Planning a San Antonio Catholic Wedding? Here’s What Couples Worry About Most
Planning a Catholic wedding is a beautiful, sacred experience—but we totally understand that it can also feel a little overwhelming. As a San Antonio wedding photography couple, we’ve documented dozens of Catholic ceremonies in everything from grand cathedrals to quiet neighborhood parishes. And trust us—every couple has a few of the same questions (and sometimes worries) going into it.
If you're thinking, “Will this still feel like us?” or “What if my non-Catholic guests don’t understand what’s going on?”—you're not alone. Let's dive into some of the most common concerns couples share with us, and how you can navigate them with confidence.
1. Will Our Ceremony Feel Too Formal or Restrictive?
Finding Meaning in Tradition
This is probably the most common question we hear: “Will it feel stiff?” Catholic weddings are definitely more structured than a ceremony in, say, a backyard or a barn—but that doesn’t mean they lack warmth or emotion.
In fact, that rhythm and structure can be incredibly moving. The prayers, blessings, and Scripture readings are all rooted in love and legacy. And we’ve seen so many couples embrace that beauty while still making it feel personal.
Photographer moment: At Gianna and Jesse’s wedding at Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church in San Antonio, there was a stillness in the air when the priest gave his homily that brought even the loudest guests to silent tears. It was formal, yes—but not rigid. It was full of feeling.
You don’t have to change who you are to have a Catholic wedding. You just have to understand the framework—and then fill it with your heart.
2. Can We Still Have Personal Vows or Customize the Ceremony?
What’s Possible—and What’s Not
The quick answer: Catholic ceremonies typically use traditional vows prescribed by the Church. But that doesn’t mean you can’t make the day feel personal in other ways.
Some couples choose to write letters to each other and exchange them privately before the ceremony or during a first look. Others include favorite Scripture passages, family members doing the readings, or musicians playing meaningful songs during the offertory or communion.
And let’s not forget the cultural or family touches—veil and cord traditions, arras coins, or bilingual blessings are all beautiful ways to personalize the experience.
Tip: Ask your parish priest early on what your customization options are. Most are happy to work with you to make the ceremony feel special.
3. What If One of Us Isn’t Catholic?
Interfaith Weddings & Church Guidance
Another common question: “Do we both have to be Catholic to get married in the Church?” Nope! You can absolutely have a Catholic wedding even if one of you isn’t Catholic.
The Church refers to these as "interfaith" or "mixed marriages." There’s usually a bit more paperwork and a conversation with the priest, but it’s all manageable. You might also need a special dispensation from the bishop, but again—this is pretty standard stuff.
Anecdote: One couple we photographed had a beautiful Catholic ceremony at Church of the Good Shepherd, even though the groom was not Catholic. They incorporated elements from both faiths into their reception, and guests from both sides said it was one of the most meaningful weddings they’d ever attended.
Bottom line: the Church is often more flexible than people assume. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and be honest about where you’re coming from.
4. Will My Guests Be Bored or Confused?
Making It Welcoming for Everyone
Let’s be real—if your guest list includes people who aren’t Catholic, the ceremony might be unfamiliar to them. And that’s okay! With just a little effort, you can make them feel totally included.
Create a wedding program that explains the structure of the Mass or ceremony.
Include notes like “Catholics may come forward for communion, others are welcome to remain seated or come forward for a blessing.”
Have a family member or usher help guide guests, especially during the kneel-stand-sit parts (you know the ones!).
We’ve seen so many non-Catholic guests moved to tears, even if they didn’t understand every word. The reverence and beauty of the ritual speaks for itself.
5. What About Photography Restrictions?
Respecting Sacred Space While Capturing Emotion
This one’s big. Many Catholic churches have strict rules about where photographers can stand, when they can move, and whether flash is allowed. But that doesn’t mean you won’t get incredible photos.
As experienced San Antonio wedding photographers, we always reach out to the church office ahead of time to ask about their photography policy. We bring silent-shutter cameras, long lenses so we can stay out of the way, and respect for the sacredness of the moment.
Real experience: At Jenna and Dillon’s Catholic wedding in Selma, we weren’t allowed in the center aisle during the mass. So we set up ahead of time, found creative angles, and still delivered a full story—without ever feeling like we were intruding.
If you hire someone familiar with Catholic weddings, you’ll be in good hands.
6. Can We Still Have a Reception That Feels Like Us?
Blending Tradition with Celebration
Absolutely, 100% yes. While the ceremony may follow a traditional script, the celebration afterward is totally yours to design.
We’ve seen:
Food trucks outside a church hall
Mariachi bands leading guests to cocktail hour
Beer burros (yes, really!) at Hill Country receptions
Signature cocktails named after saints or grandmas
Your faith and your fun don’t have to be separate. The best weddings bring both together in a way that feels meaningful and personal.
Final Thoughts: Faith, Family, and Photos That Last
A Catholic wedding isn’t about fitting into a mold—it’s about honoring your values, your families, and your future. It can be traditional and joyful, structured and deeply emotional.
As photographers, we’re here not just to capture the big rituals, but also the in-between moments: the proud look from your grandmother, the quiet prayer before the aisle, the celebratory confetti outside the church doors.
If you’re planning a Catholic wedding in San Antonio and feeling unsure where to start—reach out. We’re happy to share tips, gallery examples, or even a checklist of questions to ask your parish. You don’t have to figure it all out alone.
💌 See more Catholic wedding inspiration here
Planning your own Catholic wedding in San Antonio? Let’s talk about how to document your day with reverence, heart, and a little creative magic. Contact us here.
