In recent years, more and more couples who choose to get married in Georgia want more than just an official ceremony and a beautiful celebration – they seek to seal their union spiritually through a church wedding. Naturally, this raises questions: where is the best place to hold the ceremony, how to prepare, and how difficult is it to organize everything? At Kate&Co Weddings, we receive such requests every day – and we know that many couples worry unnecessarily. In truth, a church wedding in Georgia is a deeply moving, beautiful, and unforgettable experience. With the right preparation, it becomes a harmonious blend of tradition, emotion, and aesthetics. Let’s go through all the key details so you can plan your special day with confidence and understand why Georgia has become one of the most beloved destinations for couples from all over the world.
In this article you will learn about
- Why Georgia is considered the perfect place for a church wedding
- The significance of the church wedding ritual in Georgian Orthodox culture
- Essential requirements for holding a wedding ceremony
- Stages of a church wedding ceremony in a Georgian church
- How to choose a location for your church wedding
- Wedding costs in Georgia: what you need to know
- Useful tips from Kate&Co Weddings
Why Georgia is the perfect destination for a church wedding
Georgia – a land of deep Orthodox traditions and breathtaking historic churches – is truly a unique destination for a church wedding. As experts in organizing weddings in Georgia, we can highlight several key advantages:
- Openness of churches to foreign couples. Most Georgian churches warmly welcome guests from abroad, and the preparation process is surprisingly simple, without complex bureaucratic requirements.
- Variety of locations. From the ancient UNESCO World Heritage temples of Mtskheta to charming little churches in Tbilisi – every location has its own atmosphere and offers a perfect backdrop for beautiful photos.
- Aesthetic beauty. Stone churches, frescoes, and iconostases create a stunning visual setting. Historic temples overlooking mountains, rivers, or vineyards turn the ceremony into a truly picturesque event.
- A blend of spiritual and secular. A church wedding in Georgia carries profound spiritual meaning while combining easily with the legal marriage registration. Many couples choose to merge the official ceremony, religious blessing, and a stylish photo session into one memorable day.
Thanks to all these advantages, Sakartvelo is the perfect place for couples who want to unite love, tradition, and beauty in one celebration.
Official marriage registration and church wedding in Tbilisi
The meaning of the church wedding in Georgia’s Orthodox culture
To truly understand the importance of a church wedding in the Georgian Orthodox tradition, you need to know two things. First, Georgia is one of the oldest Christian countries in the world. Christianity was adopted here as early as the 4th century, and since then, faith has become deeply rooted in the life and spirit of the people.
Second, family holds a special place in Georgian culture. Family bonds, mutual support, and unity across generations are not just words here – they are a way of life. That’s why, when a wedding takes place in Georgia, it symbolizes not only the spiritual union of two people but also the coming together of families, creating a warm and close-knit community. If you see a church wedding as more than just a formality – as a meaningful spiritual step – Sakartvelo will be the perfect place for your ceremony. Here you’ll be surrounded by people who not only respect your values and traditions but also share your vision of love, family, and lifelong devotion.
Essential requirements for holding a wedding ceremony
It’s important to remember that a church wedding is first and foremost a spiritual rite rather than a legal procedure. Therefore, the requirements for it are much simpler than those for civil marriage registration. Still, to make sure your ceremony goes smoothly and beautifully, it’s best to prepare a few key details in advance:
- Documents. Passports of both the bride and groom are required, as well as a marriage certificate if the couple is already legally married.
- Baptism certificates. Both partners must be baptized. In some cases, a certificate of confirmation may also be requested. If one of the partners hasn’t been baptized, the sacrament can be performed shortly before the wedding.
- Rings and witnesses. Two wedding rings and two witnesses are required for the ceremony.
- Attire. Outfits should follow church traditions: modest, with covered shoulders and long skirts or dresses, creating an elegant and respectful appearance.
When these requirements are met in advance, organizing a church wedding in Georgia becomes a simple and enjoyable process. The day itself turns into something far beyond formality – a truly meaningful event that unites two hearts and leaves lifelong memories.
