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When to open the church doors??

Gina0887Gina0887 member
First Anniversary 5 Love Its First Comment Name Dropper
in Wedding Vows & Ceremony Discussions
So my FI doesn't want to see me before the wedding so to avoid rushing for pictures during cocktail hour, we are going to do some before the ceremony at the church Like groom, groomsmen, and his family while I'm still downstairs getting ready at the church on the alter. Then me, my bridesmaids, and my family. My question is though for a 5pm ceremony with a relatively small wedding in a small country church (looking at about 75 guests): when should we be done with pictures to open the doors? I think it would be rude for people to wait outside for a few minutes while we get a few pictures (or am I wrong?) How soon do you usually arrive to a wedding and would think the doors should be unlocked and ready for you to come in? Thanks!
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Re: When to open the church doors??

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    CMGragainCMGragain member
    First Anniversary First Comment First Answer 5 Love Its
    The doors to the church should be open several hours before your wedding.  This is important for florist deliveries, etc. When you are going to take pictures, you station groomsmen or family volunteers outside the doors to keep people in the narthex.  You can open those doors when you are finished.  What if it rains?  You can't ask your guests to stand outside the building in the rain!  You should finish your photos at least one half hour before the ceremony.
    I did this at my wedding, and it worked great!
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    [Deleted User][Deleted User] member
    First Anniversary First Answer 5 Love Its First Comment
    I agree with pp, try to have all your pre-wedding photos done at least 30 minutes prior to the start time of the wedding. Have someone on door duty is a great idea but be willing to accomodate if the weather doesn't accomodate. If you don't want anyone to see you prior to the ceremony, do any photos with you first.
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    Gina0887Gina0887 member
    First Anniversary 5 Love Its First Comment Name Dropper
    I planned on being done at least 30 minutes, but I didn't know how many people actually show up before then.
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    RebeccaFlowerRebeccaFlower member
    First Anniversary First Comment 5 Love Its Name Dropper
    I think they need to be open for at least an hour. Can you find a different location to take the before pictures? I did mine at my home & H did his at his parents' house. If not, I think people would just sit quietly while they got their pictures done, if there isn't any way to avoid it. 
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