WEDDINGS
PLANNING YOUR BIG DAY
O
nce the excitement of making the big announcement is over, you may be wondering where to start with your wedding planning. It can seem like a big task; however breaking down the planning process into manageable sections will mean you’ll be walking down the aisle before you know it. One of the most important decisions to be made will be what style of ceremony you go for. As the fundamental part of your wedding, this will affect the way your big day takes shape. In this special wedding feature we have set out all the different types of ceremonies available and what they entail. Civil Ceremony Civil ceremonies allow couples to make this part of the wedding day their own. It gives them the freedom to include special readings, songs or themes they may be unable to
include in a religious ceremony. Held in register offices or other licenced venues such as country houses, hotels or castles, civil ceremonies are legally binding if a licensed registrar officiates. For an up to date list of licenced venues, call the General Register Office on 0151 471 4817 or go to gro.gov.uk/gro/content to request a list.
Church weddings can take place any day of the week between 8am and 6pm. The banns announce your forthcoming nuptials and are called three Sundays prior to your wedding day. If you live outside the parish, you may apply for a special licence by the Faculty Office, which needs approval from the vicar of your chosen parish. Overseas Weddings When planning your wedding abroad, it is vital that you check the marriage will be recognised when you return home. It is also important to find out how long you need to be in your chosen country before you’re given a licence. Ask the country’s consulate or embassy for guidance. Visit the Foreign and Commonwealth Office at fco.gov.uk.
Religious Ceremony Religious weddings take place in a church, chapel, or synagogue and are legally binding. While some religious wedding venues will allow great freedom others will have strict rules regarding matters such as photography, video and confetti. If your fiance follows a different religion it is a good idea to check out the legal implications early on, as the ceremony will not be able to go ahead if everything is not in order.
OF LEEK
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12 Leek Life September/October 2013