Choosing Your Ceremony Location

We've photographed weddings at churches, synagogues, bed and breakfasts, wineries, private homes, on a mountainside... as long as it's where you want to get married, it's a great choice.  No matter what type of location you choose for your wedding, there are some basic questions you should ask.

If you and your fiancee practice the same religion and are members where you wish to get married, you won't have to worry about whether your officiant will travel.  If you're planning to get married off-site, make sure your officiant is available and willing.  

Different religious have different rules and restrictions on services, so talk to the officiant about any pre-marriage requirements as well as any ceremonial requirements.  Ask plenty of questions to make sure you and the officiant are on the same page about your intentions for the service.

No matter what the location, here are some basic issues you should resolve:

• Items available:  instruments, aisle runners, flower stands, etc.
• Restrictions on decorations, music, photographic lighting equipment, etc.
• How early you'll be allowed access to the venue.  (Some venues only allow the wedding party to arrive about 1 hour ahead of time; if you plan to dress at the venue, that may not be enough time.)
• Whether any other services are scheduled for the same day, and if so, will a conflict be created.
• Can family and friends take part in the service as readers, musical talent, etc.
• Cost.  Churches tend to be the least expensive venues, but expect to donate at least $200 to $300 to the church to cover janitorial services, use of the facility, etc.  Obviously if you rent a winery or a banquet hall you'll pay significantly more.
• Available parking.
• When you'll be expected to vacate the venue.  If your reception is held elsewhere, members of your wedding party may be allowed to return the next day to remove any items; some venues will expect the premises to be vacated within an hour or so after your service.  You'll want to know the time limit and plan accordingly.

Keep in mind that the best wedding venues tend to be booked well in advance.  Some venues, like the Joshua Wilton House in Harrisonburg, VA, or Natural Bridge in Lexington, VA, tebd to be booked for the "prime" wedding months at least eight months ahead.  Even some churches can be booked over a year in advance; a historic church in Verona, VA pencils in reservations for non-members, but those reservations can be "bumped" up to six months before the wedding if a member wishes to use the church. 

As with any  good edding provider, the best venues are in great demand and tend to be booked well ahead of time, so start your search early in the process.