Weddings
The Ministry
The first step in planning a church wedding is arranging a conference with the minister. This should be done with the minister you wish to perform the marriage. At the time of this conference the calendar will be cleared and details of the ceremony will be discussed, along with the meanings this event may have for you. Such a conference is essential before a marriage and will require at least one hour. The minister will discuss what makes a good marriage, communication, the symbolism of marriage ceremony, etc.
The Ceremony
The marriage ceremony is, first and foremost, a service of worship. Marriages are held in church in order to dedicate that marriage before God, and to share the celebration of that event with the community of faith. It follows that all the elements of a church wedding should be appropriate for a service of worship. Your family, friends and loved ones comprise the Body of Christ on this occasion, and in faith that body lifts you symbolically to God for His blessing and acceptance.
Occasionally couples ask for variations in the Wedding Ceremony. Any of the ministers will be happy to work with you to achieve the kind of service which is in keeping with good taste, the service of worship and your desires.
The Photographs
A professional photographer or guests may not take flash photography during the service. Time exposures may be taken from the balcony during the service. The service is one of worship and the click of a camera or the flash of bulbs is always disruptive. Pictures may be posed before a or after the service. Low light video cameras are acceptable for video taping the ceremony. Video camera persons and photographers must clear the procedures with the minister. If the video camera person intends to use a wireless microphone, he/she must disclose its operating frequency to the church’s audio engineer at least 23 hours prior to the wedding.
The Flowers
Floral designs are left to your discretion. Only artificial petals may be used by the flower girl.
The Music
Music is an integral feature of your service. The Church Organist is Ricki Moyer. If you are interested in employing Ricki for your wedding please contact the church office.
The License
Bring your wedding license to the church office by Friday noon for a weekend wedding or at least 24 hours before the wedding on any other day. This is very important. For information on the wedding license, please call the County Clerk in the county in which you reside.
The Rehearsal
The rehearsal is the time to finalize plans, including the service itself, usher instructions and special seating. It is important that everyone in the bridal party be present and prompt. It is a time to walk through your plans.
Wedding Assistant
A Wedding Assistant is present to open the church building, to be available for assistance in arrangements and setup, and to be responsible for cleaning up after the ceremony.
Audio Engineer
Speical electronic setups for the wedding (i.e. soloist microphones, audio taping services, tape playing service) must be arranged at the rehearsal with the church’s audio engineer.
Church Equipment
The church has kneelers and two pairs of candelabras. You are welcome to use these items.
Dressing Facilities
Dressing Facilities are available at the church. Please make arrangements for removing the street clothing and other items when bride and groom have left the church.
The Reception
The wedding reception may be held at the church. Arrangements are made through the Church. No alcoholic beverages may be served in the building.
Receptions may be held at the Church in the following areas:
- Coffee Bar Are – 100 capacity
- Balcony Parlor – 60 capacity
- Fellowship Hall – 200 capacity plus
For more information on Reception Fees and building use fee (if non-member) please call the church office.
General Building Information
The Sanctuary seats 570 with 176 additional seating in the balcony. The aisle is 90 feet long with 23 rows of pews on each side. The Chapel seats 96 people. The aisle is 33 feet long with 10 rows of seats on each side.
The Main Entrance to the building is from parking lot on Glencoe. There are also double doors on the Glencoe side of the church into the Parlor.
Requests
We are honored that you may choose PHUMC to dedicate your marriage before God. In keeping with a service of worship, the church requests the following:
- Neither rice nor birdseed may be given or thrown inside the church building.
- No alcoholic beverages may be served in the building.
- Smoking is not permitted in the building.
- We ask that you inform all parties concerned of the above requests.
Wedding Fees
Members of the Church pay no fee for the use of the church facility for the wedding itself.
Sanctuary Fees Regular Holiday Weekend
- The Minister $250 - $375
- The Assistant $200 - $300
- The Organist $200 - $300
TOTAL $650 - $975
Chapel Fees
- The Minister $250 - $375
- The Assistant $150 - $250
- The Organist $150 - $250
TOTAL $550 - $825
Payment of Fees
Payments to the minister, organist, and assistant are to be made at the rehearsal. The Wedding Assistant will ask for these checks and will give them to the appropriate parties. The Wedding Couple will assume all responsibility for any and all damage or breakage.
