By praying - in the church we believe that God is alive, loves us and answers our prayers. So prayer is our greatest gift to you. Your church wishes you a lifetime of love that grows within God's protection. By praying, the people in your church will ask God to bless your big day and all the days after that.

By reading your Banns - Banns are an announcement in church of your intention to marry and a chance for anyone to put forward a reason why the marriage may not lawfully take place. They're an ancient legal tradition and have been read every week in churches across the land for millions of couples over centuries. After your forthcoming marriage is announced, the congregation may be invited to pray for you. It can be quite special to hear this, so do go along if you can. You’re welcome to invite family and friends to hear your banns too if you’d like.

Banns need to be read in the parish where each of you lives as well as the church in which you are to be married, if that's somewhere else. You must have them read in church for three Sundays during the three months before the wedding. This is often done over consecutive Sundays but doesn't have to be.

If there's not enough notice for the banns to be read before the marriage is due to take place, or in the case of the marriage of people whose nationality is not British, or if one or both of you do not live in England, the Common Licence procedure needs to be used. This procedure also provides an opportunity to address any doubt there may be as to the legal requirements of the home country of a non-British person regarding the recognition of an English Church marriage. (Information from Diocese of Oxford website)

The Verger – is the Church’s representative to assist with the smooth running of the wedding. They will be present throughout the wedding and are able to answer any questions you or your guests may have on the day.

By celebrating the good times - your church would love to see you and pray for you on special occasions, such as your wedding anniversary. If you have children, we would be happy to discuss their christening with you, if you feel this is something you would like to explore for them.

Rehearsals - most couples are reassured and enjoy the opportunity to rehearse their wedding service along with family and friends who will be involved. This is usually organised by the vicar as part of the preparations for your wedding.

Readings - all weddings in the Church of England include one or more readings from the Bible. There are many popular and exciting passages to consider. Some of these can be found on the Church of England website - have a read and see if any speak to you: churchofengland.org/life- events/your-church-wedding By being there during difficulties - life inevitably has its ups and downs. Churches can offer a confidential listening ear, friendship and prayer support if you need it.

By renewing your marriage vows - many couples like the idea of renewing their marriage vows to celebrate a special anniversary, or to mark the end of a difficult time. In most marriages these days, the bride and groom say the same vows to each other. It’s a ceremony that bonds you, not just in front of your family and friends, but in the eyes of God as well.