Is there a green way to physically arrange your ceremony?

Question: It is my opinion that because green ceremonies are about the earth and nature that a green ceremony should be really inclusive and have people all around you like a play in the round. What do you think? ~ Amy in CA

Answer: I do not think there is any "right" way to lay out your ceremony, and the best set up will depend on how many people you have and the venue. Most ceremonies are set up in classic play or stage formation and in some religions the aisle marks the center of two codified sides (the bride’s side and the groom’s side). If you are having a green church or synagog wedding, a ceremony in the round may not be feasible, and if you are having an outdoor wedding, it may not be desirable.

If you have any control, it is nice to face your guests (or at least to stand facing each other with your profiles in view) during the ceremony so your guests don’t spend the whole time looking at your tushies and the face of your officiant. Your guests are there to see you—so don’t hide the ball! If you want to have a ceremony in the round, see if you can have different parts of the ceremony take place facing different directions, so everyone feels included.

No matter which formation you choose, make sure to discuss the ceremony set up with your musicians ahead of time so they can make sure your guests will be able to hear them no matter where they are located.

I would also recommend greening your ceremony in other way - both with eco-decor and by incorporating your environmental values into your vows and ceremony. To that end, I recommend getting a wedding vow book to get you started as well as a book of nature poems or quips (I have added links to a few popular ones below).