A quarter of all weddings take place in a Church of England church. Some couples hold a Service of Blessing after taking their civil vows in a Registry Office.

The Church of England’s website explains what is understood by ‘Christian marriage’, what the church service involves, and some of the legal considerations.

Another useful source of information is The Wedding Guide. This explains some of the legal requirements, what happens on the day, and gives details of the words and prayers used in the service.

The words used in a modern Church of England marriage service are available for free download in rtf format (useable by most computers).

Download Guidance for marriage in Church of England Churches, including information on Banns, Common Licence, Special Licence, additional qualifying conditions, and remarriage of divorcees.