Hospitable Georgia is famous not only for its local colour, culture and cuisine, but also for its numerous ancient churches and monasteries. This country was one of the first ones to convert to Christianity in IV century: think of how long and rich the religious tradition is here! Getting married in a church in Georgia can be organized just as seamlessly with the help of Ori Wedding Agency planners as the official marriage registration in this beautiful country. In that regard, our couples ask us if it is possible to arrange a church wedding for non-residents. What are the steps for it? What is the language of the ceremony? How to choose the church? The ceremony of the church wedding is a delicate and complicated question, that is why we decided to write a special feature on this topic. Below you will find some information about the formal steps in this process, and also description of several churches that are the most suitable ones for a church wedding in Georgia.
What foreigners need for church wedding ceremony
There are a few requirements for a church wedding in Georgia regarding religious matters. Both the bride and groom are required to share the same religious faith as the church hosting the wedding ceremony. Your two witnesses must adhere to the same faith.
Orthodox couples need:
- Valid passports
- Certificate of baptism. If they are not baptized, baptism can be arranged prior to the wedding.
For a Catholic church ceremony couple needs to have:
- Permission for marriage from the priest of your church, addressed to the rector of the church in Tbilisi.
- Certificate from the priest of your church indicating that you have completed marriage preparation program and with his blessing, you can get married
Also, keep in mind that the bride’s attire must adhere to certain guidelines. Specifically, her dress should cover her shoulders, hair, and knees.
Choosing the church
So, you have decided not only to have a wedding in Georgia but also to have a church ceremony in this beautiful warm country as well. The first question that you face is choosing the location. It is important to note that not every church of Georgia offers an orthodox ceremony for foreign citizens. This is due to the fact that most of the church services are held in Georgian: a lot of priests do not agree to conduct this service if the couple doesn’t understand its language. Therefore, as soon as you make a decision considering the city for your wedding, you should better consult with your wedding planner regarding the availability of the ceremonies for foreigners in this particular church.
Church wedding in Tbilisi
Tbilisi is probably the most accessible and democratic option for orthodox couples who don’t speak Georgian. Firstly, in Tbilisi there are three Russian Orthodox churches:
- St. Alexander the Neva church,
- The Archangel Michael church,
- Lurji (Blue) Monastery.
All of them have services in Church Slavonic language.
Secondly, there are several cathedrals where you can have a church wedding in Georgian language. First and foremost, it is the main cathedral of Georgian Apostolic Autocephalous Orthodox Church — Sameba Cathedral. This grand building is among the highest orthodox cathedrals in the world: the wedding ceremony at this place will leave a truly unforgettable impression in your heart! The second-most popular places in Tbilisi is the Sioni Cathedral of the Dormition, which was previously the main cathedral of Georgian Church. This uniquely beautiful church is smaller and more cosy than the new one, so it will be more suitable for a private ceremony.
We frequently receive inquiries from couples regarding our church marriage Tbilisi packages, and in response, we have crafted one to meet their preferences, providing a range of choices among Tbilisi’s diverse churches.
Mtskheta and Jvari
Forty minutes from Tbilisi, there is a famous old capital of Georgia Mtskheta and a Jvari Monastery situated not far away from it. The central sight of Mtskheta is one of the oldest cathedrals of Georgia — The Svetitskhoveli Cathedral. This holy place is recognised by Unesco as a World Heritage Site. Thanks to this, thousands of couples from all over the world choose this location as a place that will unite their hearts in a sacred marriage. We also recommend to consider the Jvari Monastery, one more church with a centuries-old history. It was built in the VI century, and from the area in front of it, there is an unforgettable view of the two rivers’ confluence. This view became a classical symbol of many Russian and Georgian poets. You can combine church marriage at Jvari with a photo session against this amazing background: it will surely complete this special day!
