FAQs
Question
Can I bring a plus-one?
Answer
Due to the nature of our budget and our desire to have a smaller, more personal wedding, we ask that only guests listed on the invitation attend the reception at Penn Bistro. All are welcome to our nuptial mass at St. Cecelia's Catholic Church.
Question
When is the Deadline for RSVPing?
Answer
March 21, 2026
Question
What is a Cookie Table?
Answer
For those guests who are not from the area, the tradition of a cookie table might seem strange. The wedding cookie table is a time honored tradition that has become a wedding staple in western Pennsylvania, Ohio, and West Virginia. It is believed to have originated from Catholic immigrants who settled in the Pittsburgh area, too poor to afford a wedding cake. Now, the wedding cookie table has become a tradition of community and family love. Guests are welcome to share their favorite recipes and bring cookies to share. There will be empty bags at the cookie table for guests to bring a variety of cookies home as wedding favors!
Question
Are there any cookies I shouldn't bring?
Answer
Due to a severe allergy of the groom, we ask that cookies please be free of any nuts including possible cross contamination with nuts.
Question
I'm not Catholic. Is there anything I should know about a Catholic Wedding?
Answer
I'm so glad you ask! A Catholic Wedding takes place within the sacrament of the Mass. If you've never been to a Catholic Mass, here's a quick introductory video explaining what it will look like: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4w_SSRtCdUw The union of matrimony will take place between the Liturgy of the Word (reading of the bible) and Liturgy of the Eucharist (Holy Communion). We are excited to share this experience with you! We ask that out of respect for the sacrament that phones are silent and put away, that you do not bring food or drink and that dress is fairly modest. For more information on what to expect at a Catholic Mass, see this video below: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VmOEo0Hasi4
Question
I'm not Catholic, am I able to participate in the Eucharist?
Answer
The receiving of the bread and wine is reserved for practicing Catholics. Here is a video that provides more details about the reason for this better for those who are interested: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8jxwGIXfoOo If you are not Catholic but would still like to participate in the liturgy of the Eucharist still, feel free to follow the usher's instructions to join in line. Have your arms folded over your chest to indicate that you would like a blessing from the Priest.
