Getting Married at Ascension Church
We are always delighted when couples choose to have their wedding at Ascension and we will do everything we can to make this day really special for you. The service is a central part of one of the most important days of your life and we want to help you enjoy and appreciate this significant time. We are also here to help you prepare for your married life together. By getting married in church, you are asking for God’s blessing on your life together - the best start you could possibly have.
How do we get married at Ascension?
The first thing to do is to contact the vicar and make an appointment. We would like to make sure we do everything in the best possible way, which means checking the legal requirements as well as checking that the date you would like is available. You will then complete an application form to confirm your booking. Weddings can be on any day of the week (although not usually on Sundays).
Does it matter where we live?
If one or both of you live in the Parish you may get married at Ascension by Banns. This is an old tradition, but is a legal requirement. We announce your marriage in church on three Sundays before the wedding day. Traditionally, this gives members of the public the opportunity of hearing about the wedding and voicing any concerns about the proposed marriage (be reassured, this is extremely rare!) If neither of you live in the Parish it may still be possible to get married here if you have strong links with Ascension which include:
- Past resident of the Parish for at least 6 months.
- Baptised or Confirmed at Ascension Church
- Your parents or grandparents were married at Ascension Church
- You are a regular worshipper at Ascension and on the church electoral role.
How do you help us prepare for our marriage?
We will invite you to attend a marriage preparation course for all couples who will be getting married around the same time. The course covers practical aspects such as music, flowers and legal matters and also considers what getting married and being married means. These courses have been very popular in the past. We are confident that the course will be helpful for you.
What happens next?
During the months before your wedding there may be lots of questions you want to ask. We are available to offer help and advice about any aspect of your marriage. About three months before your wedding we contact you to tell you when your Banns will be read, if appropriate.
We can advise on your order of service and review it with you and we can offer help with choosing hymns and music. We will arrange a convenient day for a rehearsal, usually on an evening during the week before your wedding day.
How much does it cost to get married?
Everything that is legally required will cost about £425 but most couples like to choose optional extras such as the pianist, verger etc which will increase the costs. Full details are available from the Church Office.
Any other questions?
If you would like to find out more please contact Rev Dave Chesney;
t : 020 7511 1232
e: vicar@ascensioncc.org.uk
For further information click on this link which will take you to the Church of England site for information on weddings.