There are many wedding venues to choose from, and the decision is up to the bride and groom-to-be. How long is a wedding ceremony in a church? If faith is central to you and your partner’s life, then having a church wedding ceremony is the best way to tie your union. It is truly magical to walk down the aisle and say both of your vows in a familiar church.
How long is a wedding ceremony in a church? Unlike other venues, a church has a series of elements and factors to consider. Worry not, a wedding, in general, does not last for several hours. At most, a wedding only takes thirty minutes to an hour, depending on the kind of ceremony. Here are some things you need to know about church weddings.
Timing is the key.
Aside from the wedding ceremony, your guests are most probably excited about the sumptuous feast that awaits them after. Having good timing during the ceremony will let the caterers be ready, the music cued at the right moment, and the wedding concluded at the right time. Being punctual will give you an idea of how long is a wedding ceremony for you can pretty much anticipate what will happen next as you look at the crowd.
Some of your guests might have special needs that require the right timing. If they are already hungry and antsy due to the long wait, it can distract them from your magical moment with your spouse.
How Long is a Wedding Ceremony?: The Elements of a Church Wedding
Below is the standard lineup of a Church wedding. This will still vary based on the wedding coordinator.
Guest seating
This is typically an informal announcement for the guests to gather near the altar. It can be a procession as well. Some ceremonies often have the family members and guests of honor walk down the aisle. A musical performance often accompanies this.
Readings
Depending on the church, readings usually take up a certain amount of time. Others tend to skip this part by choosing simpler or even shorter texts. You have to let the officiant know your expectations about this.
Vows
If the couple chooses to conform to the traditional script, vows will only take around five minutes tops. Meanwhile, self-written vows usually take longer. Nervous readers can read the vows faster while others might cry and take longer in reading the same.
Pronouncement
After the loving kiss sealing the marriage, there is a pronouncement and a joyous cheer from the crowd.
Recessional
The recessional takes as much time as the processional. Music is also required at this juncture.
How long is a wedding ceremony in a church? It all depends on the factors surrounding the ceremony. There is no fixed duration since a lot can happen during a wedding.
How Long is a Wedding Ceremony?: The Elements of a Church Wedding
Below is the standard lineup of a Church wedding. This will still vary based on the wedding coordinator.
To Celebrate their Faith
The main reason why people choose to get married in a church is that they want to honor and proclaim their faith. Making your faith a part of your wedding is only natural if you live with it every single day. Choosing to spend your special day in your church is the best way to connect with your faith and spirituality.
Lots of Seating
Big wedding ceremonies are often celebrated in a church. You don’t even have to take anyone off your guest list, since Churches generally have many seats that can accommodate large parties.
Heartfelt Music
Churches help in arranging and choosing the music for the ceremony. The good news is you can request a church band or even a church choir to perform all throughout. If you are a dedicated member of your church, it may feel even more special if you have musician friends who can perform on your big day.
Organized
How long is a wedding ceremony? It actually depends on how organized the lineup is. Getting married in a church is undoubtedly more organized. Aside from the church members helping out, there is also a fixed lineup or program already so that you do not have to make one.
Conclusion
How long is a wedding ceremony? The ideal length of a wedding is tailored under the wishes of two people who love each other and promise to do so forever. There is no fixed duration when it comes to weddings since flexibility is the key to enjoying the event’s entirety. There are unexpected things that will happen. When it does, you can just shake it off and be grateful that you had a perfect day. Find out more about wedding essentials.