Weddings: FAQs
Q: How far ahead do we need to plan?
A: As far as the church service is concerned, you only need to have
arranged a date at least a month before the wedding itself (so we have
time to call the Banns). You'll probably need to plan much further
ahead, though, to get the reception, photographer, dress and speeches
sorted out!
Q: Should we book the church first, or the reception first?
A: We recommend you sound out possible dates with your preferred
reception venue first, then ask about the availability of the church.
There are fewer good reception venues in this area than there are
churches, so they tend to be more heavily booked up.
Q: What are the Banns?
A: They are legal announcements of your intention to get married - so
people can object if they think you're acting against the law. They
have to be called on three consecutive Sundays in the weeks leading up
to the marriage. If one of you lives outside the parish where you
intend to marry, they will need to contact their local Anglican Vicar
and arrange to have Banns called in that church too.
Q: I'm getting married elsewhere, but I live in this parish. How do I get my Banns called here?
A: Download the Wedding Application Form, fill in the appropriate boxes, and return the form to the Vicar (you'll find the address on the Contact page). We'll sort the rest out for you.
Q: One or both of us is not a Christian / an Anglican / baptised / confirmed. Does that matter?
A: No. A church wedding will be openly Christian in character,
including Bible readings and hymns of worship, so it would help if you
were open to the Christian faith, even if you don't share it. But
whatever your faith and beliefs, you are welcome to celebrate your
wedding in our churches.
Q:
We've been living together, or we've already had children, or one or both
of us has been divorced. Will the church turn us away?
A:
No. We believe that God's ideal is couples committed to one another in
marriage, where possible raising a family. If that's what you want for
your relationship, we'd like to help. Like God, we don't believe your
past should be a hindrance to getting the best out of the present and
future. In the case of divorce, we may need to discuss some of the
details with you, but whatever your circumstances, please get in touch.
Q: What will it cost?
A: The cost of a wedding depends on the church, and exactly who is
involved on the day (for example, whether you ask the church organist
to play). The normal cost is around £300 for everything.