While your individual church will have its own rules and regulations, in general most churches have these guidelines in place.
Church Ceremony Guidelines
- Some policies are “no brainers” that most people wouldn’t even consider – such as not allowing permanently attached furniture to be moved, and no thumbtacks, nails, or tape can be used to secure any decorations to wooden surfaces (usually pews or walls). Also, it is expected that no trash or personal belongings be left behind in the building.
- Saucers or mats must be placed under all palms, greenery or floral arrangements that rest on the floor/carpeting or are not in waterproof containers.
- All arrangements for music, ceremony and decorations must be submitted in advance and are subject to the approval of the officiant or the wedding coordinator for that particular church.
- The best rule to follow is that decorations should be kept to a minimum so as not to detract from the dignity of the sanctuary.
- The church may require that you use their organist or music director.
- Common policies regarding photography are no flash photos are to be taken during the ceremony. Some churches may also restrict any photos taken during the ceremony.
- Some churches may restrict flower girls from dropping petals, or will allow petals to be dropped only if an aisle runner is used.
- Other churches do not allow the use of an aisle runner.
- While tossing petals or blowing bubbles after the conclusion of a wedding is still popular with many couples, some churches don’t allow this practice, or will restrict it to outside only, or fake petals only.
If you have not received a set of guidelines for your ceremony location, be sure to ask for clarification. That way you won’t have spent time (and possible money) on something that you won’t be able to use, or will have to make sudden last minute changes on your wedding day.
Hearts, Joy, Love!
Jean
If you have questions or are looking for fun ideas, Weddings From The Heart can help. Contact me at jean@weddingsfromtheheart.net or at 937-235-2586.
Hearts, Joy, Love!
Jean
Photo credit: Photo #267 – December Wedding