plan a baptist wedding
It's interesting:"You'd think I'd know better than to be out drinking in the early hours of the morning the night before a big wedding - but Paul's a mate and he needed some ..."
Planning a Baptist wedding doesn't have to be overwhelming. As long as you book vendors and venues in advance, and are careful to follow church guidelines, stress will be kept to a minimum. Most Baptist churches host weddings and have on-site fellowship halls that can be used for receptions. Just stay abreast of any reception or ceremony restrictions, like dress codes, to avoid problems. Also fulfill any premarital counseling requirements and stay on top of your standard bridal duties, like sending out invitations.
Things You'll Need
- Church or venue
- Fellowship Hall or other reception space
- Invitations
- Caterer
- Photographer
Instructions
1
Book your local Baptist church as soon as possible. Popular churches can be booked months in advance. If you don't have a Baptist church in your area, consider a home wedding or check if neighboring churches allow non-congregants to marry there.
Be aware that Baptist churches may refuse to marry you if you and your fiance are not baptized or if they disagree with your lifestyle. For example, the First Baptist Church of Chalkville will not consider marrying couples who already live together unless they're willing to undertake additional counseling. Clearly discuss wedding restrictions and rental fees before booking.
2
Schedule and attend any premarital counseling sessions mandated by your church. For example, Sunnyvale First Baptist requires that couples attend at least one private counseling session on top of regular premartial classes. If the church you are marrying in is far away, see if you can hold your counseling sessions over the phone. Use this time to discuss your spiritual and life plans with your fiance, as well address any of your pastor's concerns.
3
Ask if your church has any restrictions on wedding and bridesmaid dresses before purchasing your gowns. Conservative Baptist churches may require that you and you bridesmaid's shoulders be covered during the ceremony. Major designers usually have a selection of modest wedding and bridesmaid gowns, or can add items like sleeves for an extra tailoring fee. Online retailers specifically devoted to modest gowns are another option. For a truly personalized look, take a formal dress pattern to a seamstress and have dresses made.
4
Book caterers with wide nonalcoholic selections. If you're having your reception at the conservative church's fellowship hall, alcohol will not be allowed as current theology advises against consumption. Some caterer's have extensive nonalcoholic menus, including "mocktail" bars where nonalcoholic "cocktails" are made out of fruit juice and soda. Book your caterer at least six months before your wedding.
5
Order wedding invitations six months before your wedding. Mail them out at least a month before the big day. Consider adding Christian imagery, like doves, to your invitations.
6
Check to see if dancing is allowed at your church's reception space. Dancing will likely not be allowed at conservative Baptist churches, although a father/daughter, mother/son and bride/groom dance may be permitted. Consider having music even if dancing is now allowed, as it lends a festive air. Select songs that do not have explicit lyrics. If you're unsure about a song's appropriateness, check with the church. Book musicians or DJs at least six months in advance.
7
Book a photographer six months or more before the wedding. Relay to him any restrictions on ceremony photographs or photographs taken inside the church. If professional photography is out of your budget, consider having a family friend take pictures.
8
Designate a member of the wedding party to be your church and vendor liaison the day of the wedding. That way they can handle any problems that might arise without getting you involved -- and stressed out -- on your big day.
Tips &- Warnings
If you or any of your family members are congregants at the church where you want to marry, rental fees will likely be reduced.
Some churches have wedding coordinators that can help you arrange your nuptials.
Churches may have lists of preferred vendors for you to use.
Keeping track of multiple wedding vendors and payments can quickly become confusing. Keep an organized wedding planner to help you stay on top of things.
Let your church know about any special requirements before you book your wedding date. If it turns out your needs cannot be accommodated and you need to change venues, you could lose your deposit.
Tags: your church, Baptist churches, your wedding, Baptist church, baptist weddingSource: www.ehow.com
