A COUPLES' ROADMAP TO COMMITMENT CEREMONIES

A ceremony beyond legalities and government

In this blog, you'll learn

  • What is a commitment ceremony
  • How to know if having one is right for you
  • Benefits of having a commitment ceremony
  • How to plan and what elements to include
  • How to include guests in commitment ceremonies
What is a Commitment Ceremony?

A commitment ceremony stands apart from a traditional wedding because it allows you to celebrate your commitment and get married without a marriage license. Rather than involving the government in your special day, it's about creating a ceremony that is deeply personal to you and your partner. This connection is then witnessed and sanctified by a higher power, not by bureaucratic processes.


Usually couples choose to have a commitment ceremonies because they want to share private vow's with each-other, or because their ideal ceremony location isn't available for a legal wedding location because of bureaucracy/ "red tape".

DEFINITION: A wedding ceremony that isn't legally binding.

How to Know if Having One is Right for You:
  • Including the government in your union doesn't appeal to you.
  • You cannot get married by law.
  • You will do your legal paperwork before or after your wedding day.
  • Your ideal wedding location doesn't provide Special Use Permits or Special Event Permits.
  • You want to get married in another country and the paperwork is complicated.


In all reality, a commitment ceremonies with a small guest count or a guest count of zero will have no different of an impact than that of a small group of hikers. The caveat would be following Leave No Trace guidelines (always) and making sure to only choose locations that are not culturally insensitive.


A small low-key commitment ceremony is the perfect way to have a wedding without being legally married and letting the rules tie you down.

HOW TO PLAN A COMMITMENT CEREMONY:

Planning a commitment ceremony can actually be very simple! Choose your dream location and include the activities and people you love the most in your big day! You can start by asking yourself the important questions and DREAM BIG!


  • Where would you like to exchange your vows?
  • When you envision your ceremony, what do you see around you? What is the weather like?
  • Are you considering inviting guests to celebrate with you, or do you envision a more intimate ceremony just for the two of you?
  • Are you seeking an officiant who is open to conducting a ceremony without legal implications, or are you considering a self-solemnization?
  • What kind of activities do you envision for your wedding day?
Activities Ideas for your wedding day
  • Hot Air Balloon Ride
  • Helicopter Tour
  • Snorkeling
  • Horseback Riding
  • Ziplining
  • Beach Bonfire
  • Hammocking
  • Starry Night Portraits
Fun fact:
90% of the elopement's I document are commitment ceremonies!

FAQ

about commitment ceremonies

What Exactly is a Commitment Ceremony?


A commitment ceremony is a personalized celebration of love without legal marriage.

How is a Commitment Ceremony Different from a Legal Wedding?


There is no paperwork involved in commitment ceremonies.

Can We Have a Commitment Ceremony if We're Already Legally Married?


Absolutely!

Can we have an officiant?


Yes! It can be anyone, a friend, parent, whoever you'd like to marry you and they don't need to get legally ordained! Just share some sweet words and blessings for your union!