How to Embrace Adventure on your Catholic Wedding Day

wedding planning

ARE YOU CATHOLIC, ENGAGED, AND OUTDOORSY?
​THIS ONE’S FOR YOU!

Many of us Catholics grow up being taught to find God everywhere, especially in nature. So when the time comes to celebrate one of the most special moments of our lives--our wedding day—doesn’t it just make sense to celebrate outside? But as many of us are told when we mention this idea to a priest, that’s against the rules. Or is it?
 
Covid and the events of 2020 might be changing things in the Catholic sphere, at least in the U.S. In Maryland and Montana, two archdiocese are allowing priests to hold outdoor ceremonies if requested by the couple, and other states could possibly be following suit in the future. If you live in one of the other 48 states, though, don’t fret!

Here are 3 ways to embrace adventure on your wedding day:
 
1. Request a Sunset Session with Your Photographer
What is a sunset session, you ask? Typically it is added to the wedding day timeline in the reception (usually during dinner) and it’s a 30-60 minute break in the evening that’s meant just for you + your person to be together—with your photographer documenting it, of course. It’s so easy to get swept up in the chaos of the day and not take a moment alone to enjoy it as newlyweds, so this option provides the perfect opportunity to stop for a moment, breathe, and take it in.

Note: It’s important to have a place in mind ahead of time where the sunset will be on full view, so you don’t waste any time and are able to make it a memorable experience, rather than a stressful one.


2. Request an Adventure Session on Your Honeymoon
Headed somewhere BEAUTIFUL on your honeymoon? Of course you are! Bring your photographer along with you for a day or two to capture newlywed life on location. These lifestyle photos will be some of your very first together as a married couple, and they’ll be ones you’ll treasure for years to come. Plus, it’s rare to pause and capture genuine moments on a honeymoon since it’s all a blur, so this will work it into your schedule and make it a priority for you!

Note: At this point you’ll be so comfortable and used to having your photographer there as a third wheel anyway, so what’s another day or two? ;)


3. Plan a Destination Wedding
​Have you dreamed of getting married in a distant land, in a cathedral so large you can’t see the ceiling, even getting your marriage blessed by the Pope? I have a feeling the answers to those were: YES, YES, YES. (Or something like that.) These could all be a reality, if you plan early and intentionally. Combining your wedding and your honeymoon together can save you money, and it would create quite the unforgettable experience for anyone you bring along!

Note: Like all destination weddings, Catholic destination weddings can get pretty pricey, and this can limit who you are able to bring to witness the event. It can also limit the time you have alone together as a couple. BUT if you have a reception state-side after the trip (or even get married in the States rather than internationally), that’s a good way to make everyone happy!
 

Sending you blessings + prayers as you plan your big day! Whatever you choose, make it true to YOU as a couple. And have fun with it! :)