We are having a civil ceremony in a town hall, followed by a blessing by a family friend who is retired baptist minister.
The blessing has had the thumbs up by the venue and all is ok on that front, but i have never been to one before and am wondering how it goes?
My friend has got in touch asking about details, what we are after etc... and it occured to me that actually other than agreeing we want him to perform a blessing we hadnt got any further with that :S
Just wondering if anyone has any ideas or suggestions or experience that can help us. I likes the idea of rose / sand / candle type ceremonys but h2b doesnt like the idea of them so thats a no no.
Just after some ideas as a jumping off point to start planning this part of our day really, any help would be appreciated.

I am thinking of this:

Officiant:
(Brides Name) and (Grooms Name), Please face each other and take each other’s hands, so that you may see the gift that they are to you.
These are the hands of your best friend, young and strong and full of love for you, that are holding yours on your wedding day as you promise to love each other today, tomorrow and forever.
These are the hands that will work along side yours as together you build your future.
These are the hands that will passionately love you and cherish you through the years, and with the slightest touch will comfort you like no other.
These are the hands that will hold you when fear or grief temporarily comes your way.
These are the hands that will countless times wipe the tears from your eyes, tears of sorrow and tears of joy.
These are the hands that will tenderly hold your children.
These are the hands that will give you support and encouragement to chase down your dreams.
These are the hands that will hold you tight as you struggle through difficult times.
These are the hands that will give you strength when you need it.
These are the hands that will lift your chin and brush your cheek as they raise your face to look into eyes that are filled with overwhelming love for you.
And lastly, these are the hands that even when wrinkled and aged will still be reaching for yours, still giving you the same unspoken tenderness with just a touch.


with this afterwards as our prayer:

There they stand, hand in hand, and exchange wedding bands.
Today is the day of all their dreams and plans.
And all of their loved ones are here to say,
God bless this couple who marry today.

In good times and bad times, in sickness and health,
May they know that riches aren't needed for wealth.
Help them face problems they'll meet on their way --
God bless this couple who marry today.

May they find peace of mind comes to all who are kind,
May the rough times ahead become triumphs in time,
May their children be happy each day --
God bless this family who started today.

As they go, may they know every love that was shown,
And as life it gets shorter may their feelings grow.
Wherever they travel, wherever they stay,
God bless this couple who marry today.


What do you think.

@blondmumma. I think that's absolutely perfect :-)