We are having a short, casual, non denominational wedding outdoors. While the vows and ceremony itslef will be non religious, I would like my cousin, who is in my bridal party, to say a prayer during the ceremony. (Our officiant would if we asked, but I would much prefer if it were my cousin). When would be the appropriate time to do this? Or do we need to do it later on at the reception? Our reception will be a little different as we are having guests go ahead and eat while we are taking pictures due to it being a dry venue and no cocktail hour. We decided they may as well eat and not have to stand around and wait while we do pictures. Therefore, it wouldn't be possible for him to do it before everyone eats. I would prefer it be done during the ceremony.
Any suggestions would be helpful. Thank you!
Re: Where to fit in a prayer?
Ask the officiant where it would be most appropriately slipped in.
This!
Agree with mobaz on the prayer, it can be anywhere in the ceremony. Also, I would advise having a "cocktail" hour while you are taking pictures. I think guests would be uncomfortable eating dinner without the bride & groom present. Also, when you get back from pictures, everyone will have finished eating, which will have you & FI pulled in many different directions. It may prevent you from eating dinner yourselves.
You don't have to have alcohol at a cocktail hour. Just offer some non-alcholic drinks and some appetizers.