Preface to the Exchange of Tokens or Rings
This section introduces what will come next in the ceremony, which is the exchange of tokens. Traditionally this would be the exchange of rings. I use the word token as some may wish to exchange another piece of jewelry such as a locket, or matching bracelets.
The tokens should be durable, and created to last for decades to come. It may be that over time, as resources increase, you will want to upgrade or enhance those tokens with more expensive items. This is fine, however, it does not remove or replace the original value of the tokens. These are something to be treasured for lifetimes to come.
The tokens should be durable, and created to last for decades to come. It may be that over time, as resources increase, you will want to upgrade or enhance those tokens with more expensive items. This is fine, however, it does not remove or replace the original value of the tokens. These are something to be treasured for lifetimes to come.
You have probably already selected the tokens or rings that you will exchange so the following is just a reminder.
Things to Remember when selecting the rings or tokens
1. It is about Your Love: Your rings are a symbol of your love. Every time you put them on you will be reminded of what that ring represents, which is your life long commitment and love as a married couple.
2. Involve Your Partner: When selecting your rings it is best that your partner has input into what is selected. If you want the element of surprise during your proposal, that is fine, just be sure that the engagement ring and matching wedding band can be exchanged for the same value. Then give your partner the opportunity to go shopping with you. Rings are for life. You want your partner to adore your gift as much as he or she adores you.
3. Stay within your Budget: The stone does not have to be huge. Small is fine. Don’t break the bank just to be impressive. Resources will increase over time and there is a high probability that you may purchase a second diamond ring later in life. If finances are an issue, the stone does not even need to be a diamond. There are other stones, synthetic and real, that most people would mistake for diamonds.
4. Quality is Important: Do invest in quality 14k white or yellow gold if at all possible. Silver is not a good option. 10K gold is ok, but my bias would be toward 14K gold. Remember, the ring will be in your family for generations to come.
5. Don't lose them: Keep the rings in a safe place until the wedding. Select a location where it will be safe and above all, a place that you will remember.
The following are words that you may want to suggest to the officiant.
Your rings will be a reminder of the love you share. They symbolize the presence of your partner and the treasure of your relationship.
Your rings are new today, but over time, will become worn.
This will not decrease their value but rather the opposite. As time passes, their worth will increase as will the depthof your love for each other.
You bring yourselves to this union. There is no greater gift. What tokens have you selected to represent your commitment?
Are they tokens of wealth? You are each other’s treasure. Are they tokens of purity? You belong to each other.
Are they tokens of endurance? Your love is constant and enduring.
May your rings be always the symbol of the unbroken circle of love. Love freely given has no beginning and no end. Love freely given has no separate giver or receiver. You are each the giver and each the receiver. May your ring always call to mind the freedom and the power of your love.
To be used when the Bride and Groom wish to use songs as tokens, rather than tangible objects.
Minister:
What token do you bring as a symbol of the vows that you have taken?
Maid of Honor:
O you who dwell in the garden, my companions are listening for your voice. (Song of Sol. 8:13-14)
Best Man:
Go to the garden and gather myrrh and spice, for the flowers appear on the earth and the time of singing is come. (Song of Sol. 2:10-13; 5:1)
(Bride and/or Groom may sing or offer other tokens.)
You have selected for each other, tokens that represent the love you share. These gifts are precious and rare; their cost, great personal sacrifice.
These gifts are appropriate because they reflect the brilliance of light, symbolic of the brilliance of your love for each other.
In similar fashion, you mutually dedicate yourselves, make personal sacrifices for your partner, and are committed to continually refining your relationship with each other.
May these gifts serve as a constant reminder of the value and worth that you hold for each other.
The tokens that you give to each other were chosen with love and care. As you wear these rings, know that they are the reflections of your partner’s heart. Wear them as a reminder of the love that is yours to receive.
I'm Getting Married: Now what do I do?
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