Choosing The Wedding Ceremony Location
The most important part of your wedding day is your ceremony. This is where you will take your vows and become husband and wife.
Selecting the wedding ceremony location is an important thing and your choice will depend on a large number of factors. When you are planning your wedding ceremony there are a few things you should keep in mind.
* Do I want a religious ceremony or a civil ceremony? Deciding on the type of ceremony you would like is the first step, look at your family history, both yours and your fiancé’s beliefs and how you picture your wedding ceremony.
Religious Wedding Ceremony
Religious Wedding Ceremony
If you and your fiancé have chosen to have a religious ceremony then your next step is to decide what religion or faith the ceremony is performed in. Once you have decided on the faith, you will need to research the wedding ceremony locations in the area you have chosen.
When you are choosing a location to be sure to keep it as close to your reception as possible. It is best to have the ceremony no more than 30 minutes from the reception location. If guests are unfamiliar with the locality they may find it hard to navigate if they have to drive a long distance.
Once you have decided on a location, book on your date as soon as possible. Churches book out quickly and they often hold more than one wedding per day. If you are the first to book your wedding you will have a choice at the time the wedding ceremony will be held. When you call the church it is important to find out all the information:
* What is the fee for using the church and the minister?
* Are there any restrictions for photographers or videographers?
* What are the rules for confetti, rice, rose petals or bubbles?
* Are you required to meet with the minister before the date?
* Are you required to have pre-marital counseling or religious counseling prior to the date?
* What are the rules for decoration?
* What are the rules and requirements for music?
Also, ask them for a copy of their general order of service for weddings. This will come in handy when you need to plan your ceremony and make your order of service booklets.
Civil Wedding Ceremony
Civil Wedding Ceremony
If you and your fiancé have chosen a civil ceremony you have many choices and options when it comes to your location! Here are a few possible locations:
* Civil ceremony in a non-denominational church
* Garden ceremony – check to see if you need a permit
* Beach ceremony – check to see if you need a permit
* Ceremony in the snowfields – check to see if you need a permit
* Ceremony at your reception venue* Ceremony on a boat
There are so many options and these are only limited by your imagination.
When you are choosing a civil ceremony location you need to make sure if it is an outdoor location, that you do have wet weather back up plans. The weather can never be trusted and it is always good to have a backup!
The ceremony should be located no further than 30 minutes from your reception venue location. Guests may not be familiar with the area and may feel uncomfortable having to travel long distances.
When you have decided on your location you will need to gather as much information as possible:
* Do I require a permit?
* Is there a time limit on ceremonies?
* What are the rules for decorating?
* What are the rules for confetti, rice, rose petals and bubbles?
* Are there any wet weather alternatives?
* What is the fee for using the venue?
Once you have decided on a venue you will need to book as soon as possible to ensure you secure your chosen date. It is also important you apply for any permits that are necessary and that you have a backup plan for bad weather.