A Vow of Love to Guests: A Review of the Flow and Performances in a "Shinto-style Wedding" Ceremony♡

2018.10.23 published

What is a "Ceremony in Front of Guests" that is neither a Shinto nor Christian ceremony?

In Japan, the wedding styles can be broadly categorized into three types:

☑︎ Christian style with a pastor officiating in a chapel, where love is pledged

☑︎ Shinto style where the marriage is concluded before the gods under the guidance of a Shinto priest and shrine maiden

☑︎ Ceremony in front of guests, where approval of the marriage is obtained from the guests

The most common style is the Christian ceremony, but particularly in recent years, the proportion of couples choosing the ceremony in front of guests has increased, with about 20% opting for this style.

In this article, we will introduce the content, progression, and recommended performances of the ceremony in front of guests♡

What kind of wedding is a ceremony in front of guests?

The ceremony in front of guests is a style of wedding where, instead of making vows to the gods, all the guests become witnesses to the marriage.

It is appealing because there is no need to worry about religion or formality, allowing couples to freely decide on the location, progression, performances, and costumes for the ceremony.

For example, it is fine to wear a white kimono in a garden, and in some locations, it is also acceptable to wear a white kimono in a chapel.

Since there are no Shinto priests or pastors, there are also no associated labor costs, making it less expensive than other wedding styles at many venues.

Couples who opt for the ceremony in front of guests often want a warm, personalized wedding.

Similar to a reception, they can arrange the entire content from entrance to exit however they like, leading to a unique and original ceremony.

However, many older guests may not have experienced such ceremonies before, so it’s better to include a brief explanation in the invitation to help them understand the concept.

What is the basic progression and flow of a ceremony in front of guests?

The ceremony in front of guests allows for completely free performances. However, it doesn’t mean that outrageous performances are required.

Basically, the progression often follows that of a Christian ceremony.

【Flow of a ceremony in front of guests】

① Entrance of the couple

② Explanation of the ceremony by the host

③ Declaration of marriage vows, approval by guests

④ Ring exchange

⑤ Declaration of marriage establishment

⑥ Exit of the couple

The major difference from a Christian ceremony is in the parts of [marriage vow] and [approval by guests].

Unlike in a Christian ceremony where a pastor reads aloud the vows, in a ceremony in front of guests, the couple reads their vows in their own words.

From orthodox vows to acrostics or letter formats, vows can be as varied as the couple themselves.

Some couples also choose a few guests in advance to state their vows.

After reading the vows, the couple seeks recognition of their marriage from the guests.

Guests show their approval with applause or by ringing ribbons or bells distributed at the reception.

The ability to devise approval methods that reflect the couple’s personality is wonderful, isn't it?

Here are some original performances unique to the ceremony in front of guests♡

Original Performance Unique to the Ceremony in Front of Guests① Sand Ceremony

The sand ceremony is an event where the bride and groom each pour differently colored sand into a single jar. It is a performance originating from overseas, similar to Japan's "water union ceremony," in a sand version.

The container used for the sand ceremony can become a wedding certificate created together with the guests if they also add sand at the reception.

Original Performance Unique to the Ceremony in Front of Guests② Ring Relay

The ring relay is a ceremony where rings threaded on a ribbon are passed from guest to guest, ultimately reaching the bride and groom.

This performance allows all guests to touch the rings, reinforcing the feeling of approval for the couple's love.

Original Performance Unique to the Ceremony in Front of Guests③ Tree Planting

The tree planting performance involves the couple watering a plant or seedling in a pot. The olive tree, a symbol of family and prosperity, is often chosen.

It conveys the meaning of "together, we will build and nurture a new home."

Original Performance Unique to the Ceremony in Front of Guests④ Pinky Promise

In addition to reading vows, the couple can also make a pinky promise in front of the guests, pledging their love. This warm oath of marriage adds a cozy feeling for everyone present.

Consider coming up with a personalized oath of love together!

Original Performance Unique to the Ceremony in Front of Guests⑤ Dozen Roses Ceremony

The Dozen Roses Ceremony involves the groom receiving 12 roses, one from each guest, and presenting them to the bride.

Each of the 12 roses represents: "love, passion, truth, respect, glory, effort, eternity, gratitude, sincerity, happiness, trust, hope."

The scene of the groom kneeling to present the roses resembles a proposal—what a romantic performance!

If you want a ceremony that truly reflects yourselves, the ceremony in front of guests is recommended.

We have introduced the wedding style "ceremony in front of guests," which allows for free progression and creation, regardless of religion or history.

It is perfect for couples who want an at-home atmosphere without being bound by formality.

If you are deciding on a wedding style, please use this as a reference!