Frequently Asked Questions
Is any marriage preparation offered by the church?
Yes. Having chosen to be married in church, you can expect help in preparation for your marriage. The Church sees this as fulfilling her responsibility to help you prepare not just for a day, but for the rest of your lives together. There are four components of formal preparation prior to your wedding at St Mary’s. Remember the informal preparation is all done by you as you continue to build your foundations of love, trust and understanding.
Who should be at the rehearsal?
Does the church have bells?
No. Sadly, Oliver Cromwell removed them and they were never put back! A single ‘Call to Worship’ bell is rung rather than a full peal.
Are photographs allowed during the service?
There should be no photography during the service, except that of the “official photographer”. Please remember that this is a Church service, not a “show”!
Are video recordings allowed during the service?
We discourage the video recording of weddings. However, if you are intending to have your wedding service videoed you must have the appropriate copyright licences. Please go to www.wvrl.co.uk for further details. If in doubt please consult with the Parish Administrator. Please note that you should always consult with one of the clergy on your videoing plans and that if you video a service there is a fee payable in respect of performing rights.
What about flower arrangements?
Read all about flower arrangements at St Mary's.
Does the church allow confetti?
Yes, but..! Please request that guests bring biodegradable confetti and not the metallic variety, which effectively is litter. The scattering of confetti or rose petals and such like are not permitted inside the Church. Photographers should be guided to have confetti thrown away from the door of the Church.
May I speak to the organist about our musical requirements?
Sure, our organist is Mr Paul Wright. Feel free to call him on 01256 397445. Please note that it is the policy of the Parochial Church Council that no recorded music is permitted. Copies of the policy are available from the PCC Secretary on request.
Is any marriage preparation offered by the church?
Yes. Having chosen to be married in church, you can expect help in preparation for your marriage. The Church sees this as fulfilling her responsibility to help you prepare not just for a day, but for the rest of your lives together. There are four components of formal preparation prior to your wedding at St Mary’s. Remember the informal preparation is all done by you as you continue to build your foundations of love, trust and understanding.
- You will be invited to a Marriage Preparation Evening, along with other couples who are to be married at around the same time as you to explore the marriage service, what happens and why and to look at the significance of the words and actions of the service.
- You will meet individually with one of the clergy to talk about yourselves, your forthcoming marriage and hopes and expectations. Reading the recommended book Growing Together will be ideal preparation for this meeting.
- You will have a further meeting with one of the clergy to discuss practical issues: choosing hymns, readings, putting together an order of service etc.
- The rehearsal (see below)
Who should be at the rehearsal?
- Bride and groom
- Best man
- Chief bridesmaid (the others are welcome too)
- The father of the bride or person ‘giving away’
Does the church have bells?
No. Sadly, Oliver Cromwell removed them and they were never put back! A single ‘Call to Worship’ bell is rung rather than a full peal.
Are photographs allowed during the service?
There should be no photography during the service, except that of the “official photographer”. Please remember that this is a Church service, not a “show”!
Are video recordings allowed during the service?
We discourage the video recording of weddings. However, if you are intending to have your wedding service videoed you must have the appropriate copyright licences. Please go to www.wvrl.co.uk for further details. If in doubt please consult with the Parish Administrator. Please note that you should always consult with one of the clergy on your videoing plans and that if you video a service there is a fee payable in respect of performing rights.
What about flower arrangements?
Read all about flower arrangements at St Mary's.
Does the church allow confetti?
Yes, but..! Please request that guests bring biodegradable confetti and not the metallic variety, which effectively is litter. The scattering of confetti or rose petals and such like are not permitted inside the Church. Photographers should be guided to have confetti thrown away from the door of the Church.
May I speak to the organist about our musical requirements?
Sure, our organist is Mr Paul Wright. Feel free to call him on 01256 397445. Please note that it is the policy of the Parochial Church Council that no recorded music is permitted. Copies of the policy are available from the PCC Secretary on request.