First Parish Church - Having a Wedding at FPC

YOUR WEDDING is a celebration of the love, the joy, and the faith you have found in each other. Whether you choose to have a large formal ceremony, or a small private one, it is a sacred time – for you are acknowledging and proclaiming before God and in the eyes of human society the existence of the covenantal bond uniting you. The First Parish is pleased to welcome you on your special day.

THIS CHURCH was organized by the Puritans in 1698 as the town church, intended to serve all residents. The main sanctuary seats approximately 300 people and is air-conditioned. The separate Sears chapel, which seats approximately 90 people, is available for smaller weddings and is also air-conditioned.

STEPS TO RESERVE DATE – Call the Parish Administrator to check the availability of the facilities. If facility available, the next step is to check with the Minister for his availability and to set up an appointment for the couple to meet together with the Minister, who will then confirm whether or not he is willing to perform the ceremony. Immediately after confirming the date with the Minister, you should reserve the date with our administrator and organist and make arrangements regarding your preferences. Organist Geoff Wieting has right of first refusal for all services at First Parish; e-mail him to make arrangements. (Should Mr. Wieting not be available on your chosen date, please contact the Parish Administrator for a list of approved alternatives.)

FEES: Once the minister has agreed to perform your wedding, the Parish Administrator can provide a schedule of fees for the minister, organist, and facility. A 50% non-refundable deposit is required to confirm the minister's partiipation and facility reservation, with the balance due prior to the wedding rehearsal. The organist's fee is payable in full before or on the day of the wedding rehearsal.

THE FORMAT OF THE CEREMONY (readings, music, etc.) is flexible and should be discussed with the Minister. You are welcome to have one or two friends read Scripture lessons. You may also provide additional vocal and/or instrumental music and should discuss with the Minister your selections and when during the service the music will be performed. No flash photographs, or photographers wandering around, are permitted during the ceremony itself. Florists need to call the office to determine when the building will be open for delivery.

Wedding licenses should be delivered to the Minister several days prior to the wedding itself.

Having a Wedding at First Parish

Wedding Information Booklet and Form