Frequently Asked Questions
One of us is Catholic. Does that matter?
You will be welcome. It does not matter from the perspective of the Church of England. However, if you want the Roman Catholic Church to recognise your marriage, you will need to seek the advice of your Roman Catholic Priest. See Interchurch Families for more information.
Do we both have to be Christian?
In brief, no. However, you are welcome to discuss it with the Vicar if you have questions to ask.
Does the Church arrange Marriage Preparation?
Yes. We do this, usually by whoever is presiding at the marriage meeting with the couple for two or three sessions before the wedding.
What are the legal requirements?
Banns of Marriage. This is a public notice of the marriage between two people. It ensures the identity and the legal right of the couple to be married. The Banns are published in the Parish Church where the couple are in residence and in the Parish Church where they are to be married. This could be one, two or three sets of Banns depending on whether the couple live in the same parish, and whether the marriage takes place in the Church where the couple reside. Most weddings in the Church of England take place after the Banns of Marriage are published. They can be called at the main service of the Church on three occasions (they don't have to be consecutive) in the three month period prior to the wedding.
Sometimes there are reasons why a couple wish to marry in a place where they are not resident and where they do not have a qualifying connection, but there is a compelling reason why they wish to be married in that particular church. Special Licenses can be give for this to take place. A conversation needs to take place with the Vicar to ascertain whether such a License can be applied for.
You can download the Banns for/Articles/661146/_Weddings.aspxm here.
How much will it cost?
There is no doubt that the choices you make about your wedding can make an impact on the cost. If you choose to marry in church, we want it to be a day that is personal and special for you, but that need not mean you spend a fortune. The basic cost of a wedding service which includes the legalities is approximately £500. Extra flowers, an organist, bell ringers etc are optional additions that can be provided by the church. Please speak to the Parish Administrator for an up-to-date list of costs. An invoice will be sent to you two months before the wedding, with payment due one month before your marriage.
Can we be involved in planning the service?
Yes, of course. The priest taking the service will be pleased to discuss the order of service, the readings, and the prayers. All your guests can have a copy of the service in full, if that is desired. Many couples print a simplified order with hymns and other details. It is essential that the priest taking the service has a chance to see the text before it is finally printed. There are some copyright restrictions, but the church has a Licence to overcome these issues. The Licence number must be printed on the service sheet. Older hymns are usually out of copyright, but newer ones have restrictions. There is no need to print orders of service if you do not want to. The church can provide hymn books.
How can we arrange the music?
Our organist, Kim Lane, will be happy to discuss and advise on music for the service, as well as helping with the choice of hymns. Kim will also be able to advise on organ music. Please contact Kim on 01638 603193 for details.
Can we have bells?
Yes. We have a bell tower with an excellent set of bells. The bells can be rung before and after the service or just after the service. Please contact David Wilding our Parish Administrator.
How about access and facilities?
If wheeled or flat access to the church is required, cars can be parked in Church St. There is level access into the main door of the church. There are fully accessible toilets in the Community Room, which will be available for the duration of your wedding. Additional parking may be available by arrangement with the school, please speak to the Parish Administrator for details.
Can we have a video recording of the service?
Yes, subject to a Video permission fee, currently £30. Much of the material you record will be subject to copyright – that means your video material may never be sold or shown in public. The person taking your video must talk to the priest before the service begins and it is most important that the service is not disturbed in any way.
Do we have a rehearsal?
Yes, there is almost always a rehearsal arranged a few days before the wedding. This will be open to all those taking part in the service, if they are available. If a key person cannot be present at the rehearsal, instructions can be passed on to them.
What about flowers in the church?
There is always a modest flower arrangement in church for the weekend. There will be an extra charge if you ask for more flowers. Please contact the Parish Administrator to discuss . If you wished to use your own florist, this is perfectly acceptable, please arrange access via the Parish Administrator. Please note that no nails, screws or other fixings that will damage the fabric of the building may be used.
Marriage Blessing and Renewal of Vows
If you are getting married elsewhere or you wish to renew your wedding vows, then a special service can be arranged.
Holy Communion
Any of the services above can incorporate Holy Communion if desired. Please discuss this with the priest in charge. The Church of England publishes some advice about Weddings on its national website.
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