Quaker Ceremonies: things to admire

We have incorporated several Quaker traditions in our ceremonies. The Humanist Society, which is our national Celebrant's organization, actually began as the Humanist Society of Friends, a Quaker offshoot, in 1930, so it's quite natural to use these roots.

A moment of silence, when the Groom and Bride simply sit quietly, and so do the guests, reaching their inner selves, is quite lovely. The role of the couple in speaking to each other simply and personally is admirable, and the simple Quaker vow, "I accept you into my heart as my husband/wife" is lovely.

Also, we sometimes incorporate the community signing of the marriage certificate, similar to a Jewish Ketubah. Here's an example:

"For members of the Society of Friends, also known as Quakers, the signing of the wedding certificate at the end of the traditional wedding ceremony denotes that the couple is officially married in the eyes of the community. It is hung afterwards in the couple’s home to serve as a reminder of the vows they made to each other and the people who were there to share in their wedding.
Amanda and David have chosen to have a wedding certificate today in honor of David’s Quaker upbringing.

They will now sign the certificate in confirmation of the vows they have just taken.
[David and Amanda sign the certificate.]

David and Amanda have asked that their parents be the first witnesses to sign their marriage certificate. [Their Parents sign].

They ask that all of you sign the certificate as well following the ceremony, as a lasting record of your presence here tonight and a token of your love and support.