Choosing whether to have a civil or church wedding is usually a clear cut decision for most couples based on their beliefs. With a little thought and imagination, both types of wedding can be beautiful and meaningful occasions.
Church of England Wedding - This brings to mind the classic image of a traditional white wedding complete with ladies in hats, the bride in a beautiful white dress, the sound of bells ringing, and the groom in [top hat and tails|full morning dress]. This is a very common option, but did you know that you can marry in church even if you are not baptised, or do not even attend church! Divorcees may need to speak to the vicar though...
A recent change in the law means that you now have more churches to choose from! There are some criteria to think about, and different ones will apply to each couple. For example, you can attend church for 6 months prior to the wedding, currently live or have lived in the parish, or have a family connection to the church. You can get more information on marrying in the Church of England by visiting the website www.yourchurchwedding.org
If you'd prefer to have a civil wedding, then you get more choice to personalise your ceremony. You can have many different varieties of vows and personal readings, and have any type of music you want. However, it is important to note that you can't have religious vows, readings or music in a civil wedding. You can also have the ceremony and the reception in the same location which makes things a whole lot easier and means your guests don't get lost travelling from the wedding ceremony to the reception!
There is great flexibility in choosing your venue, from hotels and castles to zoos and botanical gardens, and even a number of gazebos and bandstands!
As with all wedding preparations, it is important that you check the availability of the venue and the local superintendent registrar. It is necessary to produce proof of identity and address, and to give at least 15 days notice. If you're remarrying, then you'll also need to produce evidence of divorce or a death certificate. There's a chance that the law will be changed soon so that you can marry anywhere, so keep a look out for this news!
To find a register office visit http://www.gro.gov.uk/gro/content/marriages/where-can-i-marry/finding--your--local--register--office.asp and to find an approved licensed venue, visit http://www.gro.gov.uk/gro/content/marriages/where-can-i-marry/finding--an--approved--venue.asp
A recent change in the law means that you now have more churches to choose from! There are some criteria to think about, and different ones will apply to each couple. For example, you can attend church for 6 months prior to the wedding, currently live or have lived in the parish, or have a family connection to the church. You can get more information on marrying in the Church of England by visiting the website www.yourchurchwedding.org
There is great flexibility in choosing your venue, from hotels and castles to zoos and botanical gardens, and even a number of gazebos and bandstands!
As with all wedding preparations, it is important that you check the availability of the venue and the local superintendent registrar. It is necessary to produce proof of identity and address, and to give at least 15 days notice. If you're remarrying, then you'll also need to produce evidence of divorce or a death certificate. There's a chance that the law will be changed soon so that you can marry anywhere, so keep a look out for this news!
To find a register office visit http://www.gro.gov.uk/gro/content/marriages/where-can-i-marry/finding--your--local--register--office.asp and to find an approved licensed venue, visit http://www.gro.gov.uk/gro/content/marriages/where-can-i-marry/finding--an--approved--venue.asp
About the Author:
Vicky Strefford is a leading wedding coordinator, having featured in a number of magazine articles and television programs helping brides plan their wedding. Her new website gives brides inspiration, ideas and planning advice for their perfect wedding day. Get a totally unique version of this article from our article submission service
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