Dan Jenkins

Chaplain Dan Jenkins is a former pastor and the current owner of Heaven's Touch Weddings. He has earned a liberal arts degree, and degrees in ministry and theology. A Vietnam combat veteran in the US Army; former Instructor with the Dale Carnegie Course; and has worked extensively in Haiti, as well as with Haitians in the USA. Dan loves cross-cultural situations, which has worked well for him in the wedding ministry he now does full time. You can find out more information on Chaplain Dan's business at www.HeavensTouchWeddings.com.

Published on 03/8/2005

Here are a few tips for wedding ceremonies that I've learned over the years

A Few Tips For Your Wedding Day

Here are a few tips for wedding ceremonies that I've learned over the years:

Don't lock your knees. Evidently it can cut off blood circulation and cause you to pass out. That usually applies to long wedding ceremonies. It isn't so much of a problem with ceremonies that are less than 30 minutes.
Wear comfortable shoes. The Bride and Groom usually do not realize how much time they will be standing and smiling on their wedding day. If your shoes can be seen, you want them to look excellent and fashionable, but you also want them to be comfortable. Your shoes will be either your best friend, or your worst friend, on your wedding day.
Eat a light meal a few hours before the ceremony. Failure to eat can also lead to passing out during the ceremony.
Don't consume alcohol before the wedding. Again, intoxication on top of an empty stomach can cause major problems during the ceremony. And, Pennsylvania law permits an officiant to refuse to do the ceremony if he believes either the Bride, or Groom (or both) are impaired.
A light coat of vaseline on your teeth can make a great smile dazzling.
For every Bride and Groom preparing for your ceremony: during the Questions of Intent, Vows and Exchange of Rings, look at each other. Your commitments are being made to each other, not the officiant.
And, don't forget to enjoy your wedding.