FAQs

Question

Is it thy first Quaker wedding?

Answer

We will all enter and sit in silence. Once all have gathered, our MC will stand and explain how things will proceed. We will settle into silent reflection, for 15-20 minutes, at which point, Ria and Richard will stand and exchange vows, thereby marrying each other. After the vows, anyone in attendance may stand up and share a message if moved to do so. The message may be about marriage in general or about Ria and Richard in particular. It may contain well-wishes, thoughtful reflection, poetry, or any medium that moves you. At the end of the hour, the Quaker wedding certificate is read and signed by Richard and Ria. All who have gathered will sign it, as witnesses and it will be framed and hung in our home. Following the signing, our MC will conclude the meeting by shaking the hand of the person next to him or her. We all then exchange handshakes, hugs, or kisses, and proceed onwards to the food and the dancing.

Question

What if I do it wrong?

Answer

Impossible! The most important thing is that you are speaking your truth. If you want some guidelines, it’s a good idea to: - leave some prayerful silence between messages so folks can consider each message - give a message if you are moved - remain silent if you are not moved - listen to the messages You should generally refrain from: - arguing with a previous message - speaking more than once in meeting - feeling bad if you haven’t been moved to give a message

Question

Can I speak?

Answer

Yes please!!

Question

Do I have to speak?

Answer

Of course not!

Question

Will you be legally married?

Answer

Yep! We did all the back end stuff, so that it is a legal wedding.

Question

My kids will not be able to handle this.

Answer

No worries! Fortunately, we are getting married in a kid’s museum! The exhibits and childcare will be available.