A ceremony is a unified ritualistic event with a purpose, often incorporating artistic components, performed on special occasions. While religious ceremonies typically involve a supernatural element, both civil and religious traditions share powerful psychological, social, and cultural impacts, contributing to identity and purpose. Many practices, such as best men and exchanging rings, have roots in pre-Christian Roman and Greek times, highlighting shared historical threads.

A pivotal moment for modern secular ceremonies was in 1973, when Australian statesman Lionel Murphy established a program of trained civil celebrants, a model later adopted by New Zealand, Canada, and the UK. These genuine ceremonies, as argued by figures like Dally Messenger III and Joseph Campbell, are vital for psychological stability, fostering individual self-worth, and are central to a civilized, stable, and happy society by transmitting core values. They serve as a roadmap for an ethical life and leave lasting positive memories.