If you are interested in having a church wedding in Mtskheta, check out our package, which provides you with the option to select the venue for your religious marriage, ensuring a truly unforgettable day for you! As soon as you make a decision considering the city for your wedding, you’d better consult with your wedding planner regarding the availability of the ceremonies for foreigners in this particular church.
Alaverdi and Gremi Churches in Kakheti
In the picturesque region of Kakheti, there are two enchanting churches: Alaverdi and Gremi Church of the Archangels, both offering magnificent settings for a church wedding.
A wedding at Alaverdi Monastery offers a unique and enchanting experience. Located in the Kakheti region’s Alazani Valley, near the village of Alaverdi and just 20 km from Telavi, this historic site was one of the most outstanding chapels of medieval Georgia. The cathedral’s rich history and stunning architecture provide a magnificent setting for your special day. The serene and picturesque surroundings of the Alazani Valley add to the romantic atmosphere, making it an ideal venue for a meaningful church wedding ceremony.
The combination of rich history, architectural elegance, and serene surroundings makes Gremi Church in Kakheti an ideal location for an unforgettable wedding celebration. The well-preserved architectural complex offers a captivating and historic environment for those who are seeking a memorable wedding venue. Built in the 16th century Gremi church provides a magnificent atmosphere for your church wedding.
Marriage in the mountains and by the sea
If you prefer the mighty mountain scenery and you want to have a church wedding surrounded by magic ridges, swift winds and breathtaking views, you’d better choose the church of the Ascension in Gudauri.
If a church wedding in the Georgian mountains is what you’re seeking, explore our Church Wedding in the Mountains in Georgia package, offering comprehensive options to suit your preferences.
For the couples who prefer the atmosphere of a seaside town, we can offer the wedding ceremony in Batumi. The Holy Trinity Church may become a great place for this ritual. It is located on a high mountain Sameba and the ceremonies are held only in Georgian. Otherwise, if you are looking for a wedding in Russian, we could help you to find a good location with services in Russian.
Church wedding in Georgia Cost
Typically, the cost of a church wedding in Georgia ranges from 170 to 330 euros, which may vary depending on the donations you make to the specific church and the additional services you mightchoose for your wedding day. For instance, if you opt for a Catholic church, you’ll have the opportunity to decorate it, which comes with additional costs for decorations. At Ori Wedding, we’ve designed packages for church weddings, each offering a variety of options you may consider to add to your wedding making it special and memorable.
Preparing for the ceremony
The requirements for those who have decided to have a church wedding are quite simple. Firstly, the bride and groom must be baptized as orthodox Christians, they also must not have any other marital relationship. It is recommended that some time before the ceremony, the couple spends in fasting and praying. They should also go to confession and take communion in advance. On the wedding day, the couple arrives at the church beforehand in order to have an obligatory conversation with the abbot. They should also have their passports and wedding rings with them and provide two baptized witnesses. In case you are planning a private wedding just for two of you, we will be glad to arrange the presence of the witnesses. Finally, take into account the orthodox calendar in Georgia: church weddings are not held on Wednesdays and Fridays, during the big orthodox holidays and during the fasting periods.
Catholic church wedding
Georgia attracts not only Orthodox Christians but also Catholics. For couples dreaming of a traditional Catholic wedding in Georgia in this piece, we want to make a brief comment on the catholic ceremony. For those couples who are looking for a Catholic church marriage in Tbilisi we suggest considering St. Peter and St. Paul’s Church, as it is the most democratic location. In order to have a wedding church here you only need to provide your baptism certificates, certificates confirming that you have passed special courses at your church and the permission from your church to have a wedding in Georgia. The catholic wedding may be held in English, Italian or Georgian languages.
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Since ancient times Christian traditions have been honoured and respected in Georgia. So having marriage in this particular country will become one of the most meaningful and symbolic events in your life. Ori Agency team is always happy to give you the most reliable information and help with the organization of this important day. We will help you at every step of organizing your church ceremony, including choosing a church and date, finding witnesses for you if needed, and addressing any other related issues. Just contact us, and we will get back to you within one day.
