Catholic weddings are a common tradition in New Orleans. With over 100 Catholic Church parishes in New Orleans alone, several of which are grand cathedrals, it’s little wonder that so many Catholic ceremonies are celebrated here. 

If you’ve chosen to celebrate your wedding with a Catholic Mass, then there are some unique details to consider, particularly for your wedding stationery. In this blog, we’ll discuss the particulars of a Catholic wedding invitation and additional Catholic ceremony stationery.

Catholic wedding invitation wording by itself is similar to any other invitation. However, if you’re getting married in a church, then your reception will likely be held at a second venue. So you’ll have to share these details with your guests. But what’s the best way to do that?

First, only include the ceremony details on your main invitation. The job of the invitation is to announce your nuptials, the date and time, and the ceremony location. While you may include “reception to follow” at the end of the invitation, leave out the second venue and its address. This reduces clutter and distraction on the most important card in your invitation suite. 

Next, introduce your second venue on the reception card. The reception card is an additional insert that's included along with your main invitation and RSVP. The reception card shares the name and address of the reception venue and, if you choose, transportation or driving directions from the church. Separating the venue info defines the two parts of your wedding celebration and ensures that each part is communicated clearly in its own space.

Finally, note that the reception card can be a little flexible. For instance, if there’s room, you can also share your wedding website on this card. However, if you also need to share accommodation information, it may be best to let the reception card stand on its own.

The Catholic Wedding program is a unique stationery piece in its own right. More complex than most programs, the Catholic wedding program typically contains the parts of the Mass in addition to the bridal party, a thank you note, memorial tributes, etc. So before you can create your program, you must have your wedding ceremony planned. This includes items such as readings, songs, etc. Your priest and church coordinator will be able to guide you in these decisions. 

Some may also wonder if a wedding program is necessary, especially if most of your family grew up Catholic. But what about your friends and out-of-town guests? What about your fiance's family? Non-Catholic guests may feel lost during the hour-long ceremony, so having a program is recommended so that they can follow along.

At a minimum, the Catholic program is a standard, letter-size sheet folded in half. Below is an outline of items to consider including:

 Front: 

• Wedding announcement that includes your names and wedding date

• Short note to guests thanking them for coming (can also go on the back)

The front side is usually more decorative, as it shares the least amount of info. I always recommend including design elements from your invitation, such as a wedding monogram. If you have ushers, have them pass out the programs to guests as they arrive.

 Inside:

• Wedding party processional, including your priest, parents, grandparents, etc.

• Parts of the Mass:

  • Processional

  • Introductory Rites

  • Liturgy of the Word–may note Scripture passages, but there likely won’t be room for the full reading

  • Rite of Marriage–where you say your vows & exchange rings

  • Liturgy of the Eucharist–may include gift bearers and song titles, such as the offertory and communion songs

  • Presentation to the Blessed Mother–sometimes couples present a white rose to the statue of Mary and to both of their mothers.

  • Concluding Rites

The inside features the bulk of the program’s content. The size of your program and bridal party will determine how much detail you can add here. For instance, if you have a large bridal party, then one side of the interior may be dedicated to their names. That leaves the other side for the outline of the Mass. You can keep this part simple, mostly noting the Scripture passage readings, song titles, and Mass rituals, such as the sign of peace. Again, this outline will give your non-Catholic guests a point of reference during the ceremony. Plus, your Catholic guests may enjoy knowing what readings and songs to expect. 

Back:

• Continuation of Mass outline (if needed)

• Memorial 

• Thank you note to parents/guests

• Reception info/timeline

 The back of the program can be more flexible. Feel free to choose any of the above options or none at all! The program is another chance to personalize your wedding and connect with your guests. Have fun with it and make it your own!

Since Catholic Weddings typically have two venues, you may consider multiple welcome signs. For instance, you may have a ceremony sign set up at the church’s entrance alongside a bouquet of flowers. Modern couples like to invite guests to sit on either side they prefer. (There are no sides here!) But check with your church coordinator to make sure you follow church guidelines for decorations.

Then you may choose to have another welcome sign at the reception. This sign may also invite guests to sign a guest book, take a favor, enjoy the dance floor, or whatever you like! As always, have fun and make sure your wedding feels like you. 

If you’re looking for Catholic wedding invitations or help with your Catholic wedding invitation wording, reach out to us! All of our semi-custom invitations can be edited for a Catholic ceremony. Or if you’re looking for something more personal, our custom wedding invitation service can help you create a design that’s truly unique and special to you. We also do day-of stationery, including programs and signage!