Spirituality vs Religous Ceremonies

Spiritual. Religious. Couples come to me with many different beliefs. Everyone has something they believe in. Whether or not they wish to incorporate those beliefs is something considered when couples begin the planning of their wedding celebration with me.

So what's the difference between spiritual and religious?

I came across an article in Psychology Today which really defines spirituality very well:

Spirituality means something different to everyone. For some, it's about participating in organized religion: going to church, synagogue, a mosque, etc. For others, it's more personal: Some people get in touch with their spiritual side through private prayer, yoga, meditation, quiet reflection, or even long walks.

In regards to the term religious, I found this definition from an online dictionary site which I believe defines this word well:

Having or showing a belief in and veneration for God or a divine power, especially as it is reflected in the practice of religion. Religious implies adherence to religion in both belief and practice.

Many times, couples wish to honor their spirituality in their wedding ceremony. This can be achieved in various ways. Often times, it is with a blessing which I will say or will be given by a special person in the couple's lives. Another option is incorporating a mini-ceremony such as the unity candle or a hand fasting ceremony. Other times, a spiritual based poem may be read or a ceremonial tradition such as a Native American sage cleansing ceremony.

When there is a couple that has two different faiths, it is finding a balance to have an interfaith ceremony. This may be a combination of Native American beliefs with Christian beliefs; Christian and Jewish beliefs; or an Eastern faith in combination with Christian beliefs. There are many ways to incorporate two different religious beliefs into one ceremony.

Sometimes couples will ask to incorporate their pastor or other religious figure into the ceremony I am presiding over. Other times, a grandparent, uncle or brother may be asked to present their religious beliefs. I am always willing to incorporate any of these ideas! I always say that a wedding celebration should be as unique as the couple, all the while reflecting what is important to the couple while complimenting who they are, their values and beliefs.

Having Your Reception Dinner Before Your Ceremony

I worked with Jasmine & Nate on their wedding last Friday. This Burlington wedding couple selected "A Country Location" in Smokey Point as their wedding and reception venue. When I first met with them during our planning session, they mentioned a unique idea for their special day -- they were planning on hosting their reception dinner before their ceremony. In all of the ceremonies I've performed (and I'm tipping the scales at 220 couples to date) this was a first!

There were a few different reasons that they shared with me for why they chose this layout. The first was the number of hours that they had their venue for. Being a budget conscious couple they scheduled their event on an off-peak wedding day, which is a great tip. Second, they took into account the time of day and wanting to give everyone the opportunity to eat and be comfortable before the ceremony including themeselves. Their celebration was early in the evening on a Friday. Many people had come from work and it being around most people's dinner time made it a decision that was courteous to their guests. Besides, who wants to hear guests complaining about how hungry they are or that infamous question......"When do we get to eat??!!"

Jasmine and Nate also wore different outfits to their reception dinner. They saved their wedding clothing for the ceremony. Jasmine, wearing a cute black with red polka dots dress, and Nate, who was casual in his dress shirt, slacks and a tie, had a chance to mingle with friends and family and still stunn their guests with their transformation into the wedding dress and tuxedo after dinner.

Many couples don't have the chance to visit with their guests during their reception. Having the chance to do this pre-ceremony is a great way to thank your guests for coming and actually interacting with those who are attending your special day.

Overall, this unique idea is a great one to consider when planning your own celebration. Kudos to Jasmine & Nate!