We’re delighted that you are thinking of getting married in our church! It would be an honour to support you and your partner’s desire to begin your new life together, grounded by Spirit and in the presence of family and friends. Here are some FAQ’s we hope will be helpful to you in your planning.
What do I need to do if I’m interested in holding my marriage service at CBUC?
1) Arrange to meet with a minister at least a month before the date of your wedding.
2) Have you considered taking a marriage preparation course? While CBUC doesn’t offer them on a regular basis, here’s a couple of places that do:
South Island Pastoral Services at 250-472-2851 or info@southislandcentre.ca
The Chaplaincy Office of the University of Victoria, 250-721-8338 also offers a course entitled “Growth Together.
3) Obtain a marriage license. In Victoria, you may get a license at any Coast Capital office in the capital district or the BC Vital Statistics Agency. This license must be in the hands of the minister at least one day before the wedding service. The license is good for three months and we suggest that you obtain the license early. One less thing to think about!
What does a wedding ceremony look like at CBUC?
When you meet with the minister you will be able to plan the wedding ceremony together. Our ministers are open to your suggestions and appreciate that this is a very special day in your life as a couple. We want this ceremony to reflect your love and your relationship as much as you do!
As church weddings are religious services, you can expect to have an order of service that includes prayer, sacred music, Scripture reading, and a meaningful message from our minister about the important commitment you are making. Rest assured that all legal requirements in the province of BC are met in this service of marriage.
Can I have my friends sing or play special music at our weddings?
Our music director will work with you to plan your wedding music. Contact Christine Chepyha at cchepyha@gmail.com
Is a wedding rehearsal always necessary?
Rehearsals are important for lowering everyone’s anxiety. If the wedding is a formal one, the wedding party should expect to spend 30-45 minutes at the rehearsal. If the wedding you are planning is a small, intimate one, then the minister will advise you about the kind of rehearsal you need, if any. Arrangements are made with the minister regarding the date and time of the rehearsal. The balance of fees still owing are payable at the rehearsal.
How many persons can the church hold? What’s the parking like at CBUC? Can I have our wedding reception in the church hall?
Our modern Sanctuary with its natural lighting and open concept is a space that can be arranged in a variety of ways to suit. It can hold 200 persons comfortably and is wheelchair accessible. There is a grand piano and an organ. We have a good quality audio-visual system in place. Parking in our parking lot behind our facility is more than adequate.
CBUC has an accessible hall that seats a maximum of 300 available for receptions. We do not provide catering services. There are rectangular and large round tables and chairs available for use. The kitchen is available for serving and reheating only. Wine and/or beer are permitted, if a liquor license is obtained. The marriage couple is responsible for obtaining the license and providing a copy to the church office 48 hours before the wedding ceremony.
What do you charge for these services?
Booking deposit of $200.00 (due at time of booking & applied to total fees (non-refundable) balance of payment is due two weeks prior to wedding date)
*Minister – $200.00 (on-site wedding) $250.00 (off site wedding plus travel costs)
Musician – $150.00 – $200.00
*Administration – $50.00 – $100.00
Custodian – $50.00
Soloist – varies
Sound – $50.00
*Sanctuary – $200.00
Hall for Reception – varies
*Or a lesser honorarium for contributing members of CBUC
Please contact Meghan Thonger for fees pertaining to the reception
Can we throw confetti or rice at the bride and groom after the service, as they leave the church?
No. The clean-up is too difficult. Instead, we suggest bubbles- fun for everyone and environmentally responsible too!
Download our wedding brochure here
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