Marriage is More than a Wedding Ceremony
Congratulations on your upcoming marriage! At the Universal Truth Center,
our goal is to help you plan an enjoyable wedding and lay the foundation
for a successful relationship. Although the wedding ceremony is an important
and memorable part of marriage, it
lasts for only one day. There are
many other things to consider in preparation for the long-term commitment
ahead. Consider this: if you were to train for a marathon by doing a
few light stretches on the day of the race, how far would you expect
to run? You'll probably agree that without dedication and months of
focused training, your chance of completing the race is small. The same
is true for marriage. Make the decision to get off to a good start.
The pastoral care minister at the Center is equipped and available to
guide you every step of the way.
Taking the First Step
Now that you have made the decision to be married, take the initiative
to arrange a visit with our pastoral care minister. Both partners should
attend the meeting and complete a pre-marital profile, which will address
key topics including personality and communication styles, expectations
of marriage, finances, sex, and religion. The purpose of the profile
is to allow you to develop a realistic picture of your compatibility.
Ideally, you should not set the date for your wedding until you have
discussed the results of your profile and completed pre-marital counseling.
Pre-Marital Counseling
Pre-marital counseling is an important step that many couples underestimate.
It provides a valuable opportunity to explore the concept and purpose
of marriage and how to prepare for it. The pastoral care minister who
conducts the counseling is a trained, skilled professional who can guide
and support you as you examine your relationship honestly and objectively.
Counseling takes place at the Center in a confidential, peaceful setting
that encourages couples to:
1. Get to know themselves better.
2. Get to know their partners better.
3. Determine their compatibility.
4. Understand that falling in love is not a basis for marriage.
5. Develop a purpose for their marriage.
6. Voice/discuss their expectations.
7. Learn the necessary skills for a successful marriage.
Establishing a Financial Plan
When you are ready to set the date and make the arrangements, it is
a good idea to establish a financial plan rather than spending as you
go. Set realistic limits and plan accordingly. Decide who will assume
each financial responsibility, keeping in mind that 80% of your plan
should go toward the reception, bridal attire, flowers, decorations,
and photography/videography. Fifteen percent should be set aside for
invitations and printing, gifts, music, transportation, and fees. The
remaining five percent should be reserved for hidden expenses. Don't
make your plans so elaborate that they will create a financial burden
for you or your family. Remember, the wedding ceremony is only one day,
but the marriage will last a lifetime! Keep future financial goals such
as homeownership, savings, and debt elimination in mind.
Choosing Your Wedding Site
The Universal Truth Center offers a non-traditional church setting with
a beautiful 450-seat capacity sanctuary for a formal ceremony, or a
20-seat prayer room for a more intimate gathering. Our spacious banquet
hall can seat 250 and is the perfect spot for your reception. For pricing
and availability, please contact our pastoral care department. Our ministers
are available to perform your ceremony on or off site.
The Countdown
How far in advance should you make your wedding arrangements? Consult
the following guidelines for a fool-proof plan:
18 - 12 months: Begin pre-marital counseling.
12 - 7 months: Set the date; establish financial plan; select and secure
wedding and reception sites.
7 - 5 months: Select wedding officiant, bridal party, invitations/stationery,
color
scheme, attire; decide on guest list.
4 months: Establish gift registry; select rings, caterer, baker, florist,
band/disc jockey, photographer/videographer
3 months: Schedule physical exams; plan rehearsal dinner; book honeymoon.
2 months: Mail invitations; purchase gifts for bridal party; finalize
all orders/services; acquire marriage license.
1 month: Send thank-you notes as gifts arrive; schedule final fittings.
2 weeks: Finalize RSVP list; confirm all orders/services
1 week: Pack for honeymoon; verify transportation; spend time with family
and future spouse
Wedding day: Relax and enjoy!
