FAQs
Question
When is the RSVP deadline?
Answer
We ask that you please RSVP by April 5th.
Question
What time should I arrive at the ceremony?
Answer
Please plan to be at the church by 3:40pm. The ceremony will promptly begin at 4pm
Question
What should I wear?
Answer
Guests should dress modestly for the church ceremony, covering shoulders and knees, with men in suits or dress pants and collared shirts, and women in dresses or nice skirts.
Question
Are children welcome to the wedding?
Answer
Yes, children are welcome to both the ceremony and reception. Please include them in your RSVP if they plan on attending.
Question
How long will the ceremony be?
Answer
The ceremony will be a little over an hour long.
Question
There's no pews at the church. What if I'm not able to stand for the ceremony?
Answer
There is a bench all along the outside edge of the church nave, and chairs will be provided to those that need them for the ceremony.
Question
Should I carpool?
Answer
Yes, please plan on carpooling if possible due to limited parking in the church lot. Consider arriving early to ensure yourself a parking spot.
Question
Will both the ceremony and reception be at the church?
Answer
Yes. The reception will take place in the lawn next to the church.
Question
What if I have food allergies or dietary restrictions?
Answer
We will have gluten-free options at the reception. If you have food allergies or meat/dairy dietary restrictions, we recommend either bringing something with you or eating beforehand/afterward.
Question
Will incense be used at the church?
Answer
Yes, incense will be used in the church itself. If you have a sensitivity to it, we will have a few outside doors open right next to the church service. We recommend standing next to or just outside those nearby doors, and please bring any allergy medication you may think you'll need.
Question
Will alcohol be allowed?
Answer
No, we will not serve or permit alcohol at the reception.
Question
I've never been to an Orthodox Christian wedding. What can I expect?
Answer
Orthodox wedding ceremonies follow this outline: 1. The Rite of Betrothal, in which rings are exchanged as a sign of commitment and devotion to one another. 2. The “Crowning,” in which crowns or wreaths are placed on or held above the heads of the bride and groom. This signifies that in marriage there is a certain amount of sacrifice, especially in the area of “give and take.” 3. The sharing of a common cup of wine, which signifies that in marriage all things are shared equally. 4. The procession around the sacramental table, during which the priest leads the couple three times as they take their first steps together as husband and wife. 5. The removal of the crowns and the final blessing, in which all gathered wish the couple many years of blessings.