While people imagine planning a unique wedding, picturing the venue is more important. But when we talk about prison they are unique and different than the normal weddings. Prison weddings are emotional and have some challenging work to do. As a prison wedding minister there are many things that you need to consider while planning a prison wedding ceremony.
Here in our blog post, we will focus on the ten things that prison chaplains do not tell you about their prison wedding ceremonies.
- The Emotional Weight is Intense
Prison wedding are charged in many ways but they are more emotional than the other ceremonies. The groom and the bride are usually dealing with many emotions of fear, hope, love and consciousness. As a prison wedding minister you need to know how to control your emotions very well.
- Security Protocols are Unforgiving
One of the first things you need to notice is the security protocols that involve metal detectors, background checks and strict dress codes. You are not allowed to wear your dreamy wedding. There is a unique wedding attire you need to follow and leave all your personal items, including your smartphone, in prison for inspection.
- Limited Time for the Ceremony
Unlike traditional weddings, prison wedding ceremonies are allowed to be conducted under a strict time range. The couple is allowed to enjoy the wedding for 15-20 minutes only.
- Minimal Personalization
The personal touch is limited in prison weddings. There are some strict limits on what prisoners are allowed to do on their wedding day. Thus, it can be a distressing thing for couples as well not to add whatever they like to have at their wedding.
- No Professional Photography
Unlike other dreamy weddings, prison wedding not include professional photography. In some cases, prison staff allowed to take photos of the wedding to facilitate them and capture their wedding moments.
- Witnesses May Be Limited
In most cases only set of people present and allowed to attend the ceremony including prison staff and minster itself. But family member in some cases might not allow to attend the ceremony. This lack of rights can be heart-breaking for the couple.
- Inmates’ Rights and Privileges Vary
Not all types of prisoners have the same rights and flexibility. These rights may vary depending on the facility prison authority provides according to inmate behavior. Thus, some couples can have the flexibility to spend their time together after the ceremony.
- Legal Complexities Abound
Prison wedding ceremony usually involve a complex legal paperwork and procedure that have some legal issues. Thus marriage both of the partner need to have marriage license first that require special approval from specific timelines.
- The Aftermath is Bittersweet
Unlike the other traditional wedding in which couples leave the wedding together and start their married life in prison wedding, the couple live separately once again. The moment is heartbreaking as well because the enjoyment and happiness turn into the dark reality of prison life.
- The Impact is Great
While conducting the prison wedding, it is understood that they have more rewards. Preparing for the prison wedding is not just about officiating this marriage. You are also providing an affirmation and hopeful feeling to your companions. Thus, these ceremonies remind you about the power of love and the human spirit.
Conclusion:
Prison wedding minister reveal that these weddings are different than the other ceremonies. They usually filled with some challenges from the security protocols to the emotional challenges they face. They are also deeply meaningful and moving with lot of complexities. Only prison wedding organizer face these kind of hurdles. We have explained ten things that prison chaplains don’t tell you while organizing prison wedding ceremonies!
