I have been officiating at weddings long enough now that I have established a rule. More than an 80 people at your outdoor wedding? Better get a microphone and speakers. No, I don’t have these myself. I did my research, I really did. I priced the equipment. It’s expensive. But that isn’t the main reason I didn’t buy the equipment. The main reason is that each wedding venue is different. It is impossible to buy a system that meets all situations. If your wedding is out in a vineyard somewhere, away from electrical outlets, you’re going to need a generator. You want to attach your ipod to the sound system—well, you’re going to need special equipment. You want Aunt Minnie or Uncle Tyron to read something at your wedding—they may need one or more microphones, in addition to the one that your officiant (me) will be using. That is why I have not bothered to invest in a sound system. I just can’t cover all needs. Then there is the problem with hauling the equipment in my small car, and learning more about sound equipment than I do now….
Rule of Thumb: You will need a Mic if your marriage ceremony is outside and you have 80 or more guests.
Indoor weddings are a different story. I have been a preacher for fifteen years and my voice easily carries to the back pews of many, I’d say most sanctuaries. The one exception is the Chapel at UVA. Turns out that space is long and narrow and the acoustics are far less than ideal. The Chapel has a sound system that can (and should) be rented for weddings of more than say, 50 guests.
glad you did!
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