1. A welcome that fits every story
The Church of England says you are welcome to celebrate your wedding in church “whatever your beliefs”, and St James’ gladly echoes that invitation.
2. Who can marry here?
You can marry at St James’ if you:
- Live in the parish, or
- Worship with us, or
- Have a parent or grandparent who once lived, worshipped, was baptised, confirmed, or married here.
No connection yet? Give the Parish Office a call for a chat.
3. Why St James’?
- Classic central aisle and plenty of space for the whole bridal party.
- Light, airy nave with concert-quality acoustics.
- On-site parking and good access.
- Leafy gardens that make great backdrops for photographs.
- You can choose to have our organist, use the sound system for CD music, or invite friends or family to provide live music.
4 Your first steps
- Optional: Why not visit a 10 a.m. Sunday Eucharist to see the church in action.
- Contact the Parish Office — office@stjamesexeter.org | 01392 420 407 — for an early chat.
- Initial meeting - Meet with the parish priest (at church or at home) to talk through hopes, questions and next steps before you book anything else.
5 Planning timeline
|
Time before the day |
What happens |
Why it helps |
|
6 – 12 months |
Marriage Preparation Conversation |
Space to discuss communication, money, faith and family life. |
|
3 months |
Banns read on three consecutive Sundays (at St James’ and, if needed, in your home parish) |
Fulfils the legal public-notice requirement. |
|
4 – 8 weeks |
Planning meeting |
Finalise readings, music, flowers, photographers and the order of service. |
|
Wedding week |
A rehearsal with everyone who has a role on the day |
Helps the wedding party feel relaxed and know where to stand. |
6 The service in brief
- Weddings are usually on Saturdays between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. and last about 50 minutes. Other days may be available, so please ask.
- The parish priest is licensed to act as registrar, so you sign the marriage document in church.
- Confetti is welcome outside—please use biodegradable.
7 Fees for 2025
|
Item |
Cost |
|
Statutory marriage service (includes banns) |
£544 |
|
Publication of banns only (another parish) |
£37 |
|
Certificate of banns |
£19 |
|
Verger |
£45 |
|
Heating (Oct – Apr, optional) |
£60 |
|
Use of organ (instrument) |
£10 |
|
Organist |
£75 |
All figures come from the parish’s 2025 fee table and may change in future years.
Payment is due four weeks before the wedding.
8 Ready to start?
Parish Office St James’ Church, Mount Pleasant Road, Exeter EX4 7AH
office@stjamesexeter.org | 01392 420 407
We would love to help you plan a wedding day that is joyful, personal and rooted in faith.
More information:
https://www.yourchurchwedding.org/