CAtholic Wedding Ceremony Traditions

What to expect at a Catholic Ceremony

Traditional Catholic Ceremonies
Held in a Catholic Church usually at the brides, grooms, or parents Church. They are structured and formal with the main focus on ancient beliefs. The ceremony usually last around an hour starting with the lectors, altar servers, the priest and then the groom, followed by the bride. You might also see other customs like the mother's lighting the unity candle, some choose to have a mass.

Modern Catholic Wedding
The couple might get permission from the priest to have the ceremony held outside the church. The modern Catholic ceremony will often times allow the bride and groom to add personal touches like writing their own vows, or choose readings or poems that are meaningful to them. Don't be surprised if there is no mass.

Common wedding traditions that came from Catholic beliefs
Bridesmaids wearing similar gowns or dresses was believed to confuse evil spirits and ward them off of the bride.

The tradition of throwing rice at the couple was thought to bring prosperity. Although it is no longer a common practice, you will still find flower petals or bubbles showering the newlywed couple.

To bring the bride good luck on her wedding day she will wear something old, something new, something blue, and a pence coin in her shoe.

Catholic Reception
A reception following the ceremony is common. Expect lots of family and friends to be in attendance. Be prepared for good food, drinks, cake and lots of dancing.