FAQs

Question

When should I arrive to the Wedding Mass?

Answer

The wedding is scheduled to begin at 6:30. Since the Bridal Court will need time to prepare to process in once the wedding begins, everyone will need to already be seated. So, we ask that everyone arrive by 5:45 and expect to be seated no later than 6:00, so that the entrance can be clear for the procession to begin. We appreciate your understanding very much! -Love from the bride and groom

Question

I am not Catholic, can I receive the Eucharist during Communion?

Answer

As Catholics, we believe in the Real Presence of Jesus in the Eucharist, meaning that what appears to be bread and wine is really Jesus’ body and blood—not just a symbol of his body and blood. When Catholics receive Holy Communion, it is an expression of the unity among all those in communion with the Catholic Church throughout the world, who maintain the belief in the Real Eucharistic Presence of Christ. Therefore, only those who believe in the True Presence may participate in this sacrament of oneness with Christ and His Church. For those who are not Catholic, we warmly welcome you to our celebration! While the Catholic Church does not permit those who do not share the Faith to Holy Communion, we ask them to offer their prayers for the peace and the unity of the human family. You may either remain in your seat during the distribution of communion, or simply cross you arms across your body when processing up to the Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion to signify you will not be receiving communion. For our Christians friends who are not Catholic: We welcome our fellow Christians to this celebration of the Eucharist as our brothers and sisters! As Catholics, to those churches with whom we, Catholics, are not yet fully united, cannot normally receive Holy Communion. Eucharistic sharing can occur in special circumstances for other Christians, but this requires permission, referring to portions of canon law (Canon 844 §4). Orthodox , Assyrian Church of the East, and the Polish National Catholic Church members, please refer to your own Churches for how to proceed. According to the Roman Catholic Church, the Code of Canon Law does not object to the reception of Communion by Christians of these Churches (Canon 844 §3).

Question

What should I wear?

Answer

We're so excited for you to celebrate with us! Given the reverence of our Nuptial Mass, we kindly ask you dress formally for the sanctity of the occasion. Any spring colors are happily suggested.

Question

How far is the reception venue from the church?

Answer

It takes approximately 8 minutes to drive from the church to the reception venue. The wedding will be held at Most Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Covington, Louisiana, with the reception to follow at Fleur De Lis Event Center in Mandeville. Addresses can be found below: Most Holy Trinity Catholic Church 501 Holy Trinity Drive, Covington LA 70433 Fleur De Lis Event Center 1645 N Causeway Blvd, Mandeville, LA 70471

Question

I am from out of town, where should I stay?

Answer

Please refer to our other section relating to "Travel," for nearby hotels and lodging recommendations! We are aware that New Orleans is a very popular place to stay and explore, and we certainly encourage our guests to enjoy such an amazing city! However, we want to inform our out-of-town guests that any lodging in New Orleans will take no less than 40 minutes to reach the church and reception venue, which includes a 24 mile bridge over Lake Pontchartrain entirely over water, so please take this into consideration when deciding on your lodging, especially since the reception will end late at night!

Question

Am I allowed to bring a plus one?

Answer

Most of the invitations that we sent have already included plus ones. However, if you need to add on someone that's not included in the invitation, please let us know ahead of time so we can accommodate you.

Question

Is there a registry or "Honeymoon" fund?

Answer

Yes! On the homepage, you can find the "Registry" tab. Your presence is already the greatest gift we could receive! But should you wish to give anything or assist us in our honeymoon fund, we wanted to thank you so very much! As a newlywed couple, we would greatly appreciate any generous gift to help our honeymoon be more special!

Question

Where should I sit for the wedding?

Answer

At the very front of the church, there will be a few pews reserved for the wedding party. However, you are free to sit anyone else! We will be one big family, and we are so blessed you can be a part of our celebration.

Question

Will there be parking at the church and reception venue?

Answer

Yes! Parking will be available to guests at both locations. However, if you intend to consume alcohol at the reception, we strongly ask you travel with a designated driver or utilize a ridesharing app! Please be safe and act accordingly! If you are in need of transportation, please let us know, and we will be happy to help you!

Question

Will there be any transportation from the Church to the reception?

Answer

Most of our guests will either be local or will be renting a car, so there wouldn't be enough guests to fill a shuttle service. However should you need a ride, we would be happy to facilitate an arrangement for you with one of our guests. Please let us know ahead of time if you need transportation and we would gladly help you! Our contact information can be found below: 701-640-7578 / jwgiewat@gmail.com