I Do Today

Speech writing is in lots of ways similar writing a paper, apart from that there is no penalty for spelling and punctuation mistakes. You should not try to write words in your speech that you are not relaxed pronouncing or don't know the meaning of because it can lead to a less fluently delivered speech.

To be able to write a high-quality speech is a lot like making a good cake. Having the right elements is key for it's success. Every speech writer should follow these simple 4 steps to confirm you can deliver a successful speech.

Step 1

Start with the most significant idea/point on your outline. Consider HOW you can give details (show, tell) to your listeners in the most effective way for them to easily understand it. Ask yourself:

? How do I need to tailor my information to meet Joe's needs? For example, do you tell personal stories illustrating your main points? This is a very powerful technique.

Step 2

Note down what you'd say as if you were talking directly to them. If it helps, say everything out loud before you write and/or use a recorder. After you've finished, take notes.

You do not have to write absolutely everything you're going to say but you do need to write the series of ideas to guarantee they are rational and easily pursued. Bear in mind too, to explain or exemplify your point from your research.

Step 3

? Check the 'tone' of your language. Is it right for the event, subject matter and your audience?

? Check the length of your sentences. If they're too lengthy or complex you can lose your listeners.

? Have you selected words everybody will understand?
'There are 5 cent words and $5.00 words. Why use a $5.00 one when a 5 cent one tells it better?'

Example: He 'spat' = 5 cents. He 'expectorated' = $5.00

? Read what you've written out loud. If it flows naturally carry on the process with your next main idea. If it doesn't, rework.
Step 4

Between each of your major ideas you have to to give a alleyway. This links them for your listeners. The clearer the path, the easier it is to make the switch from one idea to the next. If your speech contains more than three main ideas and each is building on the last, then consider using a 'catch-up' or summary as part of your transitions.

If you are in a real hurry you can also buy speech that is custom written according to your specifications and delivered in 24 hours.

While researching sand ceremonies for a couple needing an alternative to the traditional unity candle (because they are having a outdoor beach wedding which candles are never recommended), I came across this resource site for couples who are getting married for the second time (or more).

I Do Take Two.com

This article is based on many couple's most common questions regarding their ceremony. I wish to continue to encouraging couples to remember there is no one way to put a ceremony together yet if you are looking for a traditional format this article will help with the flow.

Couples are surprised to find there is no mandatory design for a wedding ceremony. Ceremonies can be traditional or as unique as each couple; it’s your day – you can have it your way.

Although there are a few standard lines an officiant needs to incorporate into your ceremony, for the most part it is all about your sonnet from one heart to another. If you want a ceremony created especially for you, make sure to choose an officiant who acts as guide and co-creator, rather than a director.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some of the most important things to consider in creating your wedding ceremony? The questions we hear most often are:

How long is the ceremony? Typically 15-30 minutes.

Do you write the vows or do we? We can, yet normally we co-create with the couple giving them samples and choices to help with their decisions.

Can we use our own vows and readings? Yes.

Do I need to remember anything? Basically, the answer is “no” unless you wish to. We understand you will be tired and nervous all at once when you finally get to the ceremony part of your celebration. Normally the officiant will feed you your lines and, remember, look at each other when saying the vows, not at the officiant.

Can a friend or family member do a song or reading? Yes, we encourage involving anyone you wish to make this day special for you and your guests.

Do we have to be solemn or can we be light and funny? It’s your day - have it your way. If you want it light and funny, make sure you pick an officiant who can deliver this for you.

Can we use contemporary readings or are religious or scriptural readings required? When it comes to vows and readings there is not one requirement. Be as creative as you like.

We just want a simple ceremony. We have learned that “simple” is in the eye of the beholder. Simple to one person is 10 minutes of I do’s and you may kiss the bride. To others it’s more about keeping the ceremony light and not too heavy on the religious side.

A Typical Ceremony

To give you an idea of how a ceremony might be structured, here is the one of the most common ceremony templates used:

Opening Words of the Officiant: This is where we welcome your family and guests.

The Giving in Marriage: (Optional) The father or family member gives the bride away.

An Opening Prayer or Reading: Nice place to have a guest or family member do a favorite reading of the couple’s choice. The officiant is also more than happy to recite your choice of reading or opening scripture.

Definition of Marriage: (Optional) The officiant can define the marriage with your choice of words.

Wedding Vows: Traditional, non-traditional, religious. This is the first time you will recite a piece to each other with the assistance of your officiant feeding the lines to both of you.

Second Reading or Song: (Optional) Very commonly a guest or family member reads or sings a song.

Exchange of Rings: You will choose a ring exchange vow that suits your heart.