Religious ceremony for foreign couples in Kojori
Stages of the wedding ceremony in a Georgian church
The first step toward the wedding is choosing a church that feels right for you. The decision depends not only on location or architecture but also on the atmosphere – the quiet, spiritual energy that will define the tone of your ceremony. Once the church is chosen, the couple can set a date and prepare all necessary documents. Before the ceremony itself, the priest often meets with the couple to talk about the spiritual meaning of marriage and to ensure they understand the depth of the sacrament they are about to receive. This conversation helps both partners prepare emotionally and experience the ritual with awareness and serenity.
The ceremony is deeply symbolic. In Georgian tradition, every gesture carries meaning: the crowns placed on the bride and groom represent their unity and readiness to walk through life together; the exchange of rings symbolizes eternity and the enduring strength of their love; and sharing wine from a single cup reminds them that they will face both joy and hardship side by side. Many couples also bring icons, which later become sacred family heirlooms – a spiritual protection for their home. Every element of the ritual reflects devotion, respect, and the sacred beauty of love.
For couples choosing a Catholic wedding in Georgia, special attention is given to the awareness of vows. The ceremony unites not only the couple but also their families, and it can be performed in several languages – English, Polish, or Latin – so that the couple can truly feel the meaning of every word and prayer. When carefully organized, a church wedding in Georgia brings all these elements together into a single, harmonious experience. Once the church, date, documents, and attire are arranged, the couple can fully immerse themselves in the spiritual side of the day, enjoying its solemnity, peace, and timeless beauty.
Our unforgettable moments
How to choose a location for your church wedding
In Georgia, over 90% of the population are Christians, and the country is home to countless churches – from ancient monasteries to grand cathedrals, many of which are truly awe-inspiring. However, it’s important to know that not all churches perform ceremonies for foreign couples. Some require approval from senior clergy, and the coordination process may take time. Based on our experience working with numerous locations, we’ve selected those that our couples most often choose – reliable, beautiful, and convenient for the ceremony.
Church wedding in Tbilisi
In Tbilisi, we especially recommend Mama Daviti Church – one of Georgia’s most revered spiritual sites, filled with the quiet presence of centuries-old prayers. The soft lines of Georgian architecture, the gentle dome, and the 19th-century frescoes create a sense of timeless beauty. When sunlight streams through the windows, it feels as if the heavens themselves are blessing the couple. A wedding here is not merely a celebration – it’s a sacred mystery, where two lives are joined before God. Mama Daviti Church is the perfect choice for those who seek not only beauty but a deeply spiritual experience.
Church wedding in Mtskheta
The Svetitskhoveli Cathedral is the spiritual heart of Georgia and one of the most sacred places in the Orthodox world. Its name translates as “Life-Giving Pillar,” and legend says that the Robe of Christ is preserved here. Svetitskhoveli is more than just a church – it is a national symbol of faith and identity. For centuries, it has hosted royal weddings, coronations, and the most significant religious ceremonies. Every detail – from the frescoes beneath the dome to the carved stonework of the façade – carries the breath of history. The atmosphere is both majestic and intimate: the sound of church bells echoes through the valley, blending with the murmur of the Aragvi River, while the ancient walls seem to bless the union of two hearts. It’s worth noting that the wedding ceremony in Georgian Orthodox churches is conducted in Old Church Slavonic or Georgian. Couples should arrange the date in advance, as the cathedral remains an active place of worship and often welcomes pilgrims.
Romantic church wedding in the Georgian mountains
Church wedding in Kakheti
The Alaverdi Cathedral is one of the most inspiring locations for a church wedding in Georgia. Nestled among the picturesque vineyards of the Alazani Valley, it seems made for couples who wish to combine spirituality, history, and the beauty of nature in a single moment. Rising over 50 meters above the plain, the cathedral stands majestically, a reminder of eternity and the power of faith. This place is alive not only with history but with the enduring spirit of Orthodox tradition. The monastery is still active today, home to monks who continue centuries-old practices, including winemaking that dates back to the 12th century. The architecture is breathtaking: massive stone walls, arcaded belts, and delicate carvings add refined beauty to the otherwise solemn structure. Inside, frescoes from the 11th to 17th centuries fill the space with a sense of timeless serenity. When sunlight filters through the narrow windows, it softly illuminates the ancient walls, creating the impression that time itself has paused. For foreign couples, a wedding at Alaverdi is far more than a ceremony – it’s a spiritual journey into the heart of historic Georgia. The sacred silence of the monastery, the scent of vineyards, and the views of the Caucasus Mountains create a perfect setting for one of life’s most important moments.
