Catholic wedding destinations

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When hearing the phrase "destination wedding," visions of barefoot ceremonies on the beach or an exchange of vows in a rose garden probably go through your mind. For brides planning a Catholic wedding, though, these dreams are very rarely fulfilled, if ever. However, having a Catholic ceremony does not preclude the possibility of a destination wedding. By carefully choosing your location and following required procedures, both couple and church can be satisfied with the result.

1. Where

   • The big question when planning any destination wedding is where to have the event. For Catholic couples, one option is to choose from countries where Roman Catholicism is widely accepted or even considered the primary religion. Countries like Mexico, Greece and Italy fit that description and are very desirable destinations for a festive celebration. You could also begin by speaking with your local priest about recommended locations. Keep in mind that the destination does not have to be out of the country. Many brides instead choose somewhere in the states with a tropical atmosphere such as Florida or Hawaii.

   Preparation

   • There are several steps to follow when planning any Catholic ceremony, but it is almost always more involved when the venue is not within your local parish. In addition to completing premarriage classes (Pre-Cana), you must also receive permission from your priest to marry in another church. All of the paperwork must then be sent to the church at your destination of choice where you will be married. It is important to look into your chosen location's time line for receiving paperwork as the requirements for advance notice at various religious venues can vary anywhere from 30 days to six months prior to the desired wedding date.

   Marriage License Laws

   • It is also imperative to check into the country or state marriage laws. Many foreign countries require a civil ceremony at a courthouse in addition to your Catholic ceremony. For example, couples planning to marry in Mexico must choose to either have a judge perform the civil ceremony at home to make things official before their trip or to meet all of the requirements after they arrive. They'll have to agree to and participate in an additional ceremony at a courthouse in Mexico immediately before or after their religious nuptials. Some places will even request a letter from your local priest verifying both parties' unmarried status before holding a Catholic ceremony in one of their churches.

   Reception

   • Just because you may not be able to have a wedding on the beach or at a romantic villa does not mean that your reception cannot be held in one of these locations. Consider choosing a resort or other venue near your chosen destination church for the celebration after the ceremony. Since there are no church guidelines on wedding receptions, it is a great way to make the most of your outdoor surroundings. Your ceremony might not have been on the beach with the sunset in the background but the party afterwards can be. The important thing is to celebrate your official Catholic union in a way that best represents you and your new spouse.

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Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: Catholic ceremony, Catholic wedding, destination wedding, your local, Catholic wedding destinations, ceremony courthouse, civil ceremony