A Parchment Signing Ceremony
Part 2 of The Elements Series - A Wedding Celebrant's Perspective
Part 2 – A Parchment Signing Ceremony.
In this ‘Elements’ series, I take a look at how my brides and grooms have incorporated additional elements to really personalise their wedding ceremony and make it a truly unique and memorable day.
One of the most popular elements chosen by my couples is the parchment signing. For, not only does it give couples the opportunity to include some very special people in their ceremony, it also creates a beautiful and bespoke keepsake of their day.
This lovely pic of Jennie and Greg, looking relaxed and happy as they are about to sign their parchment signing was captured by Elizabeth Barrett.
https://www.elizabethbarrettphoto.co.uk
Just to add that the amazing flower crown, bouquet and buttonhole were created with love by the most amazing florist Lucelovesflowers
What is a Parchment Signing Element?
A parchment signing is a witnessing of the vows and promises that the bride and groom make to each other in their wedding ceremony.
Therefore, it comes towards the end of the wedding ceremony, usually after The Kiss !!
Why Choose to include a Parchment Signing Element ?
There are many different reasons why couples choose to include a parchment signing. So, here are few:
Parchment signings make beautiful photos that really capture the ceremony and the wedding style.
Some couples want a traditional wedding ceremony and feel that it reflects the signing of the register.
Others choose to have a signing to enable them to include a few very special people in their ceremony.
Weddings in fields or unusual locations can be seen as very modern and ‘hard to get’ for some guests. Therefore, incorporating a parchment signing will give the ceremony a recognisable, traditional element.
Whilst others want a beautiful, keepsake of their special day.
Introducing the Parchment Signing Element
An introduction to the parchment signing informs the guests that the bride and groom have chosen to include this element in their wedding ceremony and invites the witnesses to come to the front.
Inviting two or four close friends or members of your family to take part in a Parchment Signing Ceremony is one of the greatest compliments you can pay them.
For you are asking them bear witness to the your love and to the commitment you have just made to one another in your wedding ceremony.
Lisa and Shaun’s parchment signing was on a beautiful Boxing Day at Weston Pier – it was my very first wedding and will always hold a special place in my heart !

Here I am baby
Signed, sealed, delivered, I’m yours
Here I am baby
Signed, sealed, delivered, I’m yours, baby
Here I am baby
Signed, sealed, delivered, I’m yours
Here I am baby
Signed, sealed, delivered, I’m yours
Stevie Wonder

Getting it Perfect !
Each bespoke parchment is created by a very talented local graphic designer.
Often a bride will give me a swatch of a wedding colour that is running through in the flowers, bridesmaids dresses and decorations.
So, when I meet the designer, to discuss the parchment, we also colour match the parchment ink with the wedding colours.
Chilling at the end !
Once the parchment has been signed, the guests know that the ceremony is coming to a close and the partying is about to start in earnest !
Couples will often remain seated and listen to a few well-chosen songs followed by the final words, whilst the guests snap way, and then line up for the confetti throw.
This lovely pic of Helen and Derek having their parchment signed during their beautiful garden wedding ceremony was captured by Sophia Veres.
Many Thanks
I’d like to thank Lisa and Shaun, Jenny and Greg, and Helen and Derek for letting me share with you a part of their incredibly special day.
I’d like to also thank the amazing and generous photographers for the pics.
Look out for the third part of this series, A Celtic Handfasting – Tying the Knot !
For a look at Part One of this Elements Series – A Beautiful Ring Warming Ceremony – Click here !!
For my six top tips for writing your own wedding vows – click here !!
For my six top tips for reading your wedding vows – click here !!