Weddings

Introduction

If you’re considering getting married — congratulations! Preparing for a wedding is a joyful and significant moment, and we are delighted that you are thinking about celebrating this step within the life of the Church. Whether you already know SJB well or are just starting to explore what church might mean for you, you are warmly welcome here.

Marriage is a gift of God. It is a union founded on promises of faithfulness, support, and love. In Christian tradition, marriage is more than a legal agreement or a social custom — it is a sacrament, a visible sign of God’s grace. In the loving union of two people, we glimpse something of the love that holds all things together — a love that is self-giving, creative, and enduring. Marriage invites us to become an icon of that love, to live in a way that reflects the deeper love of God for the world.

At SJB, we love to celebrate weddings. We delight in helping couples create a day that is rich in beauty, music, and joy. With our historic church building, stunning architecture, warm acoustic, and deep sense of tradition, we are able to offer something truly memorable. Whether you’re planning something simple or grand, intimate or filled with guests, we’ll work with you to make your wedding both meaningful and personal — a celebration not only of your love, but of the God who blesses it.

How to Get Married at SJB

We’re so pleased you’re thinking about getting married at St John the Baptist. The first step is to contact the parish office to make an enquiry and share a few key details.  Please complete the Enquiry Form at the bottom of this page and we will be in contact with you.  

Because a wedding in the Church of England is both a legal and spiritual event, couples must have a qualifying connection to the church in order to be married here.

You may marry at SJB if just one of you:

• Has at any time lived in the parish for at least 6 months
• Was baptised in the parish
• Was prepared for confirmation in the parish
• Has at any time regularly attended public worship at SJB for at least 6 months
• Has a parent who has lived or worshipped regularly in the parish during your lifetime
• Has a parent or grandparent who was married at SJB

Once a qualifying connection is confirmed, we’ll agree on a date and begin preparing together. Fr. Sam will be in touch to arrange marriage preparation — usually a small number of sessions reflecting on Christian marriage and the promises you will make. As the day approaches, we’ll meet to plan the service in detail, and hold a rehearsal during the week of the wedding.

We’re here to support you every step of the way.

Marriage Preparation

Marriage preparation is a joyful and valuable part of getting ready for your wedding — and we’re delighted to offer it both for couples getting married at SJB and for anyone preparing for marriage, even if your wedding is taking place elsewhere.

We offer two options:

1. A short course of one session
2. A longer course of three sessions

Both options explore the Christian understanding of marriage: a relationship of love, trust, and faithfulness that reflects the love of God himself. But just as importantly, marriage prep gives you the space to reflect on your relationship — what makes it strong, where it might be stretched, and how to prepare well for the journey ahead.

The sessions are informal, personal, and never held in a group. They are led by Fr. Sam, who is always happy to meet at the couple’s home to create a relaxed and familiar space for conversation. Each session includes thoughtful questions, conversation starters, and practical wisdom gathered from the experiences of other couples.

Marriage preparation isn’t a test — it’s a gift. A time to pause, talk, laugh, and look forward to all that lies ahead. You’re warmly welcome to prepare with us.

Wedding FAQ

What does it cost to get married at SJB?

Please contact the parish office for up-to-date information. There is a statutory fee set by the Church of England, and a range of optional extras — including flowers, an organist, choir, and bell ringers. Whatever your financial situation, we’ll do everything we can to make your wedding at SJB not only accessible, but joyful.

Is marriage preparation compulsory?

Not at all. It’s a gift — offered to every couple, but never required. We warmly encourage it, as a chance to invest in your relationship and explore what Christian marriage means.

What counts as ‘regular attendance’ to qualify for marriage at SJB?

Attending three services a month, over a period of six months or more, would be considered regular. If you’re unsure whether you meet this, we’re happy to talk it through.

Can we have our banns read at SJB if we’re marrying elsewhere?

Absolutely. If you live in the parish but are marrying in another Church of England parish, we’re happy to read your banns. Just contact the office.

Can people who are divorced get married at SJB?

Yes. We’re glad to welcome couples where one or both partners are divorced. Let the office know, and Fr. Sam will be in touch to discuss the next steps with you personally.

Does SJB offer blessings for same-sex couples?

As an Inclusive Church, we would be delighted to offer all we can to celebrate the love of same-sex partnerships. While the services currently permitted by the Church of England are more limited than we might hope for, Fr. Sam is always happy to meet and explore what is possible with warmth, honesty, and care.