Boston Wedding Photography Blog

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16 Essential Tips for Planning a Boston Wedding Ceremony

If you're planning a wedding ceremony in Boston, there are few things to consider. For example finding the perfect wedding venue, selecting the right officiant, and selecting the ceremony decor. I’ve been a wedding photographer in the Boston area for over 15 years and in this article, I will share 16 tips to help you plan your Boston wedding ceremony.

  1. Choose the Right Officiant

    When selecting an officiant for your Boston wedding ceremony, consider picking a person you and your partner are close with. This will make the ceremony more personal and unique.

  2. Make It Essay

    When selecting a Boston wedding ceremony location, consider picking a place close to your reception venue to make it easier for you and your guests. 

  3. Professional Sound System

    Make sure everyone that is attending your wedding ceremony can hear what the officiant is saying. Have your DJ set up a PA system. This will make sure that even the last row will be able to clearly hear every word. The DJ will also have back up equipment monitor the volume of the speakers. I highly recommend speaking to C-Zone Entertainment for DJ / PA rental services. They also can provide musicians like a a jazz trip for Boston wedding ceremonies.

  4.  Make Time for Late Wedding Guests

    We all have a friend or family member is the late person to all the events. When you make your wedding invites, make the ceremony time 15 minutes earlier than when you want to have the ceremony. This buffer time allows them to catch everything.

  5. Offer Comfortable Seating

    Make sure your guests are comfortable during the ceremony by offering cozy seating options and make sure there are plenty of seats for everyone. If you want some unique wedding chairs check out the selection over at Peak Event Rentals.

  6. Keep the Program Simple

    Most guests don't read the ceremony program, so don't stress too much about it. Keep it simple and concise.

  7. Give Access to Your Photographers

    To have great wedding photos, you must give your photographer total access. It starts with hiring a Boston wedding photographer that you trust.

  8. Choose the Right Reader

    Pick someone who enjoys speaking in public to do a reading during the ceremony.

    Avoid shy individuals who may feel uncomfortable in front of a crowd.

  9. Have a Backup Plan

    In case it rain have a backup plan if your ceremony is outside. Reserve an indoor space just in case.

  10.  Consider Fall Comfort

    If your Boston wedding ceremony is outside in the fall, offer blankets and space heaters to keep guests warm and cozy. For all Boston wedding rental I recommend Peak Event Services. More awesome vendor friends can be found on my vendor friend page.

  11. Consider Where You’ll Stand

    Often at wedding ceremonies, couples have their backs on the guests during Boston church wedding ceremonies. When this happens, no one can see them; the photographer only gets images of the back of their head. 

  12. Think About Lighting

    The time of day is essential to creating great photos. I recommend anywhere from 2-3 hours before the sun sets. The end of the day will give you natural and even light on your face. In my experience the best time of the day for a wedding ceremony is during golden hour.

    For couples wanting an afternoon Boston wedding ceremony, look for a location to put everyone in the shade. The afternoon can be helpful in your wedding timeline but provide a difficult light for everyone.

  13. Hire A Wedding Planner

    This is one of the most overlooked service I see couples skip. You can hire a Boston wedding planner that offer day of wedding day of wedding coordinator and they will keep things on time and eliminate stress. For day of wedding coordinator in the Boston area recommend either Sarah from With Out a Hitch or Ellie from The Aisle Assistant.

  14. Turn Off Cell Phones

    Tell your guest that your wedding ceremony is unplugged. When guests aren't taking photos or scrolling on social media, they are present and can enjoy the ceremony without any distractions. 

  15. Personalize Your Ceremony

    Make your Boston wedding ceremony unique to you and your partner by incorporating personal touches, such as writing your own vows or including a special ritual or tradition.

  16. Repurpose Your Ceremony Flowers

    Ask your Boston wedding florist to create a floral arrangement that can be used at your wedding reception. 

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Conclusion:

Planning a Boston wedding ceremony can be overwhelming, but by following these 16 tips, you can create an unforgettable Boston wedding ceremony for you and your guests. Remember to choose the right officiant, select the perfect venue, make time for a buffer, focus on the entrance decor, offer comfortable seating, keep the program simple, choose the right reader, have a backup plan, consider fall comfort, and personalize your ceremony. With these tips, your Boston wedding ceremony will be a memorable one!