A Guide to an Interfaith Wedding Ceremony

There's no guarantee that two people who fall in love will share the same religious beliefs. So, interfaith marriages are increasingly common. However, planning an interfaith ceremony can be tricky. You'll likely face three major challenges: finding an officiant; combining two sets of traditions without upsetting your families; and creating a ceremony that reflects your commitment and values. Here we discuss what an interfaith wedding ceremony is as well as some tips for planning one of your own. 

• What is an Interfaith Wedding Ceremony? 
• Who Officiates an Interfaith Wedding Ceremony?
• How Do You Plan an Interfaith Wedding Ceremony?
• Where Does an Interfaith Wedding Ceremony Take Place? 
• Is an Interfaith Wedding Ceremony Legal? 
• What Happens at an Interfaith Wedding Ceremony?

What is an Interfaith Wedding Ceremony? 

An Interfaith wedding ceremony is the mixture of religious traditions at the same wedding ceremony and reception, without having to label the wedding any specific faith. Some interfaith couples choose to follow tradition closely, while others stray from convention.

You can design a ceremony with readings and rituals that are significant to both of you. Many couples create a wedding program that includes explanations and transliterations of specific religious customs, so family and friends can understand and participate in unfamiliar traditions. 

Who Officiates an Interfaith Wedding Ceremony? 

There are officiants who specialise in interfaith wedding ceremonies, including some religious leaders, depending on your religion. However, any celebrant can design an interfaith wedding ceremony for you. Most important is to choose an officiant who makes you feel comfortable and is aware of what exactly you want (and don't want) at your wedding. Especially if you want to avoid any conflict around religion-based traditions by making sure your celebrant knows your wishes. Get in touch with your desired officiant at the beginning of your planning process so they can properly plan to accommodate your unique needs.

How Do You Plan an Interfaith Wedding Ceremony? 

Whether they celebrate a specific religion or are just spiritual, what's most important is that the bride and groom have the option of being as religious, or as secular, as they wish for the wedding celebration. The decision to include specific religious observances and traditions should be solely your choice. Simply, couples should be able to pick and choose what goes into a ceremony. Meeting your officiant will help preparations. 

Early in the process, listen to both families' views and expectations for your wedding day. You could also consult clergy from each of your religions. Be open and honest with everyone from the start, so they know what you're planning and why. Many couples create a wedding program that includes explanations of specific religious customs, so family and friends can understand and participate in unfamiliar traditions.

Where Does an Interfaith Wedding Ceremony Take Place? 

Anywhere you want! Of course, religious buildings are unlikely to host an interfaith wedding, but they may offer a separate blessing ceremony. If you are using a celebrant, you can truly be married anywhere that fits your dream wedding plans. You may consider religious aspects, for example, space for a chuppah or mandap.

Is an Interfaith Wedding Ceremony Legal? 

The religious and legal recognition of your marriage depends on your religion and your wedding ceremony. Some religions may automatically recognise your marriage, others you may have to have a certain recognition ceremony. It also depends on whether your officiant is a licensed registrar or if your venue is licensed. If not, you can have a separate legal ceremony before or after your main wedding ceremony. 

What Happens at an Interfaith Wedding Ceremony? 

Every interfaith couple is different regarding their wants and needs. Some interfaith couples choose to follow tradition closely, while others stray from convention. Your officiant can help you design a ceremony that works for you. The options are truly endless, but most couples will want to include the ring exchange, vows and probably music. The religious touches can include everything from readings from religious texts, language options, blessings or other traditional rituals. It’s entirely up to the couple to include or omit whatever traditions they see fit. Your interfaith wedding ceremony is all about joining you two together and celebrating your love. So, it is entirely up to you what religious elements and cultural traditions you include.