GETTING MARRIED

We are always delighted when we are approached by a couple who want to get married in one of our churches. Both of them are highly sought after, since they are both very beautiful and photogenic churches, although quite different. St Mary Magdalene is a magnificent church, seating up to 250 people, whereas St Peter & St Paul, Luddesdowne is a little gem, seating half that number.

But there are certain legal requirements in connection with marriages in church which have to be carefully explained and observed, and the Vicar will be only too pleased to meet up with you. Please make sure that you make an appointment to see him at least 6 months before your proposed wedding day. Briefly, the qualifications are as follows:-

1. A couple can get married in either parish church if at least one of them resides within the parish boundaries. This is a geographical qualification.

2. A couple can get married in either parish church if at least one of the them is a member of that church, and has their name entered on the Electoral Roll (Membership List).

If you cannot fulfil either of these qualifications, there are legitimate ways of qualifying both geographically and/or by membership. It is these options that you need to discuss with the Vicar. There is an important meeting in the Vicarage in January of each year to which the Vicar invites all couples getting married that year. He explains practical matters like the reading of Banns of Marriage, the service, production of service sheets, choice of music, choice of “extras” like organ, choir, bells and flowers, and, of course….cost! And, hopefully, any other questions will be answered, to ensure your happiness and peace of mind.

Please click here to contact the Vicar for further information about weddings at Cobham & Luddesdowne.

For more general information on Weddings please click here to visit 'The Church of England' site were you will find useful questions and answers to help you prepare for your wedding day.