Possible Restrictions at Church or Ceremony Location

Photographic Restrictions (includes Video Taping):

• There may be areas around the alter where photographers are not permitted to go.
• There may be times during the ceremony when photography is not permitted.
• Flash photography may not be permitted.
• Movement of a photographer may be considered distracting to the ceremony and may be limited.

Flower Restrictions:
• Check for regulations concerning placement of flowers within the church.
• Find out how quickly flowers must be removed following the ceremony.
• You may have to work your colors and decorations in with the seasonal decor and color scheme for the church.
• Scattering of rose petals or other flowers may be prohibited. (They could cause someone to slip and fall and are hard to clean).
  

Music restrictions:
• Find out if there are any restrictions on songs or the type of music which may be used during the ceremony.
• Many times, only music which is considered liturgically correct may be used during a wedding ceremony. If this is the case, find if some of your favorite secular pieces may be performed prior to the ceremony while guests are gathering.
• In some churches, tape recorded music is not permitted as part of any service. Live musicians and vocalists must be used.
• Sometimes, the congregation is considered an integral part of the ceremony, not simply observers. Sometimes they must be included in the singing. This could possibly eliminate a solo performance of something such as the "Our Father".
  

Restrictions on Throwing Rice, Birdseed, Etc.:
• Many locations do not permit throwing rice, birdseed or confetti due to special clean-up required and the liability of people slipping.
• Birdseed is made of weed seeds which wreak havoc with landscaping
• If these traditional items are prohibited, options are to have guests blow bubbles or ring bells as the bride and groom leave.

Restrictions on Wax Candles:
• There may be restricted on the use of wax candles. Dripping wax is a cleaning concern. It can damage carpets and alter cloths.
• Often, wax candles are replaced with fuel canisters that fit into candle-shaped covers.
• If this restriction applies, see if it affects the use of a unity candle.
• If you want a candlelight ceremony, find out how to handle that.
• Also ask about fire regulations.

Restrictions on Attire Restrictions:
• Find out if there are any restrictions on dress. In some churches, the bride may not wear a dress which is sleeveless, low-cut or backless. There is a current trend toward sexier wedding attire, so ask before choosing bridal and attendant attire.
• In a synagogue, men may be required to wear yarmulkes. In churches, top hats or cowboy hats may be prohibited.
• In some religions, women may be required to cover their heads.

Restrictions on Days and Times for Weddings:
• Most churches have days of the week, special holy days or even seasons during which weddings are not performed. Check your date against these days before you set it in firmly.
• Most Christian churches will not perform weddings on Sundays.
• Synagogues don't schedule weddings on the Sabbath.
• Season of Lent and Passover are out for a wedding celebration.
• Other holy days as well as days after busy holidays are sometimes excluded.
• Times may also be limited.
• Most churches are busy and reserve certain days and times for weddings.