Congratulations! You're welcome to marry in church whatever your beliefs, whether or not you are christened and whether or not you regularly go to church. And, marrying in church has never been easier.
We are always delighted when couples choose to be married at St Mark’s and we aim to help each couple create a service that reflects their own character and personality. This will involve a choice of music, readings, flowers etc. We also offer a course of marriage preparation to each couple which most of those attending have found to be very encouraging.
Here are some answers to questions you might have. Please contact the Vicar Reverend Martin Colton (click here for contact details) for more information or to explore the possibilities. You can also or complete our enquiry form.
Q. Do I have to attend the church to be married there?
A. There are various criteria that make it possible for you to be married at St Mark’s:
If either the bride or bridegroom (or both) live in the Parish.
If you do not then you may be married at St Mark’s if one of you satisfies any of the following qualifying connections:
· if you have attended worship in St Mark’s for at least 6 months prior to your wedding
· if you were baptised and/or confirmed at St Mark’s
· if you have lived in the parish for 6 months or more, at any time during your life
· if your parents have lived or worshipped in the parish (during your lifetime)
· if your parents or grandparents were married at St Mark’s
Q. Can I be married in church if I have been married before?
A. If either (or both) of you have been married before and divorced this is not a barrier to being married in a Church of England church but it is something that needs to be discussed with the priest who is going to marry you. See also Marriage Blessings.
Q. Does my wedding have to be on a Saturday?
A. Weddings can be arranged on most days, Monday – Saturday, but before making any arrangements it is very important that you check that your preferred date/time is possible for us. After an initial chat we will be able to confirm your booking.
Q. How much will a church wedding cost?
A. Church fees will depend on the options you choose. It is not necessary to spend a fortune on your wedding day. There is a misunderstanding that if you get married in church you have to have a large wedding with all the trimmings. The minimum requirement is that the couple to be married attend with two witnesses. How many people you invite beyond that, and how you dress, are up to you! The largest expense at any wedding is always the reception afterwards, rather than the church.
We will be very happy to meet with you to talk through the options.
More information and useful tips can be found on the Church of England website dedicated to marriage by clicking here.