you come of your own free will and accord?
Danielle: Yes, it is true.
Celebrant: And with whose blessings accompany you.
Bride's attendant (or anyone bride chooses): She’s accompanied with her father’s blessings.
While many still prefer the traditional ‘giving of the bride’ this is a fabulous adaptation and provides the perfect way for those who prefer a more modern approach to their ceremony, to still include traditional elements.
Let us know what you think
Susan x