Branches of Love

At the alter table sit a centerpiece of bare tree branches artistically placed into a tall vase.  Scattered around the vase the couple has placed words of love that they have scripted together on vintage book tags or post cards. 

I envision the couple creating The Branches of Love during or directly following their spoken vows.  The officiate will speak of devotion and what is need to grow “branches of love” in your marriage.  As the sentiments are spoken out loud the couple will create their tree. It may be said that Understanding is needed to create branches of love, at which time the groom or bride (taking turns) will pick up the tag Understanding and tie it to a branch.  Trust is needed to create branches of love, Respect is needed to create branches of love, Forgiveness is needed to create branches of love and so and so until all the words of love hang upon the branches.