Wedding Ceremonies: Location, Location, Location

When it comes to weddings, the most nerve-wracking part for most brides is the ceremony. Firstly, there's walking down the aisle in that beautiful dress in front of all those people. Then there's saying vows and hoping you don't "mess up" your part in the ceremony. I haven't known many brides who were this nervous about the reception. I mean, there is more to focus on then just the bride and groom and there's also the cocktails and the food help to put everyone at ease. So, what can make it easier for the ceremony? Knowing just a few tips and tricks from the very beginning of the wedding planning process can ease a lot of nerves and frustration.

The most important factor to consider when you start planning the wedding is the location. This is a relatively easy step if you are a religious person and already have a place of worship. All that is left to do is to book the date. But even religious ceremonies can be held anywhere you would like them to be - country clubs, parks, and hotels are just a few very good choices for a ceremony. The first thing to consider when choosing a location is your guest list. How many people will be attending will determine how much space you need, and how large you need your place of choice to be. Next to consider is the style of ceremony you would like. You probably already know this - whether you want it to be indoor or outdoor, formal or informal - these choices will also help you narrow down the location that you will need. The last thing then to consider is your budget. Different places are going to have different costs and this will help you further dwindle down the possibilities.

As stated earlier, weddings are often held in hotels. This can make things a little easier due to the fact that hotels will already have most, if not everything, that you will need. A caterer, cake designer, servers, bartenders, ceremony and reception site are all on hand. You also won't need to concern yourself with set up, clean up, bringing in chairs, linens, glassware or silverware. Hotels often offer several sites for the ceremony and reception, depending on where you would like to have it in, or around, the hotel. There is also the added advantage that you and the guests won't be very far from a room to stay the night. The negative aspect to hotels is that they may have firmer restrictions than other locations. They may limit vendors, or charge a fee for outside services that are used.

Another growing popular trend in locations for wedding ceremonies is a private residence. This can make for a delightful and charming spot to exchange vows. This does require much more work and time involved however so be aware of what you are getting into before you choose to go this route. The typical residence is not equipped to handle a large, formal event like a wedding. Tables, chairs, silverware, glassware, and linens will all need to be rented to make this feasible. A tent may also need to be rented if any part of the event will be held outside. Lighting also needs to be taken into consideration. Again if any part of the event is to take place outside, special consideration needs to be given and professionals should probably be brought in. Parking is a huge issue for weddings that are taking place in a home. If there is a large lot close by, it may be wise to see if you can rent it out for the day for vendors and guests. This will keep the neighbours happy as they won't be shocked to find cars lining their street. Another thing that can make or break the happy event with the neighbours is sound. No matter what sort of music you plan to use, be sure to check what the noise restrictions in your neighbourhood are and consider sending notes attached to a bottle of wine to the neighbours explaining what will be happening. People providing the sound and lighting will all need appropriate power sources for their equipment to work. Check into renting a generator and ensure that any wiring is out of the way so guests are not tripping over them. And lastly, nothing is more important than making sure you have all the permits you need for the occasion. You may have to get some inspections and electrical specifications well before the day of so make sure all of this in order. It's also a good idea to have important phone numbers on hand.

These are just a few ideas of great locations to hold a wedding ceremony. The sky really is the limit and it all comes down to what will make the couple the happiest. Every location is going to have it's advantages and disadvantages and it's a matter of personal preference as well as what is most feasible. The ceremony is nerve-racking however, everyone needs to keep in mind that this is a joyous occasion and will be no matter where it takes place.