Use this opener at the beginning of a study where you plan on discussing marriage (for example, Ephesians 5).

Note: this will really only work if there are at least a couple of married couples in the group.

Prepare: Ask all of the married couples to bring their wedding photo albums with them that night. Create a wedding theme with your refreshments (white icing cake, punch in little plastic cups, etc.).

Action: The wedding stories will come around all on their own. As the leader, your job during this time is to sit back and let the stories flow. Maybe prime the pump with one of your own stories (I had a groomsman pass out in my wedding. Great story!)

When it is time to transition into the bible study discussion time, thank everyone who brought their albums. Then have someone read the passage, which in our example is Ephesians 5: 22 – 33. Now ask a question relating to the passage that is something like this:

- Wedding days are always looked back on with smiles and laughter. Reality however, is that marriage specifically, and relationships in general, are not always full of joyous, well photographed experiences. Where have you seen God challenge you, or maybe couples you have observed (parents, grandparents, etc), in the way you daily love your spouse as described in this passage?

Two awesome resources for finding great Ice Breaker ideas: Leading Life Changing Small Groups by Bill Donahue & 101 Best Small Group Ideas by Discipleship Journal.