How to Plan a Candlelight Wedding Ceremony

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candlelight image by NatUlrich from Fotolia.com

Share wedding vows in an ambiance of romance and love surrounded by soft, flickering candle flames. Consider the time of year and the venue for the ceremony when planning a candlelight wedding. Careful planning and preparation are critical to making the candles a seamless and safe part of the bride and groom's special day.

Search for a venue that allows a candlelight wedding. Most churches make provisions for candlelight. The facility may have certain rules on how you must conduct the ceremony. Ask the venue if they limit the number of candles or enforce other requirements.

Find out what the local fire ordinances are, such as permits and important safety factors.

Draw a floor plan of the venue and determine where you will place candles. Candles should be in areas where they won't distract guests or create a fire hazard. Limit the number of candles so the room remains dim and romantic.

Determine who will light the candles. Possibilities include the best man and maid of honor, the entire wedding party or people special to the bride and groom, such as parents or grandparents.

Rehearse the lighting of the candles several times, so everyone is prepared and to determine how much time is required. Rehearse at least once at the same time of day as the wedding to determine how much light the candles provide. Add or remove candles as necessary.