Closing: (Sometimes called a Benediction) Usually the officiant recites your closing thoughts to the family and guests.

Declaration Of Marriage: "By the power vested in me by the State of _______, I now pronounce you ____________” and the best part for last, “you may now kiss the bride or life partner.”

Introduction of Newlyweds: The officiant usually introduces the newlyweds by the married names you are taking.

Other Bits of Wisdom

You have worked hard at making this the most memorable day of your life for you and your guests. Please make sure that they can hear your ceremony. Your DJ or venue will normally have a wireless mike that the officiant can use or a microphone that can be set up. Your guests and loved ones really do want to hear your vows and this allows them to be part of your special celebration, the first day of your married life.

Make sure if there are any special announcements you wish the officiant to make that you let them know before the ceremony. They can announce this after you and your wedding party leave the staged area.

There are many free and paid sites on the internet these days that have samples of wedding ceremonies. Your officiant will also be able to give you sample ceremonies they have already performed, or samples of vows and readings. Make sure the ceremony is a true reflection of the both of you. It’s your very special day…forever more.

©Jacqueline Soares 8/09

As a couple coming together and blending your financial future it is important that you read this article before you say "I Do". It will help you understand the implications of blending past credit history, building new credit history together and the affect on Your Credit Images.

Article:

Before the Weddding and Honeymoon--It's Time to Discuss Your Credit Image

“I” to “We”

Marriage shifts the focus from “I” to “We” in many ways. One of the most significant areas for couples to understand is the impact their marriage will have on their credit image.

Up to this point, you may have been managing your finances separately. With your marriage coming up, the credit “talk” should happen sooner rather than later. It has been studied, quoted and written about for years how important communication about finances is to a successful marriage. Many newlyweds hit the proverbial brick wall once all the dust settles after the wedding and honeymoon. Credit education prior to marriage will help prevent unpleasant surprises.

The Credit Crunch

With the recent economy leaning towards tighter credit, more emphasis will be placed on credit scores and your credit image. Understanding credit is more important than ever. Your credit image is a snapshot (like a photograph) of your credit worthiness at a fixed moment in time. A credit image is how you look to others who are making decisions about you. This image determines what interest rates you are offered, and affects many other decisions made by lenders, landlords, employers and insurance brokers.

Whether this is your first marriage or not, you probably have some sort of credit profile with all three credit reporting agencies. And knowing how to build a strong credit profile, score and image will give you a financial edge in your future together as husband and wife. If you set aside some time to openly discuss this issue as a couple, it will save you many future misunderstandings. You can also begin working as “We” by deciding how to share the tasks involved in building an enhanced credit image.

Find Out Where You Stand

First and foremost, go to www.annualcreditreports.com and retrieve your free credit reports from each of the three major credit reporting agencies. There is no cost to pull your reports from this site once a year. Once you have all three reports (total of six for a couple), comb all the information on these profiles to make sure the information reported is true and correct. 70% of all reports have some inaccuracy in them. If there are any inconsistencies or inaccurate information being reported, this is the time to dispute it.

You may also want to purchase your credit score. Currently, the FICO score is the most widely used score; however, it makes the most sense to do your research first to know where you both stand and whether corrections need to be made in your credit reports.

Good Score/Bad Score

Maybe one of the “I’s” in this relationship has had some bumps in the road regarding their credit profile and the other “I” may have better credit standing. One suggestion is that you add your spouse (once married) to one of your credit cards as an authorized or joint user. If you do this, make sure the credit card company reports this credit history to each of your social security numbers. Over time, the spouse with non-existent or poor credit can establish or re-establish a good standing credit profile. Since the most recent 18-24 months of history weighs heavily on credit risk considerations, it won’t take long to begin to see improvements in the lower score.

There’s Strength in Numbers

Prior to marriage, you probably have operated as “I’s” in your credit lines, payment history, and credit scores. If you have good standing credit lines, continue to maintain them separately. Over time, you will most likely make a major purchase like a home or automobile that may require you to go into a contract jointly. At this point, each of your credit scores will affect your joint credit and two high scores are definitely better than one.

A Final Thought

Another topic to consider is name change. If you are deciding to change your name, remember to start with the Social Security Office and then the DMV. Next, you may consider reporting your name change to your creditors. This will not obligate your spouse for any contracts you entered into previous to the marriage, as long as neither one of you entered into the contract as “We” before marriage.

There are many changes when two “I’s” become “We.” Start now to practice working together so that these changes work for, rather than against, your marriage and long-term future.

© Jacqueline Soares updated August 2009

Superior Credit Restoration (SCR) is a credit educator.
For more information regarding your Credit Image go to
target="_blank">SCRnow.com today.