· Wedding Readings
- A collection of possibilities for readings at your wedding. · Wedding Form
- Fill this out once you are ready to make a reservation at First
Wedding Basics
Who can get married in the church?
While members of our congregation have certain privileges when it comes to weddings, non-member ceremonies are gladly welcomed.
What rooms are available?
The sanctuary and the two chapels are all available for weddings, depending on the number of people expected.Receptions may be held in one of our rooms with kitchen facilities as well.
Do we meet with the minister?
Yes.An important part of marriage preparation is consultations between the minister and the bride and groom.The minister will use this consultation to assist you in planning for your wedding and marriage.The number of meetings depends on the minister and the situation. If you are interested in a officiant that is not a minister at First, one of our pastoral staff will still need to be on hand at the service.
How is the music handled?
Organ music for the wedding services is performed by our accomplished organist, Charlie Moose.Any particular music or accompaniment for outside vocalists needs to be to Charlie at least six weeks before the ceremony so he can be ready.You should discuss unusual musical ideas with us months before your wedding.
How do I get a marriage license?
The required New YorkState marriage license is obtained at the City Hall in Schenectady at least two weeks before the ceremony.Contact them for the best times to come by and requirements they have.Bring the license to the rehearsal.
What about all the details?
Runners – your florist may help you with a runner, but with our long aisle, it may be more trouble than it is worth.They aren’t used as much as they were in muddier times.
Photos – Discrete professional photographers will understand that flash photography is intrusive and that taking pictures in front of the first pew is distracting for a worship service.We also discourage relatives from taking snapshots so that they can pay attention to the event itself rather than the camera.
Video – If you are having a videographer, have them check in with the minister before the ceremony.
Unity Candle – If you wish to use this as a part of your ceremony, bring one in.
The Ritual of Throwing – If folks really want to throw things at you when leaving the church, we suggest birdseed and do not like rice or confetti.
How do I make a reservation?
The best way to get the ball rolling is to fill out a reservation form from the link at the top of this page.If you don’t hear back from us in a week or so, give us a call.The bride or the groom should call directly.
Who is involved?
In addition to the minister conducting the wedding and the organist, you will be dealing with the office administrator, Heather Scribner, who coordinates building use and the church calendar.You will also see the church sexton on the day of the wedding making sure all the arrangements are set.
How much will this cost?
We’re not in it for the money, but weddings take a great deal of time.If you are not a church member, the total cost including building use, organist and minister’s honorarium, custodial fees and utility costs is $1,000.If you are a church member, the use of the building and the services of the ministers is a part of being a member here.The total fee for members is $300.Receptions are not included in this price, but people don’t have receptions here much anyway.Fees are fully refundable but are due when you make the final confirmation of the date.
If this seems like too much money for you and you are willing to have a small ceremony in the wedding chapel after Sunday morning worship, there is no charge.
Valuable Phone Numbers
Church Office............................................. 377-2201
Rev. Daniel Carlson .................................. 346-6416
