The Wedding Ceremony

Is anything more important than the wedding ceremony and reception? Probably not! After all is said and done, this is the heart of the wedding. Your wedding ceremony and reception is going to be captured on film, and reflected not only in your wedding albums, but in the memories of your guests for years to come. We hope the following advice will make the memories of your wedding ceremony cherished and dear to all.

Booking the Ceremony It is recommended to choose your reception site before you book your actual wedding ceremony site, providing they are in two different locations. The main reason for this is that reception sites can be difficult to find, they book up fast and in all reality you will be at the reception longer than the ceremony itself. You will want to choose something to fit you wedding party and guest size. Below are a few questions that you will want to ask the ceremony site:


Questions Regarding the Ceremony Facility

Are there particular traditions/rules that must be followed, be it religious or otherwise?

May the ceremony be changed in anyway to make it more personal to the bride and groom (possibly adding a personal story about each growing up, special readings of Bible scriptures or poems from special guests, creating your own vows, etc.)?

How much time before and after the ceremony do you have? What time may you arrive and what time must you leave? Is there another ceremony before or after yours?

Is there a bride's waiting room available and is there a charge for this?

What is the length of the aisle (if you are planning to use an aisle runner)?

Is seating provided, if so how many set rows of seating are there (so that you can plan for end row decorations)? If not, what type of chairs may be rented and ask for referrals as to where you may rent them.

Are candelabras, candles and a unity stand provided? If not, ask for referrals on where you may rent such items.

If you plan on using candles within the facility, be sure to clarify what type may or may not be used (i.e. Hurricane lamp candles are usually more acceptable then open flame candles).

What restrictions are there in regards to hanging decorations, may small temporary nails or scotch tape be used on walls?

Is music provided (what type) or must I provide my own? Is there a sound system provided, if so what type? Is there noise or type of music restrictions? Ask for referrals if they allow outside music vendors.

What are the regulations as to what is traditionally "thrown" as the bride and groom leave the facility (i.e. Birdseed, bubbles, dove release, rose petals, etc.)?


Vendors

What time will the facility be available for your vendors to decorate? If you are decorating yourself, you may want to ask if you can do this the night before the wedding and make it part of your rehearsal festivities.

Are there any restrictions to photography, audio taping or videography within the facility?

Is there specific parking for the limo and is there a facility phone number the driver may call in case he cannot find the facility?

May alternative transportation be used such as a horse and carriage?

Are there any restrictions as to where the florist may place flowers?


Questions for the Officiator

What attire will the officiator be wearing?

What are the monetary obligations to the officiator? Are you expected to pay for services or is it on a donation basis?

What traditions can the officiator provide in the ceremony?

Is before marriage counseling required before a particular officiator will marry you?

Will the officiator mail your marriage certificate for you, or are you required to personally do this?


Be sure that as you ask these questions you make notes for future reference. Note whom you spoke to and the date you spoke to them. Approximately two weeks before your wedding day, confirm the above details with the facility site coordinator.

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