Hello everyone!
My fiancé is Spanish and Catholic. I'm from the States and Protestant. It is very important to him that, in Spain, we be married in the Catholic church. As I have only been to mass with him, I am wildly unfamiliar with the Catholic church and am not quite sure what to expect. We haven't spoken to the priest yet, but will be doing so as soon as I get back to Spain. I guess the first major question is: will he marry us? The second question, and it's one I have for you all is: will my father, who isn't Catholic either, be permitted to stand as my "padrino" (would the English translation be Godfather? Either way, it's the adults who stand with the bride and groom, in Spain it's the mother of the groom and father of the bride. Sorry I'm unsure of the proper English translation). Some in Spain have had doubts about whether or not he'd be permitted to do so.
Perhaps the biggest fear is just how to do this. Due to family travel limitations, we have to do something in both countries. I'm seeing here that priests (and, rightly so) aren't keen on doing weddings for someone who is "already married." Spain will be our second wedding - and, to my fiancé and his family, it's where matters the most. Should I just do a reception in the US to save the ceremony for Spain? That, however, hurts those in my family who cannot afford the time or money to travel to Spain.
Well, thanks to anyone who can offer up any bits of wisdom. I'm so terribly lost between two countries, two traditions, and ultimately two religions. Please keep me from going to Vegas!
Take care and best of luck in planning. I saw someone here whose signature indicates she's getting married in two days. Enjoy!!!