- A wedding program outline is an overview of the key moments within the wedding ceremony. It lists the events and activities planned for the wedding ceremony and reception so that the guests know what to expect and are on time for the key moments.
The types of wedding program outlines include:
- Full-Day Wedding Program outline – This gives details of the day’s events from beginning to end.
- Wedding Ceremony Program outline – This focuses only on the details of the wedding ceremony.
- Wedding Reception Program outline – This gives guests the wedding reception details.
Below is a sample of a full-day wedding program outline in Ghana.
1. The Cover Page
- Names of the Couple
- Wedding Date
- Venue
- Time
- An inspirational quote, cultural proverb, or Bible verse.
2. The Order of Service (Ceremony)
The couple can choose to have either a church ceremony or a traditional ceremony.
Church Ceremony
- Welcome
- Opening Prayer
- Processional
- Praise and Worship
- Scripture Reading
- Old Testament
- New Testament
- Sermon
- Exchange of Vows
- Exchange of Rings
- Signing of the Marriage Certificate
- Blessing of the Marriage
- Declaration of Marriage
- Thanksgiving Offering
- Announcements
- Recessional
Traditional Ceremony
- Arrival of Guests
- Introduction of Families
- Pouring of the Libation
- Exchange of Gifts (Presentation of Dowry Items)
- Acceptance of Gifts
- Bridal Entrance
- Confirmation of the Bride
- Exchange of Rings (or other symbolic items)
- Traditional blessings
- Feasting and Celebrations
- Closing remarks
3. The Reception
- Arrival of Guests
- Welcome Address
- Entry of the Couple
- Opening Prayer
- Dinner/Refreshments
- Speeches
- A representative from the Bride’s Family
- A representative from the Groom’s Family
- Traditional Performances
- Cutting of the Cake
- First Dance
- Toasts to the Couple
- Fun Activities
- Throwing of the Bouquet
- Vote of Thanks
- Closing Prayer
- Farewell
4. Back Page
- Acknowledgments – Listing family, friends, and vendors.
- Contact Information
- Closing quote, prayer, cultural proverb, or blessing
Now that you have a sample of a wedding program outline in Ghana to follow, you can comfortably plan a unique and meaningful celebration that your guests will enjoy!