Arrival/Preparation
Q: What if I need to modify my reservation?
A: No problem. Please just send us a quick email:
Kenneth+Anastasia@nuptials.us
We appreciate it!
Q: What time should I arrive?
A: It would be recommended to arrive 20-30 minutes early to secure good seating and account for traffic. The ceremony is planned to start on time and the exchange of wedding vows takes place at the very beginning, so this also makes arriving early important. We implore all esteemed guests to honor the sanctity of the Mass by observing reverent silence whilst within the Church. Thus, we ask that all chatter and applause be reserved for the feast and merry-making to follow.
Q: Is there parking?
A: Yes, there is a parking lot for St. Stephen’s. It can be found by driving on Taylor Street and is behind the Church (next to the school building). There will also be ample parking on the sides of the streets as well.
Liturgy/Mass
Q: What attire should we don for this joyous occasion?
A: For the Mass, we humbly request that all guests observe the time-honored custom of modest dress, donning your Sunday Best apparel. Generally, this means shoulders and knees are covered and necklines are conservative. For men, a suit and tie is recommended. For women, a modest dress or skirt is recommended (though slacks are permitted). Women are encouraged to wear a chapel veil for the Mass (though not required).
Q: Do I need to know Latin to follow along or understand what is going on for the Mass?
A: No need to know Latin. There will be booklets available for the Latin Mass, however, the bride and groom would recommend simply being present and paying attention to what is happening without trying to follow along. Regarding responses during the Mass, it’s ok if you don’t know the responses. Regarding when to sit, stand, or kneel, simply follow what the rest of the congregation is doing. It is absolutely ok if you don’t fully understand what is going on during the liturgy. This contributes to the mystery of the Mass.
Q: How long will the Mass/ceremony take?
A: In the Traditional Rite, the wedding vows take place at the very beginning and will be about 10 minutes. The Mass itself will be between an hour and a half to 2 hours.
Q: Everybody is lining up to receive Holy Communion! What do I do?
A: In the Catholic tradition, the reception of Holy Communion is a sign of our unity in faith and life. We warmly invite practicing Catholics who are prepared and in a state of grace to receive the Sacrament. For those not receiving, including our cherished friends and family of other faith traditions, we invite you to remain prayerfully in your pew.
Note on Custom: At a Traditional Latin Mass, Holy Communion is received while kneeling at the altar rail and on the tongue. The priest will say “Amen” for the communicant, so no need to respond.
Q: Will there be a cry room available?
A: There is a side chapel to the front on the right-hand side which is used as a cry room at St. Stephen’s. Young ones requiring retreat may be taken there as needed. They will have a prime view of the Altar from the side chapel.
Q: Where is the restroom?
A: The restroom is located beyond the side chapel, which is located in the far front-right corner of the church. After entering the side chapel, you’ll see the room is situated to face toward the main alter. The hall to the restroom is in the front-right corner of this room. We kindly ask all to kneel before the Tabernacle on the Altar as you pass by the St. Michael statue. There are 2 additional restrooms in Carmody Hall as well (just as you enter and to the right).
Reception
Q: Where is the reception going to be and at what time?
A: The reception will be at St. Stephen Catholic Church in Carmody Hall. Carmody Hall is between the Church and the parking lot and involves a brief jaunt down a short flight of stairs. It will commence right after the Mass.
Q: Can I bring a guest or guests?
A: Yes, however, please make sure to RSVP them so we can ensure all guests at the feast are well accounted for.
Q: Are children invited?
A: Of course! We hope to have some fun engaging activities for children at our feast of merrymaking as well. Just make sure to include them in the RSVP so we can ensure that all guests are well accounted for.
Q: What will the food menu be?
A: The food will be a potluck buffet.
Q: What if I need to update what food I’ll bring?
If you’ve signed up to bring food and need to make a modification, please send us an email and we’ll get it updated.
Kenneth+Anastasia@nuptials.us
Q: Will there be alcohol?
A: Alcohol will not be permitted at this venue, but we look forward to raising a glass of sparkling cider and festive punch with you all!
Q: What should we get the bride and groom as a gift?
A: Esteemed guests,
We are deeply moved by the generosity of our close friends and family, however, we are currently not in need of anything. In fact, we are currently constrained for space and are unable to accommodate any additional material goods. However, if you feel particularly moved to give a gift to the newly wedded couple, please consider contributing to our Future Family Fund or Food for the Feast. Remember that your greatest gift is your prayers and presence on our special day and there’s no need to feel obligated to get us anything beyond that.