Carollyne B. Rayner's Book: You Can Write "I Do" and more...

Before walking down the aisle, it is important to understand all aspects of a civil wedding ceremony.

In her book, You Can Write "I Do" and more ..., Carollyne offers a detailed guide to preparing the ideal service. Each chapter in this book offers valuable information that will help you create a ceremony that reflects your individual personalities as well as your new life together.

REVIEWS

"Carollyne likes to encourage and stimulate her readers. It is also a guidebook in helping the bride in making sure the wedding comes off blissfully. Individuality and unity is something that is dealt with in the book that helps those who would like a wonderfully unique wedding."
(The Torch: The Magazine for Beta Sigma Phi Members World Wide)

"It's a great little how-to manual for brides and grooms to help them get through their big day. In fact, if you're about to tie the knot in a civil ceremony, you might just be saved by the selection of vows you'll find... And if you want to have a fun, well organized wedding, you might want to check out You Can Write "I Do" and more."
(The Calgary Sun: Susan Booker)

"I see couples struggling, so often, to find the right words to say to one another! This book is very welcome and timely. All these lovely choices under one cover! Wonderful!
(Nomi Whalen, Minister and Alberta Marriage Commissioner)

"I appreciated the Renewal of Vows section. Carollyne not only suggests eloquent scripts and phrases, but also the meaning and reasons behind them... an effective guide for married couples to celebrate their love and commitment... romantic and meaningful ways to say - You're still the one."
(Laura Klotz, Alberta Marriage Commissioner in Hinton)

WHY BUY THIS BOOK? Over the years, Carollyne B. Rayner has met with literally hundreds of couples who are eager to plan the ideal wedding. Listening to these couples, Carollyne realized they all had similar questions about how to ensure their ceremony reflects their individual personalities. From selecting vows and learning traditions, to hiring photographers and selecting a master of ceremonies, Carollyne has created a comprehensive guide to help couples plan the wedding of their dreams. You Can Write "I Do" and more... encourages couples to "write" their own ceremony, which will include the special rituals and vows that express their deepest emotions, thoughts, and feelings. Following Carollyne's organized approach to wedding planning will ensure the Bride and Groom make it through the big day without missing a single detail. You Can Write "I Do" and more... includes: Important questions to ask when planning a wedding; Information about legal requirements; The history of select wedding rituals and traditions; Sample readings, vows, and special ceremonies. In addition to a wealth of wedding information, You Can Write "I Do" and more... includes: Information about Naming or Christening Ceremonies; A selection of Renewal of Vows Ceremonies; Sample ceremonies and checklists. WHAT DO THE TURTLES ON THE COVER REPRESENT? In some cultures, animals act as guardian angels or guides that assist humans in times of need. As one of the world's oldest vertebrates, the turtle is symbolic in many cultures. Turtles represent the need to slow down and avoid being caught up in the fast pace of modern society. Many years ago, Carollyne discovered that the Turtle is her spirit guide. When life becomes too hectic, the Turtle appears to Carollyne--urging her to persevere, be patient, and allow life to take its natural course. Since turtles have a sturdy shell to protect them from predators, many believe those who have the Turtle as a spirit guide are similarly well-equipped to protect themselves and provide shelter for their family. In many Native American cultures, the turtle supports humans on its back. In Eastern cultures, the turtle's shell is a symbol of Heaven. You Can Write "I Do" and more... calls upon the wisdom of the Turtle spirit to guide couples through the rituals of the significant life passages outlined in the book. ABBREVIATED TABLE OF CONTENTS Civil Ceremonies: the Basics Alberta Marriage Laws Rituals and Myths Planning Your Wedding How to Choose a Marriage Commissioner The Marriage Ceremony and Vows Wedding Vows Ring Vows Memorial Candle Ceremony The Unity Candle Ceremony The Rose Ceremony Child's Gift Presentation Ceremony Ceremony Readings Blessings Your Wedding with Style Attendants and Helpers Thank-you Notes Your Baby's Naming or Christening Ceremony The Renewal of Vows Ceremony Resources Index