Who Can Be a Witness at Your Ceremony? Choosing the Right Person and Understanding Their Role

2019.07.30 published

What is the Role of the "Witness Representative" in a Civil Wedding Ceremony?

"Civil wedding," a third style of ceremony that is neither Christian nor Shinto. It is a new form of wedding where couples vow their commitment to their guests rather than to a deity.

It is increasingly chosen by couples who want a free and personal wedding that is not bound by tradition or religion, and now nearly 20% of weddings in Japan are conducted as civil ceremonies.

@hamu.wed

In a civil wedding where couples pledge to their guests rather than to a deity, there are no priests or pastors present.

Instead, it is common to appoint a close friend or family member to take on the role of "Witness Representative" to represent the guests.

This article provides a detailed introduction to the role of the Witness Representative in a civil ceremony.

@ayakax19

What Does the Witness Representative Do in a Civil Ceremony?

The role of the Witness Representative can be broadly divided into four categories.

Sometimes they perform all tasks, while in other cases, they may be asked by the couple to do only part of the responsibilities.

Let's go through them one by one.

① Monitoring and Supporting the Couple

The Witness Representative stands by the couple and assists them by holding the gloves or bouquet, or handing over the ring pillow. This is a supportive role akin to that of a maid of honor or an attendant at a wedding abroad.

In the case of a civil ceremony without an attendant, they may also help adjust the train of the dress.

② Asking the Vows

In a civil ceremony, the couple vows their commitment in their own words. The couple may read their vows, or the Witness Representative may pose questions to them, with their responses constituting their vows.

The content of the vows can be prepared by either the couple or the Witness Representative.

It is essential to discuss in advance whether questioning is necessary and what the content will be.

@imokonbu0617

③ Signing the Marriage Certificate

After the couple, it is also an important role of the Witness Representative to sign the marriage certificate. To have your name forever associated with their marriage is a great honor.

This signature serves as a confirmation that the guests acknowledge the couple’s marriage.

@s.e.0805.wedding

④ Representative Speech

In a casual wedding, the Witness Representative may also give a speech or remark at the end. There is no set length, but a brief and concise content is recommended, typically shorter than a friend's speech at the reception.

☑ Self-introduction

☑ Anecdotes about the couple

☑ Closing (words of congratulations)

If there are Witness Representatives from both the groom's and bride's sides, it’s advisable to coordinate the length and structure in advance.

@1224.a.wd

Finally, here are some examples of who might be asked to take on the role of Witness Representative.

Example ① Siblings

The most common choice for a Witness Representative is a brother or sister.

While there are traditional roles for parents in the ceremony (like the veil down or escorting down the aisle), there are no standard roles for siblings.

Because they have grown up together, asking a sibling for such an important role can make the wedding a cherished family memory.

Example ② Close Friends

It is also common to ask a good friend to be the Witness Representative. If it's hard to choose just one, some couples may appoint two or three people.

Some couples even surprise their friends by naming them as the Witness Representatives! In cases of surprises, it’s typical to only have them sign the marriage certificate (as questions and speeches would require preparation).

Example ③ Parents

Some couples have their parents serve as the Witness Representatives. They may ask each mother to pose the vow questions, creating a warm, family-oriented wedding.

@piichan2518

Example ④ Mentors or Supervisors

Couples may also ask a respected mentor or supervisor to be their Witness Representative. It is unlikely that anyone would feel proud to be asked by a subordinate or student to take on this role. If you have a mentor or supervisor you hold in high regard, you might consider asking them.

@na20160330

We've Introduced the Role of the Witness Representative in a Civil Ceremony♩

The Witness Representative plays an essential role in a civil ceremony. Since it is such an important task representing the attending guests, it is vital to discuss what needs to be done beforehand, ensuring the wedding day becomes a wonderful memory.

@gift_wd0922