Programs for Catholic Ceremony (no Mass)

This isn't uncommon, you can have a shortened program with the outline. Practicing Catholics tend to understand when there is an unbaptized person, the couple can opt to not have communion which is the difference between a full mass and a shortened mass.

Follow your gut, Johanna! Give the basic outline of the ceremony, maybe include the names and relationships of any wedding party members and/or parents, and call it a day! I've been to one of these in-between weddings and I was a bit surprised when I saw it wasn't a full mass, but I was like, "Woohoo, getting to the party faster!" Your guests will either get it or they won't, but don't feel the need to explain everything to them. Unless part of the ceremony is going to be in a different language, then definitely explain that.

Great to hear! Out of all the church wedding I've been to (a lot), only one was the shortened version. I remember they didn't have programs at all, and everybody was so surprised when the service just ended in what seemed like the middle! I think I will do a simple outline so people have an idea of what's happening when, but will skip writing out any songs or readings. Guests can figure out how to look them up if they really want to.

I think that's a good compromise for everyone. Plus, then your guests can get to know each other at the ceremony. They can do that thing where the one has the song book open to the right page and shares it with the person trying to sneakily look at the words over their shoulders. Or am I the only one who does that?