Churches are the traditional option for wedding venues for good reasons: They’re generally spacious with great seating, act as cultural and religious hubs for many, and often have deep roots in local history, all of which contribute to the wedding atmosphere.
There are a few tips and tricks to choosing the perfect church wedding venue, as not all churches will be the best fit for your wedding. If there’s no sentimental or cultural significance to a particular church, or if the location isn’t easily accessible for your guests, you may need to keep looking. Likewise, if the size is too big or too small for your guest count, you’ll need to think twice.
Our team at Navarra Venues have outlined the most essential items to consider when deciding on a church wedding venue.
Sentimental Value
The number of church-based weddings in Australia may be falling, but that doesn’t mean churches aren’t still one of the best wedding venue options for a bride and groom. In 2015, 27% of weddings were conducted by a religious minister in Australia compared to 35% in 2008. That’s still over one-quarter of all Australian marriages.
The sentimental value is the best reason for choosing a particular church wedding venue. Perhaps a certain church is where your parents or partner’s parents were married or where you attended service for many years. If you’re a member of a church, it will feel like the heart of your community. Choosing a church you’re familiar with for your wedding can also be beautifully meaningful, as it ties your new relationship to your past, family, and beliefs.
Location
The location of a church wedding venue is essential. If you have a particular church in mind, consider whether it’s easy for your guests to get there, how close it is to hotels for those travelling from afar, how much parking is available, and the building’s accessibility.
Most churches are located in central locations throughout Sydney, but consider potential traffic congestion and proximity to your reception venue.
Ambience
As places of worship, church wedding venues can provide a spiritual ambience connected to ritual and belief. However, not all churches are built the same, nor do they all have the same effect. Because you can’t completely redecorate the interior, the building’s architecture will play a central role in the vibe of your wedding. Before deciding, take a close look at the design and general feeling of each option.
Number of Guests
Your church wedding venue must comfortably accommodate everyone on your guest list. A cramped environment will make people uncomfortable with tight or limited seating, whilst a large cathedral that can accommodate hundreds may feel empty and out of place for just a small group.
Try to have a rough idea of your guest list when choosing your church wedding venue. This way, you can see if a church is the right size for your guests.
Budget
It’s no surprise that your wedding budget will dictate the size and formality of your wedding and the quality of the venue. If you decide on your own church or your partner’s, a specific fee might not be charged, but you will likely be expected to make a donation. Other churches may charge a fee and have other requirements, so be sure to ask questions and compare several churches you like.
A large, beautiful cathedral may cost more than a small chapel, but you might not need to spend as much on flowers or other decorations with so much natural ambience.
Other Considerations
Because church weddings are popular in and around Sydney, consider how much competition there is to secure the venue for your preferred wedding date. Book as far in advance as possible! You’ll have to choose another location if your date is taken and can’t be moved to secure a booking.
The most important thing is that you stay true to yourselves as a couple and follow the vision of your own perfect wedding. If a church wedding is important to you, then putting in some extra time to find a great church venue will be worth it in the long run.
Take the Next Step in a Great Church Wedding Journey
Church wedding venues offer a traditional approach to tying the knot, whilst cultural, communal, and religious centres add to the ceremony. This could be the right option for you if the church occupies a special place in your and your partner’s lives and if it can provide your guests with the best experience possible.
If you’re ready to take the next step, reach out and contact our team at Navarra Venues for expert advice on venue options and start setting your wedding journey in motion. You can also follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram for the latest tips and ideas for your next event.
