Does marriage come from the Church?

Marriage is a civil and legal union first. The Church has a long tradition of blessing it, but the legal part comes from the state, not from any religious body. This matters because the rules for a church wedding mix both sides.

In England and Wales, a Church of England or Church in Wales wedding usually needs banns read, or a licence. You will give notice of marriage at your local register office first, and this must be done at least 28 full days before the ceremony. The notice is valid for 12 months, so plan your date within that window.

A religious ceremony on its own is only legally binding if it takes place in a building registered for marriages with an authorised person present. Many couples therefore combine a church service with a short civil ceremony to be sure the marriage is legal. Rules can vary by diocese and place of worship, so check with your church and the register office.

If you are unsure about banns, licences or whether your building is registered, ask your vicar early. They can guide you through the paperwork and the church's own requirements.