- BY Randy Stratton
- IN Wedding Ceremonies
Posted On: 3rd of May 2026
Often, we are asked to perform a Simple Civil Wedding, which requires a quick turnaround of the Ceremony and availability on short notice. There are also those weddings which are planned well in advance and require a lot of attention to the ceremony details. Last November, I had one of these. It was a wonderful wedding with the bride, groom, and Guests dressed formally.
What made this ceremony even more special was the love story the couple shared. The Wedding Ceremony included a Candle Light Tribute, The Couple’s Love Story and an Exchange of Vows that were the couple's own tribute to each other. The Ceremony was emotional with humorous exchanges, shared laughter and tears between me, the Bride and Groom and their guests. This connection continues to this day as the couple and I connect on a regular basis.
The 5 Things You Should Do To Make Your Ceremony Romantic
1. Set the Mood With A Thoughtful Atmosphere
Romance begins before you even walk down the aisle.
- Soft lighting (candles, lanterns, fairy lights) instantly warms the space.
- Live music—strings, acoustic guitar, or a soulful vocalist—creates emotional texture.
- A signature scent (florals, vanilla, cedar) subtly ties everything together.
Why it works: Atmosphere cues the heart to slow down and feel.
2. Personalize Your Vows
Nothing is more romantic than words spoken from the heart.
- Share a short story about your partner.
- Express what you admire most.
- Make promises that feel real, not generic.
- Share how you met or an engagement story.
Pro tip: Keep them under two minutes—short, sincere, and powerful.
3. Add a Symbolic Ritual
A small ritual can elevate the ceremony from beautiful to meaningful.
- Unity candle
- Handfasting
- Love letter box
- Sand ceremony
- Ring warming (guests bless the rings)
Why it works: Rituals create a shared emotional moment that everyone feels.
4. Choose Music That Reflects Your Love Story
Music is emotional shorthand.
- Pick songs that represent milestones—your first date, your first road trip, the moment you knew.
- Live performances make it even more intimate.
- Bonus: A soft instrumental during vows keeps the moment tender without distraction.
5. Be Fully Present With Each Other
This is the most underrated romantic element.
- Hold hands.
- Make eye contact.
- Take a breath together before the ceremony begins.
- Smile at each other during the walk down the aisle.
Presence is the ultimate romance. Guests feel it, and it transforms the ceremony.
Randy Stratton is one of Mississauga's trusted wedding officiants. He has helped countless couples create meaningful, stress-free wedding ceremonies, and he can help you, too. Contact Randy Stratton at (416) 970-2900 for your romantic marriage ceremony in Mississauga.
