Wedding Etiquette: Church vs Beach Rules

As brides plan the wedding of their dreams, it is important to be cautious to include policies and guidelines that that are likely to be in place at the chosen ceremony venue.  Our consultants know the preferred "rules" of what can and cannot be done at many of the area's churches and beaches and can help guide the bride's planning process.  The most important rule is to consult the appropriate beach owner or church personnel early in the process to be sure the limitations and preferences are clearly understood.  Planning to cooperate fully and pleasantly with guidelines is the order of the day. 

The Church

Typically, a church will not allow permanently attached furniture to be moved.  No thumbtacks or nails can be driven into woodwork nor can anything be used that may deface it.  Saucers or mats must be placed under all plants or floral arrangements that may rest on the floor.  Floral arrangements or candles that require taping to the pews may not be allowed.


All arrangements for music, the ceremony and planned decorations should be submitted well in advance and are subject to approval of the priest, minister, or rabbi.  Many churches have a wedding coordinator with whom the bride will need to work.  This coordinator will be a good source of information for what's possible and what isn't.


Many churches are requiring that decorations be kept to a minimum so as not to detract from the dignity of the sanctuary.  Many churches ask that photographs not be taken at the ceremony.  If the church is large and a favorite venue for many brides, weddings may be scheduled close together on popular weekend dates.  To facilitate traffic movement, many churches will request that photographs be tightly scheduled and that receiving lines be held at the reception location rather than at the church.

The Beach

As one of the most beautiful backdrops a ceremony can have, here at Elegant Beginnings, we love to see couples get married on the beach. Although restrictions are fairly limited and are usually much less than in a church, it is very important to take note of a few factors before making your decision for the ceremony venue.  

First, it is important to know who owns a particular area of beach.  For instance, if a local hotel or resort sits in front of the beach of your dreams, you will need to learn about their requirements from your coordinator.  If it is in a state park or owned by the state, there can be  policies regulated there as well.  For example, often times parks require payment to enter, and it is important to arrange payment well in advance. Other considerations include parking and accessibility, set up ability, and privacy.  Although the beach creates a priceless picturesque background, brides should be aware of possible vacationers or other small distractions, such as seagulls that come with the outdoor setting.  

Remember that each beach or church  will have its own set of requirements and your wedding will be expected to follow them.  Your coordinator will make sure that you are well aware of these well in advance, so that your wedding can be all that you want and more!


Elegant Beginnings