I realize this thread was started a long time ago, but wanted to respond anyway--maybe it will be helpful to other new chairs.  Don't forget about training opportunities.  I am the training workgroup chair for our region's regional council and we have put on one--and are in the process of putting together a second Relay University for our region.  One of the breakout sessions is specific for Ceremonies chairs and has lots of good information (I was actually a presenter for this breakout, so I'll share a few suggestions from the guides we were given).  The info focused mostly on making sure the ceremonies are meaningful and fresh.  Don't be afraid to try or do new things, based on changes in your event.  Just because something has always been done one way, doesn't mean it can't be changed.  Using songs to make the cermonies meaningful is an excellent way to engage people emotionally.  Also, keep them short--30 minutes is the recommended max--you don't want people to lose interest or to lessen the impact of the ceremony.  The trainings are very valuable, not just for the information you get from the breakout sessions, but for the networking opportunity they present.  You'll walk away from one of them with lots of great ideas from other Relayers.  You'll also be pumped up and ready to pass the excitement on to your committee!

 I also wanted to add a song suggestion--I don't have the artist right off hand, but it's a song called "Shine Your Light" and it's on the soundtrack for Ladder 49.  I love it for the luminaria ceremony--i love it's reference to light during the ceremony.

 Good luck with your event!