Weddings

Can we have a wedding at Milton UMC if we are not members of the church?
Yes, you can. 

How far in advance can we book a wedding at Milton UMC?
You may book your wedding as far in advance as you wish.  Weddings and other sanctuary activities are scheduled on a first-come-first-serve basis.  Members’ weddings and activities have precedence over non-members.  Unless the bride or groom (or parent) has been a member of Milton UMC for at least six months prior to the scheduling of a wedding, the wedding is regarded as a non-member wedding. 

 
What days and times are weddings held at Milton UMC?
Weddings may be on any day of the week as the schedule permits.  Weddings may be scheduled Sunday afternoons, but may not be scheduled on certain holidays, or weekends of those holidays.

Who will officiate the wedding ceremony?
Reverend Patrick Schultz, Milton UMC’s pastor, will officiate the service.  A minister from another United Methodist Church or other denomination or faith may assist.

 
May we select our own music and musicians?
Music and song selections will be discussed and determined with the Reverend during the premarital counseling and wedding ceremony preparation meetings.  Outside instrumentalists and singers may be used with the approval of the pastor. 

 
Will we need to attend pre-marital counseling sessions?
Yes.  Reverend Schultz requires all marrying couples to attend 3-5 pre-marital counseling and wedding planning sessions.  Precepts Prepare/Enrich materials are used in the pre-marital counseling.  Six months advance planning for the ceremony allows ample time to complete both the pre-marital counseling and wedding planning. 

 
Will photographers be allowed to take pictures during the ceremony?
Photographs are an important part of your wedding. To maintain the dignity of the marriage service it is essential that pictures be taken before the processional begins or after the ceremony. Pictures may be taken without a flash during the ceremony provided there is no noise or distraction.  It is the couple’s responsibility to see that the photographer complies with these stipulations.  Video taping of the ceremony is permitted (from a non-intrusive location – the pastor will help you locate this) provided it also complies with the same stipulations as the photographer. 

 
Who will provide the candles for the ceremony?
Other than altar candles, each couple must provide their own ceremonial candles.

 
How should we plan for the wedding rehearsal?
A rehearsal will be scheduled the evening before the wedding.  It will start on time.  To allow for delays, have the wedding party at the church 30 minutes prior to that time.  Everyone participating in the wedding, including parents and grandparents, should be in attendance. 

 
Can we put up decorations before the wedding?
Tacks, nails, tape, and other material that will deface church property shall not be used.  Flowers, candles, cords, etc. must have bases or stands to support them.  Decorations such as streamers shall not be attached to walls, chairs, chancel railings or ceiling in a manner that will leave permanent marks. 

Additional information: 

Removal of flowers and decorations should be done immediately after the wedding so that facilities are ready for the next scheduled activity.
 
It is requested that rice or confetti not be thrown near the church.  Birdseed would be acceptable. 

Equipment shall not be moved from its regular place without authorization.  Arrangements must be made to return all equipment to its original location.  Please talk with the officiating pastor prior to making personal equipment decisions. 

Wedding costs (fees are subject to change):