Wedding planning

[Veniamin]

Okay, so I am fearfully trying to stay out of Bridezilla's path my fiancee and I are busy planning the wedding.  Is there anything peculiar to an Orthodox wedding that we need to account for during the planning (such as the wedding crowns)?  We're just wondering if there's anything to do or plan for that wouldn't be on a standard list of a thousand tortures to-do list. 

[ytterbiumanalyst]

If anything, there are fewer things to do in an Orthodox wedding than others.

Music? Check.
Order of service? Check.
Location? Check.
Officiant? Check.

But there are a couple of concerns that we found. First of all, you need to find out if your parish has wedding crowns, a common cup, and candles for you to use or if you need to buy your own. Some parishes want you to use theirs, and others (like ours) have them available but are open to your using your own.

Also, you need to be aware of any dress code the parish may have (talking about the ladies here; I expect the men will be wearing a tux). Some parishes are very particular about neckline, strap width, etc. Your fiancée may also have to wear a shawl and/or head covering. Dress code varies widely by parish and may be different from an ordinary liturgy (you will be in the spotlight, after all). It's something to ask your priest.

Also also, be sure to bring the icons (typically Christ, Theotokos, and Wedding at Cana) and rings to be blessed. They should be present at a Liturgy before the wedding. Your priest may keep them or may ask you to keep them at home, especially if they are valuable.

That's about all I can think of now. Hope that helps.

[EofK]

Don't forget to choose sponsors.  You'll want to choose a stable couple within your parish whom you can trust to consult if when you have any questions or problems arise in the marriage. 

[ialmisry]

Okay, so I am fearfully trying to stay out of Bridezilla's path my fiancee and I are busy planning the wedding.  Is there anything peculiar to an Orthodox wedding that we need to account for during the planning (such as the wedding crowns)?  We're just wondering if there's anything to do or plan for that wouldn't be on a standard list of a thousand tortures to-do list. 

My biggest problem was most of the guests were not Orthodox, so I made a booklet up with the service and explanations (a lot of craddle Orthodox complimented us on it).

I assume you have checked that it's not during a fasting period (yes, I've seen it scheduled and had to be cancelled).

Btw does your bossbride to be read your email?

Oh, and another thing.  If you get big enough candles, they can be used to light on your anniversaries during a prayer and at your chidlren's baptisms.

[Veniamin]

My biggest problem was most of the guests were not Orthodox, so I made a booklet up with the service and explanations (a lot of craddle Orthodox complimented us on it).

Yes, we've got one from a wedding we attended during the summer that we're going to adapt.

I assume you have checked that it's not during a fasting period (yes, I've seen it scheduled and had to be cancelled).

Yes, we have (for a non-Orthodox bride, she's very conscious of the Church's requirements).

Btw does your bossbride to be read your email?

Not normally, she doesn't.

[Tags:]

OrthodoxChristianity.net > Moderated Forums > Orthodox Family Forum > Topic: Wedding planning