Some couples can’t imagine not taking the traditional route and saying their “I do’s” in a place of worship that is meaningful to them. While churches, temples, synagogues, and other places of worship are obviously some of the most popular places for a wedding ceremony, there are a few things that need to be kept in mind when hosting in these spots. If you are planning on a place of worship wedding ceremony, these are a few factors you should keep in mind.
You’ll Need Flexibility with Dates for Officiant Availability
When you are doing a ceremony at a place of worship, you’ll most likely have the pastor, minister, reverend, or other religious leader serving as the officiant. In fact, many places require it. This means that you not only need to use the space when it is available, but you’ll also need to make sure the religious leader is available as well. This simply means you might need a bit more wiggle room when booking the space than you would with other venues.
Some Places of Worship Don’t Allow Non-Members to Use the Space
While the first choice of venue is likely the place of worship that you attend, sometimes you have to find other options. Maybe your home church isn’t large enough, or perhaps you aren’t getting married in your hometown, and need to find a synagogue in your wedding city. Whatever your circumstances are, keep in mind that some places of worship don’t allow non-members to use the space, or have certain requirements for non-members. Once you find a venue that you are interested in, get in touch with the staff to see what their policies are.
Your Music Selection Will Likely Be Limited
Couples hosting their wedding ceremony in a place of worship may be limited in the types of music they can use – and sometimes even the musicians. Often these places of worship will have a list of songs you need to choose from, and they may also require that you use the musicians associated with the place of worship. There may be other restrictions, such as no vocal performances. This varies from place to place, so check in with the coordinator to see what your options are.
There May Be Photographer and Videographer Restrictions
Places of worship sometimes have stricter rules around photography and videography than other wedding ceremony venues. There may be restrictions around using flash photography, walking down the aisle, or standing in a certain spot. It is important that you talk to the representative at the space about the photography and videography rules, and see if there are any restrictions they need to be aware of. If so, put these people in contact so that everyone is on the same page and not stepping on any toes on the big day.
Check with the Coordinator About Decor
In more sacred spaces, you’ll likely have some limitations around the type of decor you can use, and where you can put it. A common restriction is that no decor can be used in the altar space. Many have also restricted loose flower petals since they can stain the flooring. Talk to the coordinator about the dos and don’ts around decorating the space, and find ways to work within those limitations.
If you are in the process of planning your wedding, come to the next Georgia Bridal Show near you. You will have the chance to meet with wedding professionals from Georgia and the Southeast who can help bring your vision to life!
Georgia wedding vendors, as well as other wedding professionals across the Southeast, can contact us about opportunities for exhibition and online marketing with Georgia Bridal Show.