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Are you totally lost trying to figure out what to do for your Nuptiual Mass? You’re not alone! I converted to Catholicism in 2020 and was married in the Church in December of 2021 (almost a year- woop!). Mass was a foreign concept to me not long ago– but we still pulled off a beautiful ceremony. Today, we’re going over the basics of planning a Catholic Nuptial mass.
Some General Wedding Planning Advice:
First things first, establishing a budget is crucial in the wedding planning process. Most any planner will tell you so. On a budget? Do not be afraid to ask your friends and family their services (got a florist in the fam?) in lieu of a traditional gift. Or, consider scanning Facebook Marketplace and local Facebook Wedding groups for budget family decor and services. Amazon often offers decent decor at a reasonable price.
A great photographer should also be on your radar in the beginning if you choose to have one. I specifically wanted a photographer who has experience with Catholic weddings. I have heard stories of couples not getting the shots they wanted due to ignorance (not totally the photographers fault). If you choose to use someone who is unfamiliar with the structure of mass, I HIGHLY recommend you talk with them beforehand about the moments to capture as well as general respect in the church. If you are in the WNC area, my photographer was wonderful and is based out of Charlotte. Check out Sophia Sullivan Photo!
Consider also the importance of a day-of-coordinator. Whether this be a hired professional or a family member, they are an important figure to keep the day rolling. I went with Bonnie May Weddings, based near Charlotte, NC for my planning needs. Bonnie specifically does Catholic weddings, and was an absolute delight to work with. Keep in mind planners do get booked very quickly, and is unfortunately one of the last things brides think about.
Now, onto the Catholic stuff!
One of the first things to put on your radar is Pre-Cana. Pre-Cana is a marriage preparation process for couples preparing for the Sacrament of Marriage in the Catholic Church. This is not optional, and often involves meeting with a priest and even a retreat. Usually covered is the paperwork (gathering documents like baptism certificates), compatibility, relationship conversations, Natural Family Planning (NFP), and more. The actual content of the Pre-Cana stage can be intensive, or just a few meetings depending on your Diocese and parish.
Next, getting the marriage on the books at a Catholic Church of your choice. This can be a difficult decision, as many of the larger and more aesthetically pleasing churches are often booked. Especially with the state of the world in recent years, with many couples pushing back dates and catching up as restrictions lessen. Keep in mind if you are not a member of that specific parish there may be a rental fee. You may also have to arrange the mass with another priest if it is not your home parish. We were blessed to have 4 priests in attendance, including my brother-in-law.
More people you may want to consider booking or arranging:
- Altar servers (connect with the celebrant or parish office).
- Organist and Schola or Soloist
- Go-to coordinator at the parish of the mass
- Someone to decorate/ tear down any decoration on pews etc.
- Someone to announce after bride & groom have left the location of the reception
Speaking of which– typically Catholic weddings will have a reception to follow (totally optional) and it will likely be at a different location, unless the parish hall or another location on the grounds is suitable. My husband and I had our reception at Black Mountain Home in the Dining Hall, it was close by the parish and quite lovely. When looking for a reception location, keep in mind that most secular wedding venues are priced for a ceremony and reception taking place in the facility. It may not be the most budget friendly.
What else would you like to learn about the wedding planning process from a Catholic perspective? Let me know!
Pax Christi,
Caroline
