Does the half hour make a difference?

Yes-- the half hour makes a difference as a guest. Even with the later start time, you'll have about an hour and a half for pictures, which I think is plenty of time! Pick the church you like better with the later start time

I think as I guest I would prefer the 3pm mass.

I think the later time would be better. This way the gap won't be too bad and guest can take their time getting to their car and then finding parking at the venue. If there's too long of a gap, then some guest might decide to pick btwn going to the ceremony or the reception. This would also give you time to take pics. Are you doing a cocktail hour before the start time of the reception? Can guest enter the reception 30mins early?

I would prefer 3pm as a guest. but i think if you want a later start time and you like the church that offers that more, then go with that one!

I would prefer 3pm as a guest. but i think if you want a later start time and you like the church that offers that more, then go with that one!

I would prefer 3pm as a guest. With how late wedding receptions go, I find it nice when a ceremony starts later in the day so it doesn't feel like my entire day is taken up by a wedding.

The 1/2 hour would make a big difference to me as a guest. I would much prefer the 3pm mass. 1 1/2 is plenty of time to get your pictures taken after the ceremony.

3;00

I would go with the later one, particularly as you like it better anyway.

Later one. But really, consider re-considering the gap. You do have a choice.

I think you should go with the church you like best, regardless of time/gap.