Our wedding agency provides comprehensive services for organizing church weddings in Georgia for both Orthodox and Catholic couples, respecting all the traditions and nuances of each rite. We arrange ceremonies in well-known churches across the country, as well as intimate weddings in smaller, historic chapels tucked into scenic landscapes. We create an atmosphere of complete peace and harmony so that your special day unfolds perfectly, leaving you with only the warmest and most inspiring memories.
Church weddings in Catholic churches
If you wish to have a Catholic wedding ceremony, Georgia warmly welcomes you. While there are fewer Catholic churches than Orthodox ones, the selection is still impressive: beautiful churches with rich histories, remarkable architecture, and a unique atmosphere where Georgian traditions harmoniously meet Catholic spirituality. We will help you find the best locations for your ceremony, and here are a few notable options.
Cathedral of the Assumption of the Virgin, Tbilisi
The main Catholic cathedral in Georgia, built in Gothic style, captivates with its stained glass, refined architecture, and the way light fills the interior. Located in the heart of Tbilisi, it is convenient for hosting a ceremony, and its majestic atmosphere underscores the significance of your wedding.
Catholic Church Wedding in Georgia
Peter and St. Paul’s Church, Tbilisi
This church is known for its warm, intimate atmosphere, making it perfect for a small, personal ceremony. Classic elements of Catholic architecture, soft lighting, and harmonious proportions create ideal conditions for memorable photos and a meaningful wedding experience.
Church of the Holy Spirit, Batumi
A modern Catholic church on the shores of the Black Sea, it combines bright lines with a calm, peaceful ambiance. For couples dreaming of a Catholic wedding with a seaside romantic touch, this location is ideal. After the ceremony, you can enjoy a photo session with views of the sea and the city, blending European and Georgian traditions.
Choosing any of these churches allows you to create an atmosphere of celebration, spiritual closeness, and unique beauty. Each church becomes not just a place for the ceremony but a symbol of a new chapter in your life together, blessed with love and grace.
What would you like?
Wedding costs in Georgia: what you need to know
For many couples, budget is an important consideration, and the cost of a church wedding in Georgia remains accessible, especially compared to other European countries. At our agency, prices for organizing either a Catholic or Orthodox ceremony start at $220. This includes all the necessary formalities, assistance in choosing the ideal wedding location, and coordination of the ceremony with the church. Additional services, such as photography, videography, and help with legal marriage registration or a stylish off-site ceremony, can also be arranged.
Here are some approximate costs for different wedding options in Georgia:
- Church wedding + legal marriage registration – from $570
- Church wedding + symbolic off-site ceremony – from $2,020
- Church wedding + legal registration + off-site ceremony – from $2,370
Organizing church weddings for couples from around the world
Useful tips from Kate&Co Weddings
Organizing either an Orthodox or Catholic wedding in Georgia requires careful attention to detail. To ensure your ceremony goes smoothly and without unnecessary stress, we’ve prepared several recommendations for foreign couples planning this important day:
- Book your wedding date well in advance – at least 1–2 months ahead.
- Clarify the rules of your chosen church: required documents, witnesses, and any special aspects of the rite.
- Plan transportation and accommodation for your guests.
- Follow the requirements for attire and overall appearance.
- Take into account seasonal and weather conditions.
- Arrive at the church early on the day of the ceremony to avoid last-minute rushes.
On the wedding day, allow yourself to be fully present in the moment. Don’t worry about minor details, look at each other often, and remember: this is not just a celebration, but the beginning of a new chapter in your shared story – and it’s already beautiful.
Conclusion: a church wedding in Georgia as a special event
A church wedding is more than a beautifully arranged ceremony. It is a profound spiritual moment, filled with sincerity, blessings, and the atmosphere of an ancient tradition. Here, it is easy to feel a sense of unity – with your faith, with each other, and with the place where you say “yes” before God. Georgia offers couples a unique feeling of connection to something greater: its churches preserve centuries of history, and the people surround you with warmth and respect. Such an event remains in memory not only through photographs but also through a deep, lasting emotional impression that accompanies you long after the ceremony.
