Lyla Dejesus
Mormon weddings are centered on the belief that marriage is eternal and that families can be together forever. The wedding ceremony is sacred and includes a temple sealing, where the couple is married for eternity, including in the afterlife. The bride and groom become sealed, with the officiant saying for time and all eternity instead of till death do you part. The reception that follows a Mormon wedding is usually a lively, family-oriented celebration with music, dancing, a cake-cutting ceremony, and a garter toss. It is customary for gifts to be given from the couple's registry, but these should not be brought to the temple.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Ceremony | Ring ceremony: bridesmaids and groomsmen walk down the aisle, the couple exchanges vows, rings, and a first kiss. Temple sealing ceremony: the couple becomes "sealed" as husband and wife on earth and in Heaven eternally. |
| Attire | Modest wedding apparel and traditional religious garments symbolic of Biblical text. The groom often wears a suit or tuxedo, depending on the formality of the reception. |
| Reception | Music, dancing, cake cutting, and a garter toss. Gifts from the registry are welcome. |
| Pre-wedding | Couples focus on spiritual preparation, including prayer, scripture study, and attending church services. |
| Location | Temples, reception centers, cultural halls, homes, or outdoors. |
| Gifts | Money in an envelope is customary. |
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Temple sealing ceremony
The temple sealing ceremony is a defining element of Mormon wedding traditions. It is the highest and most sacred form of marriage in the LDS faith. The ceremony was introduced in the church's early years in the mid-19th century and is based on Bible verses about marriage and the belief that marriage is eternal.
During the sealing ceremony, the to-be-weds join hands and kneel in front of each other at an altar. They promise to be sealed together as husband and wife on earth and in Heaven eternally. They also promise to honour and love each other and commit themselves to the teachings of the church. The officiant will say "For time and all eternity", instead of the traditional "Til death do you part". The couple may or may not exchange rings as part of the temple ceremony.
The bride and groom wear modest wedding apparel and traditional religious garments symbolic of Biblical text. They also wear sacred temple garments underneath their wedding attire. These garments are special undergarments that serve as a reminder of the covenants made in the temple.
The sealing ceremony is considered so sacred that only certain people are allowed to attend. If you receive an invitation to a reception or open house, you are invited to attend that event, but not the temple sealing.
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Wedding attire
The LDS leader officiating the wedding wears business attire, which means a suit and tie. Guests should also dress modestly and elegantly, avoiding anything sexually suggestive, which may make LDS members feel uncomfortable.
Mormon wedding traditions originated from Bible verses about marriage and the Latter-Day Saints' belief that marriage is part of God's plan for his people. Their faith states that during a marriage sacrament or ceremony, a couple pledges themselves to each other and God.
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Ring ceremony
A Mormon wedding reception will usually follow a temple sealing ceremony, which is considered the most sacred form of marriage in the LDS faith. The sealing ceremony involves the couple joining hands and kneeling in front of each other at an altar, where they promise to be sealed together as husband and wife on earth and in Heaven eternally.
As rings are not part of the official temple sealing ceremony, couples may hold a separate ring ceremony at a different location before the wedding reception. This is a way to include non-LDS family and friends, as it resembles a traditional wedding ceremony, with bridesmaids, groomsmen, vows, and the exchange of rings and a first kiss.
Ring ceremonies are similar to traditional weddings, with music, dancing, a cake-cutting ceremony, and a garter toss. Gifts are also customary, though no alcohol is served at these events.
The groom may change into a more traditional suit or tuxedo for the reception, usually in dark colours, though a white dress shirt and tie may also be worn. The bride and groom will both wear special temple garments underneath their wedding attire.
The reception can be held in a variety of locations, including a reception centre, cultural hall, home, or other chosen venue.
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Gifts and money
Gift-giving customs:
Mormon couples typically register for gifts, just like other couples. It is considered appropriate to choose a gift from their registry, and these gifts are always welcome. However, it is important to note that you should not bring the gift to the Temple. Instead, you can discreetly hand over the gift or money to the couple at the reception or through a separate arrangement.
Money etiquette:
If you wish to give money as a wedding gift, it is best to do so in a discreet manner. Placing money in the bride's dress is not a common practice at Mormon weddings. Instead, you can give the money in an envelope directly to the bride and groom or their parents, who may have a designated area for gift collection. This ensures that your monetary contribution is handled respectfully and securely.
Timing and location:
The timing and location of the wedding will also impact gift-giving. If you are invited to a temple wedding and sealing ceremony, it is customary to send your gift or contribution directly to the couple beforehand. If there is a separate reception or open house held after the temple wedding, you can bring your gift to this event. Sometimes, the wedding and reception may be held weeks or months apart, so be sure to clarify the timing and your invitation details.
Gift appropriateness:
When selecting a gift for a Mormon wedding, it is important to consider the couple's religious and cultural values. Avoid anything sexually suggestive, as this may make the LDS members uncomfortable. Stick to gifts that are modest and in good taste. If you are unsure, you can always ask the couple or their families for guidance on appropriate gift options.
Other considerations:
In addition to gifts and money, your presence and well-wishes are also valued. LDS members prioritize the spiritual aspect of marriage and focus on ensuring the couple is prepared for their eternal commitments. Your participation in their joy and support for their new journey together is a meaningful contribution in itself. So, remember to enjoy the celebration and congratulate the newlywed couple!
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Music and dancing
The reception is a time for celebration and joy, and the music and dancing reflect this. The music chosen for a Mormon wedding reception is intended to uplift and inspire. It is common for the music to be centred around the theme of love and marriage, with songs that celebrate the beauty of eternal commitment. The music may also include hymns or other religious songs that are meaningful to the couple and their guests.
While the music selection may be unique, the dancing at a Mormon wedding reception is similar to what you would expect at any wedding. Guests will have the opportunity to dance and celebrate with the newlywed couple. The dancing is a time for everyone to let loose and enjoy themselves, and it is not uncommon for there to be a lively and festive atmosphere.
It is important to note that while most Mormon wedding receptions include music and dancing, the specific details may vary depending on the couple and their preferences. Some couples may choose to have a more subdued reception with minimal dancing, while others may opt for a more energetic celebration with a greater focus on dancing and festivities. Ultimately, the reception is a reflection of the couple's personality and their interpretation of their faith.
If you are attending a Mormon wedding reception, it is always a good idea to be respectful and mindful of the couple's beliefs and traditions. While you may not be familiar with all the music or customs, embracing the experience and joining in the dancing can be a wonderful way to show your support for the newlyweds and their unique cultural heritage.
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Frequently asked questions
A Mormon wedding reception is similar to a traditional wedding reception. There is music, dancing, a cake-cutting ceremony, and a garter toss. Gifts from the registry are always welcome, but you shouldn't bring them to the Temple.
Modest and elegant attire is expected at a Mormon wedding. The groom often wears a traditional suit or tuxedo, and the bride wears modest wedding apparel and traditional religious garments.
Mormon wedding receptions are usually "dry", meaning no alcohol is served. The music may be unfamiliar, and there won't be a traditional wedding march. There will be a receiving line where you can greet the couple and their parents, and possibly the best man, maid of honour, and other attendants. You may also sign a guest book, chat with other guests, and leave whenever you like.
