From your first contact with us to your first anniversary and beyond, we’re here for you at every step.
A bride and groom being blessed by a vicar

Most church weddings follow a similar planning pattern, which typically has seven simple steps. Your vicar will help and advise along the way:-

1. Find a church

Find your local church and the vicar’s contact details. If you want to marry in a different church, read more to find out how that might be possible.

2. Call the vicar

Let your vicar know your good news as soon as you can and the three of you can fix a time to discuss what happens next.

3. Space to think

Before your wedding, your vicar may invite you to an event to help prepare you for married life together. Many couples appreciate the time and space to think about the vows and the difference they will make.

4. Banns

Banns are announcements in church of your intention to marry and a chance for anyone to put forward a reason why the marriage may not lawfully take place. On these occasions, everyone in your church will also be praying for you. It can be very special and moving, so do go along if you can.

5. Rehearsal

Near your wedding day, perhaps a day or two before, you will usually have the opportunity to rehearse the ceremony with those who are involved.

6. The Big Day

Your vicar will do all he or she can to make the day a personal, meaningful and spiritual experience for you and your guests.

7. First anniversary and beyond

Your local church will always be there for you throughout your marriage if you need it. Even if your local church is not the place where you married, they would be delighted to mark your first anniversary by praying for you both. All you have to do is ask.


Source URL: https://www.churchofengland.org/life-events/your-church-wedding/just-engaged/seven-steps-heavenly-wedding