Clayton Wesley’s pipe organ and interior
If you can be legally married, you can be married at Clayton Wesley. We do not impose belief or baptism requirements, but welcome you, whoever you are, including those remarrying.
We conduct a Christian Marriage Service as distinct from a civil wedding.
The act of marriage is a serious spiritual event, but one filled with joy and fulfillment. We recognise that there are other aspects to a wedding, but our particular role is to carry out a caring spiritual ministry.
FAQS
If I belong to another church or faith, can I bring my own pastor or priest?
Ministers registered through the Uniting Church in Australia conduct all marriage services here. If you belong to another denomination, it may be possible to invite your pastor or priest to share in aspects of the service, but not conduct the ceremony.
When can I view the church?
The best time to experience the church is on Sunday morning. The flowers are beautiful, the organ fills the air with music, the people are pleased to gather – just like your wedding, really! Come before 10 am, stay for the service, or pop in at 11 for a chat as we move to morning tea. If this time is difficult for you to attend, please call the Church Office on (08)8331 9589 to arrange another day & time. We are always happy to answer your questions.
Do you do marriage preparation?
We want you to have the best marriage possible, and that involves preparation.
We think it is important for every couple, who seeks to be married at this church, to engage in pre-marriage preparation.
We offer marriage preparation sessions to enable you to identify the strengths and growth areas in your relationship. Marriage preparation also gives opportunity for the Minister to get to know you, to offer pastoral care and help you prepare for the growth and maturing of your relationship.
We treat your request to be married here as an opportunity to encourage you in your spiritual journey, and to explore possible faith communities where you can belong.
What legal documents do I need?
We attend to the necessary documents to register your marriage.
Together with the Minister, you will complete a Notice of Intent to Marry. This must be completed at least one month and one day before the date of the wedding. You will need to bring your birth certificates (or an extract).
If you have been divorced or widowed, you will need to produce your divorce ‘decree absolute’ document or death of spouse certificate.
If you are under 18 years, you will need special legal consent to marry.
What time can I get married on a Saturday?
| 1PM | Booking time: 12.30PM to 2PM |
| 2:30PM | Booking time: 2PM to 3:30PM |
| 4PM | Booking time: 3.30PM to 5PM |
We work hard to ensure that no couple feels that they are being encroached upon by another wedding.
The service usually takes about 20 – 30 minutes, and you will spend about an hour at the church. Should there be more that one wedding scheduled for that day, please be ready to leave our carpark 30 minutes before the next wedding is due to begin.
When can I get married on a Sunday?
We can accommodate weddings on Sundays after 2:30 depending on the church programme and availability of wedding personnel. Other days are possible by arrangement, particularly Friday and Public Holidays.
What will my wedding cost?
You will be quoted the cost on enquiry. This cost covers marriage preparation, the organist, the verger and the wedding service itself.
We require a 10% non-refundable deposit to confirm your booking.
Please pay this within 2 weeks so that we can guarantee that time for you.
What are the aspects of the service?
The Uniting Church order of service involves you, your family and friends in various ways. The Minister will guide you in planning the service, and explain the different options and possibilities.
Music
Usually, our pipe organist plays at weddings. If you have special music requests we need several weeks’ notice. Hymns, both traditional and contemporary, are available.
Sometimes other musicians can be involved: soloists, choirs and string quartets are examples. We encourage live music, but CDs can be used as the marriage register is signed. However, there has to be care over copyright issues.
Flowers
Our ladies provide flowers in the church. It is not possible (without additional cost) to provide specific colours. These flowers remain at the church for the Sunday services. You can of course arrange for your own flowers which you can take with you to the reception.
Photography/Videography
We allow photography and video during the service by the official photographers. Both must operate from fixed positions to minimise distractions.
Service Leaflets
We do not print Service leaflets. If you require these, you can produce them yourselves and the minister can assist you in preparing them.
Confetti
Confetti and ticker tape is not allowed. Rose petals or bubbles are more environmentally friendly! You may want to have pew bows at the end of the aisles. These need to be attached by a loop so nothing is stuck or pinned. We have several sets that you are free to use or you can bring your own.
Contact
Our Church Office on (08) 8331 9589, or email admin@claytonwesley.org.au