St Alban's, Tattenhall

What does St. Alban’s Church require? At least one of the parties to the marriage must be a baptized Christian, and the wedding ceremony must be attested by at least two witnesses. You will meet at least three times with the officiating priest during the course of your preparation.

Do I need to be a member? We ask that you worship regularly with us on Sundays or you have some connection with the church e.g. you become a Friend of St Alban’s or that you or your relatives live in the community of Tattenhall. We believe that marriage is not just a ceremony in our building; it is part of the community of believers and seekers here. We hope that at some point you would consider becoming a member or ‘Friend of St Alban’s, Tattenhall’. Your individual spiritual journeys and your marriage journey will be enriched by belonging to a community of faithful Christians.

What if I am divorced? The Church will observe the following procedure if you are seeking to be remarried. The Rector, in consultation with the couple, is asked to determine that there is evidence that the prior marriage has been dissolved by a final judgment or decree of a civil court of competent jurisdiction; that continuing concern is being shown for the well-being of the former spouse, and of any children; and that the Bishop of the Diocese of Chester grants permission for such a wedding to take place.

How soon can the wedding be put on the calendar? The date will be chosen during your initial meeting with the Rector. As we have a busy schedule, the longer the lead time the more choice we all have in setting the time and date. Both the wedding and the rehearsal dates and times are scheduled by the Rector. 

Are there times when weddings cannot take place? Weddings are generally celebrated on Saturdays. Weddings WILL NOT be performed in Lent, because of the penitential nature of that season. Throughout the year, priority goes to scheduled worship services. The Rector must give prior approval for any exception to this rule.

Who plans the service? The Rector works with the bride and groom to strike a balance that reflects both their relationship and the Anglican tradition.

These next two areas tend to cause needless misunderstandings and conflicts. Please read these sections carefully.

 What about music? Our organist at St Alban’s church will work with you to discuss options and to begin planning. Bring your ideas and preferences to the Organist. Because of the nature of the Sacrament of marriage, music outside of the sacred repertoire (popular songs, show tunes, etc.) is best included in your reception, not the wedding service. The Organist must be consulted and give consent if other musicians are to be invited.

What about Bells?We have an enthusiastic team of Bell Ringers at St Alban’s Church and they will be more than willing to ring the bells on your wedding day at a reasonable fee.

The music of the service is ultimately at the discretion of the Rector.

What about photography or video? We strive to maintain a joyful yet worshipful atmosphere in the wedding service. Good professional photographers understand this, and they will agree to minimize distractions and respect the sacred nature of the building and the liturgy. Please remember that those who are in charge of securing the building will be ready to leave 30 minutes after the wedding service is over. No flash photographs may be taken once the service begins. Flash may be used during the procession and during the signing of the register. Please do tell friends and relatives not to use flash cameras or to stand up in the middle of the service to take a picture. It is disruptive to the service and does not respect the sacredness of the ceremony or building. Videotaping is permitted during the service, with available light only, with the videographer adhering to the same restrictions as above.

Who does the flowers? The Church Florists are responsible for all the arrangements for our services. At the festival seasons of Christmas or Easter, the church will be decorated appropriately and no concessions can be made as to colour. Easter and Christmas decorations remain in the church for about a week. If you wish to have pew bows or flowers on the pews, you may make those arrangements with the florist. The florists coordinate the ordering of flowers for the church. Please remember that you will need to make arrangements with their representative directly.

Final decisions about decorations and their placement are at the discretion of the Rector.

Confetti  . The throwing of confetti over the newly married couple is an old tradition, originally thought to bestow prosperity and fertility on the couple.  At St. Alban’s Church we are happy to continue the tradition.Confetti may be used within the church grounds but NOT within the church building.  We ask you to use flower petals or rice.  Paper confetti is NOT permitted.

Please do NOT scatter confetti on the public highway beyond the church gates.