New Jersey Civil Union Ceremony Planning Tips

You’ve waited long enough! The legislature has labeled it a “civil union,” however; you have waited most of your life for this magical, unforgettable moment—your wedding day!  After thousands rallied both for and against same-sex marriages, same-sex couples in New Jersey can now legally form "civil unions" as of February 19, 2007.  The measure was a step in the direction of gay nuptials.  Gay-marriage supporters expressed muted happiness, having hoped for more, yet were pleased to have legislation that begins to extend equality to same-sex couples.  For now, civil unions are considered by legislature as a reasonable compromise.   

A New Jersey civil union ceremony is very similar to many other kinds of weddings ceremonies.  Your New Jersey civil union ceremony may be religious or secular, formal and traditional, or contemporary and unstructured.  The makeup of the ceremony will depend on the New Jersey wedding officiant, house-of-worship, wedding venue, and the couple's own preferences.  All couples in New Jersey must follow the procedures for getting a New Jersey marriage license, and anyone who can officiate an opposite-sex marriage, can also officiate a same-sex marriage. Below are some things to consider when planning your New Jersey civil union ceremony:

·         The Greeting
Your New Jersey wedding officiant will welcome your guests to your celebration of love. Your officiant can also say a few words about your relationship, or about marriage/commitment in general.

·         Your Ceremony & Vows
You will want to decide if you and your partner desire a religious or non-religious ceremony.  As in any type of wedding, the ceremony and vows can be as personal or standard depending on your preference.  During the vows, the couple declares their intent to be a committed couple.  This is your opportunity to make promises about what this commitment means to you both by individually writing your own vows.

·         The Readings & Music
Many New Jersey wedding officiants have a standard set of music and readings that are often used at commitment ceremonies.  A religious commitment ceremony will likely incorporate hymns and scripture readings that focus on love.  A secular civil union ceremony will usually also include readings, music, and songs about love: including poems, passages of literature, famous quotes, personal writing, and classic or pop music.  It may be gay/lesbian/transgender focused or very general, depending on your personal preference.

·         The Ring Exchange
The couple exchanges rings, and the New Jersey officiant says a few words about the symbolism of what these rings mean. You can craft your perfect ceremony together with your New Jersey officiant.

·         Pronouncement of Marriage
Your New Jersey officiant will announce to your guests that you are now united/joined/wed,whatever word you prefer to say.  Then the New Jersey wedding officiant invite the the two of you to seal your vows with a kiss.  Some couples may not be used to kissing in public, and thus may decide to keep it a short kiss, or forgo this part altogether.  Others will relish the moment to have the opportunity to kiss each other in front of their loved ones, proclaiming their love, and gratitude in having that love.

·         The Reception
Couples will most often follow the civil union ceremony with a reception celebration of some kind.  As with all weddings, there are no rules as to what this should be.  Of course, the location of your ceremony should be a special place for both you and your partner. Nowadays with high gas prices, you may want to consider choosing a central New Jersey location for all of your guests. Also, make sure the venue of choice is gay-friendly. Call ahead to make sure the venue you choose is comfortable hosting a same-sex ceremony. You can have your reception be very elegant and traditional, or as casual as a backyard barbeque. It may include traditional wedding elements such as the first dance, the cutting of the cake, and bouquet toss, or may be an unstructured party event.It would be a good idea to have your invitation give some clues as to what it will be expected.  For example, “Please join us after the ceremony to toast the happy couple,” or “A reception at the Country Club will immediately follow the ceremony.”

BestWeddingNJ.com welcomes the opportunity to serve and celebrate with you in personalizing your dream New Jersey Civil Union come true!  At BestWeddingNJ.com we value your unique life-long partnership desires as a gay couple.  Come bring your passion, your sense of style, and allow us to design a New Jersey civil union ceremony that will make your New Jersey civil union the most memorable day of your life!  Our creative New Jersey civil union ceremonies are beautifully crafted and customized to fulfill your vision of your sacred day.  With a personal loving touch, our qualified New Jersey Wedding Officiants go the extra mile to blend joy, warmth and spirituality as they entwine the lives of all in attendance to create a special and unforgettable event!

It will be my honor and privilege to make your wedding dreams come true! 

In Love, Light & Service,
Rev. Diane
New Jersey Wedding Officiant

Complete New Jersey Civil Union Ceremonies from $350.00 

Best Wedding NJ's affordable, romantic New Jersey Civil Union Ceremonies are $350.00 performed at the location of your choosing.  If a more elaborate and customized New Jersey civil union ceremony is desired, we will personalize an inspirational, elegant New Jersey civil union ceremony, with a Unity Candle ceremony, perfect just for the two of you for $475.00.  Create a picturesque Jersey Shore Beach Wedding, Boat Wedding or Waterfront View wedding ceremony (small gathering) at no extra charge! 

Call now for a FREE consultation to personalize your New Jersey Civil Union Ceremony! Call 732-262-3037 or contact us on the form below. (Please include the date, place & time of your New Jersey Civil Union.)

Best Wedding NJ guarantees you will have a New Jersey Civil Union Ceremony to remember!  

Best Wedding NJ - New Jersey Civil Unions: We offer beautifully Customized New Jersey Civil Union & Wedding Ceremonies, New Jersey Wedding Officiants and Affordable NJ Wedding Services, Wedding Music, Wedding Photography & Wedding Video, Tuxedos, Wedding Cakes, Wedding Rings, Wedding Invitations, Wedding Flowers, Limousines, Ice Sculpture, Chocolate Fountains, and so much more! FREE wedding planner, wedding vows & articles! If you are planning the Ultimate New Jersey Wedding of your dreams, you have come to the right place!