So, FI and I were taking a tour of his Dad's new church (his dad is a Southern Baptist Pastor), and I completely fell in love with it. It's HUGE, and beautiful. It has a huge sanctuary, a huge room for a reception area, a commercial kitchen, and an indoor playscape that is right in front of the reception room (for kids who are bored, but parents can still keep an eye on). This sounded perfect to have the wedding at. Plus, I'm sure it would be tons cheaper for us since he's the Pastor's son.
I was so excited about it, but then a couple of days later, it hit me. This is a Southern Baptist church. I wouldn't be able to have a bar if we chose this for our venue.
We were at dinner with my Dad and Stepmom, and I mentioned this flaw, and they both made me seem like I was such a terrible person for being so concerned about alcohol. They kept saying, "The wedding is about the marriage, not about getting drunk."
Am I crazy for being so concerned about this? To me, the ceremony is what's about the marriage. The reception is a party to celebrate, and should be treated as such. I've been to lots of weddings, and every time there isn't a bar, people complain. For me providing a bar for my guests seems just as important as providing dinner. I mean, dinner is probably a little more important.
It wouldn't be a big deal at all if we weren't to use the church. I have a lot of venue possibilities that I haven't even toured, so I have options. I just wanted to make sure that I wasn't blowing the no-bar thing out of proportion.